SCCF exec director to depart

Debbie Irwin, executive director of the Shenandoah Community Capital Fund, an entrepreneurial support organization based in Staunton, is leaving her role in March, the organization announced Tuesday.

SCCF’s board of directors will begin a national search for her replacement. When Irwin leaves, Ryan Hall, director of growth and revenue, will take over the responsibilities of the executive director.

“It has been an immense pleasure to serve as the executive director of SCCF,” Irwin said in a statement. “I’m so thankful for all the partners, board members, staff and community members who have believed and supported me as we have continued to build the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Shenandoah Valley. I’m extremely confident that the SCCF team will continue to drive the organization forward. Their big thinking, passion for entrepreneurship, and dedication to the Shenandoah Valley will keep SCCF thriving.”

Irwin joined SCCF in October 2017, and under her leadership, the organization invested more than $4 million in state and federal funds into the region and created partnerships within the Shenandoah Valley’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“We are deeply grateful to Debbie for her outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to the mission of SCCF,” John Gillies, president of the SCCF board, said in a statement. “Her leadership has been instrumental in driving positive change and creating opportunities for economic growth and prosperity in our region.”

Irwin wrote in a LinkedIn post Tuesday that she is excited “to embrace a new opportunity that aligns with my personal and professional goals,” but didn’t name her next step.

SCCF is a Staunton-based nonprofit entrepreneurial support organization that offers startup and small business loans and helps entrepreneurs develop business plans and skills.

UPDATE: Irwin named new managing director of Richmond’s Lighthouse Labs