Former, emeritus and current Alleghany Educational Foundation Board of Directors members
in front of a portrait of John Woodruff located at the Alleghany County School Central Office
Emeritus Directors
Clarence Crouse
Evelyn Hash
Frances Huber
Dr. Suzanne Mellow-Irwin
Una Lindh
Rita Woodruff
Ex-Officio Directors
Bob Irwin
Dr. Michael Rodgers
Board of Directors
Dr. Zach Barricklow
Amy Bottomley
Pratt Davis
Richard Doughton
Dennis Gambill
Karen Leys, Secretary/Treasurer
Walt McMillan
J. Sidney Miller
Susan D. Murphy, Second Vice President
Shirley K. Richardson
Russell Sheets
Warren Taylor, President
Missey Weaver
George White
Jay Woodruff, First Vice President
Our Staff
Melissa Vestal
Executive Director
A native of Alleghany County, Melissa Vestal grew up on a farm, where the values of hard work and community were deeply ingrained. With a mother dedicated to education and a father who continues to practice veterinary medicine, Mrs. Vestal was inspired to pursue a career in education. Over a distinguished 23-year career, Mrs. Vestal served as both a high school and elementary school Spanish teacher, as well as an administrator. Recognized as the Alleghany County Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Vestal retired from teaching to focus on enhancing educational opportunities through the Alleghany Educational Foundation. Mrs. Vestal is passionate about the transformative impact the Foundation has on students' lives and is excited about the future possibilities for education in the community.
Susan Nilo
Assistant Director
A retired educator, Susan Nilo enjoyed growing up, raising a family and spending her career in Alleghany County. Mrs. Nilo was encouraged by John Woodruff to pursue a career in education, as her mother did. Throughout her fulfilling 28-year career, Mrs. Nilo served in the classroom, in support staff roles, as well as in administration. Recognized as an Alleghany County Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Nilo retired from Wilkes Community College and now focuses on enhancing educational opportunities through the Alleghany Educational Foundation. Mrs. Nilo is passionate about pursuing and implementing ways the Foundation can positively impact Alleghany County Schools students and educators.