Board of Directors
Robert Rudder
President, Chairman of the Board
Robert will serve as the President and Chairman of the Board for the Kathryn Rudder Foundation. Robert's passion to lead the foundation was fueled by the dream Kathryn had of helping kids battling childhood cancer. Robert has worked as an executive in the fitness industry for the last 16 years and will use this experience to help support as many people as possible through this foundation. Robert has been married to his beautiful wife and current board member Laura for 13 years and father to Kathryn (12) and Addison (8).
Laura Rudder
Board Secretary
Laura is a proud mother to Kathryn and Addison Rudder. After personally navigating the challenges of an unexpected childhood cancer diagnosis with her daughter Kathryn, she deeply understands the support needed to lighten the load for families facing similar struggles. Inspired by the community that uplifted her own family and grounded in her Christian faith, Laura is motivated by Kathryn’s dream to help others on this difficult journey. With a servant leader’s heart, she is an accomplished executive in the financial services industry, known for her proven success in operational services and risk management. She will serve as the Secretary/Treasurer for the Kathryn Rudder Foundation.
Jake Gregory
Board Member
Jake Gregory is the Chief Operating Officer at The Association Partner and a founding board member of the Kathryn Rudder Foundation. With a wealth of experience in generating sponsorship and non-dues revenue for trade and professional associations, Jake brings invaluable expertise to the foundation's mission. As a father of three girls, Jake is deeply motivated to serve on the board. His personal connection with the Rudder family during Kathryn Rudder's journey has fueled his dedication to ensuring that other families do not face similar burdens. Jake envisions a future where the Kathryn Rudder Foundation becomes a household name, recognized for its significant contributions to supporting children and families in need.
Caleb Bumgarner
Board Member
As a Jacksonville native and a member of local law enforcement for 10 years, Caleb has a passion for the people of Northeast Florida. Working specifically with law enforcement K9’s, Caleb brings experience and expertise to the Kathryn Rudder Foundation’s Dog Therapy Program. Caleb provided several visits with Law Enforcement K9’s to Kathryn during her treatment. Caleb has been married to his wife, Kelly for 9 years and they have 3 boys: Eli (6), Theo (4) and Cooper (1).
Kelly Bumgarner
Board Member
Kelly was born and raised in the Arlington neighborhood of Jacksonville. She is a graduate of Florida State University and holds a Masters degree from South University in Tampa, Fl. Kelly has been a Physician Assistant with a specialty in cardiology in the Jacksonville area for 8 years. Kelly is a passionate advocate for patient care and brings a wealth of medical knowledge and experience to the foundation. Kelly has been married to her husband, Caleb, for 9 years. They have 3 boys: Eli (6), Theo (4), and Cooper (1).
Dr. Robert Kawa
Board Member
Bio coming soon.
Gilbert Olvera
Board Member
Gilbert is a Regional Sales Manager for Sierra LSV. He's based in Jacksonville, but represents us throughout Florida. He knows Florida well, having grown up in Hardee County. In fact, one thing he loves about golf cars is they remind him of his childhood growing up on the farm - being outdoors in the country and riding down a dirt road when the sun's out. Gilbert started in the industry in 2010 with Nivel Part & MFG and has worked in purchasing, sourcing, manufacturing and sales. When not repping Sierra LSV, Gilbert spends his time being a girl dad. Married for 9 years, he has 3 girls: ages 1, 4 and 5.
Syman Hay
Board Member
Bio coming soon.
Taylor Tapia
Board Member
As a seasoned Event Architect for Uncorked Occasions, Taylor combines an expertise in hospitality with a knack for crafting unforgettable experiences that leave an impact. She understands the difference between making a gesture and making a lasting impact, ensuring that when she’s involved, every event is nothing short of extraordinary. On the corporate side, Taylor is an expert in generating non-dues revenue for associations, a vital role that supports the growth and sustainability of these organizations. Having faced the profound loss of loved ones to cancer, Taylor is driven by a deep commitment to making meaningful contributions to causes close to her heart. Whether orchestrating a remarkable event, selecting the perfect gift, or championing a worthy cause, Taylor’s passion for helping people shines through.