As we transition into a new year, Bay Aging is excited to welcome the new directors for the 2025 Board of Directors, who will continue to build on Bay Aging’s foundation of excellence. Stepping into the role of Chair is Barry Gross, M.D., a resolute leader with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead for Bay Aging. The new directors of the 2025 Board of Directors bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to help guide the agency’s future.
“I am honored to step into the role of Chairman for Bay Aging’s Board of Directors and thrilled to welcome our new directors, Ben Owen, Donna Cogswell, and Jeanne Hockaday, to this incredible team.” said Barry Gross, M.D. “Their diverse expertise and passion for service inspire great hope for the future. Together, we will continue building on Bay Aging’s legacy of empowering older adults and vulnerable populations to live with dignity and independence. I look forward to the opportunities and advancements that lie ahead in 2025 and beyond, as we work to make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.”
Bay Aging remains committed to its mission of providing comprehensive services that support independent living for individuals, from housing assistance and in-home care to transportation and wellness programs.
Former Board Chairman Jimmie Carter has played an instrumental role in leading the Board throughout 2024. His leadership, commitment, and unwavering support of Bay Aging’s programs have been a cornerstone of our growth and development. Under his guidance, the Board has championed several significant initiatives, including expanding veteran care services, increasing affordable housing opportunities, and enhancing care coordination for older adults in our community.
As we bid farewell to the three directors, Bay Aging also extends its gratitude to each member for their service:
Ron Saunders – Gloucester County Representative
Charles Adkins, Esq. – King and Queen County Representative
Karen Lewis – Westmoreland County Representative
“It has been a truly wonderful year working alongside this dedicated group of directors,” said 2024 Board Chairman, Jimmie Carter. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to our three retiring directors—Charles, Ron, and Karen—for their years of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment. Your contributions have left a lasting impact, and you will be greatly missed.”
“We are incredibly grateful for the leadership and vision that our outgoing board members have provided over the past years, and we look forward to working with our incoming board members,” said Bay Aging President and CEO, Kathy Vesley. “Their combined experience and passion for service will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and expand services to meet the evolving needs of our community.”
The 2025 Board of Directors includes:
Barry Gross, M.D. – Chair, Gloucester County Representative
Robert Wilbanks – Vice-Chair, Middlesex County Representative
Lynda Smith – Treasurer, Mathews County Representative
Stanley Clarke – Secretary, Essex County Representative
Belinda Johnson – Westmoreland County Representative.
Ben Owen – King and Queen County Representative
Bill Doyle – Northumberland County Representative
Bruce Craig – Northumberland County Representative
Cynthia Talcott – Richmond County Representative
Donna Cogswell – Westmoreland County Representative
Jeanne Hockaday – Gloucester County Representative
Jim Dudley – Middlesex County Representative
Jimmie Carter – Lancaster County Representative
Rev. Maria Harris – King and Queen County Representative
Vera Lee – Lancaster County Representative
