Our Board of Directors is comprised of volunteers who work in local business and community networks. They play an integral role in the fiduciary oversight of the agency as well as serving as stewards of our 10,000+ donors and volunteers.
Board Officers
Wyatt's Bio
Wyatt joined the Valley Mission Board of Directors in 2020. Wyatt has long-standing family ties to the Valley Mission and is currently the Chief of Security for Middle River Regional Jail. He is a lifelong resident of Staunton and Augusta County.
WHAT HAS GIVEN YOU THE GREATEST JOY AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VALLEY MISSION?
My greatest joy as a board member has been providing direct service to the community through Mission programs such as food preparation and sorting at the thrift stores. It is a reminder of the great work and important service that our staff provide each and every day, and I am honored to be a very small part of that.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WISH THE PEOPLE OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY KNEW ABOUT VALLEY MISSION?
I wish the community knew more about the myriad of programs and resources the Mission provides to families and individuals. Contrary to only providing shelter, the Mission does an amazing job coordinating other community resources, providing educational and after school programming, and multitudes of other important stabilizing activities to help those in need.
Megan's full bio is coming soon!
Megan is the current Vice Chair of the Board of Directors. Megan also serves as the Executive Director of Blue Ridge Court Services in Staunton.
Phil's Bio
Phil Thompson joined the Valley Mission Board in 2021. Phil has been the Director of Operations for Virginia Regional Transit since 2017 and is a lifelong resident of Nelson County Va.
WHAT HAS GIVEN YOU THE GREATEST JOY AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VALLEY MISSION?
Although having served a very short time as a board member, I have been impressed at the scope of services offered to our residents, especially those for families with youngsters who have access to the VM after school program.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WISH THE PEOPLE OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY KNEW ABOUT VALLEY MISSION?
I wish the Shenandoah Valley knew and understood fully the positive impact the Valley Mission has been, and continues to be, for families in crisis. I would wish them to know the important role the Valley Mission serves as a safety net and springboard toward a new beginning.
Sergeant Shifflett's full bio is coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Karen's Bio
Karen Tupitza joined the Board of Directors in 2022. She lives in Nelson County with her husband Jon and dog, Maisie. She is Vice President and Wealth Management Officer for First Trust & Wealth Management, a division of First Bank & Trust. She has been a Certified Financial Planner® for over 25 years specializing in estate and retirement planning, along with philanthropic gifting.
WHAT HAS GIVEN YOU THE GREATEST JOY AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VALLEY MISSION? Firsthand knowledge of how many supporters the Valley Mission has and the various ways they give – through monetary contributions, donations of goods and services, along with volunteer time brings me the greatest joy. What an amazing community we live in!
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WISH THE PEOPLE OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY KNEW ABOUT VALLEY MISSION? Every dollar is carefully accounted for, and every resident is cared for by an amazing coordination effort to ensure success. The Valley Mission goes much further than providing meals and a bed. By coordinating all services such as mental and physical health, employment opportunities and so many more, there is a higher likelihood of ending an individual or family’s homelessness status for good.
Judge Sherrill's Bio
Coming Soon!
Board Members
Kay's Bio
Kay King is the former Chairperson of the Board of Directors. Kay is the wife of Steve Kiracofe and the mother of Abby. Kay and her family reside in Staunton, and Kay works with the medical malpractice defense team at TimberlakeSmith.
WHAT HAS GIVEN YOU THE GREATEST JOY AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VALLEY MISSION? One of the most joyful aspects of serving on the Board of Directors is knowing firsthand how many individuals, churches, civic organizations, and businesses support the Valley Mission through monetary and in-kind contributions, time, and talents. I am thankful for our “village” of supporters and the love that they share with the folks that we serve.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WISH THE PEOPLE OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY KNEW ABOUT VALLEY MISSION? Our staff ROCKS. It is not easy living or working in a homeless shelter. Our shelter staff is dedicated, respectful, and compassionate. Our two thrift stores, which help fund the shelter, are staffed by professional, creative, and hardworking folks.
Beverly's Bio
Beverly is serving her first year as a member of the Board of Directors. She has lived in Staunton for 15 years and is a Realtor with Nest Realty Shenandoah Valley.