Our Board of Directors and Staff

Executive Committee

Dr's. Kirk and Kelly Philpot

Dr. Kirk Philpot – President

Inspired by their personal journey as the parents of Riley, whose resilience continues to inspire countless lives, they bring both professional expertise and heartfelt dedication to their work. As doctors, Kirk and Kelly combine their medical knowledge with a deep commitment to serving their community, ensuring that families facing the challenges of pediatric cancer receive the resources, care, and encouragement they need. Together, they embody the spirit of hope and strength that defines Riley’s Army.

Nichole Alley

Vice President

As the Vice President of Riley’s Army, I am privileged to lead efforts aimed at supporting children with cancer and their families in Eastern North Carolina. Our mission is to provide unwavering support during one of life’s most challenging times, ensuring no family faces childhood cancer alone.

In addition to my leadership role with Riley’s Army, I serve as the Practice Administrator at Orthopaedics East & Sports Medicine Center in Greenville and as a Teaching Instructor at ECU’s College of Business. My professional background in healthcare, leadership, and human resources has equipped me with a unique perspective, allowing me to better understand and address the needs of families navigating the difficulties of childhood cancer.

Dr. Andrea Whitfield

Treasurer

I am honored to be one of the pediatric hematology/oncology attendings at ECU Health. I stay very busy while taking care of special patients and keeping track of my 5 children (11 years old and younger).

My husband and I enjoy spending time with the kids and going to the beach. My kids (and my patients) inspire me to be my best self. My motto is “never give up!”

Paul Armstrong

Secretary

I’m Michael “Paul” Armstrong, the proud owner of Beyond Limits Marketing, a role that has allowed me to blend my professional ambitions with my deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the community. Together, Melissa and I are blessed with three wonderful children, who are the heart of our world and the driving force behind our efforts to advocate for a brighter future for all children.

Board members

Tiffany Crumpler

Special Education High School Teacher, Mother of Three children (Kristen 22, Karlee 17, and Hanson 14), and Mary Kay Independent Consultant who enjoys cooking out on the weekends with the family and spending time with my church family at Open Table. As a mother and special education teacher, I’ve dedicated my life to the well-being of children who need a little extra love and support.

Justin Harris

I am a highly accomplished C-suite professional with extensive experience in the gaming industry, where I have demonstrated strategic leadership and a commitment to innovation. At my core, I am a devoted family man who finds my greatest joy in spending time with my wife, Danielle, daughter, Charlotte, and son, Jaxon. Outside of my professional career, I channel my passion into all things with an engine—whether it’s cars, motorcycles, or boats.

Lindsey Rossa

I graduated from ECU in 2012 and now have the privelage of working for my alma mater as the Program Manager for the Active Moms Research Studies, in the Humance Lab. I have dedicated my career to public health outreach and improving the lives of women and their children across our region.

Staff members

Erin Barham

Interim Executive Director

I have been with Riley’s Army since 2016 as a volunteer, board member for 2 years, with one of those serving as treasurer, and Interim Executive Director since Oct. 2024. My heart is dedicated to supporting families and children touched by pediatric cancer. I love the support of our passionate and loving team and community in which I feel truly blessed to be part of. My heart is full being part of Riley’s Army. Family and friends are a huge part of my life near and far as I am originally from Allentown, PA. In my spare time I enjoy: traveling, yoga, walks, spin, art, reading, home decor, and photography. My husband Isaac, son Oliver and dog Lucky mean the world to me.

Bebie Barrett

Family Liaison

I have been the Family Liaison since June 2023. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, I was a Riley’s Army hospital volunteer for 10 years. I met Riley and her family through a student in my classroom who passed in 2009. That is when my passion for Pediatric Cancer truly began. It is a blessing to support these families and patients. I am a retired teacher. I love to spend time with my mom, sister, brother-in-law, nephew and niece, along with other family and friends. I also enjoy exercising, reading, and substituting.

Jacy M. Phaneuf

Executive Assistant

Jacy’s journey with Riley’s Army began as an intern with the Greenville chapter, where she developed a deep commitment to the cause. Her dedication is driven by personal experiences, having had close family members who battled childhood cancer.

Jacy holds a Bachelor of Science in Family and Community Services with a concentration in Child Development from East Carolina University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Jacy’s blend of academic expertise and personal passion fuels her work, making a significant impact in the lives of children and families she serves.