Staff – Administration

GSDC trains our professionals with the highest industry standards and latest innovations in therapy. Our paraprofessionals are also trained at this level to ensure consistency and the highest quality service possible.

Exceptional training and exceptional staff for extraordinary people!


Lori Jo Poole
Owner

Lori Jo has worked at Gem State Developmental Center since 1999 and is currently the Clinical Supervisor at the Meridian Adult Program. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has earned Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Idaho State University and a Masters in Social Work from Boise State University. She has 20-years of experience working with adults and children with developmental disabilities and mental health diagnoses.

She has experience working with individuals, groups and professional staff in a variety of settings. Her therapeutic experience includes: parent coaching, sexuality and social skills training, cognitive self-change, anger management, behavior modification and drug and alcohol education. She is currently the President of the Board of Idaho Families of Adults with Disabilities.

Corey Makizuru
Administrator

Corey has worked at Gem State Developmental Center since 1984. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degrees in Psychology and Human Services from the College of Idaho in 1983. As a college student, Corey volunteered at the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Adult and Child Development Center for two years (1980–1982) and worked in one of the first privately operated Intermediate Care Facility for the Intellectually Disabled in the state for two years (1982–1984). Currently he holds the position of Administrator of the company.

Corey is very grateful and appreciative for the opportunity to work for a dynamic and progressive company dedicated to helping children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their highest level of success. He gives much of the credit for the company’s and individuals' success to his dedicated, well–trained, and compassionate co–workers and those that receive services.

Antonio Washington
Program Support Specialist

Tony has worked for Gem State Developmental Center since 2019. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Innovation & Design. Tony has over 15 years of experience working in the social services field. As a US Army veteran, Tony has training in conflict studies, small unit field management, scope analysis, and multi-focal project impact. Tony enjoys spending his personal time with his family and friends.

Krysty Meyer
Senior Secretary

Krysty has been with Gem State Developmental Center since 2022. She comes to us with years of administrative and documentation experience. She currently holds the position of Senior Secretary and is the Medicaid Billing Coordinator for the company. Krysty enjoys spending time with family and friends and loves making a difference in the lives of others.

Paul Binkley
IT Specialist

Paul has been with Gem State Developmental Center since 2021. He works closely with all departments within GSDC, providing technical assistance and instructions for all designated projects. 

Donna Newby
Assistant Admin

Donna has worked for Gem State Developmental Center since 2009. She came to the company with over 26 years of experience as an Administrative Assistant and Documentation Specialist in the electronics industry. She currently holds the position of Administrative Assistant and supports the Senior Secretary in company related matters.