Mat-Su Council on Aging

Meet Our Board and Executive Director

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Chuck Foster

MCOA Board Member

Chuck Foster is a retired Air Force Senior Officer and former CEO at Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. The collaborative spirit of the Mat-Su keeps him energized, and he is always on the search for people and ideas that can help improve the system of Senior Care in the Valley.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.