RADFORD – Elaine Stroud has been named as the new Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley (WRCNRV), the oldest center serving domestic violence and sexual violence survivors in Virginia.
Stroud’s appointment comes as the organization is seeing an increase in the number of those seeking services due to intimate partner violence. Last year victims and survivors called the WRCNRV’s 24/7 live and local hotline over 2,000 times and accessed over 10,000 nights of shelter and over 10,000 hours of advocacy – all free of charge.
“Having recently completed an extensive search, The Board of Directors is happy to welcome Elaine Stroud as the new Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley,” said Holly Litos, WRCNRV Board President. “We are confident in her knowledge, leadership and commitment to the WRCNRV as we continue to serve our communities.”
Prior to joining the WRCNRV, Stroud started a nonprofit in New Jersey 10 years ago to help domestic violence and sexual violence survivors that has successfully grown over the past decade. In addition, Stroud has had a 23-year career as a leader in higher education at Rutgers University in New Jersey and most recently at Virginia Tech.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the WRCNRV team,” said Stroud. “The WRCNRV is an active member of the surrounding community and provides safety and shelter to those who need it. I am proud to lead an amazing team addressing this important issue that continues to need our attention as a community.”
Stroud takes over the Executive Director role from Laura Beth Weaver, who has served in the position since 2020. Weaver played a pivotal role in the WRCNRV’s growth and achievements during her 12 years of working at the organization, and the organization extends its gratitude for her significant contributions.
