Meet Our Leaders
The entire Laura Baker Services Association team, led by the individuals below, is dedicated to living out our mission each and every day.
Sandi Gerdes
Executive Director
Sandi came to LBSA in 1983. She has worked in a variety of settings since that time, including direct client support, directing the offices of Development and Admissions, and Supported Living Services. She assumed the position of Executive Director in June of 1997. She is the mom of two grown children, serves on several not-for-profit boards and is active in her church. Read Sandi’s In Community blog.
Nicole Laudont
Director of Oak Street Services
Nicole became the Director of Oak Street Services in March of 2018. She has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, in Human Behavior/Applied Behavioral Science. She worked with the Lovaas Institute in Minneapolis and the Autism Partnership in California before coming to LBSA in 2014 as QDDP/Behavioral Analyst. Nicole is a certified Safety Care Instructor, and has served on the LBSA Professional Development Committee.
Tim Hawley
Director of Community Services
Tim Hawley joined LBSA in 2020 as Director of Community Services. Tim and his entire family have been very involved in the special needs community since the birth of his daughter, Reilly, who has intellectual and developmental disabilities. Tim spent much of his career in corporate marketing at several companies including McDonalds and Dairy Queen. Later Tim transitioned to the non-profit sector as Executive Director of GiGi’s Playhouse, a non-profit that provides people with Down Syndrome free educational and social skills programming. Tim and his wife, Jen, have three adult children and are planning a move soon to Northfield.
Megan Zwolenski
Director of Community Relations
Megan joined LBSA as Director of Community Relations in 2025. She brings experience in community engagement, project management, and relationship building from her work in education, business, and nonprofit settings. Megan is passionate about creating opportunities that strengthen relationships between LBSA and the wider community. Originally from Northfield, Megan enjoys spending time with her family and being involved in the community she calls home. She loves spending time outdoors, especially golfing and soaking up the summer weather.
Doug Turk, LICSW
Director of Behavioral Support Services
Doug joined LBSA in 2026 as Director of Behavioral Support Services. He graduated from Columbia University with his MSW and spent 10 years in NYC working as a Licensed Social Worker. He brings 20+ years of experience including foster care, therapy, pediatric oncology and hospital social work. Doug is passionate about advocating that systems engaged with LBSA clients and caregivers are in place and enhancing their ability to grow and succeed. Doug enjoys time with family, music and concerts, MN United, golf and cliché MN dad things like grilling and woodworking.
Christina Severson
CFO
Christina joined LBSA in 2025 as CFO. She brings over ten years of experience in financial management and operational oversight within both nonprofit and business settings. Christina is dedicated to ensuring strong fiscal stewardship and efficient operations that support LBSA’s mission and long-term sustainability. Outside of work, Christina enjoys spending time with her two daughters, tending to her flower gardens, and caring for her pets. She is also an active member of her community and values opportunities to give back and connect with others.