Meet the staff members who make DMV Chess programs possible.
Joshua Hiban founded DMV Chess in 2017. He is a National Tournament Director, the highest designation for tournament directors within the US Chess Federation, and has run more than 2,000 tournaments. Outside of chess, he enjoys traveling, exploring new restaurants, and following baseball and basketball.
Justin joined DMV Chess in 2020. He runs our online tournaments, manages our online courses, and teaches our Monday and Tuesday classes. He is a former co-champion of Virginia and one of the region's most accomplished coaches. Several of his students have gone on to earn master titles themselves. When he used to compete more regularly, Justin ranked among the internet’s top players in atomic chess, a popular chess variant. Outside of chess, he also enjoys playing poker once in a while.
Stephen has been a member of the DMV Chess team since 2017, the year of the organization's founding. He serves as the chief tournament director for most DMV Chess in-person events and teaches at several school chess clubs. Known for his friendly, outgoing personality, he also holds a master's degree in Eastern Philosophy. Outside of chess, Stephen enjoys caving, traveling, and playing other board games.
Joshua first started teaching with DMV Chess in 2020. He holds the prestigious International Master title, awarded by FIDE and achieved by fewer than 0.01% of chess players worldwide. A five-time Michigan State Champion, he teaches DMV Chess's Monday Elite class and our Thursday and Friday Advanced classes.
Bryan has worked with DMV Chess since 2019 and currently coaches at several school programs and online classes. He is known throughout the local chess community for his family-oriented nature and fun, welcoming personality. Outside of chess, he enjoys making regular trips to his native Guatemala.
In addition to our regular team members, DMV Chess is proud to recognize the following part-time staff members for their valuable contributions: