Board of Directors

Sharon Clark is a Clinical Project Manager and Treasurer for Chosen to Shine (C2S). She joined the board in 2019 and has participated in four mission trips to Honduras, where she served in medical outreach and shared the Gospel. Sharon lives in Edwardsville, Illinois, with her husband, Vince, and their two children, Erika and Jason. She has a background in medical technology and has been a member of Trinity Lutheran Church since 1996, where she plays in the Handbell Choir and Praise Band. Sharon is committed to continuing her service with C2S and her community.

Erika Clark, a board-certified music therapist, earned her B.S. from Illinois State University and her Master’s from the University of Kansas. She has been involved with Chosen to Shine since 2015 and has served on multiple mission trips to Honduras. Erika loves bringing joy through music and helping others, both in the U.S. and Honduras. She is passionate about using her talents to positively impact the lives of those around her.

Laura Klein holds a B.S. in Education and an M.S. in Educational Administration. She served as a U.S. Army Military Police Officer during Desert Storm and has dedicated her career to working with children with special needs. Laura joined Chosen to Shine in 2023, thinking it would be a one-time mission trip, but it became a lifelong passion. She remains committed to serving those in need and is eager for future mission trips.

Lauri Cunningham founded Chosen to Shine in 2015 after her first mission trip to Honduras. This trip followed the sudden loss of her son, Connor, and it became a life-changing experience. Lauri has led six mission trips, providing opportunities for others to experience the joy of service. She also works as the National Account Manager for Meadowvale Ice Cream and is the mother of five children. Lauri’s hope is firmly in Christ, trusting that through Him all things are possible.

Adrienne Schaefer is a massage therapist and real estate agent with a passion for helping others. After her first mission trip to Honduras, she felt a renewed sense of purpose and faith. Adrienne is honored to serve on the Chosen to Shine board and looks forward to participating in more mission trips. She enjoys spending time with her two daughters, Meara and Elle, and finds joy in serving her community.

John Cunningham has been on the Chosen to Shine board since its founding in 2015. He works as the Deputy Director of IT and Communications for the City of Edwardsville. John served on his first mission trip in 2020 and is committed to supporting Chosen to Shine’s mission of service. He and his wife, Lauri, have five children, and they are passionate about encouraging others to grow in their faith through service to those in need.