Staff

The heart of our work lies in the people who make it happen. Our staff brings together a wealth of experience in humanitarian aid, logistics, and nonprofit leadership, ensuring that every program delivers maximum impact where it’s needed most.

David Murphy

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

David Murphy

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

David is an accomplished leader with over two decades of experience in international development and humanitarian work. From 2020 to 2024, he served as the CEO of One Heart Worldwide, an international NGO dedicated to providing sustainable, community-led maternal and newborn health services in Nepal’s most remote regions. Prior to this, David was the Executive Director of UCP Wheels for Humanity in Los Angeles, where he oversaw the distribution of wheelchairs and other mobility devices to low- and middle-income countries. From 2015 to 2018, David led one of the largest refugee resettlement offices in the United States as the Executive Director of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) Refugee Resettlement office in San Diego. ‍

Earlier in his career, from 1998 to 2015, David held the role of Country Director for the IRC in Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Kenya, and Somalia. In these positions, he managed the establishment and operation of refugee camps and implemented emergency and development aid programs, including water, sanitation, education, gender-based violence prevention, livelihoods, and health initiatives.

David’s extensive experience demonstrates his dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable populations worldwide.

Rose Uranga

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Rose Uranga

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

In 1989, Rose Uranga made a bold move—leaving a 16-year career at Nevada Bell to follow her passion for helping those in need. Just a year later, she joined the newly formed Southwest Medical Teams (now International Relief Teams), playing a pivotal role in shaping the organization from the ground up. Her leadership helped build a strong foundation of committed donors and volunteers that continues to sustain our work today.

Over the years, Rose has overseen the assessment, implementation, and management of our programs, traveling to regions across Asia, Central and South America, Eastern Europe, Africa, and the South Pacific to support relief efforts and lead volunteer teams. She has also directed daily operations and played a key role in organizing the Gifts of Hope Gala. Her dedication and vision have been central to the mission and impact International Relief Teams has had around the world.

Kathie Nettles

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Kathie Nettles

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

With a passion for driving organizational growth and fostering sustainable impact, Kathie serves as the Development Director at International Relief Teams.

Kathie's career is marked by a deep commitment to building meaningful relationships with stakeholders, donors, and community leaders. By leveraging a keen understanding of both nonprofit management and corporate engagement, she has implemented innovative fundraising strategies that have diversified funding streams and ensured long-term financial stability.

Prior to joining International Relief Teams, Kathie held key roles in several prominent nonprofits, where she honed her expertise at engaging several stakeholders and community partners resulting in more than $100M in funding.

Dr. Paula Kelly

MAJOR GIFTS OFFICER

Dr. Paula Kelly

MAJOR GIFTS OFFICER

Dr. Paula Kelly is the Major Gifts Officer for International Relief Teams and works with individuals, foundations and corporations to secure funding for IRT. She has a background in entrepreneurial self-support higher education and international business.

Dr. Kelly served as Dean of the College of Extended Studies at San Diego State University and was responsible for building profitable strategic alliances with external partners including corporations, other universities, ministries and governmental agencies. She traveled to more than 30 countries in Asia, Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East to develop, negotiate and market the College’s international training and development programs.

Dr. Kelly has served on several Boards of Directors including the World Trade Center, Asian Business Association, St. Vincent de Paul Village, and UCEA (University Continuing Education Association), and currently serves as a Trustee for Ashford University. She has expertise in board development, and corporate, foundation, major gift and capital campaign fundraising. Dr. Kelly previously served as Vice President of Development for Monarch School and the Director of Development for University of San Diego.

Marilyn Sethi

OPERATIONS AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Marilyn Sethi

OPERATIONS AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Marilyn Sethi is the Operations and Outreach Coordinator for International Relief Teams. Over the last 10 years, Marilyn has worked with many nonprofit organizations across the world, from California, Illinois, United Kingdom, to Uganda. Her past work has focused on youth and career counseling, dental health and wellness, summer food programs, and global community programs.

She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice and received her Master's in Social Work with a concentration on social service administration and global social development practice.

Vanessa Segura

DEVELOPMENT DATA ASSOCIATE

Vanessa Segura

DEVELOPMENT DATA ASSOCIATE

Vanessa Segura is the Development Data Associate for International Relief Teams. She has previously worked in data management and data analysis operations for non-profit arts organizations. She earned her BA at SDSU in Liberal Arts and Sciences with an emphasis in Art History and a Certificate of Performance from the Museum Studies Program at Mesa College.

Her interest in data grew out of hands-on experience and she is currently finalizing certification in the field. A native of San Diego, she enjoys exploring the city and is looking forward to contributing to the wonderful work done by International Relief Teams.

Robin Page

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Robin Page

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Since 1996, Robin has been actively involved with a variety of non-profit organizations across Mexico and the United States, developing a deep passion for humanitarian work. Through hands-on experiences such as disaster relief efforts, organizing monthly orphanage visits, assisting refugees, and coordinating resource transportation across Mexico, Robin has witnessed firsthand the immense impact volunteers can have on a larger cause. With this experience, Robin is excited to bring her passion to International Relief Teams, helping to further the organization’s mission and support those in need.

Board of Directors

Our board members provide strategic guidance, oversight, and invaluable expertise to help us grow and sustain our mission. Their leadership ensures that we remain accountable, transparent, and dedicated to making a lasting difference.

Rich Yousko

FORMER BUSINESS OWNER & COO, SJ CREATIONS

Rich Yousko

FORMER BUSINESS OWNER & COO, SJ CREATIONS

Rich is Owner and COO of SJ Creations, Inc. Since 1996 Rich and his wife, Sundi, have owned and operated SJ Creations, Inc. designing, developing and producing high quality bath and body products which are found in major retailers throughout the United States and Canada. Through our extensive travel overseas and in the US, we have secured valuable partnerships with a variety of international as well as domestic contacts. Previously Rich started and sold 7 Summits Sports, a sporting goods manufacturing representation business and also spent time in the corporate world at the Coleman Company. Rich & Sundi have been married for over 19 years, have 2 Daughters, Spenser and Jensen and beyond a successful business have a mission to serve others. Rich was inspired in 1989 by the work of International Relief Teams and has been involved in various capacities since: serving on the Board in the early 90’s, then again joining the Board in 2013 through the present, and by participating on teams for San Quintin, Mexico, and Croatia.

Anthony R. Carr

MANAGING PARTNER, CARLO DEVELOPMENT

Anthony R. Carr

MANAGING PARTNER, CARLO DEVELOPMENT

Mr. Carr is the managing partner of Carlo Development, a Southern California-based real estate development company. Carlo Development owns and operates multi-family and self-storage/industrial properties throughout California. Mr. Carr is also a managing member and co-owner of San Diego Self Storage (SDSS), the largest self-storage company in San Diego County, and a founding partner of Self Storage Management Company, which has developed, owned, and managed self-storage and industrial properties throughout Southern California since 1972. Prior to this, Mr. Carr was a founding partner and Registered Principal for C&L Securities Corp., a wealth management firm, and an Investment Advisor licensed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. He received a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California, Los Angeles and attended the UCLA Anderson School of Management before beginning his career in finance and real estate. Mr. Carr is active in several community organizations, including membership on the Advisory Board for the University of San Diego Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate and the UCSD Athletic Advisory Board. Mr. Carr is also a member of the Board of Directors of the La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) and International Relief Team (IRT). Mr. Carr is a Founder and Advisory Board member of the Scripps MD Anderson Cancer Center. He is a member of the Jonathan Club, Travelers’ Century Club, The California Club, The Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall and Tiger 21. Previously, Mr. Carr served as a member of the Board of the Trustees for The Grauer School and the Board of Directors for Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles, International Relief Teams, UCLA Chancellor’s Associates, and The Los Angeles BIA Multi-Family Housing Council.

Toni Davies, Ph.D.

PRESIDENT, DAVIES CONSULTING, INC.

Toni Davies, Ph.D.

PRESIDENT, DAVIES CONSULTING, INC.

Toni brings over 27 years of experience developing Lean organizations worldwide, including in Asia, Africa, Europe, South and North America. She has worked for two premier international consulting groups—Productivity Consulting Group and the Kaizen Institute—providing sensei, consulting, and internal leadership towards sustainable, lean, and purposeful work cultures within an unwavering environment of respect for people. Toni has lead Kaizen Study Tours in Japan and Europe for executives from North America, Europe and Asia, which has afforded her an exceptional view of the changes in the improvement industry over time. Humanitarian development is a top priority for Toni. In 2014 she led a Lean effort for World Vision in Ethiopia through Honsha, and has served on the Board of Examiners for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (2009-10).

Troy Farris, CPA

PARTNER, CONSIDINE & CONSIDINE

Troy Farris, CPA

PARTNER, CONSIDINE & CONSIDINE

Troy is a Certified Public Accountant and partner at the San Diego accounting firm Considine & Considine. Troy has been providing proactive accounting, consultation, and tax strategy services to individuals and businesses in San Diego for over 20 years. He is a member of the California Society of CPA’s and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Troy currently resides in Carlsbad, CA with his wife (Bryn) who is a High School Spanish Teacher and his two children.

Kay Gilbert, CNM, Ph.D.

CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIFE, LEGAL NURSING, MIDWIFERY CONSULTING & EXPERT WITNESS

Kay Gilbert, CNM, Ph.D.

CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIFE, LEGAL NURSING, MIDWIFERY CONSULTING & EXPERT WITNESS

Kay taught nursing at San Diego State University for 35 years and practiced as a Certified Nurse Midwife at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center. She is currently a legal nurse and midwifery expert witness and consultant, using her clinical practice, education and extensive experience. Kay was introduced to IRT in 1998 when she was asked to volunteer for a multi-year project teaching obstetricians and midwives in Latvia as they emerged from the Soviet era. She describes the experience as the highlight of her professional life. Kay came to know the integrity of IRT and its staff, and has been involved as a board member and volunteer since that time.

Georgia Kernell, Ph.D.

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF COMMUNICATION, UCLA

Georgia Kernell, Ph.D.

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF COMMUNICATION, UCLA

Georgia is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of California, Los Angeles. She conducts research on political parties, elections, mass media, and methods. Georgia writes mathematical models to better understand political phenomena, and she teaches classes on political communication, research methods, and voting behavior. In addition to her work with International Relief Teams, Georgia volunteers as a CASA and serves on the UCLA Communications Board. Georgia was born and raised in North County, San Diego. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and wiping out in the ocean.

Allison Komiyama, PhD, RAC

VP MedTech Innovation, RQM

Allison Komiyama, PhD, RAC

VP MedTech Innovation, RQM

Karina Sousa, a proud California native, moved to San Diego in 2009, after receiving her bachelor’s in marketing from Santa Clara University. With a heart dedicated to service, she immersed herself into the community through joining Kiwanis San Diego. Karina is an integral member of Kiwanis, has served in leadership positions such as President, and is currently the Secretary for both the Club and Foundation. Her involvement extends across various committees, and she is also a member of the Board and Development Chair for the Foundation for the Children of the Californias. Beyond her philanthropic endeavors, Karina has a thriving professional career. She runs a successful court reporting and trial business while also excelling as a REALTOR®. With a firm belief in leaving the world better than she found it, Karina embodies a commitment to both professional excellence and community betterment. In her downtime, she loves embarking on outdoor adventures with her adored rescue dog, Ruby, and her partner, Matt.

Brian P. Krause, CFP®

MANAGING DIRECTOR, PARTNER, CASCADE FINANCIAL PARTNERS

Brian P. Krause, CFP®

MANAGING DIRECTOR, PARTNER, CASCADE FINANCIAL PARTNERS

Brian is a founding partner and Managing Director of Cascade Financial Partners. Prior to Cascade, he was a Wealth Manager at Creative Planning, one of the largest independent Registered Investment Advisors in the country and served on their Investment Policy Committee. Previously, Brian cofounded Gupta Wealth Management, a company he and his partners launched to champion the fiduciary standard. Brian is a graduate of San Diego State University where he stays active with the Alumni Association. In addition to his role as a board member for International Relief Teams, he is a past President of the Kiwanis Club of San Diego Foundation and the Washington-Lincoln Laurels for Leaders, both local 501(c)(3) organizations. Brian lives in San Diego with his wife, Emily, and his two daughters, Sophia and Abigail where they can be found active in school activities and athletics.

Phil Lampe

Engineering Vice President, Emeritus

Phil Lampe

Engineering Vice President, Emeritus

Mike Lees

PARTNER, SOLOMON WARD SEIDENWURM & SMITH, LLP

Mike Lees

PARTNER, SOLOMON WARD SEIDENWURM & SMITH, LLP

Mike is a partner in the downtown San Diego law firm of Solomon Ward Seidenwurm & Smith, LLP. Mike’s professional practice involves representing businesses (large and small), business owners, individuals and professionals regarding their corporate, partnership/LLC, tax, real estate, estate planning and other contractual matters. Mike also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of San Diego School of Law. Prior to joining the Board of International Relief Teams, Mike was actively involved with Jewish Family Service for more than a decade serving as a director and chair of the Governance Committee. Mike and his spouse, Jessica, have a strong passion for travel and have enjoyed sharing worldwide adventures with their two young daughters.

Christopher Reed

INDEPENDENT BUSINESS OWNER

Christopher Reed

INDEPENDENT BUSINESS OWNER

Chris has worked in the residential and commercial construction management and real estate development field for twenty years. He is a business owner of Animal Urgent Care in Escondido, a 24 hour emergency veterinary clinic. Chris has led IRT construction teams in post Katrina Mississippi, Alabama after the tornado, and for the last three years in New Jersey since Superstorm Sandy.

Karina Sousa

PRESIDENT, SOUSA COURT REPORTERS

Karina Sousa

PRESIDENT, SOUSA COURT REPORTERS

Our Founder

Barry La Forgia

Barry La Forgia left his law and real estate career to establish International Relief Teams after witnessing extreme poverty on a 1986 mission trip to the Amazon. Though he recently retired, his decades of leadership have impacted millions, and his legacy of humanitarian service continues to guide our mission today.

Staff

David Murphy

Rose Uranga

Kathie Nettles

Dr. Paula Kelly

Marilyn Sethi

Vanessa Segura

Robin Page

Board of Directors

Rich Yousko

Anthony R. Carr

Toni Davies, Ph.D.

Troy Farris, CPA

Kay Gilbert, CNM, Ph.D.

Georgia Kernell, Ph.D.

Allison Komiyama, PhD, RAC

Brian P. Krause, CFP®

Phil Lampe

Mike Lees

Christopher Reed

Karina Sousa

Our Founder

Barry La Forgia

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Staff

Board of Directors

Our Founder

Barry La Forgia

Hope Begins With You.

Add Impact To Your Inbox

Get to know us

Global Response

News

Get involved

Hope Begins
With You.