Meet Our Team
Our Members
Donna Maria Colby
President
Donna Maria teaches in the Department of Communication at Regent University. Her area of expertise is organizational communication specifically in the nonprofit sector.
She brings over 20 years of experience supporting nonprofits, including LifeNet Health, the American Cancer Society, and the American Heart Association.
She and her husband, Keith, share their home with three rescue cats adopted from the Suffolk Humane Society.
Joanne Byrum
Treasurer
Joanne serves as a Branch Manager and Banking Officer at TowneBank, bringing more than 20 years of banking experience and a strong foundation in financial leadership.
Joanne has been with TowneBank since 2007 and is known for building trusted relationships and supporting the financial well-being of individuals and organizations alike.
Beyond her professional expertise, Joanne is deeply committed to community service and volunteers with organizations including The Salvation Army, the Great Suffolk Cleanup annual event, and Serve the City (Suffolk), making her passion for giving back a wonderful fit for our mission!
Linda Haley
Secretary
Linda is an accomplished court stenographer and businesswoman. Her successful career is built on precision, accuracy, and ensuring every word counts—so yep! We’re officially on track for the most accurate and thorough board meeting minutes ever!
A Hampton Roads native, Linda has a strong history of community service. She has volunteered twice as a board member for a local assisted living facility and has dedicated more than six years to caring for cats in a grassroots volunteer capacity, helping prepare them for loving forever homes.
Linda and her husband George, are long-time supporters of the Suffolk Humane Society and proud pet parents to three rescue cats: Pepe, Bugsy, and Blue. Linda is pictured here with a kitty rescued last year…we affectionately named “George!” The Haley family sponsored George’s extensive medical treatment, helping him recover and find his forever home (where he is thriving)!
Chelsea Archer
Board Member
Chelsea Archer has been volunteering with SHS since 2019, making her one of our longest-serving volunteers.
Chelsea serves as a Market Area Manager for Credit Acceptance Corporation, where she manages more than 60 dealership partnerships, helping them increase loan originations and strengthen their businesses! Her leadership, relationship-building skills, and strategic mindset are valuable assets she brings to our board.
Chelsea earned her Master’s degree in Corporate and Professional Communication with a minor in French.
Chelsea is an active member of the Suffolk Business Women where she is engaged in philanthropic efforts that support and uplift the Suffolk community.
Chelsea’s love for animals and commitment to their well-being has been a constant throughout her life. She currently lives in Suffolk with her two dogs and three cats, a household that perfectly reflects her heart for animals.
Amy Clark
Board Member
Since 2020, I’ve been actively involved with the Suffolk Humane Society. I have contributed to most areas of the organization, including fundraising, animal care, and administrative support.
I’m excited to bring my passion for both animals and compliance to the board, ensuring we continue to provide compassionate care while upholding the highest standards of operation.
David Miles
Board Member
Sheriff David Miles has over 18 years of law enforcement experience, which he has earned through various departments and roles in the criminal justice system. Sheriff Miles is an honor graduate of Norfolk State University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Mass Communication in 2001. After beginning his career in 2006 with the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office in the correctional and courts divisions, he transitioned to the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office in 2015. Here, Sheriff Miles has faithfully served the city and its citizens. Sheriff Miles was appointed to the Chief Deputy position in 2019, and later voted in as Sheriff in November 2024.
Sheriff Miles is the recipient of the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award, and he has attended the F.B.I. Front Line Supervisor’s course and the John Maxwell Five Levels of Leadership Course. He has also earned the General Instructor, Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), and Hostage Negotiation certifications. Sheriff Miles is a member of the following organizations: Suffolk Rotary Club, Suffolk Humane Society, Suffolk Christian Fellowship Center Advisory Council, Suffolk Crime Line, Suffolk Foundation, and the Salvation Army Advisory Board. He was also the past president of the Suffolk Education Foundation. Sheriff Miles is dedicated to the betterment of the community.
Susan Walton
Board Member
Susan H. Walton received her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and her Law Degree from George Mason University, where she played NCAA Division I basketball and was team captain. Susan retired after 24 years of service at the City of Suffolk Commonwealth Attorney’s Office. Prior to 2000, she was a former Chief Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in Campbell County for seven years. Susan was a Deputy of the Juvenile & Domestic Relations Team, and was assigned to the gang task force. Susan prosecuted animal cruelty cases and was an instructor for the Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys.
Susan has run numerous marathons, including the 100th running of the Boston Marathon. She coaches youth basketball, officiates high school and college soccer, but especially likes to spend time with her family.
