Val serves as SPARC’s Chief Financial and Operating Officer, leading the organization’s financial and operational functions to ensure all structures are built for purpose. In this multifaceted role, she oversees essential business processes including financial management and planning, compliance and risk management, systems and infrastructure, as well as human resources.
As a key strategic leader at SPARC, Val ensures the organization’s fiscal integrity while directing day-to-day operations for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Her member-facing responsibilities include member stewardship, program support, grant management, vendor oversight, organizational governance, and Board and Steering Committee relations – all in service of delivering value to SPARC’s community and translating the program plan into sustainable initiatives.
Prior to joining SPARC, Val served as Chief Financial Officer for DuraSpace, a nonprofit organization that stewarded open source repository technologies and enabled open access to the world’s intellectual, cultural and scientific heritage. During her 12-year tenure at DuraSpace, she directed fiscal strategy, membership programs, and business operations while also launching community groups, organizing user meetings, and developing community project governance. Her background also includes 14 years in corporate finance, including experience at public accounting firms.
Over her seven years at SPARC, Val has led several transformative initiatives, including facilitating the organization’s spin-out from fiscal sponsorship and establishing SPARC as an independent nonprofit. Her operational leadership continues to strengthen the foundation that supports SPARC’s mission and community.