CINDY BOYNTON:
Founder/CEO
Cindy Boynton earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Southern Methodist University and went on to obtain her master’s degree In Special Education from the University of Houston.
Prior to founding SA Life Academy in 2016, Cindy actively served on both state and local special education committees. She also worked as a Special Education teacher and started what is now called the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas in 1994.
A long-time resident of Alamo Heights, Cindy and her husband Bryan have three amazing children including their youngest son Drew who has Down Syndrome and Autism. They are also the proud grandparents of three sweet granddaughters.
ELLEN SHOEMAKER:
Chief Development officer
Ellen Shoemaker earned a bachelor’s degree in International Business from Texas Tech University and went on to obtain her master’s degree in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University.
Prior to joining SA Life Academy in 2018, Ellen secured millions of dollars in grants and proposals for local businesses and nonprofits in the San Antonio area. She also served as an award-winning Intelligence Analyst for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and American Government Instructor at Northwest Vista College.
A native Texan, Ellen resides in Helotes with her husband Bobby, and three young children Bobby, Annie, and Clayton.
SAMANTHA PETY:
Chief operating officer
Samantha Pety holds a bachelor’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Special Education from Texas Tech University.
Before joining SA Life Academy in 2017, she taught Special Education for two years in a Pre-School Program for Children with Disabilities at the North East Independent School District. Prior to becoming Chief Operating Officer, she served as the Program Director, where she played a key role in developing the monthly calendar and curriculum. Her lifelong experience caring for a young adult with autism ignited her passion for advocating for individuals with special needs.
A proud San Antonio native, Samantha graduated from Alamo Heights High School, where she was inspired by several SA Life Academy adults who continue to motivate her in her leadership role.
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.
Kristen Collier:
Director of Finance
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.
Meggan Leonard:
Event & Development Coordinator
Meggan Leonard became an advocate and supporter of the special needs community after her son, Mikey, was diagnosed with a developmental disorder at 16 months old. She was involved with his special needs nursery school in New York City.
After moving to San Antonio, she became proactive as a parent and Parent Liaison in the Alamo Heights School District. She helped develop new programs at Alamo Heights, such as 09 Academy and went before the school board on several occasions to advocate for families and students with disabilities.
When Cindy Boynton shared her idea of starting a day program for adults with special needs, Meggan jumped on board and helped in many capacities, including fundraising and the annual “Off-Broadway” Gala.