In the spring of 2013, Rebekah Gregory’s life was profoundly altered by an act of terrorism at the Boston Marathon. As a bystander, just three feet away from the explosions that claimed her leg, she emerged from this tragedy with remarkable resilience and determination. Since then, Rebekah has established herself as a prominent advocate and speaker, inspiring diverse audiences globally, including the Ambassador of the Holy See in Rome, the United Nations, Asics, and ESPN Women’s. Her story has garnered attention from numerous media outlets, with contributions to publications such as People Magazine and Runners World.

In 2017, Rebekah authored her first book, "Taking My Life Back," which details her journey from adversity to empowerment. Shortly thereafter, she co-founded Rebekah’s Angels Foundation with her husband, Chris, to provide funding for mental health treatment for children and families affected by trauma.

Through her speaking engagements and coaching initiatives, Rebekah shares critical insights on strength and resilience, emphasizing that while individuals may not experience a tragedy as she did, everyone faces personal challenges. With her engaging blend of humor and genuine storytelling, she illustrates that life continues even amidst adversity.

Rebekah and her husband, Chris, whom she met in college, reside in Tampa, Florida, with their two children, Ryleigh and Noah.

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Tiffany Willis is a dedicated Tampa, FL native with a strong background in education. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida and spent three years with Hillsborough County Schools before transitioning to a leadership role as Chief Executive Officer of a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

During her tenure, Tiffany forged partnerships with over 32 businesses, resulting in a remarkable 400% increase in revenue over four years, benefiting more than 473 recipients. Her ability to organize philanthropic initiatives has helped her build strong, trustworthy relationships within diverse communities.

Tiffany is also a co-founder of 32:8 Learning, a homeschool tutoring center designed to provide personalized educational support for students. Her extensive experience in fostering collaboration and driving growth makes her an invaluable asset to any organization aiming to expand its impact and support those in need.

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Chris Varney is the Director of Business Development and has a decade of successful experience in managing others as well as handling high level contracts with top company executives. He found his passion for working with children & families in need of therapy through the personal experience of his wife Rebekah and son Noah.

He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Eastern Kentucky University and is currently pursuing his Masters in Nonprofit Management from the University of Central Florida. Previously, Chris worked as a Territory Sales Manager in the Oil, Gas, & Mining Industries.

He enjoys traveling, golf, exercising, watching the Kentucky Wildcats, and spending time with his wife Rebekah, son Noah, and daughter Ryleigh.

Angela Carden is a Pastor’s wife who resides in Florida with her husband in their almost empty nest. Angela, a graduate of the University of West Florida has a Bachelor degree of Interdisciplinary in Social Science with a Specialization in Children and Society. Angela is a lifetime member of the W.E.B. Du Bois Honor Society.

Angela works as a court appointed child advocate for abused, abandoned and neglected children. Before her current position, Angela worked as a Forensic interviewer of abused children. She has also successfully completed training with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement on Forensic interviewing of children and Child Physical and Sexual Abuse Investigations. Angela has completed “Darkness to Light”, a sexual abuse prevention training program.

Tina Gregory is a dedicated professional with a robust background in administration and office management, complemented by over 15 years of experience in providing exceptional managerial support to senior executives. In 2004, she launched a successful home-based childcare business, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to nurturing others. Her career continued to flourish at Kosair Children's Hospital in 2006, where she served as a unit secretary, and she played a pivotal role in establishing a new pediatric practice in East Louisville.

Tina’s commitment to care extends beyond her professional life; as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother to three grandchildren, she has always prioritized the well-being of her family. In 2013, following the tragic Boston Marathon bombing, Tina became a full-time caregiver for her daughter, Rebekah, and grandson, Noah, during their recovery. This experience deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with PTSD and reinforced her passion for advocating for mental health awareness and support.

Tina's extensive experience and compassionate approach make her a valuable asset in any professional setting, particularly in roles that require strong leadership and a deep commitment to service.

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Jennifer Schubert-Akin is Chairman and CEO of The SteamboatInstitute, an organization she co-founded in 2008.  Jennifer is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma and received her M.B.A. from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. Jennifer was the CFO of a large health and human services firm in Austin and later founded a small business consulting firm in Steamboat Springs, working with a variety of non-profit organizations and small businesses.  Beginning in 2014, Jennifer assumed a full-time role as Chairman and CEO of Steamboat Institute.

Jennifer is a graduate of the Leadership Program of theRockies and served on that organization’s Advisory Board for several years. In2013, she and her husband, Rick Akin, received the “Leaders in Action” award from the Leadership Program of the Rockies in recognition of their work in founding and establishing The Steamboat Institute as a nationally recognized leader in advancing conservative thought and policy.  

Jennifer is a member of the Advisory Board for theUniversity of Colorado Center for Western Civilization, Thought and Policy; the10-member Selection Committee for the Visiting Scholar in Conservative Thought& Policy at CU-Boulder; the Advisory Board for the Ed Snider Center forEnterprise & Markets at the University of Maryland; and the Advisory Board ofDocs 4 Patient Care Foundation.  

Jennifer previously served as a Community Representative on the Steamboat Pilot & Today editorial board, Steamboat Marathon Committee, and Tax Policy Advisory Board appointed by Steamboat Springs City Council.

In her free time, Jennifer enjoys competing in triathlons and trail running with her 4-legged children, Boomer and Cruiser.  She has completed 3 Leadville Trail 100-mileRaces and the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run.  In 2019, she completed her 25th consecutiveBoston Marathon, earning membership in the Boston Marathon’s exclusive QuarterCentury Club.  Making each mile count,Jennifer has raised $142,000 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society along the way.

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