Our Staff

Jason Marsden Executive Director
Jason Marsden has served as executive director of the Matthew Shepard Foundation since July 1, 2009.

Cynthia Deitle Programs and Operations Director
Cynthia M. Deitle is the Matthew Shepard Foundation’s Programs and Operations Director. She oversees our hate crimes work, community outreach, and events.

Dana Juniel Communications Officer
Dana Juniel is the Matthew Shepard Foundation’s Communications Officer. She oversees the Foundation’s media, communications and editorial voice.

Louis Sisneros Legacy Projects Coordinator
Louis Sisneros oversees our legacy projects.

Denay Patterson Development Manager, Operations & Donor Relations
Denay Patterson manages database systems, fundraising campaigns, events coordination, and content development.
Board of Directors

Judy Shepard President
Judy Shepard is the founding president of the Matthew Shepard Foundation Board of Directors.

John Sullivan Secretary
In his professional position as the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Carlson, Inc., John Sullivan provides primary support to the company’s Board of Directors.

Greg Miraglia Vice President
Greg Miraglia is a dean emeritus at Napa Valley College and is a professor of LGBT Studies and Criminal Justice at Napa Valley College, Santa Rosa Junior College and City College of San Francisco.

Shirley Potenza Treasurer
Shirley is an advocate, wife, mother, “army-brat”, student, dreamer, optimist and Controller for Coda Signature; Colorado’s premier cannabis infused product company.

Bob Witeck Board Member
Bob Witeck is President of Witeck Communications, Inc., and for over 25 years a pioneering communications strategist dedicated to the advancement of LGBTQ communities around the world. He is a communications consultant, author, speaker and researcher.

Jay Brown Board Member
Jay Brown drives the innovative work of the HRC Foundation as the Senior Vice President of Programs, Research and Training.

Charlotte Sweeney Board Member
Charlotte Sweeney is the Foundation's newest Board member and a longtime supporter of the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

Dennis Shepard Board Member Emeritus
Dennis Shepard has served on the Matthew Shepard Foundation board of directors since the organization’s inception.