Meet Our Team

IMG_1742.jpeg
IMG_8476.jpeg
IMG_8475.jpeg
IMG_8474.jpeg
IMG_1741.jpeg
IMG_1743.jpeg

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

  • Katrina Kirkpatrick, Center Director

    "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 City School District.

    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."

  • Zack Munsell, Center Director

    Zack Munsell is a proud uncle to seven nieces and nephews and a friend to every child he meets. With a genuine passion for connecting with kids, he has dedicated much of his life to making each child feel truly seen and heard.

    Zack is the founder of Friendly Banjos, a U.S.-based musical instrument company that helps children and their families connect and express themselves through learning to play music together.

Literacy Voyage Program Educator

  • 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!

Birthing Class Facilitator

  • Abby Larson – Birthing Class Facilitator

    Abby Larson is a certified doula and the founder of Hudson Doula Care. She offers gentle, personalized support during one of the most vulnerable and transformative times in a family’s life. Abby understands that preparing for birth and the fourth trimester is both exciting and overwhelming—families are often met with an overload of information and opinions on “the right way” to do things.

    Her approach is rooted in the belief that there is no perfect way to prepare for birth or parenthood. Instead, she helps parents navigate their options, offering guidance that feels practical and meaningful for their unique journey. With warmth and compassion, Abby supports families as they gain confidence, feel empowered in their choices, and embrace the transition into life with a new baby.

    At FRC, Abby brings this same supportive philosophy to our birthing classes, helping caregivers feel seen, heard, and equipped with knowledge for the road ahead.