FEATURED: Village in the Valley (ViVa), a McAllen-based organization whose stated mission is elevating and uniting the Black community while connecting cultures in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), recently announced its 2026-2027 Executive Board. “ViVa has always been about creating connections, celebrating our history and culture, and building opportunities for our community,” said Co-Presidents Marsha Terry and Dr. Theresa Gatling. “We are grateful for the leaders who have stepped forward to serve and excited about what we can accomplish together in the year ahead.”
Graphic By MAMIE ANODJO
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With almost 12,000 Blacks in the Rio Grande Valley, new board members for Village in the Valley (ViVa) continue to promote positive changes for all residents of deep South Texans
By DAVID A. DÍAZ
[email protected]
Village in the Valley (ViVa), a McAllen-based organization whose stated mission is elevating and uniting the Black community while connecting cultures in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), recently announced its 2026-2027 Executive Board.
“ViVa has always been about creating connections, celebrating our history and culture, and building opportunities for our community,” said Co-Presidents Marsha Terry and Dr. Theresa Gatling. “We are grateful for the leaders who have stepped forward to serve and excited about what we can accomplish together in the year ahead.”
In Spanish, the word “¡viva!” most commonly means “long live!”, which is an exclamation of joy, support, or celebration for a person, place, or idea.
ViVa’s signature programs include its annual Juneteenth “Perfecting Unity” Celebration, scholarships and youth support, the, Thanksgiving Meals for Seniors Program, MLK Day of Service, Black History Month Heritage Gospel Festival, Sole to Soul 5K, First Friday and Third Thursday networking events.
https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=What+programs+are+offered+by+Village+in+the+Valley+(ViVa)?&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
A “signature event” is a high-profile, standout gathering or tournament that serves as a core representation of an organization, brand, venue, or professional sport.
https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=What+is+a+signature+event?&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
As Co-Presidents, Terry and Gatling will lead the Board of Directors for Village in the Valley (ViVa), which is 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the Rio Grande Valley founded on February 19, 2019.
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is a U.S. corporation, trust, or association that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recognizes as exempt from federal income tax because it operates exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, literary, educational, or other approved public purposes. [1, 2, 3]
The complete 2026–2027 Village in the Valley (ViVa) Executive Board – whose members come from throughout the United States and the world – and where they currently reside follows:
• Marsha Terry — Co-President, originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, of Mission;
• Dr. Theresa Gatling, PT, DPT – Co-President, originally from Boston, Massachusetts, of McAllen;
• Dr. Onuwa Terry, PT, DPT — Vice President, originally from Birdsnest, Virginia, of Mission;
• Franklin Mboh-Eyambe – Treasurer, originally from Limbe, Cameroon, of Mission;
• Imayo York – Secretary, originally from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, of McAllen;
• Pastor Alphonzo Gatling – Board Member, originally from Boston, Massachusetts, of McAllen;
• Elva Harris – Board Member, originally from Port Antonio, Portland, Jamaica, of Brownsville;
• Dr. Esther Akindayomi Jackson – Board Member of Weslaco;
• Gilberto “Gil” González, LHIC, MBA – Board Member of Edinburg;
• Jeff Patterson – Board Member, originally from Laramie, Wyoming, of Harlingen;
• Mamie M. T. Anodjo – Board Member, originally from Serrekunda, The Gambia, of Apopka, Florida; and
• Verónica Orozco Mallard – Board Member of Brownsville.
According to data from the Rio Grande Valley Health Connect Demographics, the combined estimated population in 2026 of the Rio Grande Valley – Hidalgo, Cameron, Starr and Willacy counties – is 1,454,6595.
Of that figure, population by ethnicity is 1,338,804 Hispanic/Latino, or 92.03 percent, while non-Hispanic/White population is 115,891, or 7.79 percent.
The non-Hispanic population comprises groups such as White (5.90 percent or 85,763), Black/African American (0.88 percent or 11,890), Asian (0.76 percent or 11,064), and smaller percentages of other racial categories.
Village in the Valley (ViVa) is founded on the belief that “it takes a village.”
The phrase “it takes a village” (short for “it takes a village to raise a child”) is a proverb meaning that an entire community must interact with, support, and share responsibility for children so they can grow up in a safe, health, and resilient environment. The “Village” includes parents, extended family, neighbors, teachers, elders, friends, and community professionals.
A proverb is a short, memorable, and traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth, common sense, or practical life advice.
https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=What+is+a+proverb?&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
Also according to the Marsha Terry and Dr. Theresa Gatling:
• The 2026–2027 year comes as ViVa continues expanding its community programming, educational initiatives, partnerships and signature events throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
• Village in the Valley (ViVa) continues to grow its presence throughout the region, the board will help guide the organization’s programming, partnerships and community engagement while advancing its work around culture, community, and commerce;
• Through collaboration with businesses, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations and community partners, Village in the Valley (ViVa) will continue working to amplify Black history and culture, strengthen relationships across the region, and create opportunities for meaningful community and economic engagement; and
• Village in the Valley (ViVa) works to preserve and celebrate Black history and culture, strengthen community connections, foster partnerships and create opportunities for engagement throughout the region. Village in the Valley (ViVa) is a membership-based organization open to all, regardless of race or ethnicity.
https://villageinthevalley.org/
The complete 2026–2027 Village in the Valley (ViVa) Executive Board, along with a brief account of their lives, background, and professional experiences include:
• Marsha Terry — Co-President
Marsha Terry, RN, MSN, is a Mission resident, award-winning healthcare leader, community advocate, speaker, and self-care visionary with more than 30 years of healthcare experience. She has served as Clinic Administrator for Terry Physical Therapy for 15 years and is the 2026 Business Leader of the Year, recognized by the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce (GMCC). As Co-Founder and Co-President of Village in the Valley (ViVa), she champions cultural programming, scholarships, civic engagement, and community service throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Marsha M. Terry is also the creator of The Self C.A.R.E.™ Framework, empowering women and leaders to prioritize personal well-being and intentional growth.
https://www.marshaterry.com/about/
• Dr. Theresa Gatling, PT, DPT – Co-President
Dr. Theresa Gatling, PT, DPT, is a McAllen resident, speaker, author, teacher, Pastor, and physical therapist. She has been practicing physical therapy for the past 39 years in a variety of settings. She came to the Rio Grande Valley in December 1997 via San Antonio. She received her undergraduate degree in physical therapy in 1987 from Boston University and her Doctorate in physical therapy in 2010 from A.T. Still University in Mesa, Arizona. She is currently the clinic director for POST RGV, an outpatient rehabilitation clinic. She was the Founding Program for the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Rio Grande Valley College. In addition to helping lead Village in the Valley (ViVa), Dr. Theresa Gatling and her husband work together as Co-Pastors at Mount Olive Worship Center.
https://www.wfpptx.org/mellon-team
• Dr. Onuwa Terry, PT, DPT — Vice President
Dr. Onuwa Terry received a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 1993. He was conferred as a Doctor of Physical Therapy from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, Mesa, Arizona in 2006. He has practiced Physical Therapy for over 25 years in a variety of settings including acute care, out-patient orthopedics, cardiac rehabilitation and geriatric care. Dr. Onuwa Terry’s service and commitment to the Mission/McAllen community earned him the title of “Favorite Physical Therapist” for Hidalgo County newspaper, The Monitor, for five years.
https://terrypt.com/our-team/physical-therapist/dr-onuwa-d-terry/
• Franklin Mboh-Eyambe – Treasurer
Franklin Mboh-Eyambe is a Mission resident, licensed tax professional, and founder of Proactive Tax Advisors LLC, based in McAllen, Texas. He specializes in tax planning, preparation, and savings strategies for individuals and small businesses and is an active contributor to the Rio Grande Valley’s entrepreneurial community. Franklin Mboh-Eyambe holds a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship and is an IRS Enrolled Agent.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/franklin-mboh-eyambe-261aab11a
• Imayo York – Secretary
Imayo York is a McAllen resident, community leader, and local entrepreneur with 16 years of experience working in women’s health. She is actively involved with Village in the Valley (ViVa), representing the organization at civic functions, accepting proclamations honoring Black History Month, and serving as Volunteer Chair for its annual Juneteenth “Perfecting Unity” celebration. She is also the owner of Baked By Imayo, a local baking business recognized by ViVa during National Black Business Month. Through her professional experience, community service, and entrepreneurship, Imayo York is committed to making a positive impact in the Rio Grande Valley.
https://www.instagram.com/supermomimayo
• Pastor Alphonzo Gatling – Board Member
Pastor Alphonzo Gatling is a McAllen resident, community leader, and founding member of Village in the Valley (ViVa). He founded Mount Olive Worship Center, a non-denominational church where he has served as full-time pastor since 2017. Dedicated to community engagement, he contributes to Village in the Valley’s (ViVa) annual Juneteenth “Perfecting Unity” Celebration Gala and helps organize the Black History Month Heritage Gospel Festival. Alongside his wife, he co-created I Know I Am the One for You: Marriage by Design and co-authored two books, Parenting with Uncommon Courage and Baby Memories and More. Through ministry, authorship, and community service, Pastor Alphonzo Gatling is committed to strengthening families and bringing people together.
https://www.facebook.com/mountoliveworshipcenterrgv
• Elva Harris – Board Member
Elva Harris is a Brownsville resident, Jamaican-born registered nurse, and dedicated community volunteer. She retired after 27 years at Valley Baptist Medical Center, where she served in Women and Children’s Services as a supervisor, charge nurse, and staff nurse. A graduate of George Brown College in Toronto, Canada, she brings decades of healthcare and community service experience, including 12–15 years as a CASA volunteer. Elva Harris is an active member of Good Shepherd Community Church and the Brownsville Black History Committee and has supported local Black History Month events. Married and a proud mother of two, grandmother of ten, and great-grandmother of two, she is passionate about helping others and making a difference in her community.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elva-harris-33a409310/?isSelfProfile=false
• Dr. Esther Akindayomi Jackson – Board Member
Dr. Esther Akindayomi Jackson is a Weslaco resident, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), minister, author, and community leader. She is the founder of Soul Touch Wellness, a wellness ministry, and L.I.F.E. (Ladies Inspired for Excellence), an all-Black women’s organization in the Rio Grande Valley, and co-founder of Harmony Hour. She also serves on the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Alumni Advisory Committee and is a leader and board member of Latina Empire. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Dr. Esther Akindayomi Jackson is a transformation speaker, podcast host, and author of Joy Flows From a Heart In Harmony with God, dedicated to inspiring and empowering others.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-akindayomi-jackson-5686a445
• Gilberto “Gil” González, LHIC, MBA – Board Member
Gilberto “Gil” González is an Edinburg resident and Benefits Consultant and Managing Director at Higginbotham Public Sector, with extensive experience in insurance, employee benefits, sales, and business development. He specializes in benefits design, strategic planning, and client service, helping organizations meet their employee benefits needs. A graduate of the University of Texas–Pan American, Gilberto “Gil” González holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and brings expertise in business administration, management, and strategic growth.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilberto-gonzalez-lhic-mba-05977931
• Jeff Patterson – Board Member
Jeff Patterson is a Harlingen resident and sales and business development leader with extensive experience in revenue growth, team building, and market expansion. As a former executive with VTX1 Companies, he helped expand broadband access across Texas. Today, he works with Sandler in sales consulting, helping organizations improve performance and achieve sustainable growth. Committed to community service, Jeff Patterson serves as Chairman of the Greater Harlingen Chamber of Commerce, President of the United Way of Northern Cameron and Willacy Counties, and a board member of Village in the Valley.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpatterson29
Mamie M.T. Anodjo – Board Member
Mamie M. T. Anodjo is an Apopka, Florida-based educator, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader. She holds a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics and Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemistry and Mathematical Sciences from the Florida Institute of Technology. With more than 10 years of experience in STEM education, program management, and community engagement, she is the founder of Jangal Services, an online tutoring and mentoring business, and the Co-Founder and Virtual Camp Director of Camp MaMo, a STEAM education initiative in her hometown of Serrekunda, The Gambia. Although she relocated from the Valley five years ago, Mamie M.T. Anodjo remains deeply connected to ViVa and is invested in its continued success, returning annually to support community engagement and participate in the organization’s major events. She also serves as a Virtual Assistant for Village in the Valley (ViVa). Passionate about education, equity, and empowerment, she is committed to creating opportunities that help individuals and communities thrive.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamie-mossan-anodjo
• Verónica Orozco Mallard – Board Member
Verónica Orozco Mallard is a Digital Marketing Strategist with AIM Media Texas, LLC, in Brownsville, helping businesses grow through strategic digital marketing solutions. A Sam Houston State University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, she brings more than a decade of experience in marketing, sales, account management, healthcare, and social services. She is also the owner of Ronnie O Photography, specializing in sports, events, portraits, and personal branding, and is expanding into real estate photography and visual media through Prosperity Visuals. Combining business expertise, creativity, and relationship-building, Verónica Orozco Mallard is passionate about making a meaningful impact through her work and community involvement.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-orozco-mallard
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Dina Sabnani contributed to this article. For more on this and other Texas legislative news stories that affect the Rio Grande Valley metropolitan region, please log on to Titans of the Texas Legislature (TitansoftheTexasLegislature.
