SAMANTHA PETY
Executive Director/Head of School
As SALA's founding teacher, Samantha Pety has been instrumental in developing and scaling the program over seven years, growing enrollment from 22 to 143 students. She has progressed from Lead Teacher to Program Director to Chief Operating Officer, overseeing curriculum development, leading teaching staff, managing admissions, and launching key program expansions including career development and culinary programs.
A certified special education teacher, Samantha holds a Bachelor's degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Special Education from Texas Tech University and brings prior public school teaching experience.
As Executive Director/Head of School, she remains committed to providing students with meaningful opportunities to be active throughout the San Antonio community, promoting independence and real-world skill development while honoring founder Cindy Boynton's vision.
ELLEN SHOEMAKER
Executive Director/Development & Administration
Ellen Shoemaker joined SALA in 2018 as a part-time consultant, where she created foundational grant language, authored the quarterly newsletter, and significantly grew the donor base through strategic development. She joined full-time in 2022 as Associate Director, overseeing the annual gala, authoring internal policies, constructing operating budgets, and managing board relations. In 2023, she was promoted to Chief Development Officer, focusing on achieving fundraising goals to support organizational growth.
Ellen holds a Master's Degree in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University and brings leadership experience from public policy positions, including as a Lead Intelligence Analyst for the Defense Intelligence Agency.
In her executive role, she remains committed to advancing SALA's mission, working in partnership with Samantha to drive organizational growth while ensuring long-term sustainability.
Kristen Collier:
Finance and HR Director
Kristen Collier is a dedicated finance professional with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, concentrating in Finance, from the University of the Incarnate Word. Her diverse career journey has equipped her with a robust skill set in finance, accounting, human resources, and oil and gas mineral lease negotiations, making her a valuable asset to SA Life Academy.
Throughout her professional journey, Kristen has worked with a range of organizations—from small regional firms to large multinational corporations. This breadth of experience has honed her analytical skills and enhanced her ability to manage financial operations effectively.
A resident of San Antonio, Kristen enjoys a fulfilling family life with her husband, Wes, and their three energetic boys: Samuel, Owen, and Jack. When she’s not immersed in finance or family activities, Kristen loves spending time outdoors, exploring nature, and preparing healthy meals for her family, all while staying active as a certified integrative nutrition health and wellness coach.
MELISSA TOUDOUZE:
Director Of IT & Compliance
Melissa Toudouze obtained her associate’s degree in Applied Science and Computer Programming from San Antonio College.
Prior to joining SA Life Academy in 2020, Melissa worked as a Paraprofessional in the North East Independent School District for six years where she provided instruction at a suitable academic level for each individual student. Melissa also worked at AT&T for 26 years, including as a senior technical lead.
Melissa enjoys spending time with her four children, including her son Kyle who has Down Syndrome and attends SA Life Academy.
Meggan Leonard:
Event Coordinator
Meggan Leonard moved to San Antonio from New York City when her husband, Mike, joined the Air Force. They quickly discovered it was the perfect place to raise their family and made it their permanent home.
Meggan's advocacy journey began when her son, Mikey, was diagnosed with Autism at 16 months old. In New York, he attended the Gillen Brewer School, a special needs program where Meggan's passion for championing vulnerable citizens took shape.
After moving to Alamo Heights ISD, Meggan served as a parent liaison and helped launch the '09 Academy—the district's 18–22-year-old post-graduate life skills program. She regularly advocated before the school board for families and students with disabilities.
When Cindy Boynton proposed starting SA Life Academy, a day program for adults with an IDD, Meggan jumped on board. Mikey was among the first adults to attend, and Meggan has been instrumental in fundraising and organizing the annual "Off-Broadway" Gala, remaining dedicated to keeping SA Life Academy extraordinary.
Meggan and Mike are proud parents of three- Mikey, Matthew, and Madelyn —all committed advocates for individuals with special needs. Mike serves on the Board of SA Life Academy, underscoring the family's shared dedication to this important cause.
Jennifer Robelo:
Program Assistant
Jennifer Robelo is SA Life Academy's Program Assistant, bringing both professional expertise and a deeply personal connection to the mission. She holds an MBA from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and has built a successful career in marketing, consulting, and brand management with companies like Anderson Consulting and Johnson & Johnson. As the mother of Sebastian, who has Autism and graduated from Alamo Heights High School, she understands the vital importance of quality programs for adults with special needs.
Jennifer has demonstrated her commitment to SA Life Academy by volunteering with the organization's annual gala for over eight years. Sebastian currently attends the 09 Academy through AHISD, and the family hopes he will join SALA in the future.
A San Antonio resident for 12 years, Jennifer supports SALA with billing, grant research, and donor communications. Her professional experience and personal understanding of families with special needs make her an invaluable member of the team and a passionate advocate for SALA's mission.