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.

Joe Foster Development Director

Joe Foster is the Development Director for the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Joe leads the fundraising and partnership efforts at the foundation.

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.

Leah Szelest Development Manager, Special Events & Corporate Partnerships

Leah is the Development Manager, Special Events & Corporate Partnerships. She oversees the planning of the gala and helps build relationships with existing and current corporate sponsors.

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 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.