Meet Our Team
The Dads of Down Syndrome Board of Directors provides leadership, guidance, and stewardship in support of our mission. Each member brings a unique perspective and a shared commitment to strengthening the DODs community.
Our Board of Directors
Jacob Esser
CHAIR
Jacob is the founder of Dads of Down Syndrome and serves as the organization’s chief steward of vision, culture, and momentum. He brings a track record of building scalable programs, leading complex initiatives, and translating ideas into measurable impact. Known for his clarity in decision-making and ability to unify diverse perspectives, he fosters a culture that values growth, accountability, and empowerment. His leadership is driven by optimism, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the Down syndrome community.
Bob Solheim
VICE CHAIR
Bob brings nearly three decades of experience leading mission-driven healthcare organizations, offering deep insight into compassionate care, operational excellence, and effective governance. As the board’s most tenured member, he provides institutional wisdom and steady leadership shaped by service on respected healthcare boards. His perspective is both professional and deeply personal, informed by his role as Levi’s proud grandfather. Known for his ethical leadership, mentorship, and thoughtful counsel, Bob helps guide the DODs Board with clarity, humility, and grace.
Ryan Googins
SECRETARY
Ryan brings a steady, disciplined presence to the DODs Board, shaped by years of navigating complex, high-stakes environments with calm judgment and discretion and being a DOD himself! As a founding member of Dads of Down syndrome, he has been deeply committed to building connection, trust, and advocacy within the community from the beginning. He is a consistent contributor through thoughtful participation, careful listening, and relationship-building across stakeholders. Widely respected for his kindness, composure, and integrity, Ryan embodies the values and culture DODs strives to lead with.
Hughie Cartwright
TREASURER
She brings extensive experience in nonprofit and corporate finance, accounting, and consulting, with deep fluency across leading financial systems including QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, and Intacct. Her expertise strengthens the DODs Board through thoughtful financial stewardship, clarity, and long-term fiscal insight. She is a trusted, steady leader who navigates complexity with integrity and sound judgment. Known for her collaborative and grounded approach, she builds strong relationships and supports mission-aligned decision-making at the board level.
Brett Johnson
BOARD MEMBER
Brett is a seasoned entrepreneur and strategist whose leadership has driven the growth of multiple successful businesses. He brings significant reach and influence through a deeply established network, creating meaningful opportunities for partnership and expansion. His strategic perspective, paired with practical leadership experience, strengthens the board’s ability to think ambitiously and act decisively. Deeply committed to the mission of DODs, Brett leverages his relationships and insight to support long-term, sustainable impact.
Michael Sciaccotta
BOARD MEMBER
Michael brings deep experience navigating complex legal and governance matters, helping organizations make sound, forward-looking decisions. His strategic perspective strengthens the board’s ability to manage risk and lead with confidence. He was instrumental in establishing DODs and securing its 501(c)(3) status, demonstrating both professional expertise and a strong personal commitment to the mission. Michael is widely respected for his integrity, clarity, and steady leadership.
Our Staff
Jacob Esser
FOUNDER & CEO
Jacob is the founder of Dads of Down Syndrome and serves as the organization’s chief steward of vision, culture, and momentum. He brings a track record of building scalable programs, leading complex initiatives, and translating ideas into measurable impact. Known for his clarity in decision-making and ability to unify diverse perspectives, he fosters a culture that values growth, accountability, and empowerment. His leadership is driven by optimism, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the Down syndrome community.
Elise Boleman
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT & EVENT MANAGER
Elise brings exceptional organizational leadership, emotional intelligence, and operational excellence to Dads of Down Syndrome. With a background spanning executive administration, large-scale event coordination, and student and community advocacy, she plays a critical role in supporting leadership, strengthening culture, and ensuring mission-driven initiatives run seamlessly. Elise’s experience supporting executive teams and boards, combined with her deep commitment to service and inclusion, allows DODs to operate with clarity, efficiency, and heart. She is widely valued for her professionalism, relational strength, and ability to turn vision into action.
Our Commitment
Together, the Board of Directors works to ensure Dads of Down Syndrome remains welcoming, sustainable, and impactful — guided by lived experience, community values, and a shared belief in connection and support.