Our people

The majority of DIMF’s staff and Board members are current and former intelligence professionals dedicated to honoring the memory of those who gave the last full measure of devotion. Their lived experience within the Intelligence Community ensures our programs are guided by integrity, accountability, and a deep understanding of service.

Board of Directors

Executive Leadership

Senior Intelligence Advisory Board

Ambassadors

Emeritus Board Members

Board of Directors

  • Jon Darby is the Chair of the DIMF Board of Directors. Jon has served the U.S. Intelligence Community for over 39 years, primarily in the National Security Agency (NSA)/Central Security Service (CSS), culminating in serving over four years as the NSA/CSS Director of Operations (DO). Prior to assuming the DO position, he led some of NSA’s most difficult missions, including Counterterrorism, Counterproliferation, Cybersecurity Operations, and NSA’s analysis and production on all geographic and transnational missions. He managed a budget in the billions, drove development and use of advanced technologies, and in multiple positions led thousands of globally distributed civilian and military personnel providing intelligence support for military, diplomatic, cybersecurity and law enforcement operations.

    Mr. Darby also serves on the Board of Directors of ManTech, the Advisory Board of InnerActiv, and is a Senior Advisor for PfP Cybersecurity, Donovan Capital Group, Blu Venture Investors, and Beacon Global Strategies.  In addition, he is an independent consultant as the Principal in Jon Darby Consulting LLC.

    Mr. Darby is a graduate of Carleton College, where he majored in Political Science/International Relations with a Concentration in Russian Studies. Carleton’s Alumni Association awarded him a Distinguished Achievement Award in 2023.

  • Dayne Baird is a Managing Director and Partner at The Carlyle Group focused on buyouts, privatizations and strategic minority investments in the aerospace, defense and government sectors. Since joining Carlyle in 2003, Mr. Baird has been actively involved with Carlyle’s investments in Acentra Health, ARINC Incorporated, Booz Allen Hamilton, Exiger, Landmark Aviation, MANTECH, Novetta, Two Six Technologies and Wesco Aircraft Holdings.

    Prior to joining Carlyle, Mr. Baird worked in the M&A and Global Industrial groups of Lehman Brothers, where he focused on transactions in the industrial, aerospace and defense sectors.

    In addition to the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation, Dayne is a member of the boards of Acentra Health, Exiger, MANTECH and Two Six Technologies.

    Mr. Baird received his MBA from Georgetown University, where he was a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, and received his BS in Business Management from Brigham Young University, where he graduated magna cum laude.

  • Scott Berrier is a senior leader in Booz Allen’s national security business. He has deep mission expertise and experience across the U.S. intelligence community, the defense intelligence enterprise, and other national security organizations. Scott’s tactical and strategic understanding of the current threat environment, combined with his skill in leading large, complex organizations through change makes him a transformative leader of choice for challenges in the 21st century.

    Before joining Booz Allen, Scott retired as a lieutenant general after 40 years of service in the U.S. Army, a career focused on delivery of intelligence to inform situational understanding to U.S. and Department of Defense senior leaders. His many years of service included serving as the Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, where he guided the agency through three major global crises, overhauled the intelligence collection lifecycle, and led large-scale organizational transformation focused on the pacing threat and positioning the agency for strategic competition.

  • Bob Gourley spent a 20 year career as a Naval Intelligence officer. He also served as the Chief Technology Officer of the Defense Intelligence Agency. Bob was named one of the top 25 most influential CTOs in the globe by Infoworld and was named by Washingtonian as one of DC’s “Tech Titans.” He is the co-founder and CTO of OODA LLC, a consultancy which helps clients identify, manage, and respond to global risks and uncertainties while exploring emerging opportunities and developing adaptive strategies for the future.

  • Mary Beth Long brings nearly twenty years of intelligence and defense experience. In her last government position, she was the first woman confirmed to a four-star military equivalent position by the Senate as the Assistant Secretary of Defense (ASD) for International Security Affairs, responsible for all Defense Department activities in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. She also was the first female to Chair NATO’s senior-most nuclear and missile defense body, the High Level Group, reporting directly to the Secretary General of NATO. After leaving government, Ms. Long became a successful lawyer, entrepreneur and international advisor. She remains highly involved in foreign government negotiations and international business. Ms. Long received her law degree, with honors, from Washington and Lee School of Law.

  • Ms. Novakoff served for over forty years in the Department of Defense and in several Intelligence agencies including NSA, CIA, ODNI, and DIA. Her last assignment was in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, providing oversight, policy, and guidance for the Defense Department’s special programs and sensitive activities. She had an expansive career, influencing policy decisions at the highest levels of government and military leadership and was the recipient of numerous awards and medals during her time in the intelligence community.

    Ms. Novakoff currently performs advisory roles for companies involved with US national security; she is a regular columnist and Expert for The Cipher Brief; an Adjunct Researcher for the Institute of Defense Analysis, and a Senior Fellow at Florida International University. In addition, Ms. Novakoff serves as coordinator of the Defense Intelligence Forums for the Defense Intelligence Agency Alumni Group.

  • Jeff Owens is a seasoned business executive with deep expertise in hospitality, finance, and real estate development. He is known for a pragmatic, financially disciplined approach to strategy and execution.

    Jeff graduated with highest distinction from Penn State University and began his career as a CPA with Arthur Andersen, where he spent ten years auditing large public companies across the DC metro area.

    Jeff then joined Clyde’s Restaurant Group as the CFO. Clyde’s is one of the nation’s most iconic and enduring restaurant companies, known for landmark destinations including Old Ebbitt Grill, 1789 Restaurant, Willow Creek Farm, Tower Oaks Lodge and The Hamilton. During his 30-year tenure at Clyde’s, Jeff drove steady, disciplined growth, expanding the company fivefold while preserving its strong culture and brand identity.

    In 2025, Jeff founded Skipjack Advisors, a hospitality consulting practice focused on providing strategic guidance, and practical, hands-on support to industry clients.

    Jeff is also an active sax player with the cover band Collective, a high-energy group that performs at more than 40 events and venues each year.

  • John Parkes is Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Parry Labs, a defense technology company delivering advanced digital systems in support of the US National Security community. Parkes founded Parry Labs to design, deploy, and operate innovative solutions that strengthen national security across the full spectrum of defense and intelligence missions.

    As an entrepreneur committed to US strategic advantage, Parkes also serves as Co-Founder and board member of Skydweller Aero Inc., which is developing solar-powered aircraft with significant implications for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Skydweller's platform builds on the Solar Impulse aircraft — the longest solar-powered flight in history — and represents a new frontier in uncrewed, long-endurance capabilities for national security applications.

    Parkes brings deep experience supporting the national security community across government service, industry, and entrepreneurship. Prior to founding Parry Labs in 2016, he served as Airborne Mission Lead at the Office of Special Capabilities within the US Department of Defense, where he led critical airborne programs in direct support of national security objectives. He subsequently applied that mission expertise prior to that in industry, holding roles in Strategic Planning, Corporate Development, and M&A at United Technologies (formerly Goodrich), and contributing as an image scientist on national security programs. Parkes holds a Bachelor's degree in Imaging Science from Rochester Institute of Technology.

  • Michael Shrader joined Carahsoft shortly after its founding in 2004, and serves as the company’s vice president for Innovative and Intelligence Solutions.

    In this role, he manages Carahsoft’s efforts to help small, emerging technology manufacturers as well as established solution providers, do business with the government. Under his leadership, he has grown the IIS team from a team of two sales representatives supporting five technology vendors and generating $5M annually to more than 700 team members who support 400+ vendors and drove $4B in 2024 bookings.  As the only one of its kind in the industry, Mike’s rapidly growing team includes 100+ In-Q-Tel portfolio and other emerging technology companies.  These companies offer cutting-edge solutions of great benefit Intelligence, DoD, and civilian agencies, but typically have little government visibility or experience.

    Shrader and his team work to change that by opening doors to new business opportunities in the government; organizing hundreds of educational events each year to help government managers and technologists learn innovative ways to solve difficult problems; and then helping with contract vehicles and transaction execution.

    In recognition of his contribution both the technology community and the government, Shrader was named an FCW Rising Star for work with emerging technology companies.

    In addition to nurturing these emerging technology vendors, Mike is also driving demand and working to expand the public sector footprint for marquis brands including Splunk, NVIDIA, Tableau, Broadcom, Cloudera, SolarWinds, Okta, Zscaler and Blackberry.

Executive Leadership

  • Ms. Elizabeth “Liz” Brooks is the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation. Liz Brooks has served within the Defense Intelligence Community for over 40 years, mostly as a Senior Executive, but in her post-retirement phase she has also served as a part-time consultant and, more recently, as an Executive Coach. During her civilian service at the National Security Agency, she held several senior leadership positions in operations, information technology, and support, including serving as the NSA Chief of Staff. She continues to serve our country and others as an Executive and Leadership Coach, consultant, and learning facilitator. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Phoenix Society and the Maryland Chapter of the International Coaching Federation. In addition, she is the Principal of Liz Brooks Breakthrough Coaching LLC, and a co-owner of Positive Professionals LLC. Liz is a graduate of Virginia Tech, where she studied Business and Language. She is the recipient of both the Distinguished and Meritorious Presidential Rank Awards for Defense Intelligence Senior Executives.

  • Mr. Jeffrey S. Votaw II is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation. He is responsible for DIMF operations to include staffing, regulatory compliance, and program execution. Jeff is a Marine veteran with over 20 years of experience in intelligence, special operations, cyber, and technical collection operations. He currently serves as a civilian in the Department of Defense, leading operational efforts to detect, deter, and defend against foreign adversaries’ encroachments and attacks on the United States. Jeff has over a dozen combat deployments with special operations elements in the Middle East, and East, South, and Southeast Asia. His professional achievements include co-authoring a Tactical Signals Intelligence Handbook (2013), awarded the NSA Director’s Award in 2023, the NSA Brigadier General Ardisana Collector of the Year Award (2017), and the National Intelligence Meritorious Unit Citation (2017). He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the National Intelligence University with honors (Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society) and a Graduate degree in Security Studies from the Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, where he was awarded the 2023 Cura Personalis award.

  • Martin Bell is the Chief Financial Officer of the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation and, as such, manages the financial health of the DIMF. He also serves as the President of Bell Consulting Services Corporation, a professional services company offering business and marketing plans and services. With years of experience in corporate finance, accounting, and advising, he brings deep expertise to the role of CFO. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Chicago.

  • Sheila Thomas, the Foundation’s Director of Communications, is a distinguished national security executive with more than four decades of service at the National Security Agency (NSA) where she held some of the most senior leadership positions, including Acting Deputy Director, Executive Director, and Director of the Engagement & Policy Directorate.

    Sheila’s career reflects a lifetime of outstanding service and commitment to excellence. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Political Science from Loyola University Maryland, a Master’s Certificate in Telecommunications and Information Systems from Johns Hopkins University, and a Master of Science in National Security Strategy from the National War College.

  • Erin Henderschedt, the Foundation’s Director of Ambassador Outreach, is a Naval Intelligence Flag Officer Spouse and a mom to a Marine Ground Intel officer. She is a writer, a parent educator, a humanities teacher, and a volunteer college prep writing coach with the ASYMCA. She has a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs and Russian Studies from The Elliott School of International Affairs at The George Washington University and a Teacher Certification from the University of Missouri. Erin grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and made homes for her family of six in 15 houses on three continents, including three Attaché tours in Beijing, China, and one in Taipei, Taiwan. She has taught in seven schools in four countries. Her award-winning writing and editing work has appeared online, in print magazines, and in books.

  • Daniel Gray is the Foundation’s Director of Research. Mr. Gray is responsible for identifying families in need. He is also a detective with a Washington, DC area law enforcement agency and holds a Bachelor's degree from The Catholic University of America.

Senior Intelligence Advisory Board

  • Lieutenant General Robert P. Ashley Jr. served as the 21st Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency from October 2017 to October 2020, leading global defense intelligence collection and analysis that supported combatant commands, defense planners, and national leaders. Previously, as the U.S. Army Deputy Chief of Staff, G-2, he advised the Secretary of the Army and the Chief of Staff on intelligence, counterintelligence, and security. Over a distinguished career he commanded at multiple echelons and completed operational tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. His leadership emphasized joint and coalition intelligence operations, analytic tradecraft, and modernization of defense analysis.

    Bob is co-CEO of Touchstone Futures and CEO of Ashley GLS. He serves on the Advisory Board of Peraton and as a Principal at Pallas Advisors. Bob is also an Adjunct Fellow at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS).

  • David M. Cattler recently concluded a 35-year career in U.S. national security, most recently serving as Director of the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA). In that role, he led a $3.2B enterprise of more than 15,000 personnel across 174 locations, overseeing government-wide personnel security, industrial security, and clearance reform.

    Previously, he was NATO’s Assistant Secretary General for Intelligence and Security, where he united over 80 organizations from 32 nations to strengthen allied intelligence sharing and readiness. Earlier assignments included service at the White House as Deputy Assistant to the President for Regional Affairs, senior leadership positions in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and multiple roles at the Defense Intelligence Agency.

    Throughout his career, David has been recognized for his leadership in building high-trust teams, modernizing institutions, and strengthening transatlantic security. He remains committed to serving the defense intelligence community and is honored to support the Foundation’s mission of providing educational opportunities to the families of fallen colleagues.

  • Lowell (Jake) Jacoby has served in senior leadership positions within industry and the Department of Defense.  He retired from the Navy in 2005 as Director, Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) as a U.S. Navy Vice Admiral (VADM).

    From 2006 to 2015 he was an Executive Vice President at CACI International Inc. serving in a variety or roles to include Business Group Manager for CACI's Intelligence Group and strategist for the company's growth in the intelligence and homeland security markets.  

    On active duty he led three major commands and was the senior intelligence officer at the U.S. Pacific Fleet, the U.S. Pacific Command, U.S. Navy as Director of Naval Intelligence and Joint Staff.  His tenure as Director of Intelligence on the Joint Staff encompassed the 9/11 attacks and subsequent combat operations in Afghanistan.  His tenure at DIA was dominated by continuation of combat operations in Afghanistan and the early phases of combat operations in Iraq.  

     VADM Jacoby has served in a variety of senior roles with AFCEA International, its Intelligence Committee and the Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA).  His extensive pro bono involvement also includes an advisory role with the University of Maryland School of Public Policy.  He is a regular participant in national security related conferences and symposia and is active in mentoring young intelligence professionals.

  • Lieutenant General Mary A. Legere served as the U.S. Army’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence (G-2) from 2012 to 2016, leading the Army Intelligence Corps and advising senior leaders on global intelligence, counterintelligence, and security operations. She previously commanded the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) and the 501st Military Intelligence Brigade, and served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence for Multi-National Force-Iraq. Her career has focused on modernization of land-force intelligence, talent management, and the integration of cyber and multi-domain operations.

    Following her military service, Mary joined Accenture Federal Services where she serves as Managing Director, Global Defense. She also serves as an advisor to the Military Cyber Professionals Association (MCPA).

  • The Honorable Ronald S. Moultrie served as Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security (USD(I&S)) from June 1, 2021 to February 2024. In this role he advised the Secretary of Defense on intelligence, counterintelligence, and security and exercised authority, direction, and control over DoD intelligence and security components, including NSA, DIA, NGA, NRO, DCSA, and the Service intelligence elements. Ron also served on the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board and the President’s Intelligence Oversight Board.

    A career senior executive, Mr. Moultrie previously held leadership roles at CIA, NSA, and ODNI and helped drive enterprise modernization, workforce development, and security reform across the Defense Intelligence and Security enterprise. Earlier in his public service he supported sensitive reconnaissance and space initiatives. He now advises government and industry on strategy, risk, and innovation.

    Ron is a sought-after consultant and serves on the board of directors at LeoLabs, Nightwing, and the National Cryptologic Foundation.

  • General Paul M. Nakasone concluded nearly 40 years of service in February 2024 after leading the nation’s cyber forces as Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, and serving concurrently as Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service (2018–2024). He previously commanded U.S. Army Cyber Command and led cyber and intelligence formations in multiple theaters. Widely credited with institutionalizing the concept of persistent engagement, he strengthened whole-of-government defenses against foreign cyber threats and advanced integration of cyber, intelligence, and operations. A native of Minnesota, he is a graduate of Saint John’s University with advanced degrees from the University of Southern California, the National Intelligence University, and the U.S. Army War College.

    Paul is the Founding Director of Vanderbilt University’s new Institute of National Security and holds a Research Professorship within Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering. He also serves on the board of trustees of Saint John’s University, his alma mater, and on the board of directors of WitnessAI and OpenAI.

  • Mary O’ Brien is the founder of a consulting firm that advises clients on transformational technology integration, geopolitical risk, and navigating the defense sector. She also serves on the advisory boards for several technology companies.

    Mary retired as lieutenant general after serving 34 years in the Air Force and served in several key intelligence leadership roles, including as the Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance and Cyber Effects Operations (A2/6), and as the U.S. Cyber Command Director of Intelligence (J2). Her career was defined by dedication to the Defense Intelligence Enterprise workforce and a commitment to advancing the nation’s security through technology. Throughout her service, she advocated for policy changes to improve the readiness, retention, and quality of life for service members and their families. As an innovator, she pioneered advancements in the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles, networked weapons, and advanced intelligence sensors.

  • Jeff Trussler is an independent consultant in national security affairs supporting organizations involved in defense, intelligence, and advanced technology under Team Trussler LLC. He also serves on the board of directors for Areté, Systematic Inc. US, and the Naval Submarine League.

    Jeff completed a 39-year career in the US Navy where he served as a submarine and nuclear power officer for most of his career before transitioning to intelligence, information warfare, and advanced technology development.

    He commanded the ballistic missile submarine USS MARYLAND (SSBN 738), Task Force SIX NINE in Naples, Italy where he was in charge of US Navy and allied undersea operations in the European and African theaters, and the Undersea Warfighting Development Center responsible for innovation, technological, and tactical development. He finished his Navy career as a Vice Admiral serving as the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare and as the 68th Director of Naval Intelligence.

  • Trey Whitworth concluded over 36 years of commissioned service as Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).  He served joint operations at every echelon and through multiple combat campaigns.  As a Flag Officer, he was Intelligence Director for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Intelligence Director for U.S. Africa Command, and Deputy Director for Computer Network Operations at the National Security Agency. Trey served the Special Operations community as Intelligence Director for Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU), and a Joint Special Operations Task Force during multiple tours in Afghanistan.  He also commanded the Navy’s Kennedy Irregular Warfare Center and U.S. Central Command’s Joint Intelligence Center.

    Trey is a Life Member of the Council on Foreign Relations - and a distinguished graduate of Duke University (AB) and Georgetown University (MA). Known as a targeting and Artificial Intelligence (AI) leader, Trey is President (National Security) for r4 Federal, an AI company.  He is also a Distinguished Senior Fellow for Business Executives for National Security (BENS) and Founder/CEO of Whitworth Strategies, LLC.

Ambassadors

  • Mr. Charles Carithers is a principal at Cornerstone Government Affairs, a full-service, bipartisan consulting firm, where he advises a diverse set of clients with interests related national security, defense, and Homeland security.  He previously served as a Professional Staff Member with the Committee on Homeland Security in the House of Representatives, advising then Chairman, Rep. Bennie Thompson, on various national security and intelligence matters.  Before joining the Committee, Charles spent 11 years in the Intelligence Community, having served in various leadership capacities at IARPA, ODNI’s Policy Division, and DIA. Charles also served as a Brookings Institution legislative fellow with the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee in the Senate where he advised then Ranking Member Sen. Thomas Carper and Committee staff on matters related to national security. Charles serves on the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) DC Leadership Council, is a term member with the Council on Foreign Relations, and a visiting fellow with the National Security Institute at George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School. He is the recipient of the Joint Civilian Service Commendation Award and Medal and the Secretary of Defense Global War on Terrorism Award and Medal.   Charles also serves as chairman of the Board of Advisors for Black Professionals in International Affairs.  He is a 2005 graduate of Morehouse College, a 2007 graduate of Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, and an adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s Center for Security Studies.

  • Tim is a CEO Founder with a belief that we all owe a duty to the world to leverage technology and particularly, AI, for the betterment of Mankind. He founded Digital Reasoning in college and was its CEO throughout most of its development. Digital Reasoning built software to automate understanding of structured and unstructured data based on a distinctive, patented mathematical approach to understanding natural language and leverages distributed computing technologies to make these analytics work effectively on Big Data. Digital Reasoning served the Defense, Intelligence, Financial, Enterprise Risk, and Health Care markets with solutions.

  • Harry has been a multi-sector general manager, P&L leader, board-level advisor, and business development professional with a background in strategy consulting, corporate finance, private equity, and M&A at leading firms.  Harry has held several c-suite and executive leadership roles in the Fortune 500 and middle market. Earlier in his career, Harry was Managing Partner of a Bain & Company spin-off, a private equity professional and portfolio company strategy leader at Highland Capital, and a corporate finance and M&A professional at Alex Brown & Sons and Wasserstein Perella & Co. Harry was a commissioned US military officer and member of the warship construction program embedded at General Dynamics.  He is a Resident Fellow & Lecturer at the University of Texas at Dallas, and graduate of the US Naval Academy at Annapolis and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business, where he was a Bibeault Scholar.

  • Akash Jain currently serves as Chief Technology Officer of Palantir Technologies and President of Palantir USG. His current areas of focus include driving Palantir’s 0→1 R&D portfolio including enabling AI/ML Ops across the USG business with Palantir’s Gotham and Foundry platforms. He spends most of this time iterating with mission partners, Palantir’s engineering teams and leaders across the civilian, defense and intelligence practice areas. Mr. Jain graduated from Stanford University in 2003 with degree in Computer Science. He now lives in Oakland, California where he enjoys spending time with his family.

  • Dawn is recognized for her deep understanding of user and chief stakeholder needs, effecting innovative and essential changes wherever she has served. From 2014-2021, Dawn led the iconic CIA Directorate of Science and Technology, directing the organization’s first restructure in their fabled 57 year history, defining and delivering global capabilities beyond state-of-the-art even in the midst of significant workforce societal and health concerns. Dawn also led the restructure of AOL Products to ensure alignment to business objectives, leading M&A technical assessments and ribbon-cutting new global facilities. Concurrently, she served on the National Security Agency (NSA) Corporate Board for over a decade, supporting both their Technical Strategy and Information Assurance subcommittees. Inspired by a shared commitment to the national security community and it’s amazing people, Dawn is delighted to join the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation as one of its Ambassadors.

  • Matt Ocko is a technology entrepreneur and VC. He is co-Managing Partner and co-founder of DCVC, the leading Deep Tech VC firm, with multiple billions of dollars focused on America’s resilience and economic and national security. Matt holds a degree in Physics from Yale University, and he is an inventor on over 50 granted or in-process patents in areas as diverse as computer systems virtualization, fraud detection, and AR.  Matt has spent decades helping to ensure the engines of American innovation are available to national security missions and is known across the federal government for his proactive investment in capabilities needed for the missions of the future.  He is an advisor to the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation (and through his firm, frequent co-investor with) In-Q-Tel, a long-time member of and advisor to BENS (Business Executives for National Security, ) led by Gen. (ret) Joe Votel, a founding sponsor of and advisor to the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation () and is a frequent pro-bono advisor to senior staff of the FBI, CIA, SOCOM, and certain interagency committees on select technology and policy matters.

  • Serving as Senior Vice President at Booz Allen Hamilton, Beau is a growth specialist with a proven record of building and optimizing effective strategies and processes in the technology and consulting industries - driving strategy and performance improvement, enhancing market position, maximizing efficiencies, increasing profit margins, and enhancing executive customer relationships. Mentor and coach dedicated to building, developing, and leading high-impact cross-functional teams to exceed objectives and create sustainable success.

  • Keith Pellegrini is a Partner at McChrystal Group known for delivering decisive leadership in complex situations, performing in high pressure environments and building partnerships in challenging cultures for the greater good. He has nearly 3 decades of diverse, practical, National Security experience, girded by undergraduate and graduate study focused on National Security and Foreign Policy. His singularly unique Special Operations career, which included immersion within both the Intelligence Community and State Department, combined with private sector experience advising both large corporations and local government officials, equips him with exquisite insight and skills for handling a broad spectrum of strategic challenges.

  • Greg Oslan is a proven and accomplished executive known for his deep understanding of both technology and business leadership. His track record of leadership spans decades and includes building and growing companies to successful exits and serving as strategic advisors to VC firms and a wide range of government and nonprofit organizations.

  • Sameer Punyani is the Senior Director for Growth Partnerships at In-Q-Tel (IQT) where he leads the strategic growth, development, and onboarding of IQT’s new federal partnerships to accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies for national security missions. Prior to IQT, Sameer was the Chief of Staff to the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security at the Department of Defense, managing day-to-day operations of a 700-person DoD component and advising on policy development and oversight of intelligence and security matters across the Department. Previous roles at DoD include Chief of Staff for Irregular Warfare and Counterterrorism Policy, Afghanistan Country Director, and Defense Fellow in the Immediate Office of Secretaries of Defense Chuck Hagel and Ash Carter.

    Earlier in his career, Sameer was a Lead Associate in the Strategic Innovation Group at Booz Allen Hamilton, advising public and private sector clients on their AI strategy and Chief Data Officer organizational design. He began his career conducting research at several think tanks and planning and managing the execution of political and official government events for President Obama and Vice President Biden. Sameer holds an MSc in Comparative Politics and Conflict Studies from the London School of Economics and Political Science and a B.A. in International Relations from the Johns Hopkins University.

  • Sandy is the proud mother of Scott Andrew Wirtz, who was killed on January 16, 2019, in a terrorist attack in Manbij, Syria. Scott supported multiple critical mission deployments for DIA and the Department of Defense. On the first anniversary of his death, Sandy was contacted by the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation requesting permission to name a scholarship in Scott’s name. Honored that the DIMF was memorializing Scotty with the opportunity to help other deserving families, she readily agreed and has since become a fierce advocate for the DIMF initiatives.

    Sandy, a native of St. Louis, MO, graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in English Literature and Secondary Education. She spent her career in business aviation both in St. Louis and Washington D.C. She retired from the National Business Aviation Association in Washington D.C. as Director of Seminars. Her role included supporting corporate flight department personnel through conventions and seminars providing the tools and resources to hone their leadership and management skills.

    Since the death of her son, Sandy has become involved with the DIMF as well as The Navy SEAL Foundation, Carry the Load, and Dogs for Our Brave supporting other parents and families and the causes of these foundations.

  • Teresa Shea is a highly accomplished executive with a distinguished career spanning government, technology, and national security. As President of Oplnet, LLC, a strategic consulting firm, she leverages her extensive experience to advise organizations on critical challenges. Her leadership extends to numerous boards, including Huntington National Bank, Serco NA, Sandbox AQ, and non-profits such as the Cyber Guild, the National Cryptologic Foundation, and the Intelligence and National Security Foundation. She also serves on the board of the Georgia Institute of Technology.

    Teresa brings a unique blend of corporate and government expertise, delivering impactful results in both arenas. Her 32-year tenure at the National Security Agency (NSA) was marked by exceptional leadership, culminating in her role as Director of Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), the core of NSA’s mission and a cornerstone of U.S. intelligence.

    Following her NSA service, Teresa transitioned to the private sector, serving as Executive Vice President of Technology and Director of Cyber at In-Q-Tel. In this role, she spearheaded strategic investments that addressed critical operational needs for government partners. She then served as Vice President at Raytheon, managing CODEX, a profit and loss business unit specializing in offensive and defensive cyber capabilities and operational infrastructure development.

  • Scott Stalker is a distinguished leader, published author, and professional speaker with over three decades of experience in the Marine Corps. His career spans leadership roles across the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), Space, Cyberspace, Intelligence, and Special Operations, and includes seven combat tours in Somalia and Iraq, as well as a Non-Combatant Evacuation Operation in Tirana, Albania. He deployed with HMM-365, 26th MEU (SOC), 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, and 7th Marine Regiment, and deployed while assigned to all three active-duty Marine Corps Divisions. Scott has deployed onboard the USS Guam, USS Nashville, USS Nassau, and USS Blue Ridge. He also served as the Intelligence Chief for Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command, and the Joint Staff J-2. He later served as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Defense Intelligence Agency, National Security Agency, United States Cyber Command, and United States Space Command.

    As the founder and CEO of S2-Stalker Solutions LLC, a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Scott leverages his extensive military background to drive leadership cultivation and innovation, while offering professional speaking, leadership development, and national security consulting services to a wide range of organizations.

    In his current roles, Scott serves as a senior fellow at the National Defense University. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Marine Raider Foundation, Naval Intelligence Professionals, the Wounded Warrior Project, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and is a member of the Board of Advisors for the Tun Legacy Foundation. His unwavering dedication to supporting veterans and enhancing military and leadership strategies underscores his profound impact and commitment.

  • Lathan is a seasoned leader with proven results in global environments under time constraints dedicated to exceeding expectations of clients and customers. Over 18 years of interacting with high ranking U.S and foreign officials in government while managing billions of dollars in personnel and equipment. Responsible for the overall development, strategic direction, growth, and management of strategic client relationships with National Security Agencies. Leads a matrixed team of Sales, Business Development, Solution Architects, Professional Services, Program & Service Managers to provide cloud services while meeting sales, lifecycle and customer satisfaction targets.

Emeritus Board Members

  • As a career Intelligence Professional, Dr. Michael Wertheimer has been at the forefront of crucial global issues for three decades. He was the Research Director of the National Security Agency and led over 500 civilian scientists in the advancement of cryptology, cyber security, trusted systems, big-data collection and processing, intelligence analysis, and high-performance computing. Dr. Wertheimer served as an Assistant Deputy Director for Analysis in Office of the Director of National Intelligence and oversaw efforts to bring increased depth and accuracy to analysis. He launched A-Space, a Time Magazine Best Invention of 2008 dubbed the “Facebook for Spies,” and the Library of National Intelligence. Dr. Wertheimer was awarded both the Director of National Intelligence Reform Medal and the Director of National Intelligence Achievement Medal. From 2015-2018 Dr. Wertheimer was Managing Director for Cyber Security Strategy at Morgan Stanley, Michael led all facets of the firm’s technology and information risk strategic portfolio. He is the chief architect of the firm’s defense in depth network architecture and led a small team of world-class cyber professionals responsible for threat hunting and adversarial pursuit. Dr. Wertheimer currently serves as a Senior Advisor to The Chertoff Group and as a Senior Advisor to BlueVoyant. LLC. Dr. Wertheimer received BA degrees, Magna cum Laude, in Mathematics and Philosophy from the University of Rochester in 1979. He received his MA degree in Mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1982. On a graduate fellowship from the National Security Agency, Dr. Wertheimer completed his Ph.D. in Mathematics at the University of Pennsylvania in 1986. He stepped down from his position as Board Member of the DIMF in 2025.

  • Kurt is a Managing Partner for C5 Capital where he focuses on finding the right leaders and technologies to preserve our way of life.  He oversees DC operations and serves as Head of Investments, with a portfolio focused on cybersecurity, space, and energy security solutions for commercial, defense, and intelligence community needs. Prior to C5 Capital, Kurt completed a 15-year career at Booz Allen Hamilton where he was selected as the first Director of the National Innovation Center in Washington, DC, helping to identify emerging technologies from across the nation and accelerating the discipline of innovation. As a consultant, Kurt focused on innovation, strategy, and operations consulting across a wide range of aerospace, defense, and space commercial clients, government agencies, and a majority of the U.S. intelligence community agencies. Prior to his commercial career, Kurt served as an AH-1W Cobra pilot in the US Marine Corps with operational deployments in Afghanistan and Kosovo, with secondary duties as an intelligence officer. In addition to the Defense Intelligence Memorial Foundation, Kurt serves on the Boards of multiple C5 portfolio companies and as a member of the President’s Innovation Advisory Council for George Mason University.   He earned an MBA from Harvard Business School, a certification in Advanced Change Management from Georgetown University, and a BS in Economics with a minor in Russian from the US Naval Academy.