Youlanda was born in Dallas but raised in Munday, Texas, and she is excited to learn more about the big city where her beginnings started. Abilene has been her home for the past 33 years and is where she met her better half and friend for life. James and Youlanda have been married for 28 years and are the proud parents of three handsome, talented young men: Derrick, Christian, and Joshua and his lovely bride Ashley. They have three energetic, fun, sweet grandchildren: boys Kash and Kaysen and granddaughter Bostyn.

Youlanda encountered Early Childhood as a career when her boys were still babies, and it only took a few weeks in the classroom to realize she was hooked for life. After twenty-six years, “all things early childhood” is still exciting to her: seeing a baby roll over, take its first steps, and say its first words…to maturing and going off to “big” school feels new to her every time. Youlanda’s favorite thing about Early Childhood is looking upon a child and beholding the beauty, intelligence, creativity, and love of a fantastic Creator-God. She believes that children are precious, and it is the adults’ responsibility to ensure that they are well-cared for, safe, nurtured, and allowed to develop their God-given gifts, talents, and abilities.

Youlanda believes whole-heartedly that serving children and families is God’s purpose for her. She enjoys helping others-big and small, and she doesn’t mind walking hand-and-hand with someone during challenging moments. It is during those times that we often grow the most. Youlanda is committed to using her skills and education in business, organizational development, and early childhood education, as well as her personal experiences in life and the classroom, to create that village for a child and their family. She is grateful for the opportunity to join the Fortress family in doing God’s work and caring for his most precious creation.

Spending time with family and friends, just hanging out, laughing, and sharing a delicious meal is Youlanda’s favorite thing to do. Youlanda also enjoys cooking, reading, creating educational content, listening to music, dancing, singing “no matter what it sounds like”, and exploring new things. “Life is too short, and God is too good to be miserable, so choose JOY”!