Our
Leadership

I spent my career in the Hampton Roads banking industry and in education, starting as a first-grade teacher and later moving into leadership roles in finance. Over the years, I gained experience in management and community engagement while serving in roles that connected me closely with families and children.

I joined The Up Center’s Board because I believe we are all interwoven into our community, and by strengthening one part, we strengthen it all. I’m especially passionate about maternal health and child and family services, and I hope my service helps the organization continue to provide life-changing programs. When I’m not volunteering, I enjoy working in my yard and garden, spending time with family, and living by the motto: “A rising tide lifts all boats.”

I’ve spent 20 years as a sales executive, with 15 of those years focused on the defense and military industries. My career has allowed me to build partnerships, lead diverse teams, and gain experience in professional development, all of which I bring to my role on The Up Center’s Board.

I joined the Board because I believe in the power of empathy and action to create lasting change. I’m especially committed to initiatives that strengthen families and provide stable, nurturing environments for children. When I’m not working or volunteering, I love traveling, spending time at the beach, and enjoying life with family and friends.

I served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Nassau-LHA4 before transitioning into real estate, where I’ve built a career as the Principal Broker and Owner of ONYX Realty Professionals. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and Marketing from Old Dominion University and have been deeply involved in both business leadership and community service throughout my career.

I was motivated to join The Up Center’s Board because of my passion for service and my belief in the power of education and opportunity to change lives. I’m especially passionate about domestic violence awareness and teaching youth about financial literacy. Outside of work, I enjoy giving back to the community, spending time with family, and living by my guiding principle: “You pay now and play later, or play now and pay later.”

With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, I’ve built a career focused on advancing equity, strategic impact, and community partnerships. My work has spanned program development, organizational strategy, and leading initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

I was drawn to The Up Center because of its mission and the opportunity to help strengthen families and communities. I’m passionate about using my skills to create long-term impact and ensure that services reach those who need them most. Outside of work, my wife and I are new empty nesters, and we love traveling and exploring new places together. My guiding principle is: “Turn your pain into purpose, your lessons into leadership, and your setbacks into comebacks.”

I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with extensive experience in auditing and financial oversight. My career highlights include leadership roles in public accounting, where I have managed complex audits across multiple industries and mentored emerging professionals.
I am passionate about using my financial expertise to strengthen nonprofit organizations and create lasting community impact. Growing up in a large family that relied on public assistance inspired my commitment to giving back. I volunteer annually with Junior Achievement and support initiatives that provide opportunities for underserved youth. Outside of work, I’m the second oldest of ten siblings—all of whom are very close—and I enjoy spending time with family.

As the former President and CEO of the largest publication company in Virginia, I bring a lifetime of leadership and management experience to The Up Center’s Board. My career spanned all areas of general management, and I’ve served on boards and councils across the region, including the Franklin YMCA and the Virginia Business Council.

I was drawn to The Up Center because of its impact on children and families in our community. I’m especially passionate about helping kids at risk and hope to leave a solid foundation for the organization’s future success. Outside of board service, I enjoy time with my dog and grand-dogs and live by the guiding principle: “Live in your life rather than living in your head.”

I’ve spent over 40 years practicing law, specializing in civil rights and serving as a Virginia Supreme Court Certified Mediator for more than two decades. As a young lawyer in Philadelphia, I worked on cases involving vulnerable children and families, an experience that continues to inspire my commitment to social justice and community well-being.

I joined The Up Center’s Board because I believe we all have a responsibility to work toward stronger, healthier communities. I’m especially passionate about mental health and early intervention initiatives, and I want to support The Up Center’s staff as they deliver these critical services. Outside of work, I serve on the board of Girls on the Run Hampton Roads, enjoy time with my husband and grandchildren, and live by the principle of personal integrity and strong moral accountability.

As President and CEO of The Up Center, I lead the organization’s strategy and operations and work across programs and partnerships to advance our mission. My role focuses on strengthening services and enhancing The Up Center’s ability to provide holistic, integrated care.

With more than two decades of leadership experience, I bring a strong foundation in organizational stewardship to this work. I hold a B.A. in Psychology from The College of William & Mary. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family hiking, enjoying outdoor activities, and being on the water.