Our Leadership
Sam Beard
Our Founder and President
Sam Beard, a social entrepreneur and public servant, has dedicated his life to making a difference in the world, serving eight U.S. Presidents and creating the Jefferson Awards. He founded GIFT CONNECT in 2021.
“Sam Beard is one of the ripples of hope that Bobby believed were the power of people to advance justice and peace.”
Ethel Kennedy
Board of Directors
Mark Holden
Chairman
Mark Holden is a successful entrepreneur, musician, and international recording
artist who has founded and operated several companies in a diverse career
spanning four decades. He is an advocate for creating value-based businesses
that make a difference. Mark believes that true success is measured by how
many lives we impact.
Stellar Mengele
Vice President
Stellar Mengele is a gospel music artist, career woman, businesswoman, wife,
and mother. Born and raised in Kitui County, Stellar began her music career in 2003 and currently serves as the GIFT CONNECT 0-5 Ambassador in Kenya.
Olivia Soleil
Vice President
Olivia was born in the Republic of the Congo. She is an artist, life coach, mindfulness practitioner, hypnosis practitioner, and a Reiki Master. She also served as a Member of the Governor’s Delaware Interfaith Council.
Antonio Tijerino
Vice President
Toni Tijerino is the President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, a
national nonprofit focused on education, workforce, social impact, and culture
through innovation and leadership. HHF is recognized by The White House, US
Congress, Fortune 500 companies, other nonprofits, and the Government of
Mexico.
BETH WALLER
Member
Beth Medved Waller is a successful realtor in Virginia, having earned
recognition as a top producer locally, regionally, and nationally. She is also the founder of WHAT MATTERS, a 501(c)3 dedicated to efforts in community building, outreach, and wellness, with a special emphasis on video-based storytelling and creating replicable fundraising models for non-profits.
JUDITH OTTER
Member
Judith Otter is an accomplished nonprofit executive with 17 years of experience & expertise in helping non-profit visionaries to build, strengthen, scale, and sustain their organizations.
ShEIla Neff
Secretary
Sheila Neff is the Executive Administrator at GIFT CONNECT, a former immigration attorney, small business owner, volunteer, and mother. She is passionate about empowering families and communities and plays a key role in
advancing GIFT CONNECT’s mission to support children and caregivers during
the critical early years of life.
Our Team
