Our Board of Directors
Meredith L.D. Riedel – Board Member
Dr. Meredith L.D. Riedel is a writer, teacher, and pastor with a diverse background in academia, research, and ministry. She currently serves as an Expert Consultant for the European Research Executive Agency (REA), evaluating Marie Skłodowska-Curie post-doctoral previously served as Assistant Professor of the History of Christianity at Duke University Divinity School, focusing on Byzantine political theology and the intersection of faith, governance, and ethics. She has also served as Director of Discipleship and Candidate for Ordination within the ECO Presbyterian tradition.
Meredith earned her D.Phil. from the University of Oxford and advanced degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary and Westminster Theological Seminary. A long-time friend and high school classmate of Kathy B. Sheils, she brings both professional insight and a deep personal connection to the Foundation’s mission of education, mentorship, and service.
Linda Adams – Board Member
Linda Adams is the CEO and Certified Reinvention Coach at Linda J. Adams, LLC, based in Richmond, Virginia. She specializes in leadership and career reinvention, helping individuals and organizations navigate transformation and growth.
Linda is the wife of the late Walt Adams, whose legacy continues through the Walt Adams Scholarship—an annual award presented to a student who exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and resilience. The most recent recipient, Mercedes Luna, graduated from the Maggie Walker Governor’s School for International Studies in Richmond, Virginia, and is now a freshman at Columbia University in New York City—the same university where Kathy B. Sheils attended on a full academic and athletic scholarship, competing in both Cross Country and Track before her passing.
Linda’s connection to both Kathy’s and Walt’s legacies reflect her lifelong commitment to mentoring and empowering others, making her an invaluable contributor to the Foundation’s mission and spirit.
Janet Turner-Ezell - Board Member
With more than 35 years of experience in Benefits and Human Resources, Janet Turner-Ezell brings extensive leadership, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to service to the KBS Foundation. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Human Resources Management, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Strayer University.
Throughout her career, she has focused on fostering supportive, people-centered workplace environments, mentoring and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Her professional expertise is matched by her personal passion for strengthening families and communities.
As a proud mother of three, Janet Turner-Ezell firmly believes that “it takes a village” to help children succeed. Her dedication to uplifting young people and supporting families aligns closely with the Foundation’s mission and core values. She is honored to serve and contribute to initiatives that create meaningful opportunities for children and families in the community.