Our Team
We are a dedicated team that works hard to see that the Topeka community continues to thrive. We are committed to serving our donors and community organizations to the best of our abilities.
Marsha Pope, President
Marsha has worked at the Topeka Community Foundation since 2004 – serving as Director of Community Investment and Vice President before being hired as President in 2016. She oversees the strategic direction of the organization and provides leadership for donor services and community impact initiatives. She and her husband, Kent, have two grown and married sons. In her spare time, Marsha reads, bikes, gardens and enjoys a good cup of coffee.
pope@topekacommunityfoundation.org
Stephanie Gassen, Director of Philanthropy
Stephanie is a lifelong Topekan and graduate of Hayden High School. Stephanie has worked in leading sales roles for the past 15 years at hotels across Topeka, having most recently worked as the Area Director of Sales for the Residence Inn Topeka, Fairfield Inn Topeka, and Fairfield Inn & Suites Lees Summit. Stephanie also served on the executive committee of the Topeka Lodging Association in various roles since 2017, allowing her to be involved with the planning and development of the Topeka Business Improvement District as well Evergy Plaza. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, spending time with her dog, George, and thrifting antiques at local estate sales or antique shops.
gassen@topekacommunityfoundation.org
Shelley Matalone, Office Manager
Shelley has worked for the Foundation since 1998 as the office manager. Married to John, they have three grown daughters and four grandchildren. She loves gardening, sporting events & spending time with family & friends!
matalone@topekacommunityfoundation.org
Kris Scothorn, Director of Finance
Kris Scothorn has served as Director of Finance since April 2007. Previous non profit experience includes American Lung Association of Kansas, Heifer Project and Kansas East Conference United Methodist Church. She is married with three grown children and enjoys traveling, boating and spending time with family and friends.
scothorn@topekacommunityfoundation.org
Shane Warta, Director of Strategic Initiatives
Shane was born in Topeka and attended Shawnee Heights High School before graduating from Kansas State University. Shane has worked in various ministry and community contexts over the past 10 years while working on and completing a M.A. in Christian Leadership from Asbury Theological Seminary. In his time outside of work, Shane spends time with his wife and two girls. He enjoys being outside specially to run or play disc golf!