St. Felix names new board chair

RIO RANCHO — St. Felix Pantry announced April 15 that Dr. Thomas Staton PT, DPT was elected as chairman of the board March 27.

Staton takes over after the sudden passing of previous Chairman Mark White in February. His term will run through December 2026.

“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to succeed my close friend, Mark White, in taking on the responsibility of chair of the St Felix Pantry Board,” said Staton. “With his spirit and guidance in my heart, I know I will continue his legacy of selfless service to our community and to those in need, with love and compassion.”

As chairman, he will oversee the operation of the St. Felix Pantry Board of Directors and lead fundraising efforts on behalf of St. Felix Pantry, including the annual golf tournament scheduled for later this year.

“I am glad to have Thomas as our next chairman of the board,” said Tim Sheahan, president/CEO of St. Felix Pantry. “I look forward to where he will lead the organization during his term as we serve those most in need in our community.”

Staton is joining treasurer Haesun Chung, Dr. Todd Beadle in Felician Services, Phillip Bustos, Steve Garcia from Brycon Construction, Alex Perkins from Edward Jones, Katie Shelburne from the University of New Mexico, and Renetta Torres and Edgar Velazquez from Bank of America.

Staton and his wife, Jackie, are the owners of Bear Canyon Therapy Associates in Albuquerque, providing outpatient physical therapy services for all ages. He grew up in Lovington and has lived in and around Rio Rancho and Albuquerque for more than 20 years. He holds a B.S. from University of New Mexico and D.P.T. from the University of Central Florida (D.P.T.). They have two kids, Ethan and Riley, who both enjoy playing sports, going on family snowboarding trips, and taking as many camping trips as possible with their two dogs, Rio and Chloe.