Get to know us!
Brittani Gilmore
Ex-Officio Board Member
My name is Brittani Gilmore, I am a Highland resident and grew up in Wathena. I am a mother to 3 girls and have directly experienced the shortage of child care within our county. I am beyond excited to volunteer my time helping to ensure that Doniphan Darlings meets the expectations and needs of parents, children, and members of our community by providing a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment for children of all ages. My profession allows me to work with children of all ages, as I am a registered dental hygienist for Dr. Jordan Haedt, DDS in Hiawatha, KS and have been working in the profession for over 10 years. As mentioned above, I have 3 daughters with my husband and biggest supporter Ben. In my spare time (what even is that?!?), you will find me enjoying time with my family, reading, cooking/baking, serving in my church, and having dance parties in my living room with my girls.
Whitney McCauley
Board Member
My name is Whitney McCauley.  I live outside of Highland on our family farm with my husband and kids.  I grew up just down the road in Troy, KS.  I am a nurse by day at our local health department and busy mama of two the rest of the time. I became involved with Doniphan Darlings when I personally saw the need for childcare in our community. Our current daycare closed, all of the local in-home daycares were full- and as a working mom- I was stressed! My two kids have attended Doniphan Darlings since it opened. This center has been such a blessing for our family and our community! I have loved watching the daycare bloom into a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for our local kids and families!
Dana Clary
Board Member
My name is Dana Clary and I Iive in Highland with my husband and 2 girls. I am excited to serve on the Doniphan Darlings Board as I have a degree in Social Work and 15 years experience in early childhood education working for Parents as Teachers. My heart and passion is partnering with parents to walk side by side with them to help them grow into their full potential as their child's 1st and best teachers! Outside of working for PAT, I am also the coordinator for Kaden's Kloset: Troy- a non profit organization that provides physical needs for foster and adoptive kiddos, as well as community kiddos needs. I love being outdoors, time spent with family and friends, sports, serving in my community & beyond, and reading a good book.
Amy Lackey
Board Member
Bio coming soon.
Matt Peterson
Board Member
My name is Matt Peterson, and I am a resident of Highland, Kansas. I was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. I attended Benedictine College for my undergraduate studies and have remained in Kansas since that time. I am a Licensed Masters Social Worker (LMSW) and have a masters degree in School Administration. I have worked in the Doniphan County Schools for the last 22 years. I'm married to my wife, Stephanie, and have two boys. We spend most of our time in a gym or at an athletic field. It is an honor to serve on the Doniphan Darlings Board and give back to the community.
Ben Gilmore
Board Member
Bio coming soon.
Mackenzie Cunnningham
Program Director
My name is MacKenzie Cunningham, and I am a Highland native, but just moved to the next town over. I am excited to be the Director, as my passion for child welfare started in Highland by babysitting as many little ones as I could through college. I have a degree in Social Work, and have used it to gain further experience with children and families through various roles. Now that I am going to have my first child, I am even more excited for my part in providing quality childcare for our community. When I’m not at Doniphan Darlings, I am helping at Two Timbers or Doniphan West High School. I love my community, and I love being able to now settle my family into the small town charm. When I’m relaxing you can find me out at the lake, reading a good book, or spending quality time with friends and family.