Vanessa is a devoted wife, mother, and educator who treasures her faith, her family,
and a life rooted in purpose. As a Christian, she is guided by a heart for Jesus and a calling to
love and serve others well. In her role as President of Susan’s Lowcountry Nonprofit
Corporation, Vanessa feels deeply honored to help lead a mission centered on compassion,
dignity, and meaningful connection for seniors and veterans throughout the Lowcountry.

Vanessa’s life has been shaped by change and connection. Having moved often growing up,
she met people from many backgrounds and developed a deep love for understanding and
serving others. That passion led her to volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters in college and
continues to guide her life today.

She is one of four daughters and credits her parents, David and Teresa, as two of her greatest
influences. Vanessa earned her Master of Education from Georgia Southern University in 2017
and her Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies with a minor in Education from
James Madison University in 2009. Since 2011, she has taught third grade at a Title I school,
where she is dedicated to helping children grow, learn, and feel valued.

She shares life with her husband and daughter, her two favorite people. A homebody and
bookworm at heart, Vanessa enjoys quiet moments at home with her rescue dog, Scarlett, and
two cats, as well as time at the beach.