Meet Our

Executive Director

Linda Andrews

Linda Andrews is a dynamic leader and advocate for early childhood education and family support, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to her role as Executive Director of the Family Resource Centers of Columbia County. With a strong background in program development, grant writing, and community engagement, Linda has dedicated her career to creating opportunities that empower families and foster lifelong learning.

As a former Educator and Program Director, Linda spearheaded initiatives that addressed early literacy, parent education, and youth leadership. Her innovative approach and commitment to collaboration have led to impactful programs that continue to serve diverse communities. Under her leadership at FRC, Linda is focused on expanding services like Circle Time playgroups and introducing new initiatives.

Linda is a visionary who values inclusivity, resilience, and connection. Her mission is to strengthen families by providing accessible resources, creative programming, and a supportive community. She is deeply rooted in Columbia County, where she continues to champion opportunities that enrich the lives of parents and children alike.

Playgroup Center Staff

  • Janel Walsh, Center Director

    “Hello, Hello - Hello to You!”

    Affectionately known as "Miss Janel" to her playgroupers, Janel has been an integral part of the Family Resource Centers of Columbia County for the past two decades leaving her mark as a parent, Assistant, and Director.

    Janel's journey with FRC began many years ago, when she brought her eldest daughter to the playgroup at 11 months old. She was a stay-at-home mom seeking socialization for her child and found FRC to be the perfect fit. A year later, Janel welcomed a second baby, who also became an enthusiastic playgroup attendee. Her daughters flourished, learning essential life skills like sharing, effective communication, fine motor skills, and the art of interaction with their community.

    Her consistent attendance eventually led to her taking on the role of Assistant Director, allowing her to blend her professional life with taking care of her children.

    After serving as an assistant for five years, Janel was offered the Director position, a role she has embraced for 14 years, overseeing two centers. She describes FRC as an oasis of positivity, providing an abundance of growth and enrichment for both children and adults. Janel's motto, "Once A Playgrouper, Always A Playgrouper," epitomizes the enduring connections formed at FRC.

    When not at playgroup, Janel enjoys in walking with her dog Cooper, biking, and traveling.

  • Katrina Kirkpatrick, Support Staff

    "Miss Katrina" has only been Kirkpatrick until recently, previously she was VanAllen. Katrina married the love of her life in 2024, and they have been together since 2016.

    They have a blended family of four children from almost-3 years old to 14.

    They bought their first home in Hudson in 2019, got engaged in 2020 on a cruise ship, postponed their wedding to build a family, and added a baby boy in 2021.

    Katrina grew up in Kinderhook and attended Ichabod Crane.

    Katrina and her family enjoy spending as much time as possible outside, and one of their favorite things to do is kayaking!

    Katrina says, "I have loved coming to the playgroups and I'm so excited to be able to join the team."

Literacy Voyage Program Educators

  • MonRay (Mr. Ray / Mr. Purple) – Literacy Voyage Program Educator

    With over 30 years of experience working with children, MonRay—affectionately known as Mr. Ray or Mr. Purple (his favorite color)—brings warmth, patience, and a playful spirit to every learning environment. A big kid at heart, he has a passion for fostering a love of reading and handwriting in young learners.

    MonRay has served as a substitute teacher in the Hudson School District and beyond and has dedicated over two decades to Columbia Opportunities Head Start in Hudson. He finds joy in working with "the little people" and is excited to bring his experience and enthusiasm to the Literacy Voyage Program.

    MonRay is thrilled to be part of the team, inspiring a new generation of young readers and writers!

  • Lisa Shea-Literacy Voyage Program Educator

    Lisa has been an educator for 13 years, dedicating her career to inspiring and guiding children. She currently teaches at a preschool in Poughkeepsie and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education from SUNY New Paltz.

    Born and raised in Elizaville, Lisa loves spending time on her family farm, playing with her three-year-old son, and enjoying the beauty of nature. She is passionate about early childhood education and is eager to bring her expertise and enthusiasm to the Literacy Voyage Program.