Laurie Garo, PhD, brings extensive expertise to her role as Executive Director of Mind, Body & Soul, Inc. With a doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction focusing on Urban Education, she has spent over 20 years collaborating with the justice system and law enforcement through initiatives like Project Safe Neighborhoods to prevent juvenile delinquency. Laurie also has a strong academic background, having taught Geographic Information Systems for 25 years at UNC-Charlotte. Her certifications in Ultimate Bodybuilding, Trauma Intervention through Sport, Expressive Arts Trauma Intervention, Suicide Prevention, and Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse reflect her holistic and multifaceted approach to youth development.

Laurie’s vision for Mind, Body & Soul centers on empowering young people to create and live their own life’s vision by nurturing their mind, body, and soul. Through strategic projects and community partnerships, the organization acts as a catalyst for positive change by improving self-image, encouraging better behavior choices, and fostering academic achievement. Laurie focuses especially on supporting youth who face challenging circumstances, including those marginalized from traditional schooling and those involved with the juvenile justice system, helping them build confidence, agency, and resilience.