Meet our 2025 Board Chair: Christopher Seil

Christopher Seil is in his fourth year serving on the Board of Directors at Hope Cottage. Prior to serving as Board Chair, Christopher led the Programs Committee and was a part of the Executive Committee. He also served on the hiring committee for CEO Stephanie Bohan. Professionally, he is the Director of Analytics & Business Insights at Charles Schwab and an Adjunct Professor at the University of North Texas (UNT). He also serves on curriculum advisory boards for UNT and the University of Texas at Arlington. Christopher brings over 20 years of corporate leadership experience in analytics, strategic planning, and operational effectiveness to Hope Cottage to serve more families in North Texas.

Christopher was introduced to Hope Cottage by a friend and former colleague who had adopted through the organization. When asked why his friend shared about Hope Cottage with him, Christopher replied, “I think my friend knew I would show up, speak up, and roll up my sleeves to help where needed, which I've learned is way more valuable to the Hope Cottage team than any skills I might have.” Now serving as the Board Chair, Christopher shared, “Serving here keeps me grounded, makes me a better parent, and provides real perspective on what really matters. The people at Hope Cottage are the tip of the spear in making the world a better place. I am amazed and inspired by how much they can do and grateful to be a part of it. At this point, I probably need Hope Cottage more than it needs me.” Christopher lives with his wife, children, and Goldendoodles in Keller, TX. He can often be found trying to convince his wife that his next DIY project will turn out just as well as if a professional did it. We are grateful to have such an inspired leader of our Hope Cottage Board.

New Board Member Bios

  • Victoria Elliott

    Victoria joined our board after meeting our CEO, Stephanie Bohan, who shared how Hope Cottage serves mothers and families. Victoria is committed to leveraging her expertise to support Hope Cottage’s mission. She has 20 years in the insurance industry, specializing in property and casualty insurance, currently with her own Geico Insurance agency.

    She also gives her time to Dallas Chi Omega Alumnae Board, Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, Emmit J. Conrad Internship Advisor, and others. Her commitment to our mission is personal—Victoria’s mother was adopted, and her family provided a forever home for a cousin after his mother died due to partner violence. Her leadership and commitment to serving her community make her a tremendous new asset to our board.

  • Ryan Buck

    Our new Board Chair, Christopher, introduced Ryan to Hope Cottage. Ryan is excited to follow in his father’s footsteps, as his father dedicated his entire career to nonprofits and community service—an inspiration that drives Ryan’s own passion for making a difference.

    Ryan owns a design and consulting firm, TruBuck Consulting where he helps businesses optimize and streamline their technologies. In addition, he recently opened Aromas on Oak, an independent coffee shop in Roanoke, TX, now serving Hope Cottage Roast, where "every cup supports loving families." Beyond coffee, Ryan brings his technical acumen, deep expertise in API and data, and a commitment to service that makes him a valuable asset to the Hope Cottage board.

  • Trisha A. Susman

    As an adoptee, Trisha has a deeply personal connection to Hope Cottage’s mission. After volunteering in 2023, she quickly recognized how the organization aligned with her passion for child advocacy, healthcare access, and family support.

    With over 30 years of experience in healthcare and nonprofits, Trisha has worked in genetic sequencing, pathology, and oncology services at Quest Diagnostics and GeneDx, as well as in adoption counseling, child welfare advocacy, and education outreach. Currently, she leads Community Outreach & Partnership Development for Talkspace, helping expand access to affordable mental health care.

    Trisha holds a B.A. in Psychology from Texas State University and has served in various board and volunteer roles supporting children and families. She lives in Dallas, TX, with her husband and son and will be an exceptional contributor to Hope Cottage, bringing expertise in healthcare strategy, nonprofit leadership, and family advocacy.

  • Harriet Carvalho

    Harriet first connected with Hope Cottage when Christopher Seil, the current board chair, introduced her. His passion for the organization inspired her to learn more, and she quickly saw how she could contribute. She chose to serve on the board of Hope Cottage because family means everything to her. Hope Cottage’s mission aligns perfectly with her values, making it an easy decision to get involved.

    Harriet has 18 years of experience in financial services, including three years specializing in Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs). As Director of Service at DAFgiving360, she oversees client-facing operations, working with high-net-worth individuals, estate services, and training teams. She earned her degree in International Studies and holds FINRA Series 7, 63, and 24 licenses.

    Harriet’s expertise in financial strategy, leadership, and nonprofit governance makes her an invaluable asset to the Hope Cottage board.