Board of Trustees

Josi, a Kentucky native and Meridian resident, has a deep appreciation for libraries and their role in communities. With a background in education and counseling, she holds a Bachelor's in English from Utah State University and a Master's in Mental Health from Idaho State University. Josi is passionate about lifelong learning and accessible resources, Josi advocates for libraries as essential hubs for knowledge, connection, and growth.

In 2000, Jeff and his family moved to Meridian, and one of their first activities was obtaining library cards. Jeff has always been something of a library tourist; whenever he encounters a library in a new place, he can't resist stopping in for a visit. Passionate about the role of libraries in fostering vibrant communities, Jeff joined the Board to contribute to the continuation of a top-notch library system. He holds a bachelor's degree in English from BYU and works as an asset manager for a Boise-based energy company.

Destinie is a long-time bookworm and public library fan, dating back to her first library card at age 5. Originally from north central Idaho, Destinie has lived in the Treasure Valley for over 12 years and is proud to call Meridian home. As a mom of four and a volunteer dedicated to several local causes, Destinie is passionate about early literacy and access for underserved communities. She believes the services and connection that public libraries provide are essential to a healthy community and a strong democracy. Destinie has a master’s degree in public administration from Boise State University and works in nonprofit development. Destinie was reelected to the Board in May 2023. 

Laura Knutson moved to Meridian in 2014, but has lived in the Treasure Valley for over 45 years. Many of her earliest memories are of storytime at the public library. Laura currently serves as the English Language Arts Curriculum Coordinator for the West Ada School District. Passionate about literacy, Laura recognizes the critical role public libraries serve in promoting and supporting lifelong literacy. She is in awe of all the other services libraries provide communities as well, and believes that a strong library system makes a community a better place to live.   

Josh grew up in the bayous of South Louisiana. He developed a love for libraries as they offered an escape from a challenging childhood. Following a career in the Air Force, Josh hung up his flight suit and said goodbye to the F-15E Strike Eagle in 2014. That career was made possible because of the opportunities afforded by local libraries that helped Josh earn a bachelor’s degree and subsequent MBA. Now, Josh runs a couple of small businesses in Meridian and contributes to the Meridian Library District in as many ways as possible. He believes the Meridian Library District is offering youth in our community opportunities to dream just like he did so many years ago. Josh was reelected to the board in May 2023.