Leadership & Governance
Governance Structure
The Edwards Syndrome Association (ESA) is governed by a Board of Directors composed of founding members and independently appointed professionals representing backgrounds in social work, psychology, special education, finance, and advocacy.
The Board maintains majority-independent membership to ensure balanced oversight, ethical governance, and responsible financial stewardship.
As ESA expands its structured programming, the organization is actively developing a Medical Advisory Board to provide clinical insight and evidence-informed guidance.
Board of Directors
Jeanna Polacek, President & Co-founder
Jeanna Polacek brings a background in Criminal Justice and Paralegal Studies, with professional experience in immigration law and systems navigation. Following her daughter Mia’s diagnosis, she co-founded ESA to address gaps in advocacy and coordinated family support. As President, she provides strategic leadership and oversees organizational growth and mission alignment.
Kelly Peterson, Vice President & Co-Founder
Kelly Peterson holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and brings experience in disability advocacy, educational support, and the medical field as a telemetry technician. Inspired by her daughter Emma’s diagnosis with Mosaic Trisomy 18, she contributes both professional expertise and lived perspective to ESA’s structured programming. In her leadership role, she also oversees website development and digital resource management.
Crystal Simpson, Vice President & Co-Founder
Crystal Simpson brings hands-on caregiving experience, including work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), along with extensive lived experience navigating complex medical systems. Inspired by her son Gunnar’s journey with Trisomy 18, she contributes practical insight into family-centered support and sensory guidance. In her role with ESA, she supports digital communications and community engagement through content development.
Robert Polacek, Director of Finance & Co-Founder
Robert Polacek brings professional experience in accounting and financial management, with a focus on fiscal oversight and compliance. As a founding member of ESA, he supports the organization’s mission through structured financial stewardship and operational accountability. In his role as Director of Finance, he oversees budgeting, reporting, and internal controls to ensure responsible and transparent management of organizational funds.
Brandon Huxhold, Board Member & Co-Founder
Brandon Huxhold serves as a member of ESA’s Board of Directors. Inspired by his daughter Fiona, who has Mosaic Trisomy 18, he is committed to advancing awareness and long-term support for families navigating complex diagnoses. As a board member, he contributes to governance and strategic oversight in support of ESA’s mission.
Reena Trushel, Board Member
Reena Trushel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Benedictine University and a Master’s degree in Special Education from National Louis University. Following her daughter Karishma’s diagnosis with Trisomy 18, she became committed to supporting families navigating complex medical and educational systems. With over a decade of experience in education, she contributes professional insight to strengthen ESA’s educational resources and family-centered programming.
Erin Haggan, Board Member
Erin Haggan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Connecticut and a Master’s degree in Social Work. She brings professional experience in youth development, family services, and community-based programming. Inspired by her daughter Brooklyn, who has full Trisomy 18, Erin is committed to strengthening support systems for families. As a member of ESA’s Board of Directors, she contributes strategic insight in social services, family engagement, and program development.
