The President provides overall leadership to VASPA and represents the Association in carrying out its mission and purpose. This position supervises the functions and activities of the Association, appoints all committees except the Nominating Committee, and serves as the State Association Liaison to support communication, collaboration, and representation on behalf of VASPA.

Sarah Boone Newsome

The Vice President performs the duties of the President in the President’s absence and provides oversight of responsibilities related to conference planning and coordination. This position is also responsible for procuring appropriate honorariums and gifts on behalf of the Association.

Toni L. P. Childress

The Executive Director oversees all aspects of VASPA conference planning and coordination, including hotel contracts, room blocks, meals, schedules, and event logistics. The Executive Director also secures presenters and keynote speakers and develops and maintains relationships with business partners, including recruiting sponsors to support VASPA conferences.

Carole Nelson

The Treasurer is responsible for maintaining accurate membership and financial records, issuing annual dues notices, depositing Association funds, and processing approved payments. This role chairs the Budget Committee, provides membership materials and organizational information to prospective and current associate members, and ensures VASPA membership rosters remain current. The Finance Officer also prepares quarterly and annual financial reports and maintains all financial books and records for timely review by the Audit Committee.

Jessica Estrada

The Past President serves as a VASPA representative to the Board and provides continuity and support to Association leadership. This position also serves as the liaison to the Constitution & Bylaws, Resolutions, Policies & Procedures, and Legislative Committees, helping to support their work and maintain alignment with the goals and governance of VASPA.

Rodney Brown

The Secretary is responsible for maintaining accurate records of all Association proceedings and ensuring that official records are safely preserved. This position prepares and distributes meeting minutes in a timely manner and maintains current copies of the Association’s bylaws, including all approved revisions. The Secretary also ensures that up-to-date copies of all Association policies are maintained and readily available as needed.

Tanisha Holland

The Member-at-Large is responsible for overseeing regional meetings and supporting the work of the Member Services, Sponsorship, and Public Relations functions. This position helps ensure assigned activities and initiatives are carried out effectively and also serves as a member of the Education and Scholarship Committee.

Melanie Simmons

The Strategic Planning Liaison supports the Executive Director in advancing the organization’s strategic plan by coordinating and monitoring action steps, tracking progress toward established goals, and helping ensure strategic priorities remain aligned with organizational objectives.

Jessica Duren