OUR BOARD
board chair
Sara Best
Sara is a dynamic and visionary leader committed to shaping self-aware, human, and heart-centered leadership. As Co-Founder and Principal of Real Good Ventures, LLC, she brings a thoughtful and innovative approach to leadership that emphasizes compassion, authenticity, emotional intelligence, and meaningful connection while helping organizations adapt and thrive in rapidly evolving environments.
Her leadership style focuses on empowering individuals and strengthening organizations through collaboration, innovation, and purpose-driven decision-making. Sara’s dedication to fostering resilient, people-centered leadership makes her an invaluable asset to the mission and future growth of the Phoenix Project for Frannie.
Board Member
Lisa Decker
Lisa Decker has spent decades in the banking and business industry in NW Ohio and SE Michigan. Her family owns the international company Lily Ann Cabinets and Decker Real Estate Development Corporation. Lisa's business acumen and industry connections are a significant asset to the board.
Board Member
Laura Oehlers, RN
Laura Oehlers has decades of experience as a critical care nurse and is currently on staff at Promedica Healthcare. She has served on multiple non-profit boards and acts as a medical consultant for The Phoenix Project for Frannie. Laura's lived experience in recovery adds a valuable perspective to her role.
Board Member
Malynda Goolsbee
Malynda Goolsbee brings over a decade of expertise in business management to the Board of Trustees for The Phoenix Project for Frannie. Her professional background includes a strong foundation in financial organization and operational efficiency—skills that will directly support the long-term growth and stability of our mission.
Board Member
Carolyn Farina
Carolyn Farina is a seasoned Graphic Artist and Branding Expert as a retired Senior Graphic Designer at McAlear Group in Maumee. She has served on several area boards of directors. Carolyn's family has been deeply affected by addiction, driving her commitment to the mission of The Phoenix Project for Frannie. Her expertise in graphic design and branding helps elevate the organization's public presence.
Board Member
Bailey Sutphin
Bailey Sutphin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and is a certified yoga instructor with a deep commitment to the health and well-being of children. Bailey brings lived experience to her role and is passionate about helping women rebuild their lives after addiction. Her company, Socially Balanced, focuses on social media strategy, making her an invaluable advocate for recovery-focused messaging and outreach.
Board Member
Stephanie Sams
With over 20 years of experience in marketing and business strategy, Stephanie Sams brings a powerful blend of professional expertise and personal insight to her role on the Board of Trustees. As a woman with lived experience, Stephanie is deeply passionate about helping others rebuild their lives after addiction.
Board Member
Lexi Keiss
Lexi Keiss brings more than two decades of experience in the business world, where she has refined her leadership, mentorship, and organizational development skills. Through her service on multiple boards, Lexi has developed a strong understanding of what it takes to grow, sustain, and strengthen nonprofit organizations for long-term success. She is deeply passionate about supporting women in recovery and is committed to helping them build stable, healthy, and prosperous new lives through encouragement, guidance, and opportunity.
Board Member
Joan Rauh
Joan Rauh brings decades of experience in the Lucas County real estate industry and a long history of leadership within local professional organizations, including serving as President of the Lucas County Realtors Board. Joan is a compassionate advocate whose deep understanding of housing and community development is especially valuable in helping grow the vision of safe, affordable housing for women in recovery through The Phoenix Project for Frannie.
Board Member
Lee Tangas
Lee Tangas brings her extensive experience in National Restaurant Management and business administration to the board, assisting with strategic planning. Her lived experience in recovery and business insights help guide the organization towards sustainable growth and effectiveness.
OUR staff
executive director
Melissa Voetsch
Melissa Voetsch is a retired investigative TV reporter with multiple TV News Emmys, including one for her coverage of the Opiate Epidemic in NW Ohio. She has served on various local boards and helped raise over a million dollars for local autism organizations. Melissa has lived experience in recovery, providing her with a deep understanding and commitment to the mission of The Phoenix Project for Frannie.
co-executive director
Pam Wittman
Pam Wittman has extensive experience in early and elementary childhood development with the YMCA, where she helped with multiple early childhood programs, including an after-school program at Ottawa Hills. Her expertise in program development is invaluable to the board.
co-executive director
Frannie Krompak
Frannie Krompak holds several educational licenses, including a teaching degree and a Master's in Counseling. She retired in her early 80s after decades of service as a teacher, counselor, and coach. With over 40 years of lived experience in recovery, Frannie is a guiding force and inspiration for the organization.
