Board Members
Our Board Members
As a non-profit, we are guided by our esteemed and valued board members. Their dedication to our mission is unmatched, and the Center for Women would not be able to rescue so many lives without their support.
Pastor Tom Burgett – Board Chairman
I have spent my entire life within 30 miles of Jackson, and consider it my home town. I was taught at an early age by my father about having a solid work ethic, and also the importance of giving back through volunteering. My dad was a 63-year member of Lions Club International before his passing in 2019. I chose to give back as a member of my local school board for three years, founding member of the local Downtown Development Authority, as well as volunteering 20 years at our local Walk to Emmaus Community, retiring from there when the opportunity to serve with Center for Women became available, which I have served on the board of directors since 2017. I am a “Second Career” pastor, serving God and the people of Vandercook Missionary Church since 2005.
John Nally – Vice Chairman
John Nally is retired from a business career and has been a resident in the Jackson Community for 25 years. Married to Diana for 48 years they have 3 children and 7 grandchildren. As a parent and grandparent, John understands the challenges and struggles expectant and current mothers face. As a follower of Jesus Christ John desires to serve women (and Men) to know and prepare for the JOY and responsibility of health and parenting. John considers it a privilege to be able to serve on the Center for Women board.
Ashley Smith - Assistant Secretary
Hello! I’m Ash and I work at the Community Action Agency as the Family Advocate for Frost Head Start. I have attended Vandercook Missionary Church since 2007 and still do. Jesus Christ is the number one most important relationship in my life and I am passionate about serving people through and because of Him. I am finishing up school in ministry through PLI for my Pastoral license. I believe that life is designed, intentional and created by and for God. There are many things that I find fulfilling in service and as I enjoy them, I also enjoy fun things like Disney anything and family time. My life has one purpose and that’s to serve and glorify God no matter what He calls me to do.
Linda Grimm - Treasurer
Linda will provide accounting support for the Center for Women Board. Linda has nonprofit Board experience for serving on this Board from 2001 – 2017. She has worked as Board Chair and Secretary during that time. She has her BA in accounting from Spring Arbor University and worked 15 years for Consumers Energy. Linda has a strong sense of devotion for prolife issues.
Rich Rats - Secretary
Rich believes life is a gift from God and as a result he is passionate about the value of all lives, born and unborn. He has a multi-ethnic family that includes five children – three of which were adopted as infants. Rich previously lived in the Jackson area from 1994 to 2004 and returned to the area in 2019. He serves individuals and families as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. Rich considers it an honor to volunteer and serve as a Board Member for the Center for Women.
