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2025 Board

Introducing the 2025 Board of the Global Volunteer Recognition Program

The Global Volunteer Recognition Program is proud to introduce the 2025 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-Keddy — Board Member

Born and raised in Illinois, Saryna Ritter-Keddy 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 multi-hyphenate artist, fashion designer, and mental health coach. She was crowned International Mrs USA 2022 and is Maine’s World Top Model. As the CEO of Artlovelifestyle Magazine and founder of several initiatives like the Compassionate Leadership Project and Rhythm Rebels Dance Collective, Whitley promotes inclusion, resilience, and authenticity. She has graced the covers of Vogue, Forbes, and Los Angeles Business Magazine, earning accolades like the Director’s Leadership Award and the Inspirational Woman Award.

Chelsea Roberts — Board Member

Chelsea Roberts is a proud mom, award-winning painter, and decorated trail runner with a degree in Technical Sales and Marketing from Weber State University. She launched the “Bee Fabulous” Community Clean-Up Program and currently holds the title of Mrs. Oregon International 2024. Chelsea serves as Vice President of the HDSA Utah Chapter, chair of the Portland Team Hope Walk, and is a Mental Health Wellness Ambassador for the Still She Rose initiative. Mental Health First Aid certified, she empowers others through her story of resilience and advocacy.

Lacey Haines — Deputy 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 — Deputy 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, co-chair of its advocacy committee, and serves on the North Dakota board. She is the founder of the Hope Through Help platform and host of the “Starting the Convo” podcast. She was recently crowned International Mrs North Dakota 2024 and placed third runner-up for International Mrs USA.

💡 Why This Board Matters

The 2025 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.