Meet Our Board
Patients and Community Members Dedicated to Your Health
HCHC’s Board of Directors ensures our mission is fulfilled through strategic planning and the delivery of essential services. With the majority of our volunteer board members also being HCHC patients, we are uniquely positioned to stay closely aligned with the needs of our community. This patient-driven leadership helps us provide responsive, accessible care for all.
Lisa Burkholder, RN, MSN
Board Chair
Professional Background:
Lisa brings a rich background in nursing to HCHC’s Board of Directors, having served in diverse roles from labor and delivery to nurse management at Lancaster General Hospital. Now, she leads as an RN Unit Coordinator at Sentara RMH on a stroke and renal dialysis unit.
Board Member Since:
2019
Her Why:
Lisa joined the board to connect more deeply with the local community, drawn to HCHC’s commitment to making healthcare accessible, especially through the sliding fee scale that she frequently highlights.
The Fun Stuff:
Away from her professional life, Lisa enjoys life on her farm in Linville, where her two young daughters keep every day lively and full of adventure. She’s always up for a board game or card game with family and friends when she has a free evening.
Susan Grossman
Vice Chair
Professional Background:
Susan spent over 20 years as a Human Resources professional, bringing a wealth of experience and insight into organizational culture and management.
Board Member Since:
2022
Her Why:
Invited by HCHC’s Human Resources Director, Susan was drawn to the organization’s culture and its commitment to providing comprehensive care. Though she was close to retirement, she felt compelled to join the board, recognizing the impact HCHC has on the community.
The Fun Stuff:
An avid traveler, Susan enjoys exploring the world whenever she can. She also stays engaged through her volunteer work with HR Virginia, part of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), where she continues to share her expertise with the broader HR community.
Sherry Mongold
Treasurer
Professional Background:
Sherry brings extensive experience in finance and accounting, with credentials as a CPA and an MBA from James Madison University. Her career includes roles in public accounting and leadership positions such as Corporate Controller at Rocco Enterprises, Vice President of Finance at Rosetta Stone, and Director of Accounting at Rockingham Memorial Hospital. Currently, she serves as the Director of Finance at Sentara Healthcare, where she oversees financial operations and strategy.
Board Member Since:
2016
Her Why:
Joining HCHC’s Board was an opportunity for Sherry to strengthen the working relationship between Sentara Healthcare and HCHC while providing additional financial oversight to support HCHC’s CFO. With a deep commitment to serving underserved populations, she is passionate about helping advance HCHC’s mission of accessible, high-quality healthcare for all.
The Fun Stuff:
When not working or fulfilling board duties, Sherry enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time with friends and family, whether for outings or family gatherings.
Jennifer Barton
Secretary
Professional Background:
Jennifer brings over a decade of healthcare experience, having worked as an EMT, Massage Therapist, and Certified Medical Assistant. For the past 13+ years, she has worked in human resources in both healthcare and manufacturing.
Board Member Since:
2023
Her Why:
Wanting to contribute her healthcare and HR expertise, Jennifer joined the HCHC Board to support the organization’s mission of providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to the Harrisonburg/Rockingham community. She’s passionate about ensuring everyone has access to the care they need.
The Fun Stuff:
Family life keeps Jennifer busy, with four children and a husband who are active in Bridgewater Community Little League and various volunteer efforts. As a family, they love spending time together on beach and Disney vacations.
David Cockley, Ph.D.
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
Coming soon
Board Member Since:
2008
His Why:
Coming soon
The Fun Stuff:
Coming soon
Rick Haushalter
Professional Background:
For more than four decades, Rick served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer across three healthcare systems, bringing vast experience in healthcare administration.
Board Member Since:
2017
His Why:
Rick joined HCHC’s Board while serving as the Chief Operating Officer of the local hospital, aiming to strengthen communication and coordination of care between the two organizations. He is passionate about HCHC’s ability to fill a critical unmet need in the community, offering family medicine that reaches those who may be hesitant to seek traditional healthcare. Rick is particularly proud of HCHC’s mental health and dental care services, which provide essential care to individuals who often have no other alternatives.
The Fun Stuff:
Now retired, Rick operates White Oak Lavender Farm and The Purple WOLF Vineyard alongside his wife and two of his children. Family is at the heart of everything for Rick, and he cherishes time spent with his five local grandchildren as well as traveling to see those who live further away.
Jessica Hostetler
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
Since 2012, Jessica has been a key part of Eastern Mennonite University, where she spent nearly a decade as the Marketing Project and Office Coordinator. She now serves as the Executive Administrative Assistant for Enrollment Management, providing comprehensive support, overseeing special projects, and collaborating with colleagues to improve efficiency.
Board Member Since:
2019
Her Why:
Jessica was inspired to join HCHC’s Board after learning about the sliding fee scale and the range of services offered to the community. She is a firm believer in the patient-centered medical home (PCMH) approach and is proud to be part of an organization that ensures everyone receives quality healthcare.
The Fun Stuff:
When she’s not busy at work or serving on the board, Jessica enjoys spending time with family and friends, finding new ways to stay active, and appreciating the small moments that make life meaningful.
Scott Richardson
Professional Background:
Scott is the Vice President of Residential Living at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community (VMRC) and has spent more than two decades in senior services. He began his career at VMRC in 2000, managing the newly opened Wellness Center. Over the years, Scott has taken on various leadership roles at senior living communities in Williamsburg, VA; Pittsboro, NC; and Charlotte, NC, ultimately returning to VMRC in 2020. He holds certifications as a Certified Aging Services Professional and from the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Scott brings a wealth of expertise in senior care, leadership, and quality assurance.
Board Member Since:
2020
His Why:
Passionate about the link between healthcare access and community well-being, Scott saw joining HCHC’s Board as an ideal opportunity to advocate for seniors and ensure quality healthcare for all. He’s especially proud to support HCHC’s work in providing medical, dental, and other vital services to traditionally underserved populations.
The Fun Stuff:
A self-described homebody, Scott enjoys spending time with his wife, Peggy, and their Labradoodle, Oliver. They often explore local trails together, making the most of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. In his spare time, Scott also enjoys playing golf and tennis.
Reem Mohammed
Professional Background:
Coming soon
Board Member Since:
2022
Her Why:
Coming soon
The Fun Stuff:
Coming soon
Keith Gnagey
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
With nearly 35 years in nonprofit administration, Keith has served in leadership roles at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community and the Harrisonburg Rockingham Free Clinic (HRFC), where he was Executive Director before retiring.
Board Member Since:
2023
His Why:
Keith’s connection to HCHC runs deep, both professionally and personally. Introduced to the organization through his work at HRFC, he has also received valuable, timely medical care from HCHC while managing a chronic health issue. Impressed by the quality of care, Keith now serves on the board to support HCHC’s mission and give back to the community.
The Fun Stuff:
As someone who enjoys being active, Keith starts his day swimming laps and enjoys biking and hiking when he can. He and his wife, Linda, are active in their church and love traveling to visit friends and explore new places. Their seven grandchildren keep them busy with other joyful adventures.
Liz Fuchs
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
As Chief People Officer at Farmer Focus, Liz Fuchs leads with a focus on safety, human resources, and learning development. With a master’s from Penn State and experience spanning government, nonprofits, and R&D firms, she has found her true calling in serving organizations by supporting their most valuable asset—people.
Board Member Since:
2024
Her Why:
Liz was drawn to HCHC’s board because of its deep commitment to providing holistic, patient-centered care that reaches everyone in the community, regardless of financial barriers.
The Fun Stuff:
A busy mom of four, Liz is also an active volunteer with local organizations and a national women’s group. When she finds a quiet moment, she enjoys getting lost in a good book or hiking the Valley’s trails, always on the lookout for new recommendations from friends.
Leons Kabongo
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
Leons brings a diverse and impactful background to HCHC’s Board of Directors. With a Master’s degree in Agricultural Business Management, he has built a career centered around program management, research coordination, and grant administration. In his role as Technical Assistance Program Coordinator at Northeast SARE, Leons develops programs that support individuals and organizations in securing funding, while also fostering relationships with grant applicants. His experience spans agricultural policy advocacy, government relations, and sustainability, with a strong focus on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Fluent in French, Swahili, English, and Spanish, Leons effectively connects with and supports diverse communities, both professionally and in his role as a board member.
Board Member Since:
2023
His Why:
Leons joined HCHC’s Board as a continuation of his decade-long service in community health in Martinsburg, WV. Inspired by HCHC’s mission and vision, he felt it was his duty to contribute to ensuring that historically underserved populations in the Harrisonburg community have access to affordable healthcare, housing, and employment opportunities. His passion for serving others drives his work on the board.
The Fun Stuff:
He enjoys spending quality time with his wife and two sons, often visiting parks for family outings. In addition to his community work, he serves as a translator at Hosanna Fellowship of Harrisonburg, a Francophone church, where he finds balance and fulfillment through worship and service.
Joel Colindres
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
Coming soon
Board Member Since:
2024
His Why:
Coming soon
The Fun Stuff:
Coming soon
Shirley Otero Hernandez
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
Shirley began her career in medical administration at HCHC in 2011, gaining experience in roles such as front office support, new patient and eligibility coordinator, and outreach and enrollment specialist. After a brief time as a benefits coordinator with the Department of Social Services, she transitioned to the food manufacturing industry, where she has worked in human resources and field operations at Cargill. Across all her roles, Shirley’s greatest passion has always been helping people.
Board Member Since:
2024
Her Why:
Joining HCHC’s Board is a way for Shirley to give back to a place that feels like home. As a former employee and current patient, she’s seen firsthand how HCHC transforms lives by providing quality, accessible care. Shirley is passionate about being part of a team that shares her dedication to meeting the needs of families in the community and helping everyone feel supported and valued.
The Fun Stuff:
Shirley enjoys volunteering as a Bible school teacher at her church, where she loves spending time with the children. She also values self-care and looks forward to relaxing spa days as a way to unwind and recharge.
Merielen Santiago Velez
Patient Representative
Professional Background:
Merielen brings a community-centered background to HCHC’s Board of Directors, with experience in advocacy, support services, and healthcare access. Her strong communication and problem-solving skills are invaluable in addressing the health needs of the community and supporting HCHC’s mission.
Board Member Since:
2024
Her Why:
For nearly a decade, HCHC has been a significant part of Merielen’s life, both as a place where her family received care and where she worked to support others. With 16 years of dedication to serving the community, she is honored to continue contributing in this new capacity. Passionate about advocacy, Merielen remains committed to being a loyal and active voice for those HCHC serves.
The Fun Stuff:
As a proud grandmother, Merielen’s greatest joy is spending time with her family and making memories together. She loves to dance, cook, and decorate, especially during the holidays, which bring her immense happiness. Bringing light and connection to her community is her way of making life a little brighter for everyone.
Join Our Board
Do You Want To Do More For Your Community?
If you love your health center and want to make a difference in the lives of your friends and neighbors, consider joining HCHC’s Board of Directors! To learn more about this excellent opportunity, contact HCHC at (540) 433-4913 and hit option 2 to make us aware of your interest.
