Our Board
Learn more about why our board members are so dedicated.
Our Officers
We are always looking for new board members and advisors. If you would like to find out more about volunteering for our organization please contact us.
Chairperson
Debbie Doherty
President
Dan Johnson
Treasurer
Vanessa Walker
Acting Secretary
Lisa MB Johnson
Medical Advisor
Dr. Stephen Falcheck
Outside Counsel
Sean T. O’Kelly, Esq.
O’Kelly & O’Rourke, LLC
Our Board
- Paul Foster
- Angelina Gonzalez
- Tim Doherty
- Ilana Wright
- Jenn Blair
Debbie Doherty
Chairperson and Founder
Deb is the Founder and Chairperson of the Board for Tender Hearts, a 2014 Delaware-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting medically fragile children.
Inspired by her own childhood experiences with mobility challenges, she brings a deeply personal understanding to the mission of helping children facing similar obstacles today.
Before founding Tender Hearts, she built a successful career in the accounting industry as the President/CEO of Doherty and Associates Inc.
Following her retirement, she turned her focus fully toward helping kids have a better quality of life. Her goal is to continue to expand Tender Hearts’ across Delaware, ensuring that every child—regardless of medical or physical needs—has the opportunity to be mobile, to thrive and share a smile!
Dan Johnson
President
Dan spearheads impactful initiatives blending business excellence with heartfelt community outreach. Beyond his executive role, Dan leads a team of 24 in asset management, consistently driving performance and fostering a culture of collaboration.His leadership reflects a deep commitment to blending innovation and empathy, making a tangible difference both in the office and across his community.
Vanessa Walker
Treasurer
Vanessa Walker brings over two decades of accounting expertise to the board, with a rich background spanning both public and private sectors. As someone who faced health challenges in childhood, Vanessa deeply appreciates the support Tender Hearts offers to families today. Growing up, she didn’t have access to such resources, which fuels her passion for contributing to organizations like Tender Hearts and the Knights of Columbus through volunteer work. Beyond her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Vanessa finds joy in traveling and savoring quality time with loved ones
Lisa MB Johnson
Secretary
Lisa MB Johnson is a committed board member of Tender Hearts, inspired by a deep personal connection to families with medically fragile children. With a strong background in nonprofit management and education, she brings strategic insight and hands-on leadership to support the organization’s mission. Lisa has played an active role in coordinating fundraising events, fostering community partnerships, and stepping in wherever help is needed. Her dedication to compassion, service, and resilience continues to fuel the organization’s growth. Outside of her work with Tender Hearts, Lisa enjoys traveling, crocheting, and spending quality time with her family.
Tim Doherty
Board Member
Tim Doherty is a passionate and driven professional who brings a wealth of experience in mobile technology, martech, advertising, and analytics to his role as a Strategic Account Executive at AppsFlyer. Known for cultivating strong client relationships—including with Fortune 500 brands—Tim’s career reflects his commitment to excellence and strategic thinking. Outside of work, he’s a devoted husband to Rosa and proud dog dad to Lychee. A fitness enthusiast and skilled home chef, Tim often channels his love for cooking into community and family gatherings. He’s also an avid traveler and lifelong learner, currently studying Spanish to deepen his connection with diverse cultures. Tim proudly serves on the board of Tender Hearts Inc., aligning his personal values with the organization’s mission to support medically vulnerable children and families in need.
Paul Foster
Board Member
Dedicated over 40 years in-the medical industry, gaining extensive knowledge and building meaningful relationships that have proven invaluable to Tender Hearts. His deep well of experience allows him to offer crucial guidance, resources, and support to the organization as it serves medically fragile children.
In addition to his professional background, Paul is the devoted father of a son who is a paraplegic. This personal journey has given him unique insight into the challenges faced by families caring for children with complex medical needs—especially those transitioning into adulthood. His compassion, advocacy, and lived experience make him a powerful voice in helping Tender Hearts.
Ilana Wright
Board Member
Ilana Tara Wright, a proud mom of seven and a passionate artist who found her calling in face painting over 12 years ago. Since then, she‘s had the honor of having her work featured on the front page of The Colored Palette and in other industry publications. She began her journey in leadership as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout committee chair and leader, and that spirit of service has stayed with her. Through Ilana’s business, she’s been fortunate to volunteer her face painting talents at countless community events including Toys for Tots, the Healthy Kids Run, AI Dupont’s Hear We Go, and Tender Hearts—where she now serves on the board to support medically fragile children. Giving back through art has become the heart of everything Ilana does.
Angelina Gonzalez
Board Member
As a lead Prior Authorization Specialist, I bring a deep understanding of navigating complex healthcare systems, securing timely medical approvals, and advocating for patients’ access to essential care. My experience ensures that medically compromised children receive the treatments they need without unnecessary delays—helping to ease the burden on families and improve health outcomes.
Jennifer Blair
Board Member
With a strong background in advocacy and community service, I have served as a mentor and former child advocate for the State of Delaware. Over the years, I have also dedicated my time and energy to supporting various nonprofit organizations. These experiences have deepened my passion for helping vulnerable populations and have equipped me with the insight and compassion to contribute meaningfully to Tender Hearts. My commitment to uplifting children and families continues to guide my efforts as I work to support the mission of bringing hope and healing to those in need.
