John S. “Jack” Marsh (Chair Emeritus) is Co-Founder of the Elimination of Prejudice Foundation (2015–2018) and a Founding Director (2014–2015). He has received multiple lifetime achievement awards, including induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame, Baldwin Wallace University, and Pi Lambda Phi. 

A lifelong journalist and retired media and foundation executive, Jack continues his commitment to public service as a civic leader in South Dakota. He is past chair of Children’s Home Society of South Dakota, the state’s premier and oldest human service nonprofit. 

Shawn M. Upchurch (Chair) has been deeply committed to the Elimination of Prejudice Foundation since its inception, serving as a Founding Director (2014–2015), Ex-Officio Board Member (2016–2018), Board Co-Chair (2018), Chair (2019), and Secretary (2020). As Co-Founder and current Chair, he remains closely connected to the Foundation’s origin story and its founding vision of strengthening understanding across differences. 

Shawn’s commitment to this work is shaped by personal experience and a lifelong belief that dignity, empathy, and mutual respect are essential to a healthy society. He believes that prejudice is most effectively reduced not through ideology or enforcement, but by strengthening the human capacity to engage differences constructively. 

Professionally, Shawn is a serial entrepreneur, technology advisor, and executive coach. He is currently leading the launch of a SaaS platform focused on data governance and a flagship leadership development program centered on emotional intelligence and human capability. In both business and nonprofit work, he is guided by the conviction that every life has equal value and that respect for difference is foundational to meaningful progress in leadership, business, and society. 

Heather A. P. Smith is a dedicated Behavior Specialist with extensive experience in supporting individuals with behavioral, emotional, executive function, and developmental challenges. With a strong background in integrated behavioral approaches, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Conscious Discipline (CD), Emotional Regulation and Self-Management, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Heather works closely with families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement personalized intervention plans that promote positive behavioral change. Passionate about fostering inclusive environments over the past 20 years, Heather is committed to empowering individuals to reach their full potential through evidence-based practices and mindful, compassionate support. 

Christopher J. Anderson is the founder of Open Tone Music, a nonprofit 501c3 organization which provides access to premier music education and performance programming for all people. Through Open Tone Music he has reached thousands of individuals in the northern Ohio area. After studying music education at Baldwin Wallace University, where he received his bachelors, he went on to receive his master’s degree in music from The University of Akron. In addition to being a successful music educator, Mr. Anderson composes and performs many different styles of music. He has performed trombone with some of the best in the Classical, Jazz, Gospel, Latin and other musical idioms. Mr. Anderson has had the pleasure of performing with such recording artists as Clark Terry, John Fedchock, Jiggs Whigham, Jon Faddis, Nancy Wilson, Frank Wess, Louie Bellson, Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Barry Manilow, Bobby Caldwell, The Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Band featuring Slide Hampton, Phil Woods, Antonio Hart and many others. Chris Anderson has also been heard on national and international radio and television including WCPN, BET and HBO. He is also in demand as a clinician conducting music workshops for individuals of all ages throughout the U.S., South Africa and India. Additionally, Chris Anderson has displayed success in local and national solo competitions. He also teaches at Oberlin Conservatory and can be heard featured on several CDs. More important than his accolades is his passion to help improve the lives of young people and their communities. 

Joseph D. Borowski (Secretary) has a rich and diverse background in non-profit work, beginning with his involvement in Phi Delta Theta, a private fraternity committed to fostering leadership and community values. As an undergraduate, he was an officer during the fraternity's transition to Substance-Free Housing. Joining the global staff after graduation, Joe traveled across North America to educate members on the fraternity’s values and provide essential safety training. 

Following his impactful work with Phi Delta Theta, Joe joined the Boy Scouts of America, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Building on his time as an Eagle Scout, Joe successfully established over 50 new scouting units and managed a multi-camp reservation that hosted thousands of campers annually. His dedication to youth development and community engagement was evident in every aspect of his work. 

Transitioning to Baldwin-Wallace University, Joe served as the Assistant Director of Alumni. In this role, he built six alumni chapters in major cities and founded the Student Ambassador group, a co-ed organization representing each class year. This group upheld the highest standards of the college and volunteered in support of the President’s initiatives. His efforts were recognized nationally when he was named Student Association Advisor of the Year by the National Council on Advancement. 

In 2011, Joe transitioned to the technology sector, supporting prominent clients such as Amazon, DocuSign, Princeton University, Teladoc, and other global corporations in their growth endeavors. His ability to adapt and excel in diverse environments is a testament to his versatile skill set and commitment to excellence. 

Currently residing in Ohio with his wife and three children, Joe enjoys woodworking, coaching, and writing. His passion for community service and personal development continues to drive his involvement in non-profit work. 

David S. Baldoza (Treasurer) has nearly thirty years of experience as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He works closely with small businesses, non-profits, and individual clients, advising them on a range of critical matters. Dave provides tailored guidance on everything from start-up strategies to exit planning, bookkeeping, owner tax planning, and estate planning. He is dedicated to helping his clients navigate complex financial challenges, ensuring personalized service and comprehensive solutions for clients across the country. Dave earned his Bachelor of Arts from Baldwin Wallace University and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants.