YPA’s executive board is made up of local professionals, all of whom are a passionate about their industries and local community. Meet our team and always feel free to touch base.
Noah Yoder, President
Wealth Manager Assistant at Larson Wealth Management
E: yoder.noah516@gmail.com
Growing up in Rockingham County, I spent my time exploring, building forts in the woods, and fishing as often as possible. I completed under-grad education in Kansas and am now working with the team at Larson Wealth Management.
I have greatly enjoyed my time with YPA. The deep and meaningful relationships that have sprouted from my experiences at YPA events have truly benefitted not only my own career, but, I believe, the broader community. I’m a firm believer in “iron sharpens iron”, and I’m so excited to see YPA become the catalyst for growth in the next generation of local leaders.
In my free time I love spending time in downtown Harrisonburg (Virginia’s first culinary district!!), volunteering with local Rotary clubs, kayaking, and sitting around a fire talking about anything in the world.
Michelle Arciniega, Events Chair
As a lifelong Harrisonburg townie, I have developed such a love and appreciation for the natural beauty and scenery this area has to offer. I am currently employed at Rockingham Insurance as a claims professional and I am passionate about what I do!
YPA is continually providing an amazing opportunity to form new connections and explore community engagement. I have seen lots of growth in the group and I’m eager to be part of its ongoing development!
In my free time, I enjoy going hiking with my dogs, Ozzie and Athena, and spending time outdoors with them. I also love trying the local food and coffee spots, traveling, reading, and being the funniest in my friend group!
Jordan Wood, Marketing Chair
A Shenandoah Valley native, I’ve always loved living in this area and exploring everything that the Valley has to offer. I stayed local for university, going to James Madison University to get my Communications degree. I now work as an Electrical Specialist at Bryan’s Electric.
I hopped on the Young Professionals train early on, and I have seen so much amazing growth and development within this group over the years. We have so many wonderful regulars now, and I always see at least one or two new faces at every event. This is an exciting time to be a ShenValley Young Professional!
In my free time, you’ll probably find me stargazing with one of my telescopes, painting, playing piano, or walking my cat Mittens (yes, cats like walks too).
Luke Rogers, Recruitment
Real Estate Sales | Construction Management | Land Development
Harrisonburg has been my home my entire life, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.
Professionally, I work across real estate, construction management, and land development in the Harrisonburg and Rockingham County area. As a Realtor with Funkhouser Real Estate Group, I help buyers, sellers, and investors navigate the Shenandoah Valley market. On the construction and development side, I coordinate active residential projects, keep critical timelines moving, and make sure the right people are talking to each other to get things done.
YPA is a natural home for me. I’m an extrovert at heart — I love meeting new people, exchanging ideas, and having conversations. As a young professional myself, I joined because I believe in what this group is building, and I wanted to be part of making it happen. I’m passionate about people, problem-solving, and finding ways to grow. When I’m not working, you’ll find me spending time with family and friends, out for a run, or in the middle of a friendly and conversational debate.
Deacon Kozel
Relationship Manager at F&M Bank
E: dkozel@fmbankva.com
Deacon Kozel is a Commercial Relationship Manager at F&M Bank who enjoys working with local businesses on lending, cash flow, and growth strategies. He has been a member of the Young Professionals Association board since January and is passionate about getting involved in the community. Deacon values building strong relationships and helping people and businesses succeed together.
Arushi Sachan
Philanthropy & Engagement - James Madison University
I’m an events and marketing professional based in Harrisonburg. I moved here from Dubai a decade ago to attend JMU, and I immediately fell in love with the Valley’s natural beauty (and never left!).
After graduation, I found myself craving a community—a fun, welcoming “third place” to meet people my age. So a few of us teamed up and started YPA. I had no idea it would grow into what it is today, and it’s been amazing watching people find real value, friendship, and community through it.
Now, I work as an associate director of campaign communications and content strategy at JMU, helping move the university’s philanthropy and engagement goals forward.
When I’m not working, you’l probably find me hiking, writing, painting, or planning my next travel adventure. Let’s grab coffee and swap bold ideas!
Heather Hardy
Financial Advisor at Burkholder & Associates
E: heather.hardy@ampf.com
Growing up, I’ve always enjoyed connecting with people. I learned early on that your network is your net worth. As Jim Rohn famously said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Warren Buffett echoed this sentiment, stating “The key to success is to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you.”
By joining the Shenandoah Valley Young Professionals Association (YPA), I’ve had the privilege of elevating my circle of influence and surrounding myself with talented and inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds. This has not only enriched my personal life but has also positioned me for greater success in my professional career at Burkholder & Associates.
In my spare time, when I’m not out and about buzzing around in the social scene, I enjoy traveling, hiking, going to the gym, reading, learning new things, and spending time with my family and friends..