Leadership

Board of Directors

Photo	Name	Position	LEADER BIO
	David M. Low	President	David has been serving on the PCS Board of Directors since 2018. He brings maturity and careful direction to the nonprofit, with deep roots in community involvement and keeping activities within budget. David’s experience includes serving on other nonprofit boards and as a City Councilman, where he honed his skills in governance and public service. His tireless efforts have been key to the development and success of PCS, ensuring that the organization remains financially sound and community-focused. David’s commitment to the community and his strategic vision have made him an invaluable team member of PCS.
	Taraleen Elliott	Vice-President	Most of Taraleen’s career was with the Oregon Department of Revenue, giving her extensive experience with policies and budgets. She has volunteered for numerous organizations over the years, serving in a variety of roles. Food security is a very personal issue for Taraleen, as she experienced firsthand how a family can be financially devastated by one unexpected event. When her father died unexpectedly, her mother had to reenter the workforce, working two low-paying jobs just to try and stay afloat. Her burden would have been eased considerably had there been an organization like PCS available to them.
	Brent Kaseman	Secretary	As a bank manager and commercial loan officer, Brent brings his leadership skills and financial expertise to PCS, helping to make good decisions that benefit its members. The core mission of PCS is to help meet the basic needs of people, to feed and clothe. Brent loves to volunteer and serve people in this way through PCS because it aligns with the mission of Orthodox Christians. Brent’s kindness, skill, and leadership set a bright example and have proven to be a true asset to PCS.
	Tom Klipfel	Treasurer	Tom has been serving on the PCS Board of Directors since 2020. An engineer by trade, he brings precision and critical analysis to the organization. As Treasurer, his analytical skills are helpful in maintaining financial accuracy and accountability. Additionally, Tom is a dedicated Scout leader, and Philomath benefits greatly from his extensive community service. His commitment to both his professional and volunteer roles makes him vital to PCS, ensuring the organization’s continued success and community impact.
	Jean Goul	Past President	Jean brings a wealth of knowledge to the PCS Board, having served since 2016. With a unique perspective from her past role as President and various volunteer positions, she offers critical insights. As a retired educator, Jean is educational, outgoing, and passionate in her community engagement. Her dedication and enthusiasm make her a vital director of PCS, fostering strong connections and driving the organization’s mission forward.
	Eneida Hallenborg	Board Member	Eneida is a dedicated member of the PCS Board, known for her commitment and energy. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she has been instrumental in translating PCS materials to maximize inclusivity and community engagement. Through her work on the Public Relations Committee, Eneida helps develop educational workshops and community partnerships, ensuring that PCS reaches and supports a diverse audience. Her passion for inclusivity and education makes her essential to the organization.
	Sandy Heath	Board Member	Sandy served as Program Manager for Lupe’s Community Garden and now brings her optimistic, strategic perspective to the PCS Board. Her leadership has been pivotal in helping Philomath Community Services grow in new and innovative ways, much like the plants in the garden she once managed. Sandy’s dedication and vision continue to inspire and drive the organization forward.
	Laurie Lewis	Board Member	Laurie is a dedicated member of the PCS Board, known for her deep love for the community. She graciously donates her time to lead our nonprofit, ensuring that basic needs services are provided to folks in West Benton County and the surrounding region. Laurie’s commitment and passion for helping others make her a strong volunteer for PCS, driving the organization’s mission forward with compassion and dedication.
	Jodi Russell	Board Member	Jodi is a passionate advocate for the community, serving on the PCS Board with unwavering dedication. She generously donates her time to lead our nonprofit, focusing on providing services to residents of West Benton County and the surrounding areas. Jodi’s love for the community and her commitment to making a positive impact are evident in her leadership, making her a vital part of PCS’s success and growth.

Non-Voting Directors

Photo	Name	Position	PERSONAL BIO
	Teresa Nielson	Philomath City Council Liaison	Teresa serves as a City Councilwoman and facilitates relations between Philomath and Philomath Community Services as a Liaison. She loves our community and brings a friendly, energetic approach to supporting basic needs programs for our neighbors in West Benton County and the surrounding region. Teresa’s dedication and enthusiasm make her a vital link between the city and PCS, ensuring that community needs are met with compassion and efficiency.

Program and Facilities Managers

Photo	Name	Position	PERSONAL BIO
	Dale Carter	Facilities Manager	Dale brings over 20 years of experience in Custodial and Environmental Services Management to PCS. His expertise includes training adults with severe and persistent mental health issues for janitorial work, as well as overseeing housekeeping, maintenance, laundry, and central supply in a long-term care facility. Dale’s knowledge of plumbing, electrical, and general repair, combined with his easy-going and helpful nature, make him a wonderful asset to PCS. His commitment to keeping all departments within budget and his willingness to assist wherever needed ensure the smooth operation and success of the organization.
	Natalie Cover	Program Manager, Lupe’s Community Garden	Natalie serves PCS not only to work within her community but also to tackle the next challenge. Her previous endeavors addressed concerns related to soil and crop production, and she felt the next significant issue to address was food insecurity. Natalie has an educational background in agriculture and professional experience in crop production and soil environments. Additionally, she is a Master Gardener with Linn and Benton County.
	Patty Nobles	Program Manager, PCS Gleaners	Patty grew up in a family where obtaining food was a constant struggle. In 2011, she found herself in a major crisis and needed help to feed her family. She joined a gleaning group and found purpose. Patty chooses to serve at PCS because there is a strong sense of community with a common goal of helping people. There are few volunteers with the heart and dedication of Patty. She is a shining example of selfless service, working tirelessly to help all of our neighbors feel warm, fed, and valued.
	Jennifer Ringwald	Program Manager, Holiday Cheer	Jennifer has lived in Philomath for 23 years and loves the community. She started volunteering at June’s Kids Closet in 2013 and later at Holiday Cheer. She became program manager in 2023. Jennifer loves volunteering for local community services because it allows her to make a positive impact and connect with others in meaningful ways. It’s a chance for her to give back, support those in need, and strengthen community bonds. Jennifer loves local community services because they embody the spirit of compassion and togetherness. They provide support to those in need, foster a sense of unity, and create opportunities for everyone to contribute to the well-being of the community.
	Karen Rowe	Program Manager, Nancy’s Food Pantry	Karen has served as the Program Manager for Nancy’s Food Pantry for years, demonstrating consistent dedication to her service. Her creativity and innovative practices, such as including recipes and fresh herbs, have transformed the traditional food bank into a more enriching experience for the community. Karen’s commitment and passion for helping others make her a cornerstone of PCS, ensuring that the pantry not only meets basic needs but also promotes healthy and enjoyable meals.

Staff

Photo	Name	Position	PERSONAL BIO
	Sharon Thornberry	Executive Director	Sharon has been a grassroots organizer, trainer, and advocate for community food systems, rural communities, and anti-hunger work in Oregon since 1986. Growing up on farms in Iowa and North Carolina, she was active in 4-H and Girl Scouts and was one of the first female members of Future Farmers of America. Sharon’s work experience includes food service, retail grocery, and union activities. She served on the Oregon Hunger Task Force for 16 years and held leadership roles in various organizations. Sharon worked for Oregon Food Bank for 25 years, focusing on rural food systems and creating the nationally recognized “FEAST” program. She began as the Executive Director of Philomath Community Services in September 2023.
	Liza Franzoni	Administrative Assistant	Liza brings experience with Food Security and Justice issues from her work in Hawaii, where she developed and implemented a SNAP Fresh Food and Education Program at a rural Farmer’s Market. Many years of preparing food for large crowds, as well as individuals with special dietary needs, honed her awareness and commitment to re-directing food that would otherwise go to waste. Liza considers her work at PCS an honor and responsibility, with a daily reminder that she, along with a stalwart group of dedicated community members, works to make a difference in the lives of the people they serve.