Board of Directors

“On behalf of Nelson County Community Fund Board, we are pleased to have the opportunity to help address the pressing needs and to enrich the education and community experiences within Nelson County.  We strive to ensure fairness and transparency in our award selections.  We look forward to working with fellow Nelsonians to help those who need a little assistance.”
Ken Heise

President of Nelson County Community Fund

Ken Heise, President

  • I moved to Nelson County in 2018.
  • I was born in Ohio and raised in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Indiana.
  • I have 30+ years with non-profits designing, leading and managing international health projects. I worked 5 years in public sector overseas (Peace Corps, US Agency for International Development).
  • I am a board member of THRIVEGulu and have multiple national and local membership affiliations.
  • I have a Master’s degree in public health (biostatistics and epidemiology) from Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.

I joined NCCF because I was looking for a way to apply my professional experience to local challenges and needs.

Brian Hinton, Vice President

  • I moved to Nelson County in 2019.
  • I was born in Chicago and raised in Indianapolis.
  • I had 40+ year career in banking; I retired in 2023. I was a Senior Product Manager focused on development of digital experiences for businesses and consumers.
  • I have a Bachelor of Science Finance degree from Indiana University.

I joined NCCF to make meaningful contributions to Nelson County.

Cheryl Klueh, Treasurer

  • I have lived in Nelson County since 1974.
  • I was born and raised in Rochester, NY.
  • I am a co-founder of Shannon Farm Community. I have extensive experience as bookkeeper, treasurer, and consultant for Nelson County-based nonprofits.
  • I am currently board member of Rockfish Valley Community Center and Shannon Farm Community. I’m an Advisory board member of Charlottesville Public Housing Association of Residents. I am a former board member of Rural Nelson and Friends of Nelson.
  • I have a BA in English, Medieval Literature.

I joined NCCF to help address the many needs in Nelson County.

Linda McGrew, Secretary

  • I have been a Nelson County Resident since June 2006.
  • I was born and raised in Iowa.
  • I’m a retired Elementary School Library Media Specialist and Pharmacy Technician.
  • I’m a board member of Grace Episcopal Church Vestry.
  • I have a Master’s Degree in Library Science from University of Northern Iowa.

I joined NCCF because I wanted to help make a difference in the lives of the people of Nelson.

Brian Armstrong

  • I have been a Nelson County resident since 2014.
  • I was born and raised in Virginia.
  • I’m an entrepreneur for over 20 years, founding and working in technology businesses.

I joined NCCF because I am civic-minded and care for the future of Nelson County and its citizens.

Christopher Kane Baker

  • I have lived in Nelson County since 1994.
  • I am a Nelson County native and graduate from Nelson County High School.
  • I was an LVT for Lovingston Vet; I’m currently an Insurance Agent for Virginia Farm Bureau based out of Nelson County.
  • I serve on the following Nelson County Boards:
    • Nelson County Historical Society
    • Unity and Community
  • I graduated from Bridgewater College and majored in Biology.

I joined NCCF because I have a great love for this county and enjoy being involved in any way that I can.

Suzanne Hauschner

  • I have lived in Nelson County my entire life.
  • I am a Nelson County native.
  • I am a Nelson County High School teacher, GED/Alternative Education/Special Education.
  • I’m a board member of Nelson County Education Foundation.

I joined NCCF because I’m a longtime community fundraiser and animal rescue advocate.

Di Tonkins

  • I have been a Nelson County Resident since 2007.
  • I was born and raised in England.
  • I was a former Home Care Service Manager in England. I recently retired from managing the Farmhouse at Veritas, a luxury Bed and Breakfast and Restaurant in Afton.
  • I am an advisor to the “Here to Stay” initiative in Wintergreen.
  • I have been active in NCCF since 2007 starting with the Opportunity Ball.

Andrew Stowe

  • I have lived in Nelson County since 1987.
  • I was born and raised in Massachusetts.  I spent time as an educator in Kentucky, Long Island, and western Mass before moving to Va.
  • Since moving here, I have worked as a career counselor and mentor, supporting people with various financial, legal, and disability-related challenges to find good employment.
  • For several years, I was a grants administrator for a state agency to increase employment opportunities for low-income families.  I also served on the Board of the Virginia Rehabilitation Association Foundation.
  • I have a Master’s in Education for Middle School Social Studies from U-Mass, Amherst, and a Master of Science in Vocational Rehabilitation from VCU.

Peggy Whitehead

  • I have lived in Nelson County since 1987.
  • I was born in Trieste, Italy; my father was in the service, and I lived in several states including Puerto Rico.
  • I am retired CEO for Blue Ridge Medical Center (BRMC) and grant writer for BRMC.
  • I am a Board of Directors member for Region Ten Community Services Board and Nelson County Community Development Foundation. I’m on a Standing Committee for the Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia. I’m on the Fundraising Steering Committee for North Branch School in Afton.
  • I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from College of William and Mary.

Given my leadership role with BRMC and membership of other Nelson County non-profit organizations, I have seen firsthand how important NCCF is to residents of Nelson County who need a little assistance.

Kevin Walker

  • I am Nelson County High School (NCHS) Assistant Principal and former NCHS Athletic Director.
  • I am a longtime college and secondary school track and field, and football coach.
  • I’m a former trainer for professional NBA and NFL draft picks.