Meet the Board

  • ***Nicole Owen*** PRESIDENT

    Hi! My name is Nicole, and I have three children. My daughter is 14 and an amazing artist with a love for drawing, Lord of the Rings, and thrift shopping. My 11-year-old son loves video games and Pokemon. My oldest son died shortly before his 3rd birthday in 2011.

    This is our fourth year at the Magnolia School. I have been a room parent, room parent coordinator, PTO Secretary, and am now in my first year as the PTO’s President. I love being part of the Magnolia School family and supporting our teachers, staff, parents, and students.

    We love to swim, go to movies, and relax as a family on the weekends. I enjoy fitness, particularly running and weight lifting. I also love reading (thankful for audiobooks) and organizing. I hold a graduate degree in clinical research, but now I primarily volunteer and support our family’s local business.

  • ***Lilly Turnquist*** SECRETARY

    Hi, I’m Lilly. I have three children: Celine, age 5; Ellinor, age 3; and Henrik, who is just 1.

    Being part of the Magnolia School Family is special to me because of the close-knit community and the strong relationships my girls have developed with their instructors. They truly love it there.

    Currently, my kids are obsessed with The Lion King and enjoy picking out their own outfits. On weekends, our favorite activities include dance class, swimming, and pizza parties.

    In Austin, we love dining at Prelude. Professionally, I’ve been with Kendra Scott's corporate office for nearly 10 years. I’m also a fan of pickleball and Lagree Pilates, which keep me active and engaged.

  • **Christina Dubois** TREASURER

    Hi, I’m Christina. I have a 6-year-old child who keeps life exciting and full of wonder.

    I’m deeply appreciative of the Magnolia School Family’s culture of positivity, compassion, and community. It’s heartwarming to see the laughter and big smiles that define our school environment.

    Lately, my child has been obsessed with Godzilla, which has added a fun twist to our days. On weekends, my family loves to go hiking and biking, embracing the outdoors whenever we can.

    We’re big fans of neighborhood sushi in Austin, which is our go-to spot for a great meal. Professionally, I work as a fractional CFO and enjoy engaging in activities related to kids in my spare time.

  • ***Sarah Doney*** TEACHER APPRECIATION CHAIR

    Hi, I’m Sarah. I have a 6-year-old daughter who is in 1st grade.

    One of my favorite aspects of being part of the Magnolia School Family is the strong sense of community among the parents and kids. It’s a welcoming environment that we truly cherish.

    Lately, my daughter is obsessed with dragons, frogs, and riding her bike. On weekends, our family enjoys biking together and spending quality time with relatives.

    In Austin, we love dining at Intero for a great adult experience and Hat Creek when we’re with the kids. I’m passionate about exploring and hiking around Austin, working on my master’s degree, and planning memorable trips for our family.

  • ***Amber Howard*** EVENT CHAIR

    Hi, I’m Amber. I have a 7-year-old son, Boyd, who is in second grade.

    It’s hard to choose just one favorite aspect of being part of the Magnolia School Family. I deeply appreciate the school’s commitment to meeting each child where they are, the fantastic teachers, the dedicated founders who truly get to know each child, and the supportive community of kids and parents.

    Outside of school, Boyd just finished his first summer swim team season, enjoyed golf camp, and competed in golf tournaments. He was the only 7-year-old boy to medal in breaststroke in his league. He also has a keen interest in cars, F1 (especially Max Verstappen), Legos, and sharks.

    On weekends, we love playing golf together, dining out, spending time with our pup, Birdie, taking bike rides, and simply enjoying each other’s company. We also enjoy traveling.

    Professionally, I run a political consulting firm and manage fundraising for my dad’s memorial scholarship fund. Prior to that, I spent over a decade leading various roles on the Expedia Government Affairs team in Washington, DC and Austin. In my free time, I’m an avid reader, aspiring golfer, and love shopping.

  • *Kambria Thomas* SOCIAL MEDIA CHAIR

    Hi, I’m Kambria. I have four kids: three boys aged 9, 7, and 5, and a baby girl who is 1 1/2.

    Our family truly values the customizability of the curriculum and the positive environment at Magnolia School. It has been a game changer for us!

    Lately, my kids are obsessed with Marvel and Pokémon, and our baby girl happily follows her brothers everywhere. It’s a joy to see them all enjoying their interests together.

    On weekends, we love swimming and taking advantage of the long weather that allows for plenty of pool time.

    In Austin, our favorite restaurants are Red Ash and Uchiko. I’m passionate about reading, music, and attending concerts. Before having children, I worked in Operations at a hedge fund but eventually transitioned to becoming a cosmetologist, which I absolutely love.