RICHLAND COUNTY — The Domestic Violence Shelter is proud to introduce new board members and honor retiring several long-term members who are retiring from the board.

Executive Director Colleen Rice said, “We are thrilled to welcome our new board members who bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives. Their commitment to service and passion for our cause will undoubtedly help us continue our mission and expand our reach.”

Joining the board are Tiffany R. Mitchell, Coordinator, Belonging and Inclusion, at The Ohio State University at Mansfield; Miles Parsons, Executive Director of Wayfinders Ohio; Becky Harlan, VP of Operations at Sutton Bank; and Alicia Bailey, Director of HR & Finance at Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Mitchell expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I am both proud and honored to serve on the Board of Directors for The Domestic Violence Shelter Inc. It’s an exciting time as the agency experiences growth and new opportunities. I look forward to leveraging my past experiences and my leadership abilities to provide advice as the shelter continues to look at new areas of growth.”

The sentiment was echoed by Parsons, who noted, “Having a soft-spot in my heart for all things non-profit and seeing all the wonderful ideas Colleen and her team have for the Shelter, I’m excited for the opportunity and hope to be a small part of her successes moving forward.”

Meanwhile, Harlan said, “I consider it a privilege to serve as a board member of The Domestic Violence Shelter, which serves a critical need for abuse survivors and their children, and our entire community. I am proud to represent Sutton Bank, who has been a supporter of the Shelter and the valuable and vital work they do.”

Bailey added, “I am honored and excited about the opportunity to serve on the Domestic Violence Shelter Board. I look forward to being part of a team dedicated to creating a safe haven for survivors, fostering hope, and working towards a future free from violence.”

Board President Jean LaBarge acknowledged the outgoing board members, saying, “We are grateful for the dedication and service of our retiring board members. Their contributions have been invaluable to our mission and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors.”

Retiring from the board after faithfully serving multiple terms are John Hower, Owner and Agent at Rinehart-Walters-Danner & Associate Insurance Agency, Inc.; Beth Malaska, Associate Relations Director at Park National Bank; and Rebecca Hergatt, Secretary / Treasurer at Hergatt Machine.

The Domestic Violence Shelter extends its heartfelt thanks to the retiring members for their years of service and warmly welcomes the incoming board members as it continues to strive towards a future free from violence.

About The Domestic Violence Shelter

The Domestic Violence Shelter has been a beacon of support in Richland County since 1978, aiding survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault. The shelter offers a safe haven, comprehensive support services, and resources to empower survivors to rebuild their lives, free from violence. For immediate assistance, our 24/7 hotline at 419-774-5840 is staffed by trained advocates ready to help.