We are pleased to announce the appointment of eight members to the board of directors. These additions will support the nonprofit’s work to empower students with learning differences, bringing the total number of board members to 25. Darcy Scharff has taken over as president of the board. 

“I am delighted to welcome these exceptional leaders to the Miriam Board of Directors,” says Meg Bamford, Head of School and Learning Center. “Their diverse professional backgrounds and fresh insights will undoubtedly enrich our leadership team as we continue to champion our students and families.”

Carol Cohen, Andy Greenberg and Judi Scissors have returned to the board after rolling off last year. 

Carol Cohen

Cohen previously served on the board from 2019-2025, participating in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, Governance, and Head of School Search committees. She is a former teacher at Central Institute for the Deaf and has held many volunteer roles throughout the community, including at Congregation Temple Israel, Monroe School, and Ready Readers. Cohen’s brothers dealt with various disabilities, so early education and intervention were critical issues in her family when she was young.

Andy Greenberg

Greenberg is a retired general partner in Edward Jones after a 30-year career. During that time he held responsibilities for site selection, financial advisor recruitment and selection, compensation, benefits, and ended his career with responsibilities for analytics and data science. He was president of Miriam’s board from 2022-2024. Greenberg graduated from Emory University with a B.A. in Political Science and from The William E. Simon School of Business at the University of Rochester with an MBA and a dual concentration in Marketing and Financial Economics. 

Judi Scissors

Scissors has been active with Miriam for several years. When she retired from her career as a teacher and principal, she toured Miriam School and was immediately interested in becoming involved. She first served on a school committee and then joined the Variable Tuition Committee, on which she still serves. She served as president of the board for two years and has also co-chaired several Miriam gala events. Scissors is also involved with the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival, which she has co-chaired three times. 

Riley Askew

Askew, assistant vice president & commercial banking officer at CNB St. Louis Bank, brings a dedicated, relationship-driven approach to the Miriam Board of Directors. Askew specializes in community banking, where he focuses on building lasting client relationships and delivering tailored financial solutions. He holds both a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Finance from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Deeply invested in the local community, Askew also serves on the Gateway Community Development Fund’s Finance Committee and is the Treasurer and a Board Member for Canterbury Enterprises.

Jeffry Goldstein

Goldstein is co-owner of a St. Louis real estate business and a longtime entrepreneur with a passion for helping people and building strong communities. Throughout his career, he has combined strategic thinking, negotiation expertise, and business leadership to guide clients and grow successful ventures. Jeffry is honored to support Miriam’s mission of creating meaningful opportunities for children and families through education and community connection.

Stephen Knopke

Knopke, a financial advisor at Thrivent, joins the Miriam Board of Directors with a strong analytical background and a deep passion for supporting children. At Thrivent, Knopke helps individuals and families align their financial decisions with their values, specializing in tax-efficient strategies and charitable giving solutions. He holds a Master’s degree in Accountancy from the University of Missouri and brings a data-driven, integrity-led approach to financial planning. 

Jim Stephenson

Stephenson, a Senior Account Executive and Broker Mentor at The Crane Agency, brings extensive experience in insurance, finance, and strategic advising to the Miriam Board of Directors. A deeply engaged leader in the St. Louis community, Stephenson has served on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards, including CNB Bank, All Among Us, and St. Michael’s Houses. His long-standing dedication to youth- and family-focused organizations, such as the Wyman Center, Boys & Girls Town of Missouri, and the Center for Hearing & Speech, aligns well with Miriam’s mission.

Rob Vescovo

Vescovo is a principal in the field of government affairs, bringing deep experience in public policy, advocacy and strategic relationship-building. He has worked extensively across legislative and regulatory environments, helping organizations navigate complex systems and drive impactful outcomes. Vescovo’s expertise in government relations and community engagement would provide valuable perspective as Miriam continues to grow its visibility and influence.

To see a full list of the Miriam 2025-26 Board of Directors, visit miriamstl.org/aboutmiriam/leadership.