Introducing the newest member of our Board of Directors – Kylia Garver
How did you learn about the milk bank?
I learned about the milk bank from two different friends, both of whom were previous milk donors and one who currently serves on the Board of Directors. Both had very positive things to say about the organization so that made me curious to learn more. I was already familiar with the health benefits of donor milk for pre-term and fragile babies from my graduate studies in public health, and once I heard my friends’ endorsements of the organization, I was eager to get involved.
What made you interested in serving on the Board of Directors?
I was looking for a way to utilize my public health and maternal and child health education. It is a passion for me, and I am excited to see what I can contribute.
What are you hoping to bring to the milk bank through your board service?
I hope to assist however I’m needed. Whether it’s helping brainstorm ideas or being an extra set of hands for an event or campaign, I’m up for anything that will help the milk bank grow and serve more families.
Is there anything specific you are hoping to learn from your board service?
I’m looking forward to learning about what it’s like to serve on a non-profit board. This will be a new experience for me.
Tell us about your professional background
My Master’s Degree is in Public Health but I have spent much of my career in the private sector. In graduate school I had several opportunities working in non-profits, and I enjoyed those experiences. I completed my practicum at Boston Medical Center’s Breastfeeding Center where I had the opportunity to work on national quality improvement efforts. These baby-friendly hospital QI efforts showed me firsthand how care practices in the hospital can impact the lives of babies and families in the community, not simply for a few days but over the course of a lifetime. Making a long-term impact is very meaningful to me.
At Brownmed, the medical device company I lead, one of my most fulfilling efforts was launching a skin-to-skin support device into NICU and mother-baby settings. One of the best parts about these experiences was the exposure to both clinicians and families. Especially in the NICU where there is a multi-disciplinary team, and it was amazing to see everyone mobilize around a family and the care practices that would produce the best outcomes for the baby. I also enjoyed talking to parents in the NICU and found their resilience and commitment to their babies very inspiring. I am passionate about women’s health and pediatrics, so the mission of the milk bank really resonates with me.
Is there anything about your personal background you would like to share?
I have three children and am always running from one sport and activity to the next with them, and I wouldn’t have it any other way! When I’m not driving them around on the weekends, I enjoy baking, gardening and enjoying the outdoors. Our family has two Siberian cats, Hans and Matilda. I am in my fifth year of leading my daughter’s Girl Scout troop and I ride the Pan Mass Challenge each August. Although my husband and I both grew up in the Midwest, we are happy to have put down roots in Greater Boston, having lived here since 2013. Time flies when you’re having fun!
