Meet the Team
staff
Nicole Golden
Executive Director
Nicole brings a lifelong passion for preventing gun violence to her role as Executive Director of Texas Gun Sense. She stepped into the position in April 2022—just weeks before the tragic Uvalde mass shooting—and expertly guided the organization through an emotionally charged crisis-response. With a background in social work and a decade of advocacy experience, Nicole advances TGS’ mission through coalition-building, legislative and grassroots advocacy, education, and community-based gun safety initiatives.
Garrett R. Chase
Communications Manager
Garrett leverages his extensive background in advocacy, communications, and nonprofit leadership to advance the mission of preventing gun violence across Texas. Before joining TGS, Garrett honed his experience in LGBTQIA2+ advocacy, strategic communications, and development work for issues ranging from reproductive rights to climate action to gun violence prevention. With an emphasis on social justice, strategic partnerships, and community engagement, Garrett brings a passion for policy advocacy to the TGS team.
Laura Minnigerode
Development Manager
Laura is an experienced researcher, writer, curriculum designer, and educator. She has successfully managed the full lifecycle of grants—including funding from foundations, corporations, and local, state, and federal governments. Drawing on this wealth of experience, she helps build and manage a robust pipeline of grant and funding opportunities—ensuring a diverse and sustainable stream of revenue for Texas Gun Sense.
Melissa Lamm
Administrative Manager
Melissa joined Texas Gun Sense in 2017 and facilitates the day-to-day operations management and administrative support for our Executive Director, Board, and team. Prior to joining TGS, she worked for over two decades as an account executive in Washington, D.C. for a Fortune 500 company, growing sales and building long-term relationships with key clients. After moving with her family to Austin, TX, she took a 10-year career hiatus during her children’s elementary and middle school years to volunteer.
Ethan Sullivan
Advocacy & Outreach Coordinator
Ethan recently earned his Master of Public Affairs from the LBJ School at The University of Texas at Austin. He is deeply committed to reducing gun violence and building safer, stronger communities across Texas. Ethan has experience on the official side of politics, working in the U.S. Senate for Senator Michael Bennet, as well as on political campaigns at the state, local, and city levels. Advocacy has always been his driving passion—and he is excited to bring that energy and expertise to Texas Gun Sense, working statewide to advance practical, evidence-based solutions that save lives.
boards
Board of Directors
David Dunn | BOARD CHAIR
Kelsey Erickson Streufert | VICE CHAIR
Jaime Thompson | SECRETARY
Bonnie Cook | TREASURER
Jon Brandt
Travis Krogman
Dana Rundlof
Mary Stone
Louis Wichers
Advisory Board
Dr. Juno Woods | CO-FOUNDER
Frances Schenkkan | CO-FOUNDER
Dr. Lauren Gambill
Dr. Mary-Lynn Rice-Lively
Nina Zilkha