DuAnne is deeply committed to progressing beyond traditional methodology and organizational structure. Her vision is leading the organization to become self-sustainable. She uses her degrees in business, psychology & organizational development, combined with 18 years of corporate experience and 18 years as an entrepreneur to create innovative programs that facilitate positive expansion of participants' self-concept and self-esteem.
Dianne Chase, President
Dianne Chase is a professional educator, consultant, trainer and motivational speaker who combines her 25+ years of expertise in early childhood and youth programming with a background in marketing, management and evaluation. Working with clients from national corporations to home-based child care, she empowers programs (serving children from infancy through high school, along with their families) to improve quality standards, communication methods, staff expertise, program delivery and evaluation techniques. Dianne holds a Masters in Early Childhood Development and Education from Wheelock College, and has begun pursuing a doctorate in Education Programming and a Certificate in Non-Profit Management. She spearheaded the first college level training program for afterschool staff in her native Boston and was a founding member of the citywide anti-gang collaborative task force before moving to Texas as the Afterschool Programs Coordinator for Austin Independent School District. She has served in various board, membership and staff positions for the National Afterschool Association, Texas Afterschool Association, Travis County Afterschool Network, and National Association for the Education of Young Children, among others. Dianne champions the rights of children through local initiatives, various Governor’s task forces, State and Federal agency advisory committees, national awareness campaigns and quality building initiatives. While continuing her work as a consultant and launching a new education resource product line, Dianne has also took on positions as the Director of Community Education for the Eanes Schools District and Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of the Texas Hill Country. She is a published author of curriculum and training materials who remains committed to the improving children’s lives through direct work with early childhood and school age providers working in homes, centers, and schools.
Dianne lives in Wimberley with her petroleum engineer husband, Larry Browning, where they enjoy time with their extended family.
Mitch Landry, Vice President, (Acting Secretary)
Mitch comes to us from the corporate world of information technology, go-to market strategies and fiscal planning that includes revenue analysis. With a background that includes serving on multiple boards, Mitch brings expertise that will assist YTC to grow towards sustainability while serving Wimberley Valley youths.
Santa Garcia, Board Member
Santa has 10+ years experience in gymnastics with 8+ years running youth camps, afterschool programs, and supervising staff at a recreational gymnastics facility in Austin. She is a mother of a teenage son enrolled in school in Wimberley and has a passion for working with kids that has led her to Youth Taking Charge where she is providing insight into programming, training, and compliance.
