J.C. Schweingrouber

Director

Mr. Schweingrouber is a mutual fund manager and Vice President of Investments at Virginia Financial Innovation Corporation. He has over fifteen years experience in the industry and has worked for well-known national brokerage firms. J.C. is also the author of several self-published books.

Dr. Gary Stratton

Director

Dr. Stratton is a PhD Economist and Professor of Business and Economics at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. He has long been involved in many civic organizations and is also President of Virginia Financial Innovation Corporation, a Virginia based investment adviser firm in Southwest Virginia.

Melinda Elswick

Director

Mrs. Elswick of Tazewell County has a background in public education, accounting, and has volunteered with various local non-profit organizations over the years.

 

Dr. Ernie Benko

Director

Dr. Benko of Norton, VA is owner of Appalachia Regional Community TV and RoundTable Industries. He brings to our organization vast experience in marketing, program development and community involvement.

James Hibbitts

Director

Mr. Hibbitts has over two decades experience in community banking in Dickenson, Lee and Wise counties in Virginia. He is currently with Pikeville Medical Center in Pikeville, KY and often travels through the Appalachian regions of Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.  He is also author of “Secrets of Graveyard Hill.”

Adam Mason

Director

Adam Mason is a native Kentuckian from Letcher County with a Master’s degree in Information Systems and a Bachelor’s in Computer Science. He brings to the foundation strong skills in computer and web design to aid in long term programs such as Appalachia Streaming and a desire to see his region of Appalachia improve in all areas including economic opportunity and education. His passion and creativity add much to the mission and work of the FAA.