Executive Director

Jason is a Wheeling native who spent his youth on the grounds of Oglebay Park. During the early 2000’s he operated a sourdough bread bakery in San Francisco- participating in the Bay Area’s local food movement. Believing Wheeling offered a unique opportunity to engage in “making a difference” he moved back to the valley to work at West Liberty University in 2007. During his time there he focused on fundraising, community engagement, and marketing; most recently serving as Vice President of External Affairs. In 2014 Jason co-founded Weelunk.com to share the story of Wheeling. Jason lives in Wheeling with his wife Sarah and three children, Campbell, Will, and Cora.

Chief Operations Officer

Jodi is from the Ohio Valley, growing up in Shadyside, OH. After attending The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH, Jodi went on to build a career in multi-store/business in the retail and restaurant industries. In her last few roles, she has led the process to scale brands from start up phase to established businesses. Jodi’s passion lies in driving results through the development of people and their leadership skills.

Urban Farm Manager

Sarah Stec moved from her native Kansas to Wheeling over 5 years ago to serve as an AmeriCorps member for Grow Ohio Valley. Currently she manages Grow Ohio Valley's Urban Farm sites. Sarah knew her passion for farming would last a lifetime ever since her first experience working on a farm almost 10 years ago. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion for farming and gardening with the community through her work at GrowOV.

Public Market Operations Manager

A Wheeling native, Robin grew up on Wheeling Island and studied social work and psychology at West Virginia Northern Community College. She is the proud mother of 3 boys, Zane, Ebin, and Abraham. In her life she has built a strong background in retail, food service, and inventory management. In 2023, Robin joined The Public Market as a sales associate before transitioning into office administration, where she handled bookkeeping and inventory. Now, as Operations Manager, she applies her dedication to community enrichment and social equity, helping drive The Public Market’s mission forward.

Public Market Marketing and Sales Manager

Jasmine moved to Wheeling from Dallas, TX in 2023, though she was born in Cleveland, OH, and grew up across the U.S. as a Navy child. She spent 20 years in Texas before relocating to the northern states for a smaller community and desire to grow her love of nature and gardening. With nearly 10 years at Whole Foods Market, Jasmine developed expertise in organic foods, nutrition, sustainability, and promoting healthy food access. In her free time, she supports local arts and urban gardening in Warwood. In 2024 Jasmine joined the team in the role of Marketing and Sales manager at The Public Market.

Public Market Vendor Manager

Originally from California, Ruth brings a diverse range of experience in sustainable agriculture, off-grid living, trucking, gardening, and health-conscious food systems. Driven by her love for local food and sustainable living, Ruth moved to the area to reconnect with family and embrace new opportunities. In 2024, she joined The Public Market as Vendor Manager, where she cultivates strong relationships with local producers and enhances the market’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Outside of work, Ruth finds joy in nature, practicing yoga, creating art, and cooking nourishing meals, all of which reflect her dedication to a balanced and mindful lifestyle.

Volunteer Coordinator/ AmeriCorps Program Director

Chloe is from Florida, where she studied Biology and Conservation Science and realized a passion for sustainable agriculture. Chloe began volunteering on farms in Florida, volunteered at an experiential farm in Hawaii, and then started WWOOFing on a farm in the eastern panhandle, where she lived for three months. She heard about Grow Ohio Valley and immediately resonated with their mission. Chloe started at Grow Ohio Valley in February of 2022 as their Volunteer Coordinator VISTA, where she developed their volunteer program and recruited a few new volunteer groups, such as the Augusta Levy Learning Center and the Children's Home of Wheeling. Along with the volunteer program, Chloe now manages the AmeriCorps with Grow Ohio Valley. Chloe aspires to play a part in creating and nurturing our local food system and uplifting the community.

Assistant Farm Manager

Sierra is a native of Wheeling. After spending several years cruising around the east coast on her sailboat, she came back to her home in the foothills of Appalachia and discovered GrowOV. She served on the urban farm team as an AmeriCorps before joining the Grow Ohio Valley team as assistant urban farm manager. She's delighted to be a part of an organization that is working towards the betterment and benefit of her hometown.

Public Market Kitchen Manager

James, a proud native of the Ohio Valley, has been bringing his culinary expertise to local restaurants for 19 years. As the kitchen manager at The Public Market, he has revitalized the menu with creative vegan options, innovative daily specials, and a carefully curated soundtrack that enhances the dining experience. A dedicated father to his two daughters, Scarlet and Evelyn, James is also one of the area's most passionate Manchester United fans. His commitment to quality and flavor continues to make The Public Market a standout destination for food lovers.

Budget and Finance Manager

With a life-long hobby in backyard gardening and a passion for nature & nutrition, Jenn was easily drawn to GrowOV’s mission. She began as an AmeriCorps volunteer and after learning the ins and outs of the various programs and departments—took on the role of Budget & Finance Manager.