Ryan embodies the values his family raised him with: hard work, service to others, and dedication.
I’m originally from a very small community in West Virginia of about 5,500 residents. I was raised on the same farm my grandparents raised their six kids. My grandfather supported his family as a coal miner and would move heaven and -quite literally- earth to ensure they could achieve their dreams. He enlisted and fought in Korea upholding the values he taught his kids. My mother grew up on Army bases across the country during her father’s career in the military. After they met, my parents dedicated their own careers to the Department of Justice and passed that passion for hard work and service to others on to my sisters and me.
When opportunity brought me to Winchester in 2012, I found a community that also had strong values. A place filled with history, full of opportunity, and residents who had a passion for service. So, I rolled up my sleeves and joined in. I have worked alongside downtown businesses during the Walking Mall Renovation as President of the Old Town Winchester Business Association and currently provide mentorship with Big Brothers/Big Sisters. For the past several years, I’ve helped build a network of local entrepreneurs and crafters by founding the Valley Makers Association When I learned of the need, I began creating low-cost devices for people with disabilities and now organize these efforts for the entire state through a nonprofit called Makers Making Change. I work at Blue Ridge Habitat for Humanity, providing affordable housing to local residents, and working for policy change. The trajectory of my work in the community has always and will always reflect the values I grew up with and that I see in our community every day.
Beyond my work and volunteer experiences, I am deeply invested in Winchester. This is where I attended Shenandoah University and earned my Masters Degree in Leadership. I live and work in Ward 3. This is where I met my wife, Molly, where we were married, where we bought a home, and where we plan on raising a family.