Team

FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/BOARD PRESIDENT

Devon Copeland is the Founder and Executive Director of Iron Village Preparatory Academy. With more than 20 years immersed in education from every angle, Devon has told stories as an education news reporter, championed future innovators as a marketing manager for a public residential high school for gifted students in math and science, shaped narratives as the communications director for a liberal arts college, and empowered families to invest in their futures as a senior communications professional for a financial organization focused on education savings. This diverse journey fuels her mission to create inclusive spaces where learning, opportunity and community thrive—nurturing Richmond’s next generation of innovators and changemakers.

BOARD VICE-PRESIDENT

Janna M. Joyner is a marketing and communications leader with 10+ years of experience in brand development, partnerships, and creative direction. She is Director of Marketing and Communications for Girl Scouts of the Commonwealth of Virginia and formerly led Leap Innovative Group, a Richmond-based agency. A wife and mother of three, Janna is committed to community empowerment and inclusive storytelling. She has led campaigns for Girl Scouts USA, Cantu Beauty, Richmond Region Tourism, and Virginia Housing. As a board member of Iron Village Prep, she brings deep communications expertise and a passion for educational equity.

BOARD SECRETARY

Tasha Moore, a VCU graduate with a B.S. in Psychology, has over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, behavioral counseling, foster care, and community engagement. She has held leadership roles as Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs Teen Center and now serves as Family & Community Engagement Manager at Peter Paul RVA. A Licensed QMHP-C since 2018, Tasha leads family engagement initiatives and community wellness strategies. She is also the founder of WE Unite, LLC, and author of No Crying Allowed: A Boy’s Journey to Understanding Hidden Emotions, championing unity, healing, and purpose-driven change.

BOARD TREASURER

After two decades in corporate America, Crystal Simmons noticed a disconnect between employers and employees-and set out to change it.  With a gift for authentic connection, she began coaching teams, eventually founding Crystal Clear Purposes to align individual strengths with business success.  As a HR Business Partner, Core Energy Leadership Coach and Facilitator, Crystal empowers people to lead with purpose.  She lives in Virginia with her husband Devon and their dog, Shoes.  She was named one of the Top 15 Coaches in Richmond in 2025 and a Remarkable Woman by the Metropolitan Business League in 2021.

BOARD MEMBER/VILLAGE COORDINATOR

Schnel is program strategist, and community advocate dedicated to creating spaces where growth, equity, and empowerment thrive. As an employee of the Commonwealth of Virginia, she has built a respected career managing state tax programs — ensuring equity, transparency, and access across diverse communities. Her hands-on nonprofit leadership, combined with her expertise in state program administration, allows her to bridge gaps between government resources and real-world community needs. Beyond her professional work, Schnel is a devoted wife and mother who understands the power of balance, resilience, and leadership at every level. She is honored to serve as a board member, where she continues to champion initiatives that reflect excellence, authenticity, and real impact.