Synapse Consulting
As Director of Synapse Consulting, Laurie Kanyer specializes in assisting groups with planning, problem solution and change. Kanyer uses the Technology of Participation (ToP©) associated with the institute of Cultural Affairs. This method assists organizations in managing large bundles of data in a time efficient manner. ToP© honors both the individual and the group, collects the ideas of individuals in a productive format and reduces conflict in groups.

"Laurie is a joy to work with, always prepared, always mindful of the end result and the people involved. She is able to put everyone involved in a project at ease yet keep everyone on track and focused. Mutual respect is always a key component of every project Laurie is part of!"
–Noël Moxley, Executive Director, Yakima Symphony Orchestra

"It has been my pleasure to work with Laurie Kanyer both professionally and personally.  Laurie has, for the past four years, been providing the leadership for an arts consortium comprised of the Yakima Symphony Orchestra, Allied Arts of Yakima Valley, Yakima Valley Museum, Larson Gallery of Yakima Valley Community College, The Seasons Music Hall, and individual arts advocates.  This consortium was originally formed to study the potential of a permanent art space in Yakima’s urban core, and the results of the study have given the guidance toward making this dream a reality.  The study, however, also led to the establishment of an entirely new partnership among the consortium members for the creation of an overarching vision for a community public art endeavor.  Laurie was the key motivator, arbiter, relationship builder, and enthusiast for overcoming the inherent challenges in bringing independent groups together to agree on a common goal.  This process also led to a highly developed sense of trust and increased collaboration among the consortium members on a variety of projects.

Laurie also facilitated a formal retreat and strategic planning session with the Museum Board of Trustees in the spring of 2009.  Her professionalism and skill were exemplary.  She helped the trustees focus on the principal challenges and opportunities of the museum in these difficult times, and guided the organization in developing strategies to meet its mission.

I am pleased to unconditionally recommend Laurie Kanyer as a facilitator who understands complex issues, respects various points of view, and knows how to bring out the best in participants."
—John A. Baule, Director, Yakima Valley Museum

Clients
GE Aviation
Yakima Light Project
Yakima Valley Museum
Allied Arts of Yakima Valley
Triumph Treatment Programs
Yakima Symphony Orchestra
Yakima Bindery
EPIC Youth Services