Our Staff

Whitney Perkins

Executive Director

A sixth-generation farmer from Louisa, Virginia, she works in business development for VAFAIRS. Her background includes agricultural education, nonprofit work, and leadership as a former Virginia State FFA officer. She holds degrees in Agricultural Sciences and Psychology, as well as a Master of Public Administration from Virginia Tech.

Tony Banks

Senior Assistant Director

With over 30 years of experience, he specializes in agricultural business development, rural economic development, and cooperative support. His background includes assisting producers and small businesses, managing grants and environmental programs, and working in the agricultural supply industry. He holds a degree from Virginia Tech.

Jacob Ver Beek

Financial Analyst

A Virginia Tech Agribusiness graduate, he joined VAFAIRS as an intern before becoming a VAFAIRS Specialist and later Financial Analyst. He works with agricultural producers and businesses to provide financial analysis, assess business performance, and identify funding opportunities.

Heather Salmon

Grant Writer

With over 17 years of experience in nonprofit and federal grant management, she serves as VAFAIRS Grant Writer, helping farmers and agribusinesses with grant applications, business plans, and technical assistance. She holds a B.S. in Business Administration from VCU.

Michle Mickelwait

VAFAIRS Specialist

After earning her Master’s degree in Agricultural and Applied Economics from Virginia Tech, she joined VAFAIRS as a Summer Fellow before becoming a VAFAIRS Specialist. She supports Virginia producers through client consultations, business planning, educational resources, and outreach while helping connect agricultural businesses with funding and development opportunities.

Kati McCall

VAFAIRS Specialist

With degrees in Water Resources, Policy, and Management and Applied Economics, she brings experience in economic research, grant administration, environmental policy, and stakeholder outreach. As a VAFAIRS Specialist, she supports Virginia producers while combining her interests in agriculture, natural resource management, and community development.

Phoebe McLaughlin

Special Programs Liaison

Originally from Doswell, Virginia, she earned a degree in Multimedia Journalism with a minor in Professional Sales from Virginia Tech. Her passion for agricultural communications grew through her work with Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. She now supports VAFAIRS and works in VAFB special Programs.

Matson Consulting

Lead Consultant

With over 25 years of experience in agricultural and rural economic development, James Matson leads Matson Consulting in supporting farmers, businesses, and organizations. His work includes business development, technical assistance, grant and financing support, and local food systems, with a focus on helping rural businesses build strong, sustainable operations.