BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mariah Gardner

President, Board Member

Mariah Gardner is a mother, a domestic violence survivor, and an advocate. She grew up in Southwest Louisiana, but migrated to San Antonio in 2015. She studied Psychology at UTSA. Mariah is passionate about her faith, her family, and her community and strives to give back whenever she can. In 2023 Mariah and her 4 children were attacked by her former spouse, losing her youngest child, Willow Grace. Mariah channeled her pain into purpose — her heartbreak into hope — and made the commitment to do everything in her power to make sure no more children are murdered and that safety, love, and respect are fundamental rights for everyone.

Christopher Pugh

Vice President, Board Member

“Growing up in a household where domestic violence was a common occurrence shaped my understanding of relationships and the importance of safety. Witnessing and experiencing the turmoil and fear that accompanied such an environment left a lasting impact on me, driving my commitment to ensuring a different reality for my own family. Despite the challenges of my past, I remained determined to create a safe and nurturing environment for my son.

My resolve was further tested when my son's mother became entangled in a CPS case due to domestic violence, leading to my gaining primary custody. The responsibility of protecting and raising my son became paramount. Compounding my experiences, I found myself a victim of domestic violence in a relationship with a narcissistic partner. I know first hand how destructive domestic abuse is for a victim. These experiences have been harrowing, but they have also fortified my dedication to breaking the cycle of abuse and providing a loving, stable home for my son as well as doing my part within my community to combat domestic violence .”

  • Alyssa Karsagi

    Board Member

    Alyssa is a mother and domestic violence survivor who continues to fight for the safety and well-being of her two young children. She is passionate about raising awareness of the devastating impact of domestic violence and is focused on exposing and challenging corruption within the system that fails to protect survivors. Alyssa is committed to advocating for reform and justice, striving to create a safer world for her children and others affected by domestic violence.

  • John Gardner

    Secretary

    John Gardner was Willow’s grandfather, and has always been Mariah’s biggest supporter — in both joy and sorrow. His life revolves around his family and was radically altered when he almost lost his only daughter and all of his grandchildren in one evening. When Mariah decided to start The Willow Grace Foundation, John was immediately on board to assist the mission in whatever way he could.