Meet The Team

Serves on the Natasha House, Inc. Board of Directors since June 2019 and has served as Board Chair since April 2020.  In her professional role, Shukita serves as Associate General Counsel for Riverside Health System and is a Business Law adjunct instructor at Hampton University.  A native of Newport News, VA, she enjoys spending time with her family and binge-watching her favorite television shows.

Dr. Karen Brown served 9 1/2 years in the United States Air Force and experiencing homelessness with her three young sons, Dr. Brown returned to college (CNU) to pursue a degree in teaching while becoming a member of the Advisory Committee planning for NATASHA House Inc (NHI). Dr. Brown earned her Bachelors in English and a Dual Doctorates in Christian Education & Counseling. Dr. Brown is the first NHI Program graduate and has been the executive director since 2010

Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton is the Associate Chair and Assistant Professor of the Human Services Department at Saint Leo University. This is her second term on the Natasha House board and currently serves as the Board Vice Chair and Chair of the Personnel Committee. 

Mental Health, Substance abuse, Case management, Group facilitation, Assessments, Human Services. 

Real Estate Analyst at Ferguson Enterprises, LLC in Newport News.

Melanie was born and raised in Texas and made Virginia her home in 2013.

Melanie is active in many organizations in the area and enjoys being able to contribute to and see the success of others. Melanie is passionate about building up our youth and providing them the necessary tools for physical, mental, and professional growth.

Financial Planner at Davenport & Company LLC. Jake was born and raised in Williamsburg, VA and is a graduate of Virginia Tech. He has a passion for helping others achieve financial independence. In addition to NATASHA House, Jake works on the Finance Committee for ASPIRE and on the Advancement Committee for Hospice House.