MEET THE TRAINERS


Emily Gillion, Director of Training (left) and Val Cumming, Training Specialist (right).

Our experienced trainers bring a wealth of expertise to deliver engaging training sessions tailored to your needs. Whether it's in-house, virtual live, virtual modular, or on-site nationwide, our trainers excel in creating dynamic learning experiences across various platforms. Their proficiency spans a diverse range of topics and curricula (view the complete list here).

Bringing a collective experience of over a decade in sexual health education, Emily & Val have mastered the art of presenting to youth-serving adults. With a dynamic blend of expertise and a touch of zest, they infuse excitement and engagement into every session, captivating students, educators, healthcare professionals, parents/caregivers, and other esteemed audiences. Get ready for trainings that are far from boring – we promise an engaging learning experience!

 

Emily Gillon

Emily (she/her) is our Director of Training and leads the organization’s robust training department.

Emily holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Central College, with a specialization in sexual health. In Spring 2023, she achieved her Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Drake University. Within the national sex education community, Emily is highly regarded for her expertise and professionalism.

Always at the forefront of best practices, Emily leads the way in innovative content creation and implementation. Drawing from years of classroom experience and training, she is committed to creating accessible and engaging learning spaces.

Emily's approach centers around meeting each training participant where they are. By providing approachable next steps and fostering a safe space for questions and growth, she ensures a welcoming and inclusive training experience. Get ready for comfortable and friendly sessions filled with Emily's delightful sense of humor.

When she's not immersed in training, Emily enjoys quality time with her family, going for runs, and indulging in delicious food.


Val Cumming

Val (she/her) is our Training Specialist, who supports and sustains all aspects of EOI’s training endeavors.

Val holds a bachelor's degree in Family Services from the University of Northern Iowa, graduating in 2014. As a trained facilitator in various sexual health and prevention-based curricula, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her training sessions. In 2022, Val was selected as a fellow for the Des Moines Chapter of New Leaders Council, a prestigious institute nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

Val has a rich background in health education and prevention services, including healthcare. Her extensive experience enhances the learning experience for participants, ensuring they receive practical and up-to-date information.

Val adopts a strength-based approach and seeks to find areas where educators are already thriving. In her trainings, you can expect easily digestible information presented in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, sprinkled with her signature style of quick-witted humor.

Outside of her training role, Val finds joy in spending time with friends, attending live music events, performing stand-up comedy, and exploring new cities.