Board of Directors
Don Ruhstaller, Board Chair
Educator
As a 2nd generation Stocktonian, Don Ruhstaller's parents instilled in his brothers and him to be grateful for their blessings and to give back to their community. The Emergency Food Bank is honored to have Don as the 2023 Board Chair. He is the current Director of Budgets and Operations at ABLE Charter Schools here in Stockton and a San Joaquin County Planning Commissioner. He also served as a Lincoln Unified School Board Trustee for 8-years. He and his wife Kay, have two daughers, Katie and Rebecca. Don enjoys gardening on the weekends. Kay and Don are also avid walkers, which make their dogs happy.
Bobbie Wallinger, Vice Chair
Retired Educator
After serving on notable boards such as the Stockton Arts Commission, San Joaquin Literacy Foundation, LARC's of Stockton, the UOP Alumni Association and Stockton Civic Theatre, Roberta "Bobbie" Wallinger has joined the Emergency Food Bank Board of Directors. She is a retired educator with a love of writing and volunteering. Bobbie also is a member of AAUW and serves on the DEI committee. In addition to her passion for writing, she enjoys spending time with friends, her daugher, granddaughters and great grandsons. Bobbie also enjoys traveling with her husband, Dennis.
Steve Dougherty, Treasurer
Principal - Dougherty CPAs
After supporting the Emergency Food Bank for many years, Steve was asked to join the Board of Directors. He and his wife Lisa, live in Stockton. Steve is a lifelong Stockton resident who when not at his office at Dougherty CPA's, enjoys spending time with his children, running and playing racquetball. He also serves on the board at St. Mary's High School and The Fountains Office Association.
Vanessa VanRaub-Tim, Secretary
Systems Coordinator - Van de Pol Enterprises
Vanessa is a dedicated community member serving on not only the Emergency Food Bank Board of Directors as Secretary, but also the KEEN Khmer Education Endowment Network. Having lived in Stockton for the past 35 years, she currently works as the Lead Human Resources Generalist/Annalyst for VandePol Enterprises. Serving and addressing hunger in the community is not her only passion, she also enjoys cooking, crafts and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Lisa Mann, Board Member
San Joaquin County Deputy District Attorney
"I decided to serve on the Emergency Food Bank Board of Directors because I am passionate about their mission of feeding those in need, and I am particulary proud of the Nutrition Education the Emergency Food Bank provides. It is an honor to support this work!"
Michael Blalock, Board Member
Retired San Joaquin County Supervisor
Agatha-Julia "AJ" Reed, Board Member
Owner, Dog Town Junk Removal & Hauling
Ms. Agatha Julia “AJ” Reed joined the EFB Board of Directors in 2023 and is excited to continue bringing change to the community. She is a proud 1st Generation, USA born, Filipino American, who wants to bring change to the community, help bridge the gap between people in our city and resources, as well as instill hope. She was named the 2022 Ambassador of the Year for the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce and just recently graduated from their Leadership Stockton program. AJ works for CarMax in addition to owning Dog Town Junk Removal & Hauling with her husband of 12 years. She enjoys networking, volunteering, community service, cooking, baking, traveling, fishing and spending time with her family.
Ralph Womack, Board Member
Retired Stockton Police Department
Ralph Womack's dedication to his Stockton community is truly commendable. His past and current involvement with the Food Bank board, demonstrates his deep commitment to addressing the pressing issue of food insecurity in the area. His experience and passion for our mission will undoubtedly be invaluable as we navigate the current challenges and work towards expanding our capacity to meet the growing needs of the community. Ralph's involvement in playing Taiko drums and his passion for running showcase his vibrant and active lifestyle outside of his community service. Togehter with his wife Marie, they have three children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. This strong family bond provides him with support and motivation in his endeavors.
Gregg Meath, Board Member
Meath & Pereira
Gregg Meath, a seasoned attorney at Meath & Pereira, brings a wealth of expertise to the board. As a dedicated professor at the Humphreys Drivon School of Law, University of the Pacific Eberhardt School of Business and McGeorge School of Law, he is deeply committed to education. Having lived in Stockton his entire life, Gregg's roots run deep in the community. His decision to join the Board of Directors at the Emergency Food Bank stems from his desire to utilize his skill-set to alleviate human suffering and further educate families in his community. Outside of his professional pursuits, you can find Gregg finds playing drums in his band, "Pushers & Thieves". Alongside his partner Fernanda Pereira, Gregg embodies a commitment to both professional excellence and community service, making him a valuable asset to the baord and the Stockton community as a whole.
Steve Morales, Board Member
MAYACO Marketing & Internet
Steve Morales arrived in Stockton in 1990 to work as an executive for the Stockton Record where he quickly developed a deep affection for the community. His decision to rejoin the Board of Directors at the Emergency Food Bank stems from a genuine admiration for the impactful work the Food Bank provides the community. Steve recognizes the dedication of the leadership, staff and volunteers in providing crucial support to those in need. Alongiside his partner of 28 years, Albert, Steve finds fulfillment in traveling, listening to music, viewing farious forms of creative arts, watching various sporting events, volunteering and fostering growth in others. All which further enrich his commitment to making a positive difference in Stockton.
Emeritus
Tim Pasisz - Prplei Inc.
Bob Tanon - GymStars Inc.
Tony Vice - Owner Fleet Feet Stockton/Brentwood/Modesto