Our Team
Robin Lea-Amos, Executive Director
Robin is the inaugural Executive Director of GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix. Robin is a nonprofit professional with more than 10 years of experience in grant administration, board governance and communication, management, public speaking, meeting and event planning, development, fundraising and community engagement. She is also the proud grandparent of Jackson, who was born in 2015 with the incredible gift of Down syndrome.
Robin most recently graduated from the ASU Lodestar School with an Executive Leadership Certificate and has been an active member of several nonprofit boards, including Special Olympics of Arizona, GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix and Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation.
She and her husband spend as much time as possible with their children and grandchildren and have become advocates wherever they can to educate people on Down syndrome. In her spare time, Robin quilts, practices yoga and hikes on the many Valley trails that she has called home since moving to Arizona when she was six months old.
Emily Folk – Program and Volunteer Coordinator
Emily graduated from the University of Toledo in 2020. She completed a bachelor's of science with a concentration in Recreation Therapy. Since, she has worked as a recreation therapist serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through adaptive sports, community integration, outdoor programming and aquatic wellness. She has also enjoyed volunteering with Special Olympics swimming, basketball and bocce ball over the past 8 years. Shortly after relocating to Phoenix, Emily assisted with Gigi Fit classes and immediately knew this was her dream place to be. During her free time, Emily enjoys spending time with her husband Bradley, puppy Tucker and being outside as much as possible.
Sarah Hales - Speech-Language Pathologist
Sarah attended the University of Missouri-Columbia and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Education, with an emphasis in Early Childhood. She received her Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Kansas in 1995. She's practiced as a speech-language pathologist (SLP) in Arizona since 1998. Sarah has worked with a variety of ages, populations and disorders throughout her career. Her areas of expertise include Early Intervention, Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) and treating motor-speech disorders.
Sarah has been actively involved with the Down syndrome community in Arizona for more than 20 years, as a volunteer as well as professionally. She's one of only nine SLP's in the United States who belong to the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group - USA (DSMIG-USA), a group of health professionals committed to promoting the optimal health care and wellness of individuals with Down syndrome across the lifespan. Joining GiGi's Playhouse Phoenix to oversee and grow the speech therapy program is "a dream come true!" Sarah loves living in Arizona! She's a hiker, bike rider, and hobbyist photographer. She volunteers as a Steward for the McDowell-Sonoran Conservancy - you may see her greeting you at one of the trailheads around Scottsdale!
Cathy Judge, Operations Manager
As a member of the initial Startup Committee for GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix more than 8 years ago, Cathy joyfully accepted her role to co-manage operations of the site. Cathy’s extensive operations management experience was invaluable in the startup of the Phoenix Playhouse. As the grandmother of a young adult with Down syndrome and the mother of GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix Founder, Jennifer Gage, Cathy is passionate about the success of the Playhouse and is grateful to serve the hundreds of families who refer to it as their “home away from home.”
Sophia Lentz, Manager of Operations/Family Engagement
Born and raised in Phoenix, AZ, and the proud oldest of five siblings, Sophie is all about making a difference in the lives of others. With a background in early childhood education and applied behavior analysis, she’s built her career around serving her community and creating lasting connections.
From the moment she walked into GiGi’s Playhouse, Sophie knew she had found her place. The mission and values of the Playhouse perfectly align with her own, and being part of such an impactful organization has been nothing short of inspiring.
When she’s not working, Sophie loves spending time with family, friends, and her sweet pup, Blue. Whether she’s practicing yoga, enjoying the outdoors, or just soaking up life’s little moments, she’s all about finding joy in the everyday.
Cindy Simpson, Director of Adult Learning - GiGi Prep & GIGI U
Cindy and her husband, Tim raised their two boys, Tyler and Brady (both at ASU) in Scottsdale for the past 16 years after moving from their home state of California. She has been a substitute teacher with the Scottsdale Unified School District for the past 12 years and continues to sub when not working or volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse, her “Happy Place!” Now an empty nester, Cindy joined us as a volunteer for our Literacy Tutoring Program (virtually) and quickly added in the GiGiFIT program to her schedule. Cindy has volunteered or worked in the special education arena since high school and was thrilled to join the GiGi’s family! “GiGi’s Playhouse is my favorite place to be!”
Our Board Members
Jennifer Gage, Founder GiGi’s Playhouse Scottsdale/Phoenix, Co-Board President
Hello, I'm Jennifer Gage, a proud long-time resident of Arizona and a dedicated parent to four wonderful children. In 1996, my life took an extraordinary turn when my oldest daughter, Kaitlyn, was born with Down syndrome. Fueled by a passion for making a difference, I spearheaded a start-up committee in 2013, raising funds to establish GiGi's Playhouse Phoenix.
Over the past decade, GiGi's Playhouse has grown exponentially, from serving 85 families to now supporting over 1,000 families with a Down syndrome diagnosis, encompassing individuals from prenatal diagnosis to adulthood. Witnessing the positive impact it has had on the community fills my heart with joy.
In addition to my dedication to GiGi's Playhouse, I am a proud business owner of six StretchLabs, which I have successfully nurtured for the past five years. This venture has allowed me to combine my entrepreneurial spirit with my drive to help others.
My efforts and commitment to making a difference have been recognized by receiving the esteemed ASU 100 award for Sun Devil entrepreneurs.
I firmly believe that every individual has the power to create positive change, and I am determined to continue advocating for inclusivity, support, and opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
When I'm not busy with my various pursuits, you can find me enjoying quality time with my children, exploring the beauty of Arizona, and finding inspiration in the small joys that life offers.
Stephanie Gage, Co-Board President
It is a privilege to be returning to GiGi’s Board as President. I am fortunate to be a part of the 10-year growth of GiGi’s Playhouse. Our mission and core values have influenced my own life to be kinder, more generous and accepting of all. I love meeting the most inspiring participants and their families and work alongside the most caring and dedicated program leaders and volunteers as they bring to life GiGi’s extraordinary programs. Working with GiGi’s I see firsthand how GiGi’s programs help children to stand, and then provide that little bit of help they need to stand up for themselves. I see the impact GiGi’s has on parents as their fear dissipates when welcomed by new families ready to celebrate their child and share their experiences.
After retiring from a lifelong career as an executive with the Estee Lauder Companies, I enjoy sharing more of my time with my family. As grandmother to four of the smartest and most caring people I know, I have learned how important acceptance is in their new world. It is my pleasure to be a part of GiGi’s Playhouse, GiGi U, GiGi’s Studio Café and the GiGiFIT Studio as we prepare our participants and our community to be more kind, more generous and more accepting of all.
Jamie L. Mayrose, Board Vice President
I am a founding member of Rader Mayrose, LLP, a small firm dedicated to providing effective, efficient legal services to small companies, non-profits, and schools. In addition to my law degree, I also have a master’s degree in higher education administration with a focus in business. Prior to opening my own firm, I worked for several national law firms. I am originally from the great Hawkeye State (“Is this Heaven? It’s Iowa.”) and have lived in Arizona since 2005. I previously served on the board of a small non-profit working with at-risk youth. For the past seven years, I have served on the board of a large non-profit that is one of the oldest arts organizations in the country. On both boards, I have held numerous officer positions, including board president. In my free time, I hike, spend time with my dogs and friends, and frequently return to Iowa to visit family.
Kenda Gonzales, Board Treasurer
Kenda grew up in the Valley and has been active in our community, previously serving on the Board of Directors of Sojourner Center, Xavier College Preparatory and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. She has more than 30 years of executive management experience leading corporations. Her background includes serving as a CFO and public company board member and she is a certified public accountant. Kenda and her husband Ed, are parents to three children and six grandchildren. Baker, their fifth grandchild and only grandson, has Down syndrome. Our family found GiGi’s shortly before Baker’s birth and he has attended the LMNOP program. Kenda is excited to be involved in GiGi’s Playhouse mission of helping change the way the world sees Down syndrome.
Stacie Wylie, Board Secretary
Stacie Wylie has a long history of service and community involvement. Prior to her career in the insurance industry, she worked as a high school English teacher and coached the Academic Decathlon team at Desert Ridge High School. In the past 15 years in the insurance industry, she has served customers through her service in claims, quality assurance, tech support, and corporate responsibility. She currently works as a Corporate Responsibility Analyst where she reviews grant requests from non-profit organizations and organizes volunteer and community events. A lifelong learner with a passion for education, Stacie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Education with minors in music and studio arts, an MBA with an emphasis in Accounting, certificates in Data Analytics and Developmental Disabilities, and several insurance designations. In her free time, Stacie loves spending time with her family. Her son, Liam, has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism—you will frequently find them at GiGi’s jamming at ukulele class, playing soccer at Lil’ Sports, dancing at Dance Mania, or doing science experiments at Kids Club. Stacie is very involved in the Down syndrome and Autism communities and enjoys volunteering for organizations that serve the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and other youth focused organizations.
Christel Baker, Director
Christel is a wife and mother of four wonderful adult children. Christel is a former substitute Public School Teacher who found her calling when teaching children with special needs. In 2017 she became a literacy tutor as an entrance into the GiGi’s Playhouse Community. A year later she was named the Director of GiGi’s Career Development Program. Her team brought GiGi Prep and GiGi University to our Phoenix community. Under her guidance in bringing GiGi Prep and GIGI U to Phoenix, she developed and executed a curriculum that is now used network wide by other playhouses with Adult Education Programs. There have been four classes of graduates since we began, and now many of them have moved on to internships in our Studio Café. In 2021 her husband retired, and she stepped down from the Director of Career Development position to spend more time traveling with family. But she wasn’t about to leave GiGi’s! It is a huge part of her life. Currently, in addition to being a member of the board, she is the Coordinator of Adult Programs, and volunteers with GiGi Fit, our Studio Café and other areas as needed. She looks forward to working with the board and all the GiGi’s families in the coming years to bring out the “Best of All” in all of us.
Chris Mays, Director
For the last 20 years, Chris has been in the field of Medical Devices where he has earned the top leadership award 7 times with 4 different companies. He has experience with large corporations as a National Sales Director as well as experience helping to launch smaller start-ups as a Vice President of Sales. He has been involved with hiring, managing and teaching hundreds of employees in the medical device field throughout his career and has established strong relationships with so many people throughout the country due to his passion, work ethic and trustworthiness.
Out of everything he has accomplished however, his volunteer work this past year at GiGi’s Playhouse has been by far the most enriching and rewarding experience, whether it is leading Gigi Fit, Fantastic Friends or tutoring.
On a personal side, Chris is very active in yoga and mindfulness, and has completed a 5 month “Teacher of Presence” school taught by Eckhart Tolle. He also enjoys singing, playing the guitar and performing at open mic nights throughout the Phoenix area.
Chad Schleicher, Director
I am a seasoned professional with a diverse background in the AEC industry, driven by a passion for giving back to my community. Hailing from Kansas City, I honed my skills at the University of Kansas, where I majored in Finance.
Beginning as a Financial Analyst and Accountant in Real Estate Investment Trusts, I transitioned into Business Development, where I have excelled for 10 years at prestigious firms like SmithGroup, Weitz, and now Adolfson & Peterson. My experience also includes a stint in Economic Development for the City of Tempe, demonstrating my commitment to community growth and prosperity.
Recently, I furthered my education by completing a Masters in Real Estate Development from the University of Arizona, enhancing my knowledge and skills in the field. My dedication and achievements have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by my recognition in ENR's top 40 under 40 list and receiving the Emerging Leader award from AAED.
When I am not working or volunteering, you can find me spending time with my son, Wesley, training for my next physical endurance event (10 Triathlons and counting), or trying a new restaurant with my amazing wife.
Peter Short MD, Director
After 25 years caring for children in a private practice of Pediatrics and 18 years as the Chief Medical Officer in our local community hospital, I retired on October 1, 2021. During that time I cared for many children with all varieties of disabilities. I was impressed with the love and dedication those parents have for their children and wanted to give back to those families when I retired for what they taught me that helped me be a better Pediatrician. As the Chief Medical Officer at Beverly Hospital in Beverly, Massachusetts my focus was on providing the highest quality of care for our patients. While I was Chief Medical Officer we received straight “A” ratings from the Leapfrog group, putting us in the top 99th percentile of hospitals in the country. I live in Scottsdale for part of the year and have volunteered at GiGi’s since I retired. As a member of the Board of Directors I look forward to helping GiGi’s provide the highest quality services to their participants and families.
Christine Wiggs, Director
As a native Arizonan, Dr. Christine Wiggs is drawn to the vibrancy and beauty of the desert. She has spent over two decades of her career championing community health promotion, access to healthcare, and positive health outcomes. Dr. Wiggs leads corporate social responsibility, philanthropic investment, and public health initiatives for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and the AZ Blue Foundation. She built her public health-focused career at the University of Arizona where she led community-based applied research and evaluation initiatives, serving vulnerable populations including substance using, HIV/AIDS, as well as youth and adults experiencing homelessness.
Dr. Wiggs is highly engaged in the community, serving on boards including the Phoenix Indian Center, University of Arizona’s College of Public Health, and GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix. In her free time she can be found reading and spending time with her daughter and sassy German Shepherd, Sophie,
Dr. Wiggs received her Bachelor of Science from Gonzaga University, and holds a Master of Public Health, Master of Science, and Ph.D. from the University of Arizona. Dr. Wiggs is passionate about working closely with communities to build the resources and capacity needed to improve the health of all.
Daniel O’Keeffe, Board Member
Daniel O’Keeffe is 27 years old, born and raised in Phoenix, and has been involved with Gigi’s Playhouse since 2016.
Daniel began his involvement with GiGi’s Playhouse by attending Fantastic Friends and the literacy and math tutoring programs. He was a member of the first graduating classes of GiGi Prep in 2018 and GiGi U in 2019. He was a GiGi’s Rock Band member for five years where he learned to play various instruments. He especially enjoyed their annual performances. A very special class he enjoys is Mrs. Schatzman’s Cooking Class. GiGiFit has been a favorite class of his and has kept him in good shape.
Daniel is currently an intern at GiGi’s Studio Café where he enjoys working, serving and meeting people while learning how a café operates. As a café intern he also helps at GiGi’s special events.
Daniel was part of a group of GiGi’s participants that welcomed people to the galas and sang.
Since age eight, Daniel has been a participant in various Special Olympics sports most recently focusing on swimming and track. In the past, he has participated in classes and performances of the Detour Company Theatre.
Daniel is a Peer Mentor with Young Life’s special needs high school group. He also is their worship leader. Each week he chooses a worship song to sing and play on his guitar before the message.
Recently he sang and played his guitar for a Young Life Capernaum fund raiser.
Daniel continues to develop his singing and guitar playing abilities with his music therapist weekly. He also attends speech and occupational therapy weekly.
Daniel enjoys playing and caring for his recently adopted blind Shih Tzu puppy, Teddy.
Daniel considers it a great honor to be invited to join GiGi’s Board. He looks forward to all that he will learn through this experience.