Matthew Hill - Executive Director
Matthew joined NCVRC in 2022 as a Navigator, bringing his passion for supporting Veterans to the forefront of our mission. A U.S. Army veteran, he served as a 19D Cavalry Scout from 2015 to 2021, during which he deployed to South Korea and Eastern Europe to assist NATO anti-smuggling efforts. After being medically retired in 2021, Matthew committed himself to serving fellow Veterans through nonprofit work. He now brings that dedication to his leadership role here at NCVRC.
Hannah Wheelis - Manager of Veteran Services
Hannah Wheelis proudly served in the U.S. Army as a Human Resources Specialist (MOS 42A) from 2008 to 2011, including a deployment to Iraq in 2009. Her time in service taught her the importance of teamwork, resilience, and supporting others through life’s toughest challenges — values she brings to her work every day at the NOCO Resource Center.
Now based in Greeley, Colorado, Hannah is passionate about helping fellow veterans navigate their transition to civilian life. Whether it’s assistance with benefits, employment, housing, or just someone who understands, Hannah is here to make sure no veteran feels alone.
Friendly, approachable, and dedicated, Hannah believes in meeting people where they are. She creates a welcoming environment where every veteran can feel seen, heard, and supported — because she’s been in their boots and knows the road forward is easier with someone walking beside you.
When she’s not serving the veteran community, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors or spending time with her family.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Claude "Ed" Riggs - Chairman
Ed Riggs is a Vietnam Veteran and received a Purple Heart due to injuries sustained while in combat. Ed retired from Noble Energy where he worked for 45 years. Currently, Ed volunteers his time at the Northern Colorado Veterans Resource Center and mentors other Veterans when difficult times arise in their lives.
TJ Cruz
TJ joined the Marine Corps in 2003 as an 0311 infantryman and completed three combat deployments to Iraq. He began working with the Northern Colorado Veterans Resource Center (NCVRC) shortly after it opened in 2018. Served as Director of the organization from August 2023 through February 2025. Currently working as a Military Admissions Counselor with Grand Canyon University, supporting service members, veterans, and their families in pursuing higher education. In June 2025, joined the NCVRC board to continue contributing to its mission and growth.
Brian Condray
Brian Condray served as a Seabee in the Navy and has continued to serve his fellow veterans and his community. With over 24 years of leadership experience on international and national construction projects, and over 15 years of experience in process improvement and change management, Brian brings a wealth of knowledge to the organization. Outside of work, Brian volunteers with many local non-profits and is active in a number of other organizations such as The Weld Food Bank, VFW Post 2121, Habitat for Humanity Relay for Life, Colorado Youth Outdoor, and many more.
Emilio Vallejos
Emilio Vallejos is a Marine Corps Veteran and seasoned finance and lending professional with over two decades of experience in SBA and commercial lending, small business ownership, and financial consulting. His background includes helping entrepreneurs—especially fellow Veterans—navigate business acquisitions, secure financing, and build long-term success.
He served in the United States Marine Corps as a machine gunner and was assigned to a Security Forces unit, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to service and leadership.
Emilio continues to serve the Veteran community as the Service Officer for American Legion Post 26, helping Veterans access the benefits they've earned. He also leads local remembrance efforts as the Location Coordinator for Wreaths Across America at Linn Grove Cemetery. A proud NoCo resident, he is dedicated to strengthening Veteran connections throughout Northern Colorado.
