Meet Our Dedicated Board Member

HERO Board Position: President

Holly Phelps has devoted more than two decades to supporting veterans and their families. As a military spouse for 20 years, she developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges service members face and has dedicated herself to being an advocate, mentor, and resource. In 2018, Holly launched the Tee It Up for Veterans Suicide Awareness Golf Outing, which continues to raise funds and awareness for organizations dedicated to veteran mental health and well-being.

As President of HERO, Holly is passionate about providing family members with the resources they need to support their veterans, organizing retreats, and can be found at nearly every HERO event. She is deeply committed to connecting veterans across generations—from the Vietnam War to Iraq, Afghanistan, and everything in between—while fostering community, building relationships, and creating environments where veterans of all ages can find healing and support in nature.

Military/Veteran Information: Military spouse for 20 years. 

Occupation: Currently a Product Manager at Pearson, where she has worked for 14 years. Holly brings her professional expertise in strategy, collaboration, and program development to her role, helping HERO grow its reach and impact.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems; MBA and Master of Strategic Leadership from Mount Mercy University.

Interest/Hobbies: Holly’s commitment extends beyond her professional life—her son attends College Community School District, where he is active in football and the fishing team. As a family, they enjoy hunting, fishing, and hiking, and value the time they spend outdoors together.

What about HERO’s Mission Excites you:Holly strongly believes in the healing power of nature and is dedicated to fostering that experience for veterans through HERO’s programs.