RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA) and the RV Women’s Alliance Charitable Foundation (RVWACF) announced the appointment of new board members who began their terms effective January 1, expanding leadership across both organizations as they continue to advance professional development and charitable initiatives within the RV industry.
The appointments include three new board members for RVWA and two new board members for the RVWACF, according to the organizations’ announcement.
The additions are intended to support the alliance’s mission to elevate, educate and promote women across the RV industry while strengthening the Foundation’s scholarship and charitable programs.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA on January 7, Susan Carpenter, president of RVWA, said the organizations view the new appointments as a strategic step forward in expanding their impact across the industry.
“We are excited to have these talented people on our boards to help drive our mission forward,” Carpenter said. “Their leadership, experience, and passion for creating opportunity will help us grow our programs and strengthen the community we serve.”
Michele McDermott was appointed to the RVWA board. McDermott currently serves as chief human resources officer for THOR Industries, a role she has held since January 2024.
Prior to joining THOR Industries, McDermott served as executive vice president and chief human resources officer at Hub Group and held leadership roles at Assurance, National Express Group and United Service Companies.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Lewis University and a Master of Business Administration in finance and operations from DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business.
Denyse Pontius also joined the RVWA board. Pontius has spent more than 20 years with Century Chemical, working across multiple segments of the outdoor and transportation industries.
According to the announcement, Pontius’ career has focused on providing solutions for a wide range of travelers using various modes of transportation, including recreational vehicles. Her work emphasizes environmental stewardship and encouraging responsible practices throughout the outdoor industry.
Jennifer Pendley was named as the third new board member for RVWA. Pendley works for Cummins and is based in the company’s Elkhart office.
Pendley has held a range of roles at Cummins centered on RV generator manufacturing, distribution and sales. She was recently promoted to lead the RV Accessory Business and also serves as a senior account manager for several key accounts.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Pendley serves as board chairman for United Way and was recently named to the Emerging Leader Coalition for the RV Industry Association (RVIA), where she is active in programs and committees.
RVWACF also announced two new board appointments. Kori Miller of Jayco was named to the foundation’s board, bringing nearly 30 years of experience in the RV industry.
Miller has played a role in new software implementation related to materials and purchasing and is described as a hands-on leader within her company’s materials group.
Samantha Bose of ACE Adventure Company was also appointed to the RVWACF board. Bose has spent the past seven years traveling with her family in a camper van and has more than 20 years of experience in photography.
Bose began working with RV companies on content and storytelling before launching ACE Adventure Company, which hosts camping experiences designed to give back. Her work focuses on building a purpose-driven outdoor community centered on connection and shared experiences.