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Introducing the 2026 Board of the Global Volunteer Recognition Program
The Global Volunteer Recognition Program is proud to introduce the 2026 Board of Directors—a dynamic team of changemakers who bring passion, leadership, and purpose to every project and initiative. These individuals represent diverse fields such as mental health, pageantry, fashion, finance, fitness, nonprofit management, and community service. Together, they guide the mission of celebrating and honoring volunteers around the globe.
Laurel Barrett — Founder, Director & CEO
Laurel Barrett is the visionary founder of the Global Volunteer Recognition Program and a lifelong volunteer with over 500 hours of service each year. She has earned the President’s Volunteer Service Award for three years and received global recognition with the Volunteer Visionary Award at the 2025 Annual Volunteer Award Gala and Retreat. With a 20-year healthcare career and a passion for empowering volunteers, she continues to inspire through leadership, teaching, and service.
Saryna Ritter — Board Member
Born and raised in Illinois, Saryna Ritter is the founder of Go Bling Yourself, a brand offering affordable jewelry and pageant fashion. With over 11 years of experience in prom and pageant fashion as a senior editor and merchandiser, she now works as a Certified Mental Health Coach at White Orchid Counseling Services. She is also the President & CEO of “You Gotta Have Faith,” a global charity supporting families in need. A lifelong humanitarian, Saryna has received awards from L.M.A. and We Dream in Color and was crowned International Mrs USA 2024.
Whitley Nabintu Marshall — Board Member
Whitley Nabintu Marshall is a compassionate leader, creative executive, and advocate for inclusive, service-driven leadership. She is the founder of the Compassionate Leadership Project and CEO of Artlovelifestyle Magazine, as well as the designer behind Artlovelifestyle Attire, a sustainable fashion brand showcased at Miami Swim Week and New York Fashion Week. Through her work in fashion, media, and wellness, Whitley amplifies underrepresented voices and promotes social impact. A recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award and a Global Volunteer Award, she remains committed to advancing compassionate leadership and volunteer-powered change.
Lacey Haines — Board Member
Lacey Haines is a mother of five, grandmother of two, Realtor, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and Certified Personal Trainer. A passionate community leader, Lacey serves on the board for Give A Little Christmas, as a council member for Wilson Habitat for Humanity, and co-hosts Concerts & Causes supporting local charities. Known for her powerful public speaking and love for helping others, Lacey broke barriers by appearing on four Times Square billboards during NYFW with her natural gray hair, proving that women can shine at any age.
Dr. Sara Dukart — Board Member
Dr. Sara Dukart is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who works in both emergency and outpatient mental health care. Born in Portland, Maine and raised in Minnesota, she now resides in North Dakota with her family. She holds two bachelor’s degrees and a doctorate in mental health practice. Sara is a longtime volunteer with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. She is a National Advocacy ambassador with AFSP and lead the states health care committee with them. She is the founder of the Hope Through Help platform and CEO of Sanguinity by Sara - a high fashion like that empowers women. She was recently crowned International Mrs North Dakota 2024 and placed third runner-up for International Mrs USA.
Tracy Tian - Deputy Board Member
Tracy Tian is a biomedical scientist, military medic, and service-oriented leader pursuing a PhD in Basic Biomedical Sciences with a specialization in Infectious Diseases. Her research focuses on bacterial gene regulation and pathogenesis, and she brings nearly a decade of medical experience from her service as a flight medic. Committed to community impact, Tracy actively volunteers with organizations supporting individuals with disabilities and youth mentorship, including Special Olympics and Girls on the Run. She leads with compassion, resilience, and a strong dedication to service.
💡 Why This Board Matters
The 2026 board brings together decades of service, award-winning leadership, and community impact. Each member embodies the mission of the Global Volunteer Recognition Program—to celebrate the contributions of all volunteers to create a better world. Their commitment to compassion, inclusion, and recognition will continue to inspire volunteers globally.
Follow our journey, join the movement, and help us uplift volunteers everywhere.
Interested in becoming a member or learning more? Visit our website and connect with us on social media.
