Laurel van der Linde is the published author of six nonfiction books for children. She is also an instructor in children’s literature with the prestigious UCLA Writers’ Extension Program. She has directed and produced audiobooks for Brilliance Audio, Hyperion, BBC AA and Hachette Book Group as well as educational publishers McDougall/Littell and Pierson. A cum laude graduate from UCLA with degrees in history and theatre, Laurel has a background in performance ranging from ballet to Broadway, the sound stage to the sound booth. She has also worked behind the scenes as a casting director and talent agent.
Julian Amberg is currently an events and public engagement coordinator for Oxbow Farm and Conservation Center. He received his Master’s Degree in Performing Arts Administration work from New York University in 2021 and is interested in all forms of nonprofit work. Julian is committed to Lasso Literacy’s mission to promote literacy amongst grade school students and aims to see it become a part of the statewide effort to improve our children’s education.
Amber Groat is a Lasso Literacy board member. She has a master’s degree in Behavioral Clinical Psychology from California State University, Northridge. She works in the field of early intervention and primary/secondary education supporting individuals with behavioral needs. She has been working in the field of behavior analysis since 2009 and loves supporting literacy and learning. She is from southern California, and enjoys the beach. She loves traveling, and seeking adventure. Her best friend is her dog, a white Labrador named Duchess.
Chrystal Walker has enjoyed being involved with children for more than 50 years. Her love of children has been a forefront in her life from the tender age of 12. She has served in Social Services, PTA’s, School Site Councils and non-profits as well as coaching Track and Field. Chrystal served recently on the board of the Santa Clarita Artists Association wearing several hats throughout the years. Currently she works as a computer lab and library technician at a local elementary school. She teaches fine art to homeschooled children through The ARTree in Newhall, CA., and teaches adults and children art techniques in several mediums. Chrystal is honored to serve as V.P. of Lasso Literacy and has great expectations for success in enabling and encouraging children to engage in reading.