Mat-Su Council on Aging
Meet Our Board and Executive Director
Lorraine Cordova
MCOA Board President
My journey into old age leaves me wondering -- what's next? I want to be part of the decision making process that allows older Alaskans like myself to live comfortable, meaningful lives. I'd like to conclude my sunset years with dignity and grace and make sure that all elders have that same opportunity.
Rachel Greenberg
MCOA Board Member
After retiring from a career in senior services and health care; Rachel was convinced to serve on the Mat-Su Council on Aging to continue the work to support individuals in creating the life they want to lead in the Mat-Su.
LaMarr Anderson
MCOA Board Member
For 22 years, I have been a resident of Mat-Su, actively contributing to the community through participation in numerous service organizations and Borough Boards. I am particularly passionate about transit matters and senior citizen concerns. As an enthusiastic cellist, I perform with the Mat-Su Community Orchestra and in regional musicals. I am also a retired military veteran and hold both BS and MS degrees from the University of Oregon.
Kevin Munson
MCOA Board Secretary
Kevin Munson serves on the MCOA Board because he has long standing interest in furthering the health and wellbeing of all Valley residents, particularly seniors. He recently retired after serving for 37 yrs at Mat-Su Health Services in various senior leadership roles, most recently for 15 years as CEO. He has over 48 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse field and over 20 years in the primary care arena. He is a licensed professional counselor and nationally certified risk manager with master's degrees in both a clinical field and in administration.
Rista Shelley
MCOA Board Member
Rista Shelley serves as the Elder Support Specialist for the Knik Tribe. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Oregon State University and brings valuable experience from her work in the healthcare field. Born and raised in Juneau, Alaska, Rista graduated from Juneau-Douglas High School before relocating to the Mat-Su Valley in 2011, where she and her husband are raising their four daughters. She is committed to continuing her advocacy for older Alaskans throughout the Mat-Su Borough.
Sheila Shinn
MCOA Board Treasurer
Sheila Shinn is the former Director of Geriatrics & Gerontology Initiatives at the University of Alaska Anchorage campus. After many years teaching and training the future workforce in Alaska in a variety of topics in geriatrics, she decided to leave UAA and put her training into practice as a Private Professional Guardian, specializing in older adults experiencing dementia. Sheila holds master’s degrees in Gerontology and Public Health, along with national certifications in working with people experiencing ADRD’s. She is also a National Certified Guardian. Sheila is a proud Mat Su borough resident of 10 years, and longtime Alaskan who intends to grow old here with her kids and grandkids. She is thrilled to serve her local community and fellow neighbors through the Mat Su Council on Aging and looks forward to contributing to the growth of options for older adults living in the Valley.
Barb Doty
MCOA Board President-Elect
Dr. Barb Doty has a 35-year history serving the Mat Su community as a family physician serving all ages, with a focus on women's health. She now works as the Clinical Dean for the Alaska WWAMI medical education program of the University of Washington School of Medicine. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Mat-Su Health Foundation and as their representative on the Mat Su Regional Medical Center Board of Directors. From 2014-2018 Dr. Doty represented District 6 of the Mat Su Borough Assembly, with a particular interest in health and wellness. Dr. Doty and her late husband, John Eshleman raised their 4 children in the Mat Valley and established their home at Wolf Lake, where John operated Steppers Construction Inc. Together, they developed the Wolf Lake Airport airpark community. Dr. Doty has particular expertise in organizational development and senior health and wellness and is excited to serve on the Mat Su Council on Aging.
Brenda Shelden
MCOA Executive Director
After graduating in 1991 with a degree in physical therapy and later earning my Doctor of Physical Therapy, I built a career rooted in care, leadership, and service. Since moving to Alaska in 2000, I’ve combined hands-on patient care with management experience across hospital, home health, and nursing home settings. When I’m not working, you’ll find me outdoors in every season, enjoying time with my family and discovering new National Parks together.
These professional and personal experiences have shaped my commitment to older Alaskans, which is why I find such purpose in serving as Executive Director of MCOA. Supporting seniors in maintaining independence, connection, and the best possible quality of life is truly an honor.
Marie Richter
MCOA Board Member
Since moving to Talkeetna in 2001, I have dedicated myself to serving my community through volunteer work, local leadership, and advocacy. From supporting the local food pantry initiatives to serving on school and nonprofit boards, I have worked to strengthen community connections and help neighbors thrive. I believe that seniors deserve to feel valued, engaged, and supported, and I am honored to serve on the Mat-Su Council on Aging Board to help advance that mission.
Rob Bashleben
MCOA Board Member
I have been an Alaska resident for 25 years and have dedicated the past 12 years to serving individuals and families through my work with LINKS Resource Center. As a husband and father of twin boys, I understand firsthand the importance of strong families, supportive communities, and access to resources that help people thrive at every stage of life.
My professional experience has given me a strong background in advocacy, community engagement, and connecting individuals and families with services and resources. I am passionate about supporting older adults and ensuring they have opportunities to remain independent, active, and connected to their communities.
I am honored to serve on the Mat-Su Council on Aging Board of Directors and bring my experience, perspective, and commitment to strengthening our community and improving the quality of life for older adults and their families.