Committed professionals, leaders and philanthropists serve on the Board of Directors donating their time, talent and treasure to leading the Foundation. This group is committed to our students, our community and our regional economy.

2026 Board of Directors

Michelle McDonold, Chair

Larry Collett, Vice Chair

Will Thompson, Secretary

Russell Deal, Treasurer

Alleah Allen

Lauren Bailey

Don Baus

Chris Beeker

Monte Dixon

STAFF

Ralph Hayes, Executive Director

Ralph has worked in public education for the past 23 years and is eager to build impactful partnerships to benefit students, teachers, and the community. Currently serving on the board of directors for the National Association of Education Foundations, Ralph is highlighting our local impacts throughout the country.

Ralph is married to his college sweetheart, Lara, and they have two children, Hattie and Riv. They live in downtown Summerville where Ralph loves to hear the sounds of the stadium on Friday nights.

Kim Caughell, Marketing & Development Director

Kim has a wealth of experience in nonprofit and business relations. She held leadership positions with Summerville Family YMCA and the Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce before joining the Foundation in August of 2024. Kim is dedicated to highlighting the amazing work happening in our schools daily and is eager to work with businesses and individuals to show how they can be a part of our success.

Kim serves on many local nonprofit boards and is very active in the community. She and her husband live in downtown Summerville and enjoy spending time with their amazing children.