Leadership
Meet the board of directors and co-founders who guide Friends of Fisher House Charleston in its mission to support military and veteran families throughout the Lowcountry.
Board of Directors
Joshua Strimple
President
Lieutenant Colonel and Military Intelligence Officer with extensive leadership experience across the Department of Defense. Joshua brings strategic vision and operational expertise to the Friends of Fisher House Charleston board.
Chris Ward
Vice President
US Navy (Retired) with over thirty years of distinguished service. Chris leverages decades of military leadership to guide the organization's growth and strengthen its connections within the veteran community.
Butler Carson Derrick
Secretary
Charleston real estate professional with deep roots in the Lowcountry community. Butler brings valuable local knowledge and organizational skills to ensure the board operates effectively and transparently.
Dr. James Elsey
Treasurer
Vascular surgeon with 30+ years of medical practice. Dr. Elsey's financial acumen and commitment to veteran healthcare make him an invaluable steward of the organization's resources.
Dr. Blase Carabello
Board Member
Renowned cardiovascular researcher and clinician whose groundbreaking work in valvular heart disease has earned international recognition. Dr. Carabello brings scientific rigor and a passion for veteran care to the board.
Dr. William Cramer
Board Member
Practicing Anesthesiologist with years of experience in perioperative medicine. Dr. Cramer's medical expertise and dedication to patient care inform his contributions to the Fisher House mission.
Kathryn Cox
Board Member
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a heart for serving military families. Kathryn's clinical insight and compassionate approach help shape programs that address the emotional needs of Fisher House guests.
Bill Stafford
Board Member
Executive and retired Army officer with a distinguished career in both military service and the private sector. Bill brings strategic leadership and a deep understanding of veteran needs to the board.
Terry Mosher
Board Member
Retired U.S. Air Force and Department of Defense Civil Servant who served four decades as a Special Agent. Terry's dedication to veteran service continues through his volunteer work with the American Legion, Red Cross, and Fisher House Charleston.
Major General (Ret.) Fergal "Ferg" Foley
Board Member
Retired Army Major General with 29 years of service across active duty and the National Guard, followed by leadership roles as a defense contractor COO and GSA Field Office Manager. Ferg remains deeply committed to nonprofit work supporting veterans and their families.
Mark Burson
Board Member
USC graduate and three-decade public relations professional who raised the funds to build the Reagan Library Pavilion. Mark went on to spend seven years teaching integrated marketing communications at the University of Mississippi School of Journalism before settling in Charleston.
Founders
Co-Founders
Trux Emerson
Co-Founder
Investment and real estate professional who co-founded Friends of Fisher House Charleston out of a deep commitment to serving those who served. Trux's vision and generosity helped bring the organization to life.
Durbin Emerson
Co-Founder
Co-founder whose profound experience at the Vietnam War Memorial inspired a lifelong dedication to honoring veterans. Durbin's passion and personal connection to the cause remain at the heart of the organization.
Staff
Staff
Edward Dolan
Operations Director
Edward brings fresh energy, technical fluency, and a systems-minded approach to Friends of Fisher House Charleston. He helps strengthen the organization's day-to-day operations while supporting projects that improve communication, efficiency, and long-term growth.