The Toby Crew

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With profound gratitude, we introduce our exceptional team of experts whose unwavering dedication and generosity have been the driving force behind the Tobin Scott Foundation. The kindness and commitment of our esteemed board members, volunteers, authors, artists, and other enthusiasts who selflessly share their gifts have surpassed our wildest dreams. Their invaluable expertise has enabled us to provide vital support to families navigating the arduous journey of life-limiting, pediatric illness, or loss. Fueled by an unwavering passion to serve and care for others, our remarkable crew offers their expertise, precious time, and boundless compassion. We are immensely fortunate and overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every crew member who has supported our mission.

Tobin Scott, President of Courage, Love, and Legacy

Tobin's unwavering courage and inner strength during his time with us have served as an inspiration on so many levels. The remarkable grace and the love he shared throughout his journey was truly awe-inspiring. Though his time among us was devastatingly brief, we remain profoundly grateful for the cherished moments we were given and forever changed by the indelible legacy he was destined to leave in our hearts. More than anything else, the profound bond he forged during his time spent on Earth touched us at the deepest level. The love we shared still resonates in every aspect of our lives and remains with us wherever we go. What an invaluable gift we have been given. Even if not for the duration we had hoped. His infinite spirit and everlasting legacy shine as a beacon, illuminating the path forward in our efforts to uplift families facing hardships, just as compassionate others once provided for us.

Melissa Savage, Founder and CEO

Being Tobin's mother has been the deepest and most meaningful part of Melissa's life and will always be. The devastating loss of her son inspired her to establish the Tobin Scott Foundation. Writing provided solace as she grappled with finding meaning and purpose amidst such a harrowing journey. Tobin's presence had a transformative effect on Melissa, and he touched countless other lives as well in his limited time on Earth. Above all, it was Melissa who was most profoundly changed by his courageous spirit, unwavering strength, and the loving bond they shared. The kindness and support from others who uplifted her family during their time in the hospital, hospice, and after the inconceivable loss also left an indelible mark on Melissa. It was her own healing process through storytelling and the kindness and connection with others that gave rise to the TSF. Melissa firmly believes that storytelling is the path to healing, a conviction shaped by her decades-long career in counseling, professional career as a writer for young people, writing teacher, and speaker.

Jeff Savage-Skaja, Board Member

Jeff is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and former NASA engineer who spent over 25 years leading multidisciplinary teams. He oversaw the launch countdown for the Space Shuttle program, sending more than 200 astronauts, national security payloads, and scientific missions into space. Currently, Jeff is pursuing a master's degree in finance and risk management. However, his most significant role is that of being Tobin's father. Tobin inspired Jeff to help those in need, prompting him to volunteer at Colorado Children's Hospital. He understands that families cope with grief and trauma differently. Jeff firmly believes that art, literature, and music possess a healing power for the soul.

Scott Savage, Board Member

Scott, who is not only Tobin's uncle but also bears his name, is a precious asset to the TSF team. We are profoundly thankful for the diverse array of gifts and talents he generously offers. With over three decades of experience as a professional musician, Scott brings both artistic expression and business acumen to our organization. His extensive background, spanning over thirty years in retail franchising, financial analysis, inventory management, and marketing, is an invaluable asset. With his multifaceted pursuits, we are fortunate to have Scott's guidance and insights as a corporation member and board member within TSF. The restorative power of the arts in the healing process is something Scott comprehends at the deepest level. Throughout Tobin's hospitalization and final days at home, Scott maintained a constant presence by his nephew's bedside, playing calming acoustic melodies that fostered healing for us all. His music transformed the atmosphere, shifting it from one of anxiety and turmoil to profound peace. Our gratitude towards Scott knows no bounds – for his kind spirit, the boundless love he showered upon his nephew, and his willingness to serve this mission.

Chasity Wellnitz, Board Member

Chasity Wellnitz has been the Director and Database Administrator for the Center for Heart Care and Quality Department at Phoenix Children's Hospital since 2010. In addition to managing the STS Congenital Heart Surgery Database, Chasity oversees numerous clinical registries. Her passion lies in utilizing data to drive better healthcare outcomes. Chasity holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and a Master of Public Health and Epidemiology from the University of Michigan. With over 15 years of experience working with the STS database, she serves as a Core Group Member for the Congenital Heart Surgery Database, contributing to conference planning and database upgrades. Additionally, Chasity provides consulting services related to the STS database. In her spare time, this avid shoe, LEGO, and handbag enthusiast enjoys creating dashboards and pivot tables. We couldn’t be more grateful that Chasity has chosen to pursue her philanthropic endeavors through the Tobin Scott Foundation because she is amazing!

Anne Haaland, Board Member

Anne is a shareholder at Henson & Efron, P.A., where she practices exclusively in the area of family law, advising and guiding clients through the processes of divorce, custody, child support, maintenance, and complex property division matters. Anne is compelled by family law because on every level, it is about people’s lives. The most important thing a family law attorney can do is to know the client’s story. She is devoted to understanding a family’s history, current priorities, and future goals, so that she can strategically advocate for them. Minnesota Lawyer honored her as a 2020 Up & Coming Attorney, and she has been recognized as a Minnesota Super Lawyers—Rising Star (2017–2023), North Star Lawyer for pro bono service (2019-2023), and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch: Family Law (2021–2023). After graduating magna cum laude from the University of South Dakota for her undergraduate degree, Anne received her Juris Doctorate from the State University of New York at Buffalo Law School, with a Family Law and Civil Litigation Concentration. We couldn't be more thankful to have such an accomplished professional on the TSF team to guide us!

Howard Johnson, Board Member

Howard is a Global Finance professional with over 20 years of experience in Program Controls, Project Management, Product Export Compliance, International Financial Management, SOX Controls, Financial Reporting, Internal and External Auditing, Contracting, Negotiating, Operations Management, Strategic Global Business Operations, and Financial Planning and Analysis in the Aerospace and Defense, Restaurant Services, and Financial Services Industries. He obtained his MBA in International Strategic Business from the University of Redlands. He has an acute ability to understand and articulate the various aspects that make up a successful business, effectively communicate on all levels, and the ability to utilize MBA-learned processes and models in all industries. Howard has a deep passion for competition, technology, innovation, and service to his community. He has extensive volunteering experience supporting International NGOs, and locally as a youth football, basketball, and soccer coach. Most importantly, Howard is a loving Husband and father to three wonderful children. The Tobin Scott Foundation is grateful to have Howard as part of our crew because of his multifaceted talents, ever-present smile, and the positive energy and presence he brings to the team. TSF is incredibly appreciative of Howard's support for its mission to serve families!

Nancy Martinez, Advisory Board Member

Nancy is a grounded, growth-minded, positive force who nurtures others to develop and flourish. She has grown individuals and teams in her own businesses and in leadership roles at several other companies. Nancy’s passion for marketing people, products, and ideas started at an early age when she created a candy store at the end of her sidewalk at her childhood home - reselling treats she bought at the local 7-11 to the neighborhood kids. She built on that experience and now is thrilled to be supporting the marketing efforts of the Tobin Scott Foundation.
Nancy has two adult sons, lives in Minneapolis with her significant other, and enjoys kayak fishing, reading, and adventure travel. Nancy's invaluable guidance propels our marketing endeavors forward, making her an indispensable part of the Toby Crew. Despite her numerous professional commitments, TSF is incredibly grateful to have her dedicated time and expertise to direct our outreach initiatives.