Chief Executive Officer
Who We Are
Our Mission
LaunchOK is the STEM and Aerospace Education Fund of Oklahoma — connecting public schools, donors, and industry to create sustainable funding that fuels innovation, strengthens communities, and prepares students for high-demand careers.
Our Vision
We envision an Oklahoma where every public PreK–12 student, in every community, can access world-class STEM and aerospace education — becoming innovators, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers launching the future of Oklahoma.
Our work funds education while strengthening the connections that allow opportunity and innovation to thrive across Oklahoma.
From Short-Term Grants to Sustainable Impact
For too long, public schools have relied on short-term grants that expire before real change can take hold. LaunchOK changes that cycle by turning redirected state tax dollars into renewable, sustainable funding that grows every year — helping schools plan ahead, support teachers, and build programs that last.
The Challenge
Unstable funding
Traditional grants often end after a year, leaving programs unfinished or equipment unused.
Teacher turnover
Educators trained to lead STEM and aerospace programs are often pulled away by higher-paying opportunities.
Limited reach
Rural and under-resourced schools struggle to access high-quality STEM programs.
Lost momentum
Without continuity, successful student programs lose steam and fail to expand statewide.
Our Leadership
LaunchOK is guided by a team of experienced leaders, educators, and community partners who share a vision for sustainable education and workforce growth across Oklahoma. Our leadership works closely with state agencies, educators, and industry partners to ensure every dollar invested in LaunchOK delivers measurable results for Oklahoma students and the economy.
Leadership Team
Sarah Guardiola
Kirsten Lang
Development & Outreach Specialist
Sara Morell
Director of Communications & Strategic Partnerships
Valerie Phillips
Senior Manager of Strategic Outreach & Partnerships
Tommie Shannon
Grant Writer
Donna Dawson
Accounting Officer
Board of Directors
Hopper Smith
Lee Denney
Nellie Sanders
Dave Burgy
Brian Bush
Chad Mariska
JJ Dossett
Powl Smith
Shelby Dreyer
Stacie Vincent
Don Burdick
Public and Private Partnerships for Workforce Growth
LaunchOK operates as an Education Improvement Granting Organization (EIGO) under Oklahoma law, enabling both businesses and individuals to redirect state income tax into sustainable school funding.
Through this partnership model, donors gain significant tax benefits while fueling real outcomes—funding classroom tools, student certifications, and teacher stipends that keep talent in Oklahoma.
Every contribution strengthens the bridge between education and workforce development, ensuring our state continues to lead in aerospace, energy, and technology innovation.
