Volunteer Board of Directors

Joyce Brenny, President

I am the founder and owner of Brenny Transportation, Inc. (logistics division) & Brenny Specialized (asset based division) located in St. Cloud, MN. Brenny is a Certified Women Business Enterprise founded in 1996. Brenny is a provider of global transportation solutions.

I began my career in trucking in1980, behind the windshield of an 18 wheeler. Over the years I have held numerous leadership positions in the transportation industry, some of which include: President MN Transportation Association, TIA Governing Board, Women In Trucking Foundation Board of Directors, MN Trucking Association Board of Directors – Chairwoman 2012. My company(s) have also been recognized with the following awards: TIA Samaritan award, Great West Gold Fleet Safety Award, NASTC Best Broker, MTA 1st Place Safety Award, two-time winner Minnesota Business and Professional Women Employer of the Year, four time recipient of the Minnesota Business Gives Award, WIT Influential Woman of The Year, MN Trucking Association Presidents Award, St. Cloud Chamber Woman Business Champion, and MN Top 100 Best Places To work.

My education background includes a BA degree in organizational behavior and psychology.

I am a wife and the mother to one grown daughter. I have made it my personal
mission to provide opportunities, as well as a safe work environment for women
in the transportation industry. I have a strong passion for the rights and respect of
“professional” truck drivers! I truly believe I have been called to serve the trucking
industry, as well as to help those whom have dedicated their life to work in the noble
profession of trucking/transportation. I am honored to have been selected for the SCF
Board!

President/Owner, Brenny Transportation & Brenny Specialized

Tom Heinz, Treasurer

Tom Heinz is President of Heinz, Inc., Coffee Cup Fuel Stops & Convenience Stores, Inc. and Steele Hotel Group, LLC. Tom’s business career has been in different segments of the petroleum industry. Tom’s primary day job began 42 years ago as co-founder/owner of TA Express Coffee Cup Travel Plazas.

Tom received the following degrees: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Master of Science in Human Resources, and Master of Business Administration from Beacom School of Business at the University of South Dakota.

Presently, Tom serves on the Board of Directors of St. Christopher Trucker’s Development & Relief Fund (Treasurer), a member of David Nelson Petroleum Marketers 300 Study Group, a member of TA-Petro’s Study Group, and a member of Dakota Dunes Country Club.

Tom is a past member on the Board of Directors of the following: University of South Dakota Board of Trustees, NATSO (National Association of Truck Stop Operators) (Chairman), NATSO Foundation (Chairman), South Dakota Petroleum Marketers Association and Dakota Hospital Foundation.

Tom and his wife Jane have three children, five grandchildren, and three spoiled cats.

President, Heinz, Inc., Coffee Cup Fuel Stops & Convenience Stores, Inc. and Steele Hotel Group, LLC

Norita Taylor, Vice President

Norita Taylor has been with OOIDA for 16 years and serves as the Director of Public Relations. She is accredited with the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and has worked in public relations for more than 20 years in a variety of capacities. She has served on several  community organization boards ranging from public relations professionals to community theatre and other arts.

Director of Public Relations, Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association

Elisabeth Barna, Secretary

Elisabeth Barna has over 33 years of experience in the trucking industry, and in early 2023 founded EAB Strategies, LLC, a consulting business where she continues to work within the transportation and logistics industry and charitable organizations

Elisabeth is a recipient of the “J.R. ‘Bob’ Halladay” Award and the American Logistics Aid Network’s 2021 Humanitarian Logistics Award. She is a member of the Truckers Against Trafficking Advisory Council and was a founding member of the Department of Transportation’s Women of Trucking Advisory Board. She has served on the board of directors of Truckers Against Trafficking and Trucker Buddy International, and as secretary/treasurer of the Trucking Associations Executive Council. 

Founder, EAB Strategies

Mark Singleton

As the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Rudolph Foods Company, the world’s largest manufacturer of pork rinds, Mark Singleton has accumulated diverse experience in sales, marketing and business development. Joining the company in 2003, Singleton has helped to grow the Rudolph Foods brands, including Southern Recipe, Pepe’s and Lee’s pork rinds, as well as Gaslamp Popcorn. Preceding his position at Rudolph Foods, Singleton served as the President of Cantrell International, adding 12 years to his total 25 years in the food industry.

Through brand expansions, the introduction of new brands and the sometimes-volatile food industry, Singleton has helped the company to continue to grow – all while serving the consumer.

Most notably, he helped to pioneer National Pork Rind Appreciation Day by lobbying for the government to recognize the first Sunday in February as such. As a result of his work, Rudolph Foods partners with the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund annually to advocate for retired National Football League (NFL) players in dire need as well as for National Pork Rind Appreciation Day. This day speaks to both consumers and football fans on Super Bowl Sunday, bringing America’s love for “pigs skins” and pork rinds together for one day.

Most recently, Singleton served as the Chairman of the Snack Food Association, drawing on his experience to create a larger platform for pork rind snacks as the food industry evolves. Reigning as Chairman allowed Singleton to be a voice for the snack food industry before government and provide support to the association’s members through research, education and promotion.

Singleton’s distinguished career began after graduating from Southern Methodist University in 1981, and he now resides in Trophy Club, Texas as a father of three and a grandfather of two. He is an avid football fan and a lover of all things involving hunting, fishing and outdoor life.

Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Rudolph Foods Company

Cody Griggs

Cody Griggs is a Director of Product at C.H. Robinson, one of the world’s largest logistics platforms. During her 19 years of tenure, she has served in various roles across North America, including operations, account management, sales, implementation, process improvement and strategy management.  Her current scope includes product management of the Navisphere Carrier website and mobile applications which help to make millions of loads available to carriers every year. During her tenure, she has built a vast understanding of not just the inner workings of the organization and the supply chain industry, but also the critical role CHR plays in their carrier’s businesses. She genuinely loves being a part of this trucking community and working with carriers to help make their businesses successful. She also lends her time to mentoring the future women leaders at C.H. Robinson as a coach in the Women’s Leadership Networking Circle for the past 3 years.

Cody earned her BA/BS degree in Business Marketing and Management from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC.  She is the mother of 2 young children and in her spare time enjoys spending time outside with them and her husband, as well as cooking and reading. Cody is thrilled to be a part of the St. Christopher Truckers Fund board and continue to serve this critical industry.

Chuck Ryan

I grew up on the Southside of Chicago, the Son of a hard-working Truck Driver.  My experience is that being an OTR driver was as much a career as it was a Brotherhood.  Dad’s coworkers and peers were both friends and family.  Nearly all my childhood memories include these brethren.

I have had a long career in the oil/gas/energy business.  That has allowed me to work alongside family-owned small business owners who were branded with my former employer.   That was the best education of all. 

Because of these experiences I have a deep appreciation for those that work hard to support their families and those they employee as well.  I’ve learned that from time to time, despite their best efforts, people need a hand-up.  That’s why I support organizations like the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.

President & CEO, AMBEST Inc.

Marian Lowes

Marian Lowes serves as Corporate Communications Manager for TravelCenters of America, a bp group with 18,000+ team members at 294 truck stop locations in 44 states. She has over 25 years experience in developing and executing communications strategies for Fortune 500 companies in the energy and manufacturing sectors and health care and non-profit organizations.

Marian is an award-winning video producer, magazine editor and intranet content creator. She began her career as a broadcast producer and journalist. She has traveled extensively producing news stories on energy exploration, safety and the retail, refining, and fuel distribution business.

Marian is passionate about accessible health care for all. She served for many years on the board of directors for Cleveland Health Care for the Homeless, a non-profit agency serving individuals without access to health insurance. She also has extensive knowledge and experience with non-profit organizations having served as a member of Alcoa’s communication team overseeing the distribution of Alcoa Foundation funding in the U.S.

Marian loves to travel with her husband and is actively involved in animal rescue. She lives in Rocky River, Oh.

Corporate Communications Manager, TravelCenters of America

Dr. John McElligott, M.D., Volunteer Medical Advisor

I am a physician at Occupational Health Systems, a company that I started over 10 years ago.

I have been a doctor for 24 years. Before that, I was a physician’s assistant for 15 years. I am married and have 6 children. I spend the majority of my days trying to take care of people who need help.

Heather Thompson, PA-C, Volunteer Assistant Medical Director

Heather Thompson is a Physician Assistant and Vice President of Occupational Health Systems, Inc. She is a graduate of Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine and has a wide range of experience, including Internal Medicine, Dermatology and Psychology. Heather is also a certified personal trainer and strength/conditioning coach. Heather is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the TN Academy of Physician Assistants.

Walt Blankenship, PA

Graduate of the University of Kentucky’s Masters of Physician Assistant Studies program, Walt worked for nearly a decade in the Emergency Departments of several area hospitals including the only Level 1 trauma center in the region. Walt holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science and an Associate’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy from East Tennessee State University. He is a member of the Tennessee Association of Physician Assistants and joined Occupational Health Systems in the spring of 2018.

In addition to working for the Fund, I have taught Introductory Psychology, Child Psychology and Health Science Research at various colleges. I received a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Tennessee, a M.S. in Research Psychology from UTC and a Ph.D. in Health Research Psychology from UT.

My wonderful husband and I are delighted each day by our son and daughter, who have brought indescribable joy to our lives. In my spare time I enjoy playing games, reading, going for walks, and spending time with family.

Shannon Currier serves as our Director of Philanthropy. She started her career in the trucking industry more than 20 years ago, working in payroll for a fleet in Albuquerque, NM. After spending 15 years in the nonprofit sector, Shannon returned to the trucking industry and joined our team in 2014, bringing her valuable nonprofit experience with her.

Shannon pursued her education in Marketing and Business Development from Troy University and Auburn University of Montgomery. Additionally, she has completed several professional certificates including the Professional Fundraising Certificate, Fundraising Essentials Certificate, Nonprofit Essentials Certificate, Marketing Essentials Certificate, and Major Donor Fundraising Certificate. Shannon is also a member of the National Association of Nonprofit Organizations and Executive Member organization. She is working to achieve her Certified Fundraising Executive Certification, is a member of the Women In Motion Council, and is currently completing the Nonprofit Technology Enterprise Network Cohort.

Shannon’s husband, Samuel, has also been in the trucking industry for 20 years. Shannon and Samuel have been married for 28 years and are the parents of two adult sons. Shannon is a huge Alabama football fan, while her husband is a Vols fan. They love dancing, going to the beach, and spending time with family and friends.

Lindsey is the newest member of the St. Christopher Fund team as the Health and Wellness Manager and brings a passion for health and wellness. She graduated from Brenau University with a B.S. in Psychology and has spent the last decade in various health and wellness fields including addiction counseling, social work, inpatient psychiatric rehabilitation and nutrition counseling.  While she has always had a heart for helping, she found her passion on health coaching while on her own health journey after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder and learning the impact that nutrition and exercise can make in managing chronic health conditions.

Outside of her career, Lindsey is an avid gardener and loves to hike the mountains of East Tennessee.  When the weather doesn’t allow for outdoor adventures, you can find her crafting, baking, and spending time with her husband, son and their 4 dogs.

Mallory graduated with a B.S. in Psychology from King University and an M.A. in Human Services-Counseling from Liberty University. With experience in leading group therapy programs and directing a local addiction ministry, she is passionate about helping individuals.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Mallory enjoys life on her farm, spending quality time with her husband and their three dogs. GO VOLS!

Rhonda is our Billing Specialist and has been a part time employee since 2021. She has a bachelor’s degree with a major in social work.  Her work experience includes Social Work, Occupational Health, and Urgent Care. She also has experience in the trucking industry as her husband was a OTR driver and owned a small trucking company for many years.

In her spare time, Rhonda enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, reading,, walking and football. She loves the Vols!!!

Nick has worked in the media industry for nearly a decade in a variety of capacities. Nick coordinates and manages our social outreach.