Abingdon, VA, September 1, 2026 — Following an extensive nationwide search that attracted a strong pool of highly qualified candidates, Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia has selected Courtney Stringer to serve as its next Executive Director. Stringer will succeed Sean McMurray, current Executive Director, who is retiring at the end of 2026.
“The search process was extensive, and we were fortunate to consider a strong pool of candidates with impressive experience and commitment,” stated Ramesh Murthy, chair of the search committee. “BoardWalk Consulting was an excellent partner in helping the Foundation navigate this important process. Courtney emerged as the top candidate because of her experience, her love for Southwest Virginia, and her deep passion for the work of the Foundation.”
BoardWalk Consulting is a national executive search firm devoted exclusively to supporting the leadership and governance needs of foundations and nonprofits. BoardWalk has recruited dynamic leaders for over 500 nonprofit and grantmaking clients across the nation since its founding in 2002.
“It’s an honor to recognize the strong talent that lies within the Foundation team,” added Dr. JoAnn Price, chair of the Wellspring Foundation board of directors. “Courtney is a trusted presence in Southwest Virginia who leads with integrity, humility and sound judgment, and she brings a deep commitment to relationships that support lasting community impact. We are excited to see her step into the Executive Director role.”
Stringer will step into her new role effective October 1, 2026. Over the coming months, Stringer and McMurray will work closely together with Foundation staff and partners to ensure a smooth and thoughtful leadership transition.
“It has been a privilege to help establish and grow the Wellspring Foundation alongside such a dedicated team, board and community partners,” said McMurray. “Courtney has been an important part of that work, and I have great confidence in her leadership, her commitment to Southwest Virginia and her ability to guide the Foundation into its next chapter. I look forward to working closely with her in the months ahead to ensure a smooth transition.”
A native of Southwest Virginia, Stringer currently serves as the Director of Engagement for Wellspring Foundation. In her current role she has fostered strong relationships with local, regional and state partners as well as managed the comprehensive grant process. In addition to her work with the Foundation, she has nearly two decades of experience in community development and collaboration.
Prior to her time at the Foundation, Stringer held various roles at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise, where her focus included community development, entrepreneurship, professional growth, and collaborative coworking. Stringer served as the college’s Director of Community & Business Development for the Office of Administration, Government Relations & Strategic Initiatives. That experience will serve the Foundation well as it advances its mission of addressing the collective health needs of Washington, Grayson, Russell, and Smyth counties.
Stringer holds a bachelor’s degree from UVA Wise and a Master of Business Administration from King University. She currently resides in Abingdon, Virginia, with her husband and two children. As a native of the area, she is passionate about improving the quality of life in Southwest Virginia.
“I am honored to move into this role and deeply humbled by the opportunity to serve the Foundation and the region I love,” shared Stringer. “I am grateful to the Search Committee and BoardWalk Consulting for their tireless efforts throughout the nationwide search. I have deep respect for Sean McMurray and the incredible work he has done building the Foundation, creating a collaborative team environment, and leading with humility and grace. I look forward to building on that strong foundation and continuing the organization’s work as a true community partner focused on the health and wellbeing of the region.”
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About the Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia
Established in the fall of 2021, the Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia exists to enhance the health and wellbeing for the Virginia residents of Washington, Grayson, Russell and Smyth counties by cultivating goal-oriented partnerships. For more information, visit www.wellspringva.org.
