Our Staff

Robert Shoup, Founding Artistic Director

Mr. Shoup also serves as Director of Music at Second Presbyterian Church, as well as Chorus Master and Staff Conductor for the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.  For more than two decades he has led a wide variety of amateur and professional choirs, and has been featured in commercial recordings, television broadcasts, and large scale events like the 400th Anniversary of Jamestown, the Virginia International Tattoo, and many collaborations with the Virginia Arts Festival and other arts organizations.  “It is a privilege to work with our NSC singers each week… while I hope to teach them something of singing and telling their stories, they teach me every week about hope and perseverance.”

Stephanie Van Leeuwen, Executive Director and Outreach Coordinator

Stephanie oversees both the administrative aspects of the NSCP and its various service-related aspects including our breakfast and shower trailer programs, as well as coordination with our many service partners from the City, including the Community Services Board, EVMS Street Health, Ghent Area Ministry, Freemason Street Baptist Church’s Clothing Closet and the Dream Center. Stephanie has a heart for our community and making sure that all of our friends feel welcome and known. “Asking a person’s name and getting to know a bit of their story is one way to ensure each person feels human and is treated with dignity.”

Janet Kempf, EVMS Art Therapy Program Faculty

Janet K. Kempf, Ph.D., LPC, ATR-BC, NCC is a clinical mental health counselor, registered and board-certified art therapist, and instructor in the Counseling and Art Therapy Program at the Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University. Janet not only has a heart for the students she works with and empowers with knowledge to help all members of our community; Janet has a love for our community at the NSCP. Each week, she brings new ideas and a fresh perspective to offer our friends and neighbors.

Steve Kolb, Street Choir Accompanist

Steve is a familiar face in the music community of Hampton Roads, having performed and taught throughout the region in a variety of capacities. Equally at ease playing classical, jazz, or popular styles, Steve brings a passion for teaching and sharing to his role with the Street Choir, and - aside from lending musical support - helps to create an atmosphere of joy and laughter to rehearsals (often musically!).

Carl Warren, Chorus and Food Manager

Carl’s unique blend of experience and skills allows him to serve two very important roles in our programs.  As Food Manager, he prepares and oversees the kitchen and volunteers for weekly breakfast service to our community, and prepares food for NSC singers when special events take place near meal times.  As Chorus Manager, Carl processes singers’ check-in and check-out every Friday, distributes bus passes and other items, and supports logistics for concert and other special events at which the NSCP has a presence. “I am grateful to have experienced the growth of the NSC from its modest beginning to the success it has become. Each of our members have unique gifts and talents that they give to create a positive community experience.”