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 is the Chair of the Board of Directors. Wyatt was born and raised in Staunton and currently resides in Churchville with his wife Tara and their twin sons, Tristan and Grayson. He is a graduate of James Madison University and a 10 year veteran of the Staunton Police Department where he was a Field Training Officer, Crisis Intervention Instructor, and Investigator. He is currently the Lieutenant of Support Services at Middle River Regional Jail and manages food service, maintenance, information technology, medical and sanitation departments. Wyatt is a second generation friend of the Valley Mission, where his parents have both served in the past. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, music, being outdoors and spending time with his family.
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.
Butch's full bio is coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Donna's Bio
Donna became a board member in 2018. Donna lives in Fishersville, VA and is the Coordinator of English and Humanities and Instructor of World Literature at Blue Ridge Community College.
WHAT HAS GIVEN YOU THE GREATEST JOY AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VALLEY MISSION? Being part of an organization that has a direct impact on improving lives. The Mission does the work that we all agree makes the world and our community a better place.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WISH THE PEOPLE OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY KNEW ABOUT VALLEY MISSION? This is an organization that does so much with very little. Every donation is maximized for the greatest positive impact. Lives are sustained and changed because of the benevolence and caring of Mission supporters.
Board Members
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.
Velma's Bio
Velma is serving in her third year on the Board of Directors. She lives in Staunton with her family, and she is the Dean of Student Services at Blue Ridge Community College.
WHAT HAS GIVEN YOU THE GREATEST JOY AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VALLEY MISSION? My greatest joy has been to seeing all the services and support the Valley Mission provides to its residents. The Valley Mission works hard to help residents get the support they need to get back on their feet.
WHAT HAS GIVEN YOU THE GREATEST JOY AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VALLEY MISSION? The one thing that I wish our community knew is anyone can volunteer or serve at the Mission. All volunteers are welcome!
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.