BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. is pleased to announce a promotion and an addition to its leadership team as the organization continues to expand its impact throughout its service region.
Rebekah Ritter has been promoted to Administrator, recognizing her leadership, dedication, and growing role in the Foundation’s operations and service to donors, nonprofits, and community partners. Additionally, Joshua D. Cline, the organization’s former treasurer, has joined the Foundation as its inaugural Director of Advancement.
The newly created position is designed to strengthen the Foundation’s marketing and communications efforts, deepen relationships with donors and community partners, and expand philanthropic support throughout the region. Cline brings extensive experience in philanthropy, community leadership, and local government, having served as chief advancement officer at both Bluefield University and Concord University, President/CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of the Two Virginias, and assistant city manager for the City of Bluefield, West Virginia.
“These leadership changes represent an exciting step forward for the Foundation,” said Julie Johnson, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Becky has demonstrated a tremendous commitment to our organization and those we serve, and Josh brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to this important new role. Together with our long-time Executive Director, Mr. Smokey Shott, they will help position the Foundation for continued growth and greater impact across our region.”
The leadership announcements come at an important point in the Community Foundation of the Virginias’ growth. The Foundation recently surpassed $17 million in managed assets, and in 2025 awarded more than $750,000 in grants to organizations throughout its service area and more than $350,000 in scholarships to students from the region seeking technical education and collegiate degrees.
As the Foundation continues to grow, it seeks to deepen its relationships with donors and nonprofit organizations and expand its positive impact on the communities it serves.
“The Foundation has an incredible opportunity in front of us,” said Shott. “These positions strengthen our ability to serve donors, support nonprofits doing good work in our area, and connect philanthropy with the needs and opportunities of our communities. We are excited about what comes next.”
The Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. was formed by a merger of the Bluefield Area Foundation and the Greater Mercer County Charitable Foundation in June 2002. Today, the Foundation serves the Two Virginias region, including Mercer and McDowell Counties in West Virginia and Tazewell and Bland Counties in Virginia, through charitable giving and thoughtful stewardship of philanthropic resources.
Through its 2025 grants and scholarship programs, the Foundation has awarded more than $7.7 million to its communities.
For more information about the Community Foundation of the Virginias, its charitable funds, or opportunities to support the region, visit www.cfvinc.org.
