Meet The GVI Team
Michelle Pottinger
Program Director, Violence, Injury & Trauma Unit
Michelle Pottinger, the Group Violence Intervention Project Manager for St. Mary’s County is committed to making our community safer and improving public safety by reducing gun violence. “I want victims of gun violence to know, there is help.“Our GVI team is dedicated to driving change and offering assistance to those directly impacted by gun violence.” With ongoing collaboration and support from local agencies and stakeholders our goal is to foster resilience, improve community safety, and provide critical resources for individuals affected by violence.
Marcus Johnson
Community Health Outreach Worker
Marcus Johnson, the Community Health Outreach Worker, is a vital member of the GVI Team. He plays a crucial role in connecting individuals affected by violence to essential services such as counseling, employment services, legal support and much more to promote a violence-free life.
“We want GVI program participants to know that support is available to help them navigate and overcome the challenges of gun violence.” Marcus believes “Love is love—let it be the force that drives us to prevent violence and build safer communities.”
Christiana Keefer
Violence Prevention Coordinator
Brianne Daly
Youth Engagement Coordinator
Brianne Daly, is the Youth Engagement Coordinator for the Mentoring Connections Program for St. Mary’s County. She works effortlessly to support youth and families by connecting them with impactful mentoring organizations focused on mentorship, leadership, community engagement, and personal development. Through strategic partnerships and collaboration, Brianne plays a vital role in supporting youth development and positive change within the community.
Sgt. Austin Schultz
St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office
Detective Sergeant Austin Schultz serves as the lead officer for the St. Mary’s County Group Violence Intervention (GVI) program. His leadership within the St. Mary’s County Criminal Intelligence Unit has played a key role in advancing efforts to combat gun and group violence in the county. With the support of community partners, the Group Violence Intervention Team disrupts cycles of violence and offers resources and assistance to at-risk individuals, making a lasting impact on public safety.
Pastor James Bell
God’s Church of Refuge
John Smith
Community Member / Spiritual Advisor
John Smith is the Community Advisor for the St. Mary’s County Group Violence Intervention (GVI) program. As a dedicated advocate for peace and safety, he works closely with the GVI team to address the root causes of gun and group violence in the community. With a strong background in community engagement, John helps build trust between law enforcement, local organizations, and residents, ensuring that the voices of those most affected by violence are heard and represented.