Our Team

Achla Marathe

Achla Marathe

Achla Marathe is a Professor at the Biocomplexity Institute and at the Department of Public Health Sciences at the University of Virginia. Over the last few years she has been exploring ways to give back to the community to fulfill her own longstanding aspirations of serving people.

Her humble beginnings serve as her motivation to alleviate struggles of the underprivileged. She believes that empowering individuals by providing them the right opportunities and just a little support at a critical time can turn their lives around.

Lynda Fanning

Lynda Fanning

Lynda is a retired Director of Clinical Nutrition at the University of VA Health System. She found that StepForward’s mission resonated with the work of all other groups she has joined during retirement: promoting food justice, health and sustainability via the Virginia Food System Council; tutoring for LVCA (Literacy Volunteers for Charlottesville/Albemarle); and leading racial affinity groups with IMCC (Insight Meditation Community of Charlottesville). 

She especially values StepForward’s uniquely personal nature, encouraging the clients to discern their larger purpose, supporting their aspiration, and helping them make connections that will propel them on their individual paths.

Dana Tornabene

Dana Tornabene

Dana is a retired Human Resources professional from the biotech, eTail, and gaming industries.  She has a strong interest in equity issues, both abroad and in Charlottesville, where she’s lived for over 25 years. She has worked with LVCA for many years as a tutor, committee member, and board member.  

Dana appreciates that many people need extra support to reach their potential, and that StepForward can fill that critical position.  The idea of providing specifically-tailored help to each client resonates with her as a sustainable approach.  She is proud to play a small role in the success of fellow members of the Charlottesville area community.