Alexandria, VA –
- Sara Acheson, PT, DPT, OCS, CLT-UE, CES
Athena Wellness and Physical Therapy
Sara is the founder of Athena Wellness and Physical Therapy in Alexandria, Virginia, where she specializes in oncology rehabilitation, pelvic health, and women’s wellness across the lifespan. She has training as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Cancer Exercise Specialist, and in Strength After Breast Cancer, along with fellowship training in upper extremity conditions. Sara is known for developing a patient-centered model of care that supports women during and after cancer treatment, pregnancy, and beyond. Through her work, she collaborates with physicians and community organizations to improve access to comprehensive, coordinated care for women in the Alexandria community.
- Grace Adofoli
Shifting Waters Leadership Institute
Grace is an award-winning global speaker, advisor, coach, and consultant with over a decade of experience shaping transformational change across 30+ countries in Africa, the Americas, and Asia. Her work bridges strategy and soul, guiding leaders and organizations to design sustainable, people-centered pathways that create measurable and lasting impact. Known for building bridges across cultures and contexts, Grace walks alongside leaders empowering them to lead from the inside out with courage, wholeness, and clarity. Her deepest aim is to awaken a kind of leadership that not only achieves but transforms; leadership that leaves the world stronger, more ethical, and more human.
- Drew Altizer
Old House Provisions
Inspired by beauty in a dying craft, Drew made an abrupt career shift from consultant to traditional bespoke shoemaker. In doing this, he made a crucial observation into why the craft is dying: lack of training opportunities and a cultural aversion to trades as careers. Drew’s goal is to rectify this by creating an institution to train new shoemakers and elevate the respectability of shoemaking as a career. He opened his menswear store on Cameron Street in 2024 to expose people to artisanal craftsmanship through the shoes he makes on-site and clothing from other artisanal brands.
- Elizabeth Arrazola
Casa Chirilagua
Elizabeth is the Executive Deputy Director of Casa Chirilagua, where she leads community-driven initiatives that empower immigrant and Latino families in Alexandria, Virginia. A psychologist with over eight years of nonprofit leadership experience, her work is grounded in the principles of Christian Community Development, emphasizing dignity, relationships, and long-term transformation. She has developed programs impacting over 1,000 families and leads a Parent Advisory Board that equips community members to advocate for themselves and their neighbors. Originally from Mexico, Elizabeth has lived in the DMV area since 2017 and is passionate about building strong, empowered communities.
- Charles Augustine
Revolutionary Fitness
Charles is the founder of Revolutionary Fitness, a premium strength and longevity coaching business based in Alexandria, Virginia. He specializes in helping professionals over 50 extend their healthspan by building muscle, improving bone density, and optimizing long-term performance through data-driven training and personalized coaching. With over a decade of experience, Charles works with executives, business owners, and community leaders seeking measurable, sustainable results. He lives in Alexandria with his wife and three children and is an active member of the Kiwanis Club, supporting local initiatives focused on youth development, community service, and leadership.
- Erynn Barfield
Innovative Strategies & Junior League of Northern Virginia
Erynn is a NOVA–based civic leader with more than a decade of experience in public service, advocacy, and organizational leadership. As a senior associate at Innovative Federal Strategies, she leads congressional engagement efforts and builds bipartisan partnerships to advance community-focused priorities. Previously, Erynn served as Chief of Staff in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she supported constituent services, guided legislative strategy, and ensured effective operations across multiple offices to meet the needs of the communities served. She is deeply engaged in civic life as President of the Junior League of Northern Virginia and serves in leadership roles in other professional organizations.
- Katharine Corcoran
American College of Cardiology
Katharine is a business leader with a rich tapestry of experience in public and private service. After a decade in the federal judiciary, she transitioned to international business at ThinkFun, making educational play global. She now leads membership recruitment marketing at the ACC, developing campaigns that foster lifelong professional connection. She is an enthusiastic resident of Old Town, with her two rescue dogs and an intentionally chaotic native garden. Katharine serves on the CIRI Participation Committee in Alaska and is deeply engaged in Alexandria through Spitfire mentorship and volunteer service, reflecting her commitment to community, culture, and connection.
- Meg Czaikoski
Consumer Technology Association
Meg has called Alexandria home for more than a decade and stays closely connected to the local community. Curious about how people and ideas connect, she has built a career bringing unlikely perspectives into the same room. At the Consumer Technology Association, she convenes global companies and emerging businesses through industry programs and CES. A graduate of Alexandria City Academy, Meg serves on the City of Alexandria’s Economic Opportunities Commission, where she leads the steering committee updating the Community Needs Assessment. She also serves on the board of The Spitfire Club and mentors students at a partner location.
- Marielena D’Costa
PotomacWave Consulting
Marielena is Vice President of Strategy and Client Engagement at PotomacWave Consulting, where she has spent more than 10 years directing resilience, mitigation, and emergency management initiatives across federal, state, and local agencies. A hands-on leader, she manages high-impact programs supporting FEMA, the U.S. Coast Guard, and DHS, advancing national disaster preparedness and response. Marielena is recognized for building high-performing teams and driving data-informed decisions that deliver real-world impact. For over a decade, she has served Alexandria through professional work and dedicated community volunteerism. Marielena holds a BA in International Affairs from The George Washington University and is a certified PMP.
- Sarah DeBlock
Soma Yoga Healing Center
Sarah is the founder of Soma Yoga Healing Center in Alexandria, where she helps individuals cultivate resilience, well-being, and inner joy through yoga therapy and community-centered healing. She is the best-selling author of The Year of Sarah, a memoir of transformation, and The Year of You, a guided journal for personal growth. Introduced to yoga in 2011, Sarah later experienced its profound therapeutic impact while recovering from chronic pain, inspiring her to pursue advanced training. She is dedicated to supporting Alexandria residents through accessible wellness offerings that foster connection, self-discovery, and meaningful personal change.
- Charles L. Everett III
UrFriendCharles & Leidos
Charles is a Lead Supplier Relationship Manager at Leidos and the founder of UrFriendCharles, a discovery platform dedicated to elevating Black-owned spirits, wine, and beer brands. A proud Alexandria resident, Charles earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from Fayetteville State University in 2012. At Leidos, he manages complex supplier partnerships and drives enterprise-level results across diverse teams and stakeholders. Through UrFriendCharles, he built a multi-channel platform reaching millions and featuring hundreds of Black-owned brands, and he curated discovery tools and an AI-powered recommendation engine—all in service of one mission: making it easier to find, support, and celebrate underrepresented founders.
- Reland Finch, LPC
Healthy Minds Therapy
Reland is the Chief Clinical Officer at Healthy Minds Therapy, focusing on clinical system design, program development, and accountability at scale. A licensed professional counselor and board‑approved clinical supervisor, she brings over a decade of clinical experience and has led initiatives to address structural barriers to care since 2018. As a clinical leader in Washington, DC, Reland designed and maintained custom tracking databases and documentation systems to ensure continuity of care and used data‑driven approaches to reconnect at‑risk clients who had fallen out of care. At Healthy Minds, she develops supervision structures, clinician training, and systems that support consistency and accessibility.
- Matthew Gorman, CPA
Sikich
Matt is a CPA and Principal at Sikich with 15 years of accounting and auditing experience, leading complex federal audits that promote fiscal accountability and responsible stewardship of taxpayer funds. A lifelong Virginian, Matt was born in Williamsburg, raised in Annandale, attended Virginia Tech, and now resides back in Annandale with his wife and four children. He considers Alexandria his second home, having proposed to his wife in Founders Park and worked in Old Town his entire professional career. Outside of work, Matt enjoys spending time with his family, volunteering in his professional and personal communities, and being outdoors.
- Kateleen Hall, PT, DPT
ATI Physical Therapy
An Alexandria native, Kateleen has distinguished herself as a dedicated professional, community advocate, and leader. As a physical therapy clinic director, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving patient outcomes while fostering a supportive and high-performing team environment. Beyond her professional role, she is a devoted wife and mother to two daughters, balancing family life with purpose and intention. She actively gives back through her volunteer work with ALIVE! Food Bank and inspires others as a Solidcore coach in her free time. Her accomplishments reflect a deep-rooted commitment to service, leadership, and making a meaningful impact within the Alexandria community.
- Mallory Rose Henig
Conservation International
Mallory advocates for nature by engaging supporters through storytelling and connecting on the importance of healing our planet to protect our shared future. Since 2018, she has worked with Conservation International in Arlington. Residing in Alexandria since 2012, she balances her career with art and volunteering. Mallory creates visual art, selling locally since 2022 and joining Del Ray Artisans in 2024. She’s served on UpCycle Creative Reuse Center’s board since 2022, focusing on fundraising and community engagement. Mallory also supports local nonprofits through Alexandria Women for Good, demonstrating her commitment to both environmental and community well-being.
- Emily Howell
Aptive Resources
Emily has spent her career leading communications campaigns focused on promoting public health approaches to the toughest challenges of our time. From evaluating the Center for Disease Control’s social media response to the Zika virus to communicating the risks of drug use to young adults to overseeing veteran suicide prevention efforts, Emily has dedicated her career to ensuring every American has the resources they need to thrive. When not at work, you can find Emily searching for the best tacos or cheering on the Michigan Wolverines with her husband, Cooper, and 5-year-old son, Cameron.
- Brian Hoysa
Old Town Community Church
Brian has served Old Town Community Church (OTCC) since 2016. He is the associate pastor of OTCC and executive director of The Common Good, OTCC’s social enterprise nonprofit that houses and supports organizations contributing to the good of Alexandria. Brian is also the program convener of Building for Hope, a Lilly Endowment-funded program that guides churches to repurpose their underutilized buildings. Brian connects the congregation with the broader community through direct service and partnerships. He has degrees from William & Mary and Duke and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry at Baylor University.
- Yvette Jiang
American Physical Therapy Association
Serving as the finance director at American Physical Therapy Association, Yvette is a passionate nonprofit finance leader who aligns APTA’s vision, mission, and strategic framework with financial goals, roadmap, and partnership. Yvette is active in the Alexandria community: she serves on Alexandria Commission for Women, DASH Advisory Committee, and the board of YMCA Alexandria. Yvette is a proud graduate of Alexandria City Academy and Eco City Academy, and an Alexandria CERT volunteer. Yvette holds a BA in Philosophy from Fudan University, and an MA in Conflict Resolution and MBA from Georgetown University.
- Jenine Kotob, AIA
City of Alexandria
Jenine is a public architect, community organizer, and thought leader with more than 15 years of experience. She serves as Assistant Director of Capital Projects for the Department of General Services with the City of Alexandria, overseeing public facilities projects. Previously, she worked at The American Institute of Architects advancing equity through policy and advocacy. Her private-sector work focused on community-driven education facilities and was featured in prominent outlets, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Slate Magazine. She holds degrees from MIT and Virginia Tech, and lives in the West End with her husband and daughter.
- Carmen C. Lodato
Music Together Alexandria
Carmen’s passion is sharing the joy of music with Alexandria’s youngest residents. A third-generation Alexandrian, Carmen’s career in music education and advocacy in gun violence prevention were inspired by her late mother, Ruthanne. She took over her business, Music Together Alexandria, in 2019, which now hosts approximately 20 music classes at 4 locations across the city each week. Additionally, she teaches music at Blessed Sacrament School. Carmen also volunteered with Moms Demand Action and has been a spokesperson for Everytown for Gun Safety. She is a proud graduate of Alexandria City High School and Virginia Tech.
- JaLissa Coffee Lyon
Campagna Center
JaLissa is a dynamic leader with a passion for ensuring organizations operate at their highest potential. She proudly serves at the Campagna Center, where her team advances youth-focused and economic mobility initiatives. Her career began in a second-grade classroom in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and spans education, nonprofit leadership, operations, logistics, and organizational development. She is committed to expanding mission-driven organizations through equitable policies and strategic growth. Lyon resides in the DC Metro area and enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family and close friends, taking great pride in being an aunt to 16 nieces and nephews.
- Rachel L. Mackey
Everly-Wheatley Funeral Home
Rachel is the Managing Partner of Everly-Wheatley Funeral Home, where she serves the Alexandria community with compassion, dignity, and thoughtful care. Known for her calm presence and empathetic leadership, she is committed to honoring each family’s unique story while fostering a supportive values-driven workplace. Beyond the funeral home, Rachel is actively engaged in advancing the funeral profession through education, advocacy, and service, contributing to licensure standards and professional development efforts nationwide. She holds a BS in Mortuary Science from the University of Minnesota, an MS in Thanatology from Marian University, and an MBA from Boston University.
- Taylor Moran
The Patterson Group of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
Taylor has dedicated her career to strategic storytelling in real estate marketing, bringing creative brand narratives to her work as head of marketing for The Patterson Group at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. An Alexandria native, she crafts compelling digital content that showcases exceptional properties and connects clients with the community. Beyond real estate, Taylor is passionate about uplifting small local businesses by collaborating on features and social media content to promote their growth. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Marketing from Louisiana State University and her master’s degree in Brand Management from Glion Institute of Higher Education in Switzerland.
- Angelika O’Reilly
Eliana Curated
Angelika is the founder and CEO of Eliana Curated, a woman-owned, family-run fine jewelry brand redefining modern heirlooms through sustainability, craftsmanship, and storytelling. After an 18-year career in tech leadership, Angelika launched Eliana Curated in 2021, transforming upcycled vintage designer buttons and sourcing solid gold jewelry from Italy. What began as a creative leap has grown into a thriving retail business with brick-and-mortar locations, multi-city markets, and hundreds of pop-ups nationwide. Deeply community-driven, Angelika builds brands that empower women, celebrate individuality, and prove thoughtful design and entrepreneurship can coexist beautifully.
- Mallory Orme
AlexRenew
Mallory serves as AlexRenew’s Manager of Sustainability & Resilience, where she oversees the wastewater authority’s resource recovery initiatives, sustainability programs, and climate resilience planning. With more than a decade of experience in environmental and resource management, she specializes in translating complex environmental concepts into practical, actionable strategies for communities. Her work has focused on improving water quality and addressing the social and environmental impacts of infrastructure. She holds a bachelor of arts in international studies from American University and a master of laws in international law and sustainable development from Scotland’s University of Strathclyde.
- Whitney Parnell
Service Never Sleeps
Whitney is an activist, author, artist, race-equity practitioner, and the founder/CEO of Service Never Sleeps (SNS). She grew up between Latin America and West Africa as a Foreign Service child. At Washington University in St. Louis, Whitney embraced her calling as an activist for social justice, and she moved to the DMV area to serve with AmeriCorps, and then work in the houselessness field, before founding SNS in 2015. SNS has built a national brand as a go-to organization for allyship and racial equity. Whitney released her debut book in 2026, Breathing Out: Ruminations of a Millennial Black Woman.
- Jennifer Patrick, LNHA
Woodbine Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
Jennifer was born and raised in Alexandria and graduated with honors from George Mason University. She began her career as a resident engagement professional, enriching the lives of senior citizens in long-term care. In that role, she discovered that senior health was her calling. Jennifer’s work as Administrator of Woodbine Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center earned the organization the distinction of becoming Virginia’s first stroke-certified skilled nursing facility. Outside of work, Jennifer volunteers with Senior Services of Alexandria through Meals on Wheels, Friendly Visitor Program, and Caring Connections. Jennifer and her husband met in Alexandria, where they reside with their two young boys.
- Luke Powell
ALX Community
Born in Richmond, Virginia, Luke attended Washington & Lee University, where he double-majored in Business and Music. He has spent the past five years with ALX Community in Old Town Alexandria and currently serves as Director of Operations. He has contributed to multiple community initiatives, volunteering with Computer Core to design and teach a web design course for adults with limited technology skills, and leading the Community Caring program, which has provided over 30,000 meals to students at Alexandria City High School. In his free time, Luke is an avid hiker, skier, and golfer.
- Catherine Radachi Chumley
CatRad Creative
Catherine is the Owner & Creative Director of CatRad Creative, an events firm known for producing high-quality experiences. With over 10 years of experience, she creates immersive, joyful gatherings for small businesses, corporate clients, local leaders, and community partners. CatRad Creative was honored to be named a finalist for the Chamber ALX Rising Star in 2025. Catherine serves on the board for the Eisenhower Partnership and Alexandria Celebrates Women. Additionally, Catherine is a Girl Scout Gold Awardee, troop leader, and was awarded Outstanding Leader of the Year in 2024. Catherine enjoys eating tuna salad sandwiches with her husband, Ethan.
- Annie Reiney
The Sheltercare Program of Northern Virginia
Annie, Director of the Sheltercare Program of Northern Virginia, is dedicated to supporting Alexandria’s young people. She is known for developing innovative, responsive programs that create pathways to stability and success. Annie transformed the organization’s services to better support at-risk youth, emphasizing engagement, empowerment, and opportunity. Through her leadership, Sheltercare expanded its services, strengthened community partnerships, and increased access to critical resources. She is a passionate advocate for ensuring that young people are not defined by their circumstances but are equipped to reach their full potential. Annie holds a Master’s degree in Justice and Public Policy and a Bachelor’s degree in Justice and Law, both from American University.
- Sivad J. Rogers
Theta Rho Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Sivad is a creative product designer and digital strategist with a passion for building inclusive, user-centered experiences. Sivad serves the community through his leadership with the Theta Rho Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., as Vice President. He helps coordinate service partnerships with local organizations, including ALIVE! Food Bank, and currently chairs the Black and Gold Scholarship Gala, which will award five $2,000 scholarships to local students. Sivad also mentors aspiring UX designers through a partnership with George Mason University, combining his expertise and commitment to service to empower the next generation.
- Chenai Rusike Kirkpatrick
SHRM
A dynamic and results-driven leader in public policy and advocacy, Chenai serves as Senior Director of Government Affairs at SHRM, the world’s largest HR association. She leads a high-performing, multifaceted team advancing global policy, workplace immigration, and regulatory initiatives that shape the future of work for millions. With deep expertise in law, compliance, and legislative affairs, she navigates complex challenges and drives meaningful change. Chenai extends her impact through nonprofit board service, championing immigrant advocacy and economic opportunity. A graduate of West Virginia State University and Liberty University School of Law, she is committed to service, integrity, and transformative leadership.
- Andy M. Siegel
Goodwin Living
Andy is Chief Business Development Officer for Goodwin Living and Head of Goodwin Living Health, where he leads strategic growth initiatives and oversees healthcare services supporting thousands of older adults across the National Capital Region. A healthcare strategist and operator, he focuses on expanding access to high-quality aging services through partnerships, affiliations, and innovative care models. Andy also serves as Associate Director for Community Engagement at the George Washington University Center for Aging, Health and Humanities and teaches in GW’s Department of Health Policy and Management. Through his leadership, he helps shape the future of aging services, healthcare delivery, and community well-being throughout the region.
- Isabel Sperry
Housing Alexandria
Isabel is motivated by their deep commitment to improving efficiency in the nonprofit sector by focusing on data collection and strategic problem-solving. Isabel was drawn to Housing Alexandria for its affordable housing work and is now key to creating avenues of economic mobility for all their residents. Isabel first joined the organization in 2021 as a Resident Services Coordinator and is now the Regional Resident Engagement Team Lead, overseeing the Resident Services and Leasing teams. Isabel moved to Washington, DC, to attend GW, and earned their Bachelor of Arts in Human Services and Social Justice.
- Nazzareno Spurio
Pillar Wealth Partners
Nazzareno is the co-founder and CEO of Pillar Wealth Partners, a financial planning firm based in Alexandria. Born on Andrews Air Force Base and raised in Alexandria, he attended Alexandria City Public Schools before earning both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Virginia. Nazzareno began his career in financial planning immediately after college and founded Pillar Wealth Partners in 2025 to provide thoughtful, long-term financial guidance to individuals and families in the region. A lifelong Alexandrian, he is committed to strengthening the community he calls home. Nazzareno lives in Alexandria with his wife, Elise, their two children, and their dog, Rosie.
- Sean Sutherland
Rosemont Landscaping
Sean is the owner of Rosemont Landscaping, a locally owned company serving the Alexandria area with a focus on quality, reliability, and community pride. As an entrepreneur, Sean has grown Rosemont Landscaping through hands-on leadership, strong client relationships, and a commitment to sustainable, detail-oriented outdoor solutions. He is known for building dependable teams, supporting local initiatives, and delivering consistent results for residential and commercial clients alike. Sean is actively engaged in the Alexandria business community and strives to set a positive example of integrity, hard work, and long-term investment in the region’s growth.
- Olivia Weinel
The Center for Alexandria’s Children
Olivia is the Program Coordinator and Bilingual Forensic Interviewer at the Center for Alexandria’s Children, where she has worked since 2023. She began as a Family Advocate, supporting children and non-offending caregivers, and later became a Forensic Interviewer, leading programs that ensure children and families receive care, support, and resources. Olivia earned three bachelor’s degrees in Psychology, Criminology, and Spanish from Shenandoah University and a Master’s in Forensic and Legal Psychology from Marymount University. She is committed to creating safe spaces where children feel empowered to share their experiences, combining her academic background with a commitment to helping families.
- Randall K. Williams
U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Inspector General
Randall is a passionate public servant who has dedicated his career to service at both the Federal and local levels. He received a bachelor’s in accounting from the University of Central Florida, and a master’s in public administration from Nova Southeastern University. He leverages his knowledge in business and public administration in his role as an Audit Manager at the United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Inspector General. Randall is active in the Alexandria community serving as Vice Chair of Alexandria’s Budget and Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee and a member of the Commission on Information Technology.
- Alyssa Williamson
City of Alexandria
Alyssa is the Chief Human Resources Officer for the City of Alexandria, where she leads workforce strategy for the 2800-employee organization. With a background as an employment attorney and HR leader, she focuses on building modern, effective, and equitable workplace systems. Alyssa is committed to empowering workers through transparent policies, consistent practices, and improved access to opportunity. She also volunteers with several nonprofits, including serving as Board Chair of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. Across her work, she is dedicated to strengthening organizations, developing people, and creating inclusive environments where individuals and communities can thrive.
- Tonda Wooten
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
Tonda is a dedicated podiatrist committed to providing exceptional care through extensive training and a passion for patient well-being. During her residency, witnessing her mother’s battle with cancer profoundly shaped her approach to medicine, deepening her empathy and reinforcing the importance of active listening. She strives to understand each patient’s unique needs and concerns, offering compassionate, personalized care. She takes great pride in serving her patients and remains humbled by the trust they place in her. Her goal is to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life through skilled, thoughtful, and empathetic care.
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