Board of Directors
Dedicated leaders volunteering their expertise to guide SPARC's mission and ensure sustainable growth
Leadership That Makes a Difference
Our Board of Directors brings together experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds who share a common passion: creating opportunities for adults with severe and multiple disabilities to thrive in their communities. Their guidance, expertise, and dedication help ensure SPARC continues to grow and serve Northern Virginia effectively.
Leadership
Executive Committee

Ellen Dyke
Term: 2027

Hannah Irsfeld, Esq.
General Counsel, NOVA Foundation
Governance Chair · Term: 2026

Ed Herbst, CPA, CFF, CFE
Bison Forensics
Finance Chair · Term: 2027

Dr. Courtney Gaskins
AdvocacyEd
Term: 2027
Our Team
Board Members

Hon. John Foust, Esq.
Foust Law, PLLC
Development ChairTerm: 2028

Shawn Flaherty
President, Creative Strategies PR
Communications ChairTerm: 2028

JoAnne Adams
Coldwell Banker
Events Co-ChairTerm: 2027

Dave Adams
Coldwell Banker
Events Co-ChairTerm: 2028

Nainoksha Kaushal
Financial Advisor, Edward Jones
Finance & DevelopmentTerm: 2028

Alicia Liddle
Community Relations, NWFCU
DevelopmentTerm: 2028

Gaston Araoz Riveros
External Affairs, Dominion Energy
DevelopmentTerm: 2026

Will Schermerhorn
Owner, Blueberry Shoes Productions
CommunicationsTerm: 2027

Katherine Montgomery
Legacy and Leadership Officer
EventsTerm: 2027

Mary Burger
Sr. Office Administrator, Juniper Networks
EventsTerm: 2026

Shelia Grant
Director, Fairfax County Sheriff's Office
EventsTerm: 2026

Nancy Lu
Project Manager, Graphex
CommunicationsTerm: 2026

Lisa J. Williams
TLJN LLC
DevelopmentTerm: 2027
How We Work
Board Committees
Governance
Ensures board effectiveness, compliance, and adherence to nonprofit best practices.
Finance
Oversees financial stewardship, budgeting, and fiscal accountability.
Development
Drives fundraising initiatives and cultivates donor relationships.
Events
Plans and executes signature events including An Evening to SPARCle.
Interested in Board Service?
SPARC welcomes dedicated individuals passionate about our mission. Board members bring diverse skills in finance, law, communications, events, and community advocacy.
Board Members
Board Portal
Access the board calendar, meeting materials, and resources.