After participating in a PEPS Group and then volunteering as a PEPS Group Leader, Dana came to work for PEPS in 2011 as the Communications Manager. When growth from marketing overwhelmed systems, she led PEPS through a digital transformation - moving the organization from ad hoc processes and outdated platforms to supported and integrated technology that allows PEPS to plan, forecast, and respond to parents more effectively. 

Since then, Dana has held various roles, including Director of Operations and Communications, Deputy Director, and Acting Executive Director. She’s worked on high-impact initiatives including restructuring staff to create more effective connections with communities, implementing a flexible pricing model to increase access to PEPS and developing a new strategic direction. 

Dana became the Executive Director in October of 2019 and utilized her strengths as a strategic and adaptable leader to steadily guide the organization through the challenges brought forth by the pandemic. She orchestrated a pivot to operating and delivering programs virtually and an intentional approach to returning to in-person services and gatherings for PEPS Staff and Board. Under her leadership, PEPS has moved from a one-size-fits-all approach to offering multiple ways for parents and partners to connect with PEPS across new parenting stages including expectant parents and parents of adolescents and teens.  

Before joining PEPS, Dana served as the Public Information Officer for the Seattle Fire Department, acting as the spokesperson for fire and medical emergencies throughout the city 24-7 and responding to nearly 5,000 media inquiries per year.  

Outside of PEPS: Dana lives in Kirkland and enjoys spending time outside hiking, biking and camping with her family and friends. She is a graduate of Leadership Tomorrow (2022). From 2017-2019 she served on the Board of Directors for the Service Board (tSB), a youth-led organization committed to equity that provides access to outdoor adventures, social and environmental justice learning, mentorship and community building to Seattle area youth.