The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands welcomes three distinguished community leaders to its Board of Directors, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to enriching the quality of life in the Virgin Islands.
Joining the Board in 2024:
The Honorable George W. Cannon Jr., who retired from the Bench in 2022, served with distinction as a United States Magistrate Judge for the District Court of the Virgin Islands representing the Island of St. Croix. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the territory.
Valdamier (“Val”) Collens, president of Merchants Commercial Bank, has more than 30 years of experience in leadership, fiscal management, compliance, and technology across both the public and private sectors.
Joining the Board effective Jan. 1, 2025, is Kurt E. Petri, a partner at Dudley Newman Feuerzeig LLP. He has been a key member of the firm’s transactional department since 2008, and brings extensive legal expertise and knowledge of the nonprofit sector to CFVI.
Attorney Marie ThomasGriffith remains at the helm as CFVI’s Board Chair, a position she has held since 2021.
“These remarkable individuals bring to the CFVI Board of Directors a deep expertise in law and finance, as well as a shared passion for the Virgin Islands,” said CFVI President Dee Baecher-Brown. “Their leadership will be invaluable as we continue to expand CFVI’s role as a catalyst for positive change in our community.”
CFVI’s independent, all-volunteer Board is composed of dedicated community leaders who guide the Foundation’s mission to strengthen and support the Virgin Islands.
“Their strategic leadership ensures that our investments, grants, and initiatives address critical needs and create lasting impact,” said Baecher-Brown.
