Fostering Solutions

Welcome back to Fostering Solutions. I'm your host, Dr. Michelle Mickle Foster, and today we continue our "Holding the Mission Together" series—conversations with nonprofit leaders who have navigated extraordinary challenges with grace, grit, and unwavering commitment to their missions. I'm thrilled to introduce you to someone who truly embodies what it means to be a connector and change-maker: Tricia C. Kingery. Tricia is the founder and president of Kingery & Company, a West Virginia-based consulting firm dedicated to strengthening nonprofits through strategic planning, training, marketing, and fundraising. But her impact extends far beyond consulting. As Executive Director of EveryChild NOW and Statewide Leader for the ACEs Coalition of West Virginia, Tricia has positioned herself at the forefront of child advocacy and trauma-informed systems change in our state. What makes Tricia's story particularly compelling is her ability to see connections where others see only challenges. With a Master's in Counseling, a Bachelor's in Psychology, and an MBA, she brings both heart and strategic thinking to her work. She's not just advising nonprofits from the sidelines—she's in the trenches with them, understanding firsthand what it means to hold a mission together when resources are uncertain and the stakes are high. Tricia's commitment to creating community led her to establish The Retreat and The Cottage—peaceful, productive spaces where nonprofits can gather, plan, and grow. It's this same spirit of nurturing and connection that has made her a sought-after keynote speaker and mentor to emerging leaders across our state. As someone who has dedicated her life to making life better for others—particularly children and families affected by trauma—Tricia understands the weight of leadership during uncertain times. Today, she'll share her insights on navigating funding cuts, maintaining organizational resilience, and finding hope when the path forward isn't clear. So let's dive into this important conversation. Tricia, welcome to Fostering Solutions.

Welcome to Fostering Solutions, where we explore the real stories of leaders who are making a difference in their communities. I'm your host, and today we're continuing our Fall 2025 Nonprofit Series: "Holding the Mission Together: Leadership in the Face of Uncertainty." Our guest today, Terrell Ellis, describes herself as a "West Virginian by choice"—and that choice has defined a remarkable career dedicated to unlocking the potential she sees in communities across the state. As President and CEO of Advantage Valley, a nine-county regional economic development organization, Terrell leads efforts that span business attraction and retention, foreign direct investment, entrepreneurship, outdoor recreation, and site development. Under her leadership since 2023, the organization has successfully leveraged millions in federal funding and facilitated the creation of hundreds of new jobs and millions in private reinvestment across the region. But Terrell's expertise didn't start with her current role. Her career trajectory tells the story of someone who has worked at every level of community development—from downtown Charleston to statewide initiatives with the WV Department of Economic Development, from riverfront development and historic preservation to financing programs that support property and business development. She then spent years as Principal of Terrell Ellis & Associates, consulting nationally with an emphasis on small to medium-sized rural communities. She's seen what works, what doesn't, and what it takes to sustain change over time. What makes Terrell's perspective especially valuable is her understanding of the entire ecosystem of community development. She's worked in government. She's worked in the private sector. She's been a consultant helping communities diagnose their challenges and chart their paths forward. And now she's leading a regional organization responsible for coordinating economic development across multiple counties—a role that requires building consensus, managing diverse stakeholder interests, and making strategic decisions that affect entire communities. As a Certified Economic Development Finance Professional with a degree in Urban Affairs from Virginia Tech, Terrell brings both credentials and hard-won experience to the work. But more importantly, she brings belief—the conviction that West Virginia can be the best place in the country to live, work, and play, if we're willing to do the work to make it so. In today's conversation, Terrell shares what it's been like to lead Advantage Valley through periods of funding uncertainty, how she's navigated the challenge of securing federal resources while maintaining organizational stability, and what she's learned about collaboration as a survival strategy. She talks about the decisions that kept the mission moving forward and the partnerships that emerged when individual organizations couldn't go it alone. Whether you're leading a regional development organization, working in economic development, or trying to understand how communities leverage resources and build resilience during uncertain times, this conversation offers practical wisdom from someone who's been building West Virginia's future for decades. So let's dive in. Here's my conversation with Terrell Ellis.

Welcome to Fostering Solutions, where we explore the real stories of leaders who are making a difference in their communities. I'm your host, and today we're continuing our Fall 2025 Nonprofit Series: "Holding the Mission Together: Leadership in the Face of Uncertainty." What does it mean to lead an organization whose very mission is about navigating one of the most profound economic transitions of our time? Our guest today, Jacob Hannah, CEO of Coalfield Development, is doing precisely that—and he brings a perspective that's both deeply personal and globally informed. Jacob is a fifth-generation West Virginian with three generations of coal miners in his family. He doesn't just understand the coal-to-clean energy transition as policy or theory—he knows it in his bones, in his family history, in the communities he serves. And that's what makes his leadership at Coalfield Development so powerful. He's leading an organization that's literally building the bridge between West Virginia's industrial past and its sustainable future, balancing what they call the triple bottom line: People, Planet, and Prosperity. But here's what's remarkable—Jacob's influence extends far beyond West Virginia. He's consulted on Just Transition principles at The White House, The World Bank, and the Clean Energy Ministerial. He's bringing the wisdom and lived experience of Appalachian communities to global conversations about how we create economic change that doesn't leave people behind. Since 2018, Jacob has served as Chief Conservation Officer before stepping into the CEO role, giving him an intimate understanding of how environmental considerations, social wellbeing, and economic development must work in harmony—not in opposition. This isn't abstract philosophy for Jacob. It's about real people in real communities figuring out how to provide for their families when the economic foundation beneath them is shifting. Leading through uncertainty takes on a different meaning when your entire mission is about navigating transition. When your organization exists to help communities and workers adapt to massive economic shifts, and then the funding that supports that work becomes uncertain, the challenges compound. How do you hold the mission together when you're already asking people to reimagine their futures? In today's conversation, Jacob shares what it's been like to lead Coalfield Development through periods of funding uncertainty, how he's balanced immediate needs with long-term vision, and what he's learned about resilience—both organizational and personal. He talks about the principles that guide him when making tough decisions, and how his family's history in coal mining informs his empathetic approach to leading change. Whether you're navigating economic transition in your own community, leading an organization through periods of change, or trying to understand what just and fair transformation looks like in practice, this conversation offers profound insights. Here's my conversation with Jacob Hannah.

Welcome to Fostering Solutions, where we explore the real stories of leaders who aremaking a difference in their communities. I'm your host, and today we're continuing ourFall 2025 Nonprofit Series: "Holding the Mission Together: Leadership in the Face ofUncertainty." When you're responsible for the health and wellbeing of 45,000 people, uncertainty isn'tjust a challenge—it's a crisis that affects real lives. Our guest today, Dr. Craig Glover,knows this reality intimately. As President and CEO of FamilyCare Health Centers, one ofWest Virginia's leading community health centers, he leads an organization thatprovides comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, and vision services tothousands of families who depend on them. Dr. Glover brings more than two decades of community health center leadershipexperience to this conversation. He's successfully led three different health centers asCEO, navigating the complex intersection of healthcare delivery, government funding,and community need. His expertise isn't just theoretical—he holds a Doctorate inEducation in Organizational Leadership, an MBA, and a Master's in OrganizationalLeadership, along with prestigious Fellow designations from both the American Collegeof Healthcare Executives and the American College of Medical Practice Executives.But what makes Dr. Glover's perspective especially relevant right now is his role on theU.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Advisory Committee on RuralHealth and Human Services. He's not just experiencing the impact of policy decisionsand funding uncertainty—he's in rooms where these conversations are happening at thenational level, while simultaneously leading an organization that must respond to theseshifts in real time. Recognized as a 2021 West Virginia Healthcare Hero, Dr. Glover understands what itmeans to hold a mission together when the stakes are literally life and death.Community health centers serve as the healthcare safety net for our most vulnerablepopulations—the uninsured, the underinsured, rural communities, and those facing barriers to care. When funding becomes uncertain, the ripple effects touch entire communities. In today's conversation, Dr. Glover shares what it's been like to lead through periods offunding uncertainty, how he's communicated with staff who are on the front lines ofcare, and the innovations that emerged from necessity. He talks candidly about theweight of leadership decisions that affect not just organizational budgets, but people'saccess to essential healthcare services. Whether you're leading a healthcare organization, managing any nonprofit throughfunding challenges, or working to understand how safety net services survive andadapt, this conversation offers crucial insights from someone who's been in thetrenches and lived to tell about it. So let's dive in. Here's my conversation with Dr. Craig Glover.

Welcome to Fostering Solutions, where we explore the power of leadership, resilience,and innovation in the nonprofit world. I’m your host, Dr. Michelle Mickle Foster, and inthis episode of our “Holding the Mission Together” series, we’re joined by a remarkableleader whose work is transforming communities across West Virginia.Kevin Jones is the Executive Director of the Religious Coalition for Community Renewal,or RCCR — an organization that’s been a steadfast force for affordable housing andcommunity renewal. Since taking the helm in 2020, Kevin has led RCCR through aperiod of tremendous growth, expanding its programs, staff, and resources to betterserve residents. Under his leadership, RCCR has opened a homeownership satelliteoffice in Huntington, completed multiple housing projects, and launched West Virginia’sfirst Transitional Storage Center for unsheltered individuals. His innovative spirit andcommitment to equity continue to redefine what’s possible in community development.In our conversation, Kevin reflects on what it takes to hold a mission together duringmoments of uncertainty — from navigating funding challenges to making values-drivendecisions that sustain both people and purpose. We talk about the moments that testedhis leadership, the lessons that emerged, and the hope that continues to guide hiswork.Join us as we dive into Kevin’s journey — a story of purpose, persistence, and visionthat reminds us all why community-based leadership matters now more than ever.

Welcome to Fostering Solutions, where we explore the people and ideas shapingstronger communities and more resilient organizations. I’m your host, Dr. MichelleFoster.In this episode of our Holding the Mission Together: Leadership in the Face ofUncertainty series, we sit down with Sonya Hairston, a dynamic leader whose journeybridges both the corporate and nonprofit worlds. From guiding clients through the 2008financial crisis as a financial advisor at Smith Barney to founding twocompanies—Classic Affairs, Inc. and Notably Nashville, LLC—and now leading as theCEO of the YWCA of Charleston, West Virginia, Sonya’s career reflects courage,creativity, and purpose-driven leadership.In our conversation, Sonya shares how she led through moments of uncertainty, whatguided her decision-making when funding and stability were at risk, and how innovationand compassion became anchors for her team and community. We’ll also hear herreflections on personal resilience, the importance of self-care, and what it truly meansto “hold the mission together” when times are toughest.Get ready for an inspiring and candid discussion about leadership, transformation, andhope with one of West Virginia’s newest change makers.

Welcome to Fostering Solutions, where we explore the stories and strategies of leaderswho are shaping stronger, more equitable communities. I’m your host, Dr. MichelleFoster.In this episode of our Holding the Mission Together series, we’re joined by BrianaMartin, the dynamic Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of CovenantHouse in Charleston, West Virginia. With over two decades of experience in thesocial service sector, Briana leads with vision, compassion, and an unwaveringcommitment to social justice. Her work bridges gaps between food access, housingstability, and healthcare equity—offering hope and tangible support to our mostvulnerable neighbors.In our conversation, Briana reflects on what it means to lead through uncertainty. Shetakes us back to the moment Covenant House faced significant funding challenges andshares how her core values, faith, and community partnerships guided her teamthrough crisis. We talk about resilience, innovation, and the deep personal lessons shelearned while ensuring that Covenant House’s 40-year legacy of service continued tothrive.Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, a community advocate, or someone seekinginspiration in difficult times, this episode offers a powerful reminder that leadership isnot just about managing resources—it’s about holding the mission together wheneverything else feels uncertain.

Welcome to Fostering Solutions, the podcast where we explore the stories and strategies ofleaders who are transforming communities and holding their missions together through times ofchallenge and change. I’m your host, Dr. Michelle Foster.In today’s episode, we’re joined by Heather Foster, a proud West Virginian and the newlyappointed Executive Director of the West Virginia Community Development Hub—astatewide nonprofit committed to engaging community members in leadership development andplanning for economic success.Heather brings more than fifteen years of experience in nonprofit governance, volunteerleadership, and public service. Before joining the Hub, she served as Chief Impact Officer forAmeriCorps’ Mid-Atlantic and Midwest Regions, where she oversaw federal communityinvestments across nine states and territories. Her leadership was marked by strategic growth,strong staff engagement, and an unwavering focus on community impact. She also co-leads RedSpruce Collective, a Charleston-based consulting firm that supports nonprofit leaders andorganizational planning.In this conversation, part of our Holding the Mission Together: Leadership in the Face ofUncertainty series, Heather shares her reflections on leading through uncertainty, sustaining staffmorale, and balancing organizational survival with long-term mission integrity.We’ll talk about what guided her decisions during times of funding shifts, how she maintainedcommunication and trust, and what “holding the mission together” truly means to her as a leaderrooted in love for West Virginia.So, grab your notebook—or just settle in—and join us for this inspiring conversation with one ofWest Virginia’s most thoughtful and collaborative changemakers, Heather Foster.

Welcome to another episode of the Fostering Solutions Podcast. I’m your host, Dr.Michelle Foster. In this special Holding the Mission Together series, we’re highlightingnonprofit leaders who have faced government funding cuts and other uncertaintieswhile staying true to their mission.Today, I’m honored to welcome Beth Scohy, a lifelong West Virginian who grew up onCharleston’s West Side and graduated from Alderson Broaddus University. Beth hasdevoted more than 30 years to Daymark, where she’s served in multiple leadershiproles—including Director of Training, Transitional Living Coordinator, and now ExecutiveDirector.Under Beth’s leadership, Daymark has navigated challenges while continuing to serveyoung people and families across our community. In this conversation, she shares whatit has meant to hold the mission together in difficult times, the values that have guidedher, and the lessons she’s learned about resilience and hope.So, let’s dive in and hear Beth’s inspiring story.

Today’s guest is Beth Casey, Chief Executive Officer of the Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council, based in Charleston, West Virginia. Beth’s connection to Girl Scouts runs deep—she grew up in the movement, earned both her Silver and Gold Awards, and has spent more than 33 years building a career with the organization. For the past 17 years, she has led the Black Diamond Council, guiding programs that empower girls across our region. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Relations from the University of North Carolina and a certificate in nonprofit management from Duke University. She first started out as a program specialist, running resident camp programs, and has since become a visionary leader in shaping opportunities for thousands of girls. Outside of work, Beth is married to Michael Casey, and together they have two children, Matthew and Hannah—who proudly carries on the family tradition as a fourth-generation Girl Scout. The Casey household is full of life with four dogs and five chickens. Beth also enjoys reading, sewing, making jewelry, and traveling to connect with family and friends. We’re honored to have Beth kick off our Resilient Nonprofit Series and share her story of leadership, perseverance, and impact.

Gail Pitchford is a lifelong resident of West Virginia, having grown up in the Charleston area. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from West Virginia State University and a master’s degree in business from West Virginia University. Gail dedicated 25 years to the banking industry, most notably as Senior Vice President of Wealth Management at BB&T, now Truist. In this role, she supervised a team of professionals and managed the delivery of comprehensive financial services to high-net-worth clients. Following her banking career, Gail transitioned to healthcare philanthropy, serving as President of the CAMC Foundation. The CAMC Foundation is the fundraising arm of Charleston Area Medical Center, a 1,000-bed tertiary hospital in West Virginia's capital. During her 15-year tenure, Gail led all fundraising and grant-making efforts, successfully raising $15 million to establish a free-standing, multidisciplinary cancer center at CAMC. She retired from the foundation in 2021 and maintains her certification as a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). In 2022, Gail pursued her passion for creating organized and peaceful living spaces by founding Pro Clutter Buster, a home organizing business. She assists clients in overcoming decluttering and organizing challenges, providing long-term solutions to maintain clutter-free environments. Gail has a strong commitment to community service, demonstrated through various volunteer roles. She served on the Board of Governors at West Virginia State University for 10 years and is currently a Commissioner on the Higher Education Policy Commission of West Virginia. Additionally, she serves as President of the Board of Trustees of the Craik-Patton House Foundation, Inc., which preserves the historic Craik-Patton House and Museum. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority Employee Wellness Board. An active member of the Rotary Club of Charleston, WV, Gail is also an avid runner, having competed in numerous 5k and 10k races, multiple half-marathons, and completed the New York City Marathon. Gail is married to Dr. Augustinus Lobach, a retired family practice physician, and they reside in Charleston, WV.

Terrell Ellis is a West Virginian by choice. She believes that our state has tremendous untapped potential to be the best place in the country to live, work, and play. She has dedicated her professional life to helping communities realize this potential. Terrell Ellis's career path is unique and impactful. She began her journey focusing on downtown revitalization, working locally and statewide with the state’s capital city, Charleston, and the WV Main Street program. Her work involved directing and providing technical assistance for diverse projects, from riverfront development to historic preservation and financing programs. This early experience laid the foundation for her future success in community and economic revitalization. Subsequently, Ms. Ellis served as the Principal of Terrell Ellis & Associates, a consulting practice that provides support to the public and private sectors on issues related to community and economic revitalization. She worked nationally on community and economic development initiatives, emphasizing small to medium-sized rural communities. In 2023, Ms. Ellis made a significant career move, closing her consulting practice to become the President & CEO of Advantage Valley, a 9-county regional economic development organization. In this role, she has successfully leveraged millions of federal funding to support regional business attraction and retention, entrepreneurship, development of outdoor recreation assets, and industrial site development efforts. Her unique collaboration with regional partners has led to the creation of hundreds of new jobs and millions of private reinvestment in the region, demonstrating the tangible impact of her work. In addition to her Bachelor of Arts degree in urban affairs from Virginia Tech, Ms. Ellis is also a Certified Economic Development Finance Professional. She volunteers in leadership roles for numerous local, state, and national organizations. Ms. Ellis is the proud mother of four daughters.