Board of Directors

Ryan Alphin, Chair

“Serve & Connect occupies a unique space to act as the connection between police and the communities they serve. Kassy and her team strive to understand the differences and her genuine empathy shines through to bring people together. That’s why I’m passionate about Serve & Connect!”

Ryan Alphin is the director of South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers’ Assocation where he works to enhance and promote the law enforcement profession in South Carolina. He’s the voice of nearly 7,000 law enforcement officers across South Carolina. He also serves as the Executive Director of the South Carolina Police Chiefs’ Association where he advocates and lobbies for nearly 250 Police Chiefs in our state.

Kent Krieg, Vice Chair

As a fraternity brother and friend of Greg Alia, he was a initial board member and believes in the impact Serve & Connect is making in our community by fostering and improving the positive perception and community appreciation of law enforcement.

Kent works as a Project Manager for the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

John Stackhouse, Treasurer

“When asked if I would like to be a part of an organization such as the Serve & Connect board, it was a no brainer for me. With my mom being retired law enforcement, the opportunity to be a part of an organization that helps promote empathy and action between the community and the individuals that protect us is incredible.”

John began his career in the financial services industry in 2003 prior to transitioning to his practice to Modern Family Asset Management in 2016. John is committed to serving the life, legacy, and financial needs of families and individuals, business owners, corporate executives and professional athletes.

Chief Kevin Cornett, Secretary

“I’m eager to serve on the board of Serve & Connect because I have seen how compassionate police officers are. I know that they truly want to help the community they serve and this organization plays a critical role in helping officers to do that.”

Kevin has served the Town of Springdale as the Chief of Police for 6 years and previously worked for the Columbia Police Department. He was awarded the 2016 40 under 40 Award by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the 2017 Public Servant of the Year by Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands, and is a graduate of the 270th session of the FBINA.

Pam Scott

“I am a wife and mother of four wonderful children, one with autism. This lead me to consistently work at the state and local level as an advocate for change and acceptance in society and especially improved inclusive education for these individuals. I serve on the board of Serve & Connect because I am passionate and positive that the measurable goals and objectives we have set forth will bring about lasting positive relationships, mutual respect, and trust between communities and law enforcement.”

Pam works with St. Thomas Moore at the University of South Carolina. She knew Greg Alia since he was young; they are neighbors of the Alia family and her son, Chris, was best friends with Greg since a young age.

Rev. Juan Ibarra

“Growing up in a broken home with no father or guidance, I understand the need of having some structure in the community through groups such as Serve & Connect. I believe in Serve & Connect because of what it stands for, and that’s to bring a change in our community through vision, passion, and empathy.”

Juan is the pastor of Filadelfia Church of God in Johnston, SC and has been married to his wife Sonia for 28 years. They have four children and 4 grandchildren.

Angela McDuffie

“I genuinely believe in the mission of Serve & Connect and I am honored to serve on the Board of Directors with hopes to further support efforts in restoring trust and bridging the gap between law enforcement and community.”

Angela has been a Fatherhood Practitioner for 18 years and is currently the Executive Director of Midlands Fatherhood Coalition (MFC) where she governs an organization that thoroughly believes that children thrive when an engaged, responsible father is active in their lives.

Deputy Chief Melron Kelly

“The opportunity with Serve & Connect will continue to leverage the support between police and communities we serve, while building upon strong relationships as we move forward.”

Melron is a 19-year veteran and second in command at the Columbia Police Department. Currently, he is the commander of the Operations and Administrative Bureaus, which include the Recruiting Division, the Patrol/Regional Divisions, the Criminal Investigations Division, and the Public Information/Media Relations and Marketing Departments.

Cpl. Russell Thompson

Russell Thompson has served for over 18 years as a Trooper with the South Carolina Highway Patrol. He has also served in the US Navy Reserves, having recently retired after 20 years of service. He volunteers numerous hours for various charities and groups and can often be seen riding his bicycle in support of these different efforts.

Believing that the relationship between law enforcement and its community is important and the benefits it provides, it was a natural fit for Russell to join Serve and Connect.