Staff & Board

CRC Staff

Christin Jackson, Executive Director at the Commonwealth Regional Council, smiling in a professional headshot.

Christin Jackson

Executive Director

Christin oversees CRC’s operations, strategic planning, and regional coordination across the seven-county area. She brings over 30 years of experience in workforce development, grant management, and public service, with a strong background in higher education and organizational leadership. Christin supports local governments through planning, resource development, and interagency collaboration.

Lauren Pugh, Planning Director at the Commonwealth Regional Council, smiling outdoors in a formal headshot.

Lauren Pugh

Planning Director

Lauren leads CRC’s local and regional planning efforts, specializing in comprehensive plan updates, economic development strategies, broadband expansion, affordable housing, and emergency mitigation planning. She works closely with member governments to deliver actionable, community-focused solutions. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science degree from James Madison University.

Wendy Newton

Finance Director

Wendy manages the Council’s financial operations, including payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and budget development in coordination with the Executive Director. Known for her attention to detail, reliability, and teamwork, she plays a vital role in maintaining the organization’s financial health as it advances economic and community development, transportation planning, and emergency preparedness across seven Virginia counties.

Matt Swartout, Regional Planner at the Commonwealth Regional Council, smiling in front of a stacked stone wall.

Matt Swartout

Regional Planner & GIS Analyst

Matt manages CRC’s GIS and mapping services, supporting transportation planning, VDOT coordination, and spatial data analysis across the region. He also serves as the council’s Title VI Coordinator, ensuring nondiscrimination compliance in all programs. In addition to his technical focus, Matt contributes to grant writing, public input facilitation, and long-range comprehensive planning.

Ethan Bowman, Regional Planner at the Commonwealth Regional Council, smiling in front of a stone wall background.

Ethan Bowman

Regional Planner

Ethan leads data-driven and technology-focused initiatives at CRC, specializing in data analysis, digital integration, and environmental program support. He also assists with comprehensive plans, grant writing, public engagement, and AI tools that streamline operations for local governments. Ethan is committed to helping communities adopt efficient, modern solutions across the seven-county region.

Board Members

  • Dexter Jones – Primary Representative | Vice-Chair

  • Mr. David Felts – Alternate Representative

  • Mr. Paul Garrett – Primary Representative

  • Mr. Karl Carter – Alternate Representative

  • Mr. Noah Davis – Primary Representative | Treasurer

  • Mr. Walt Bailey – Alternate Representative

  • Mr. John Newman – Primary Representative

  • Mrs. Eurika Tyree – Alternate Representative

  • Mr. Mike Hankins – Primary Representative | Chairman

  • Mr. Jonathan Chumney – Alternate Representative

  • Mr. Dickie Ingram – Primary Representative

  • Mr. Bill Collins – Alternate Representative

  • Mr. David Emert – Primary Representative | Secretary
  • Dr. Odessa Pride – Alternate Representative