Laury understands the opposing forces of life. She was born with an unbreakable independent spirit and has pursued many dreams and passions. Her father passed away when she was 16, an event which shaped her life. Her immediate goal then was to ensure her future by becoming a college graduate, and focusing on being financially and educationally prepared.

Laury graduated from Southern New Hampshire University with a Management Information Systems degree. She has always had a penchant for technology and problem solving. She worked in the manufacturing and collegiate sectors, but truly found her home helping others with their technological needs.

After relocating to Minnesota and then Georgia, Laury devoted herself to her love for her family and volunteering. She focused her efforts on her children’s lives - school, ballet, baseball, and band. The band became her home away from home and she was instrumental in raising the funds necessary for them to purchase the large travel trailer they desperately needed. Soon the band cleared their debt, bought a trailer and much more over her five-year tenure.

In 2007 her family’s life changed, her husband of 21 years died from cancer. Her son, Ryan, was  a junior in high school, and her daughter, Kristin, a freshman in college.  After his death, Laury simply wanted to do good and came up with the idea of a nonprofit to help other widows and widowers: Widows GPS, providing Guidance, Power, and Support. This was a dream and passion that provided Laury with the experience in the nonprofit organizational and operational sector.

Laury met Patti many years ago when their children were young. When Patti came to Laury three years ago and asked her if she would like to be a Board member for Project Ellie, she immediately agreed. Since then, Laury has brought deep insight into running a nonprofit, along with technological advice, and a tremendous energy to Project Ellie.