About New River UniServ

New River UniServ is comprised of local education professionals working to improve education in our localities, our region, and our state. Local leaders work with paid staff from the National Education Association (NEA) and Virginia Education Association (VEA).


Elected leaders serve on the New River UniServ Board of Directors, VEA District B Board, and the VEA Board of Directors. New River UniServ advocates for children, educators, and public education. The unit also lobbies for adequate education funding and provides staff development through our Issues in Education Series.

Who We Are

Theresa Zeigler

UniServ Director 

Theresa Zeigler is an experienced UniServ Director. She assists local leadership in developing and implementing year-round membership recruitment and retention plans. She also provides assistance to members and local Associations. Email: tzeigler@veanea.org

Wanda Shepheard

New River UniServ Office Manager

Wanda is our dedicated office manager. Anyone who has called the office with an issue or to register for Issues in Education seminars knows the sound of her voice. Folks in leadership positions can attest to her hard work and dedication. In addition to calling the office you can also e-mail newriveruniserv@verizon.net


Christine Heilig

ESP Board Member, New River UniServ

Christine Heilig is the ESP Board Member for New River UniServ. Christine is a para-educator, working with special education students, at Blacksburg Middle School.

Erin Bull

New River UniServ PAC Chair

Erin Bull is a is the Political Action (PAC) Chair for New River UniServ.  She fifth grade teacher at Christiansburg Elementary. Erin is a past president of New River UniServ and the Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA). She previously served as a member of the VEA Board of Directors. 

Matthew Fentress

President, New River UniServ

Matthew Fentress teaches fifth grade at Kipps Elementary in Montgomery County.  He has served as MCEA President for five years.  Matthew also serves on the Fitz Turner Commission.  He is married to Crystal and has 3 children. 


Vacant 

Vice President, New River UniServ

This position will be appointed so check back for more information. 

Cindy Roop

Secretary, New River UniServ

Cindy Roop is an Education Support Professional (ESP) at Christiansburg High School in Montgomery County.  She also serves as a building rep. 

Kelly Pleasant

Treasurer, New River UniServ

Kelly Pleasant is the Treasurer for New River UniServ. Kelly teaches fourth grade at Gilbert Linkous Elementary School in Blacksburg. She also serves as Vice President of the Montgomery County Education Association and is a past president of the Montgomery County Education Association.