Our Purpose
Our Vision
Our Vision
Empower individuals to achieve overall wellness and economic stability through education, advocacy, and community-driven programs that promote personal growth, financial independence, and mental well-being.
Our Vision
Our Vision
Our Vision
We envision a future where all individuals—regardless of background—have equitable access to opportunities that support their health, education, and financial success, enabling them to lead fulfilling and self-sufficient lives.
Our Vision
Growth, Resilience, and Opportunity (GRO) is at the heart of our mission. These initiatives aim to empower individuals and communities to build a foundation for lasting wellness through accessible and inclusive support systems.
Our Team
CEO & Senior Clinical Director Dr. Kenyuatia L. Gash-Sutherlin, LCSW, BCD, MAC
Dr. Kenyuatia L. Gash-Sutherlin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and accomplished leader with over 21 years of experience in social work and mental health. She is the Founder and Senior Clinical Director of KL Gash & Associates, LLC, a multi-disciplinary mental health practice, and the Founder & Chief Expert Consultant Strategist & Organizational Wellness Officer of KL Gash Coaching & Consulting Services -a premier professional development and organizational wellness firm dedicated to advancing clinical excellence, leadership capacity, and organization wellness.
Dr. Gash-Sutherlin is highly trained in evidence-based modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) – Trainer & Consultant, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and is an EMDR Certified Therapist and Consultant-in-Training. She is also a Board-Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work, a Master Addiction Counselor, and a trauma-trained expert in veteran and African American mental health.
Beyond clinical treatment, Dr. Gash-Sutherlin is a sought-after LCSW Clinical Supervisor, mental health consultant, professional and life development coach, and business strategist for mental health professionals. She is an engaging educator, trainer, and keynote speaker, delivering impactful workshops and training programs nationwide.
As a Corporate Mental Health & Resilience Consultant, she empowers organizations to strengthen employee well-being and foster inclusive mental health practices across nonprofits, for-profits, and corporate leadership. A strong advocate for equity and cultural competence, Dr. Gash-Sutherlin is especially passionate about creating safe, transformative spaces for Black women to heal from rejection, abandonment, and generational trauma.
Her unique blend of clinical expertise, leadership, and cultural insight allows her to bridge gaps in care, dismantle stigma, and empower individuals, professionals, and organizations to thrive.
Executive Strategist LaShonda Marshall, MSHE, BS, AAS
LaShonda Marshall is a seasoned higher education professional and emerging Executive Strategist with over 15 years of experience guiding adult learners, first-generation students, and nontraditional populations toward academic and career success. With a Master’s degree in Higher Education focused on Student Development and Academic Recovery, she brings a strategic, student-centered approach to educational planning, persistence, and re-engagement.
As a GED mentor and Senior Financial Aid Advisor, LaShonda has developed a strong reputation for helping individuals navigate complex academic and financial systems with clarity and confidence. She specializes in aligning educational pathways with long-term career goals, ensuring students make informed, purpose-driven decisions. Her expertise spans college readiness, continuing education, financial aid strategy, and academic recovery.
In her role as an Executive Strategist, LaShonda leverages her deep understanding of student development and institutional systems to support organizational effectiveness, program alignment, and long-term impact. She is skilled in translating vision into actionable strategies that improve student outcomes, enhance access, and remove systemic barriers.
Known for her compassionate approach, attention to detail, and commitment to empowerment, LaShonda Marshall bridges strategy and service—equipping individuals and organizations with the tools needed to achieve sustainable success and meaningful growth.
Robert Sutherlin, III Executive Director of Operational Services & Security
Robert Sutherlin serves as the Executive Director of Operational Services & Security, bringing a wealth of expertise in operational leadership, logistics coordination, and safety management. With a distinguished background as a military counter-intelligence agent, Robert offers a unique blend of strategic insight, discipline, and mission-focused execution to ensure the organization’s programs and services are delivered efficiently and securely.
With extensive experience in security operations and transportation logistics, Robert is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, coordinating safe and reliable transport services, and implementing comprehensive safety protocols that protect both staff and the communities served. His leadership ensures seamless operational flow while maintaining the highest standards of risk management and organizational integrity.
Driven by a commitment to service and excellence, Mr. Sutherlin plays a critical role in advancing the organization’s mission by creating safe, structured, and responsive systems that support impactful community engagement.
VA SMILE Foundation Board Members
Dr. Lila Elliott, DSW, LSW
Dr. Fred Scott, PhD, LPC, NCC
Dr. Fred Scott, PhD, LPC, NCC
Dr. Fred Scott, PhD, LPC, NCC
Dr. Fred Scott, PhD, LPC, NCC
Dr. Fred Scott, PhD, LPC, NCC
Anthony Harris, LCSW
Dr. Fred Scott, PhD, LPC, NCC
Anthony Harris, LCSW
Evie Woods, LCSW
Dr. Lenora Carpenter, PhD., LPC, LSAP
Anthony Harris, LCSW
Dr. Lenora Carpenter, PhD., LPC, LSAP
Dr. Lenora Carpenter, PhD., LPC, LSAP
Dr. Lenora Carpenter, PhD., LPC, LSAP
DONATE NOW
Invest in the Future of Mental Health Care 💙
The VA SMILE Foundation is seeking support to help aspiring and early-career mental health professionals overcome financial barriers on their journey to licensure. Your contribution will directly fund clinical supervision, exam preparation, and licensure fees.