YPA’s executive board is made up of local professionals, all of whom are a passionate about their industries and local community. Meet our team and always feel free to touch base.
Emily Jordan, President
Credit Analyst at Blue Ridge Bank
Email: emily.jordan@mybrb.bank
I was raised in Shenandoah County. I stayed local and got my degree from James Madison University and am now a Credit Analyst for Blue Ridge Bank.
Through YPA, I have made numerous personal and professional connections. I have gotten the opportunity to take on leadership roles. And, I have gotten more involved in the community through networking with local non-profits.
In my free time, I enjoy visiting downtown Harrisonburg bars & restaurants, spending time with friends and family, and taking our dog Hallie on walks.
Michelle Arciniega, Events Chair
As a lifelong Harrisonburg townie, I have developed such a love and appreciation for the natural beauty and scenery this area has to offer. I am currently employed at Rockingham Insurance as a claims professional and I am passionate about what I do!
YPA is continually providing an amazing opportunity to form new connections and explore community engagement. I have seen lots of growth in the group and I’m eager to be part of its ongoing development!
In my free time, I enjoy going hiking with my dogs, Ozzie and Athena, and spending time outdoors with them. I also love trying the local food and coffee spots, traveling, reading, and being the funniest in my friend group!
Jordan Wood, Marketing Chair
A Shenandoah Valley native, I’ve always loved living in this area and exploring everything that the Valley has to offer. I stayed local for university, going to James Madison University to get my Communications degree. Now I work at WHSV-TV3 as the Digital Marketing Coordinator, doing all things digital advertising. As well as getting to work next to my best friend Finn.
I hopped on the Young Professionals train early on, and I have seen so much amazing growth and development within this group in just a year. We have so many wonderful regulars now, and I always see at least one or two new faces at every event. This is an exciting time to be a ShenValley Young Professional!
In my free time, you’ll probably find me stargazing with one of my telescopes, performing in a local theater production, or walking my cat Mittens (yes, cats like walks too).
Max Colvin
Business Banking Development Officer at Pioneer Bank
E: mxccolvin@gmail.com
Before moving to Harrisonburg, I attended Millersville University in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Upon graduating in 2014, I applied for jobs around country and found myself as an auditor for GE in the Shenandoah Valley. My role has switched to Pioneer Bank’s Business Banking Development Officer, but I have remained in the area, now calling it home!
I joined the ShenValley Young Professionals Associate because I believe connecting with people is invaluable. This outlet provides young professionals a supporting community to naturally grow in the valley. I am delighted to be a member of the ShenValley YPA.
In my free time, I attempt to maintain my house and property. I also enjoy a fun road trip, as well as, reading, Writing, lifting, and cooking!
Laura Pogo
Graphic Designer
E: ask@laurapogo.com
I am a graphic designer with a heart for social change. By portraying others’ purposes and stories, I gather communities around distinguishing ideas.
Our network of young professionals has introduced me to good people with unique visions for our local future. I am happy to be part of this valuable work and community.
When not designing, I enjoy quality time with family, spending time outdoors, and cooking new recipes.
Noah Yoder
Housing Counselor at Mercy House Inc.
E: noah@themercyhouse.org
Click to meet with me
Growing up in Rockingham County, I spent my time exploring, building forts in the woods, and fishing as often as possible. I completed under-grad education in Kansas and am now working as a Housing Counselor with Mercy House Inc. - working one on one with clients and managing special projects for the agency.
I have greatly enjoyed my time with YPA. The deep and meaningful relationships that have sprouted from my experiences at YPA events have truly benefitted not only my own career, but, I believe, the broader community. I’m a firm believer in “iron sharpens iron”, and I’m so excited to see YPA become the catalyst for growth in the next generation of local leaders.
In my free time I love spending time in downtown Harrisonburg (Virginia’s first culinary district!!), volunteering with local Rotary clubs, kayaking, and sitting around a fire talking about anything in the world.
Heather Paugh
Paraplanner at Burkholder & Associates
E: heather.paugh@ampf.com
Growing up, I’ve always enjoyed connecting with people. I learned early on that your network is your net worth. As Jim Rohn famously said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Warren Buffett echoed this sentiment, stating “The key to success is to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you.”
By joining the Shenandoah Valley Young Professionals Association (YPA), I’ve had the privilege of elevating my circle of influence and surrounding myself with talented and inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds. This has not only enriched my personal life but has also positioned me for greater success in my professional career, as a Paraplanner at Burkholder & Associates.
In my spare time, when I’m not out and about buzzing around in the social scene, I enjoy traveling, hiking, going to the gym, reading, learning new things, and spending time with my family and friends.