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2023 Officer Women Leadership Symposium (OWLS) and Career Coaching Workshop

Thursday, 13 April 2023 9:00 AM - Friday, 14 April 2023 4:30 PM EDT

Arlington Campus, Van Metre Hall, 134, Auditorium Arlington Campus, Arlington, Virginia, 22201, United States

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IN PERSON General Admission: ONLY Career Coaching Workshop (13 APR) Partial Approval - $55.00

Early bird pricing ends 15 MAR and will increase to $55. As a participant in the Career Workshop you have the opportunity to take the Passion Profiler and if completed, will receive a customized 18-page assessment. Please note: There will be NO REFUNDS for this event unless the event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. If the in-person event is cancelled, you will be able to participate virtually and refunded the difference. If you are unable to afford the cost of admission, please select "Admission Price Waiver Wait List" as your registration option. Placement on the wait list does NOT guarantee admission to the event. If you are able to donate the cost of an additional, or multiple registration fees, please do so below in the "Donate Admission(s)" section after selecting one of the "General Admission" options as your registration type.

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VIRTUAL General Admission: BOTH Career Coaching Workshop and OWLS (13-14 APR) Partial Approval - $75.00

As a participant in the Career Workshop you have the opportunity to take the Passion Profiler and if completed, will receive a customized 18-page assessment. Please note: There will be NO REFUNDS for this event unless the event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. If you are unable to afford the cost of admission, please select "Admission Price Waiver Wait List" as your registration option. Placement on the wait list does NOT guarantee admission to the events. If you are able to donate the cost of an additional, or multiple registration fees, please do so below in the "Donate Admission(s)" section after selecting one of the "General Admission" options as your registration type.

Sale ended

VIRTUAL General Admission: ONLY Career Coaching Workshop (13 APR) Partial Approval - $35.00

As a participant in the Career Workshop you have the opportunity to take the Passion Profiler and if completed, will receive a customized 18-page assessment. Please note: There will be NO REFUNDS for this event. If you are unable to afford the cost of admission, please select "Admission Price Waiver Wait List" as your registration option. Placement on the wait list does NOT guarantee admission to the events. If you are able to donate the cost of an additional, or multiple registration fees, please do so below in the "Donate Admission(s)" section after selecting one of the "General Admission" options as your registration type.

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VIRTUAL General Admission: ONLY OWLS (14 APR) Partial Approval - $60.00

Please note: There will be NO REFUNDS for these events. If you are unable to afford the cost of admission, please select "Admission Price Waiver Wait List" as your registration option. Placement on the wait list does NOT guarantee admission to the events. If you are able to donate the cost of an additional, or multiple registration fees, please do so below in the "Donate Admission(s)" section after selecting one of the "General Admission" options as your registration type.

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IN PERSON Evening Reception ONLY - 13 APR from 4:30pm-6:00pm (If NOT registering to attend the Career Coaching Workshop or OWLS) Partial Approval - $20.00

Celebrate 20 years of AcademyWomen and connect with military and veteran women from all services. Select this registration option only if you are NOT planning to register for the Career Coaching Workshop or Officer Women Leadership Symposium. (The evening reception is already included in the registration fees for these events.)

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(SOLD OUT: Waitlist Available) IN PERSON General Admission: BOTH Career Coaching Workshop and OWLS (13-14 APR) Partial Approval - $255.00

Early bird pricing ends 15 MAR and the fee will increase to $255. As a participant in the Career Workshop you have the opportunity to take the Passion Profiler and if completed, will receive a customized 18-page assessment. Please note: There will be NO REFUNDS for this event unless the event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. If the in-person event is cancelled, you will be able to participate virtually and refunded the difference. If you are unable to afford the cost of admission, please select "Admission Price Waiver Wait List" as your registration option. Placement on the wait list does NOT guarantee admission to the events. If you are able to donate the cost of an additional, or multiple registration fees, please do so below in the "Donate Admission(s)" section after selecting one of the "General Admission" options as your registration type.

Sale ended

(SOLD OUT: Waitlist Available) IN PERSON General Admission: ONLY OWLS (14 APR) Partial Approval - $190.00

Early bird pricing ends 15 MAR and will increase to $190. Please note: There will be NO REFUNDS for this event unless the event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. If you are unable to afford the cost of admission, please select "Admission Price Waiver Wait List" as your registration option. Placement on the wait list does NOT guarantee admission to the event. If you are able to donate the cost of an additional, or multiple registration fees, please do so below in the "Donate Admission(s)" section after selecting one of the "General Admission" options as your registration type.

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Sponsor / Exhibitor Partial Approval

Please select this registration type if you are a confirmed sponsor or exhibitor for the event. If you are not yet confirmed but would like to participate as an exhibitor or event sponsor, contact: sponsorship@academywomen.org

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Speaker Partial Approval

Please select this registration type if you are a confirmed speaker for the event.

sales ended

Admission Price Waiver Wait List Partial Approval

If you are unable to afford the cost of admission, you may request a fee waiver and will be placed on a wait list. Your request or placement on the wait list does NOT guarantee admission to the events. We will contact you directly if a donor will be able to offset your registration fees.

Sale ended

Waitlist - IN PERSON General Admission: ONLY OWLS (14 APR) Partial Approval - Free

IN-PERSON attendance for the OWLS on 14 APR has reached capacity. The IN-PERSON Career Workshop and Evening Reception on 13 APR still have LIMITED Availability. Feel free to attend the OWLS VIRTUALLY or join the waitlist for the IN-PERSON OWLS, and if cancellations occur, we will inform you directly. At that time, you will be asked to pay the registration fee of $190 once contacted and confirmed.

Sale ended

Donate Admission(s)

Sale ends on 04/13/2023

If you are able to donate an additional admission fee, or multiple admission fees, on behalf of those who may not be able to afford the cost, please do so here. AcademyWomen is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Please confer with your tax professional to determine your level of deduction. Receipts for donated admission fees will be available upon request. Thank you for your generosity and support.

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Event Information

Thursday, 13 April 2023 9:00 AM - Friday, 14 April 2023 4:30 PM EDT

George Mason University , Arlington Campus, Arlington, Virginia, 22201, United States.

(ALL TIMES LISTED ARE EST)

The 2023 Career Coaching Workshop and Officer Women Leadership Symposium (OWLS) will be held as hybrid events offered onsite and virtually for those who cannot attend in-person. The onsite events will be held on the Arlington, VA campus of George Mason University. Event information can be found on the various tabs above including detailed agendas and a listing of participating speakers.

CAREER COACHING WORKSHOP

13 APR 2023 (9:00a - 4:30p EST): The Career Workshop offers professional development workshops, opportunities to network with top-caliber, military friendly employers and resources that assist military women in advancing their career goals and/or making successful career transitions after their military service. Current and former military officer women, senior enlisted women and degreed military spouses in (or considering) career transition, are especially encouraged to attend.

EVENING RECEPTION - CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF ACADEMYWOMEN

13 APR 2023 (4:30p - 6:00p EST): The evening reception is open to attendees of both the Career Workshop and OWLS. The option to attend the reception ONLY is also available.

Join AcademyWomen in celebrating their 20th year of cultivating the leadership of military women to impact positive change locally, nationally and globally. Enjoy opportunities to meet and interact with guest speakers, participating partners and sponsors, as well as your fellow military women and colleagues.

OFFICER WOMEN LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM (OWLS) - LEADING FOR IMPACT

14 APR 2023 (9:00a - 5:00p EST): The OWLS offers keynotes, panel discussions, and inspiring speakers in an event that brings together fellow military women, veteran leaders, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from the military services, as well as the public and private sectors. The 2023 theme - Leading for Impact - will explore how in the face of conflict, opportunity and challenge, you can lead for greater impact when it might be tempting to just get the job done; and how to skillfully manage behaviors, relationships, decisions, and strategic vision to align intentions with the impact you want to have as a leader.

PERMISSIVE TDY OR TAD

For guidance on attending the Career Workshop and OWLS using permissive TDY or TAD, please visit the militaryOWLS website and click on the Event FAQs tab for more details.

PASSION PROFILER

A Passion Profiler assessment and customized 18-page report are included in your registration as a Career Coaching Workshop attendee for those who select this option during the registration process. It is important that you register NLT 5 APR to be able to receive your customized report in time for the event. (Those who register AFTER 5 APR and elect to take the Passion Profiler, will receive a link to the assessment AFTER the event has ended.) The Passion Profiler uses a validated, scientific method to assess your expression of purpose as work-related passions. The Passion Profiler insights can be used to help identify your optimum professional fit and best leverage your strengths in your career and life. For more details about the Passion Profiler, visit the militaryOWLS website and click on the Career Workshop and Passion Profiler tabs.

In order to receive your custom 18-page report ON or BEFORE the date of the event, you must complete your Passion Profiler assessment BEFORE the Career Workshop and by the published deadline found by visiting the Passion Profiler tab.

YOU MUST REGISTER NLT 5 APR in order to take the Passion Profiler assessment and receive your customized report in time for the event on 13 APR. If registering after 5 April, you will receive your link AFTER the 13 APR event in accordance with the timeline found on the militaryOWLS website.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE DIRECTORY

As part of the Career Workshop and OWLS, AcademyWomen is providing the opportunity for event participants to include their profiles in the 2022-2023 Professional Profile Directory (PPD). The Professional Profile Directory features the highly sought-after skills, talents and leadership competencies of military women in career transition. This directory will be shared with AcademyWomen partners who may be able to facilitate hiring, a group that includes a wide array of top-caliber corporate, nonprofit and government entities. Not able to attend the events? If you are a military officer woman, senior enlisted woman or a degreed military spouse in career transition, you can still include your information in the Professional Profile Directory. For more information, visit the PPD here.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

AcademyWomen has reserved a block of rooms reserved for attendees at the Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Courthouse Plaza 1333 North Courthouse Road Arlington, Virginia 22201. It is an easy 20 minute walk to the event venue. Booking Code is AW2023 and Group booking link is: Academy Women.

ACCESS TO SESSION RECORDINGS

As a paid registrant, if you are unable to attend the event synchronously during the scheduled time, you will still be able to access the session recordings for on-demand viewing. Customized login details will be sent to your registration email no later than one week after the event. Please Note: The Finding Your Fit - Passion Profiler workshop on 13 APR will NOT be recorded and disseminated for viewing following the event.

BECOME A PARTNER OR SPONSOR

If you would like to sponsor or become an exhibitor for the Career Workshop or OWLS, contact us at: sponsorship@academywomen.org.

QUESTIONS? CONTACT US

See our FAQ page for more details or learn more at our website at www.militaryowls.org. For questions about the events, contact: owls@academywomen.org.

We look forward to having you join us!

The AcademyWomen Team

Speakers

Learn more about2023 Career Workshop Speakers

2023 Career Workshop Speakers

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Learn more aboutJackie Stennett

Jackie Stennett

Vice President, AcademyWomen

U.S. Army Veteran

Jackie Stennett is the Vice President and Board Member of AcademyWomen, a nonprofit leadership and professional development organization that bridges the gap of support by providing programs and resources that connect military women to networks of substance, impact and influence. As Vice President, Jackie assists in the design strategy and growth of all mission critical programs including the former 5x award-winning online mentoring program, networking events and career development opportunities that cultivate and leverage the leadership of military women to impact positive change locally, nationally and globally. Jackie served as a logistics officer in the United States Army and has a wide array of leadership and management experience within the corporate, government and nonprofit sectors. Currently, in addition to her role with AcademyWomen, Jackie advises organizations with socially responsible missions in designing effective strategies to improve individual and organizational performance. Jackie holds an MBA from Harvard Business School, a BS in Chinese Studies from the United States Military Academy at West Point and serves on the Advisory Boards of the Service Academies Global Summit (SAGS), and the Schar School of Policy & Government Gender and Policy (GAP) Center at George Mason University.

Learn more aboutSuzy Streeter

Suzy Streeter

Event Host

Colonel, U.S. Air Force (Retired); Board Member, AcademyWomen

Suzy Streeter is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and a Founding Member of the AcademyWomen Board of Directors. Over her 28 years in the Air Force, Colonel Streeter was a Group Commander, Major Command and Numbered Air Force Director of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance; an Intelligence Plans and Exercises Division Chief at a sub-unified command; a Squadron Director of Operations; a Squadron Commander; as well as an Air Staff Program Element Monitor and Legislative Affairs Liaison. Colonel Streeter's deployments include Operation DECISIVE ENDEAVOR and Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Prior to retiring from the Air Force, she was instrumental in standing-up the US Space Force Intelligence, Reconnaissance, and Surveillance function. Colonel Streeter is a 1992 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and is currently pursuing an MA in Pastoral Ministry.

Learn more aboutLourdes Tiglao

Lourdes Tiglao

Opening Remarks

U.S. Air Force Veteran; Director, Center for Women Veterans, Department of Veterans Affairs

Lourdes Tiglao is the Director of the Center for Women Veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In this capacity, Ms. Tiglao serves as the primary advisor to the VA Secretary on Department policies, programs, and legislation that affect women Veterans. In addition, she oversees the Center’s activities, which include monitoring and coordinating VA’s administration of health care, benefits, services, and programs for women Veterans; serving as an advocate for cultural transformation (both within VA and in the general public) in recognizing the service and contributions of women Veterans and service members; and raising awareness of the responsibility to treat women Veterans with dignity and respect. Prior to joining the VA, Ms. Tiglao was the Global Partnerships Manager at Airbnb’s Open Homes program, where she focused on strategy, standards, processes, and strategic partnerships; while overseeing a global team and a portfolio of 70+ nonprofit, private sector, and international aid agencies across six continents. Ms. Tiglao’s background traverses the military, federal, and nonprofit sectors, spanning over a decade in leadership roles in the US Air Force and various functional areas in business, communications, and healthcare. During her military tenure, Ms. Tiglao utilized her medical expertise to help save lives on the Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT), and was deployed to multiple locations including Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, and others. Her final assignment was in Okinawa, Japan, where she helped launch the first Critical Care Medical Attendant Team (CCMAT) which provides critical care medical evacuation services. After transitioning from the military, Ms. Tiglao served with Team Rubicon, a Veteran-led non-profit disaster response organization, as the Global Strategic Partnerships Officer, connecting the network with government and organizations around the world. Ms. Tiglao is a former member on the MyVA Advisory Board for the VA and has served on several Veteran-focused boards to improve service access for minority Veterans and enhance their lives through the arts. She is a sought-after speaker and has presented on topics ranging from management, medicine, Veteran reintegration, and humanitarian response to the Philippine Embassy, New York and San Francisco Philippine consulates, the State Department, international television networks, universities, and scientific conferences.

Learn more aboutAlaina Love, SPHR

Alaina Love, SPHR

Workshop Facilitator: Finding Your Fit - How Passion and Purpose Transform a Career into a Lifestyle

Founder & CEO, Purpose Linked Consulting; Creator, Passion Profiler

Alaina is the CEO and Founder of Purpose Linked Consulting, and is a nationally recognized expert in leadership purpose, passion and inclusion. She is the co-author of The Purpose Linked Organization: How Passionate Leaders Inspire Winning Teams and Great Results. A former research scientist and former Executive Director of Global Human Resources for Merck, Alaina developed the Passion Profiler™ - a psychometric tool, which identifies and measures employee passions and reveals how these passions are being used in the work environment. Alaina’s work has shown that managing to an individual’s passions, as well as their skills, fuels performance and engagement, stimulates cognitive diversity and builds the agility required to successfully navigate and lead in challenging times. An avid thought leader, she has written for Bloomberg Business Week, The Washington Post, and Harvard Business Review online. Currently, she writes a popular Leadership blog for SmartBrief. Alaina is also a member of Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coaches, an organization comprised of the world’s top coaches and leadership strategists. In 2021, Alaina was recently awarded the International Thought Leader of Distinction award from the MEECO Leadership Institute.

Learn more aboutLeslie Mulligan

Leslie Mulligan

Workshop Facilitator: Building Confident Women at the Negotiation Table

U.S. Air Force Veteran; Negotiation Expert, Watershed Associates

Leslie Mulligan is a negotiation expert who has facilitated training globally for high-profile clients across industries and professional functions including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, non-profit organizations and universities. Leslie is a highly sought after negotiation speaker, delivering keynotes for large groups such as the FDA, GE Aviation, Intel, KIND Snacks, Medtronic, NASA, Nike, Novo Nordisk, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the American Conference Institute Leadership Forum for Women in Defense and Aerospace. A proven business leader in the high tech arena, Leslie spent the last 15 years in Silicon Valley leading sales and marketing teams, negotiating with customers and partners alike to accelerate business growth. Her experience spans diverse roles, including product management, marketing, sales, business development and general management. Most recently, she was the Worldwide Director of Marketing for the Mobile team at the Fortune 500 Company, NVIDIA Corporation, focusing on global Telecom and working closely with Verizon, AT&T, China Mobile, Vodafone, and other network operators around the world. Prior to that, Leslie was Vice President and General Manager at Immersion Corporation, negotiating critical contracts with Samsung, LG, Sony and other multi-national companies. She has also held senior roles in Wind River, Quantum and Raychem Corporations. Throughout her business career, Leslie has negotiated and crafted innovative business agreements, leveraging vital alliances and creating value for all partners. Early in her career, Leslie served as an Officer in the United States Air Force as a Scientific Analyst, with assignments in the Air Force Systems Command at Eglin Air Force Base (AFB) in Florida, and with the Manpower Personnel Center at Bolling AFB and the Pentagon in Washington, DC. Leslie holds an MS from Harvard University in Applied Mathematics, an MBA from the University of West Florida, and a BS in Mathematics from the University of Notre Dame.

Learn more aboutKatherine Winchek

Katherine Winchek

Workshop Facilitator: Building, Defending & Leveraging Your Personal Brand

Specialist, Ohio Army National Guard; Learning and Development Consultant, Leidos

Katherine Winchek is a Learning and Development Consultant at Leidos, and a published author of the children’s book The Rainbow that Lost its Colors, a book about diversity and inclusion. She is passionate about equitable learning and is always finding ways to connect people with growth opportunities; including sharing her lessons learned during the book publishing process regarding social media presence and finding her voice in the professional world. Katherine spends one weekend a month serving with the Ohio Army National Guard working on UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, holds a BA in Anthropology and is a current PhD student of Industrial and Organizational Psychology.

Learn more about2023 Evening Reception and 20-Year Celebration ...

2023 Evening Reception and 20-Year Celebration ...

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Learn more aboutMo and Katy Show: Mo Barrett and Katy Stevens

Mo and Katy Show: Mo Barrett and Katy Stevens

Moderators of the Evening Reception and 20 Year Celebration

Mo and Katy Show

Your conversation catalysts are the “Mo & Katy Show” podcast co-hosts, Mo Barrett and Katy Stevens. Mo & Katy are unlikely friends from two separate worlds who collided through female barbershop singing. Katy, a lifelong civilian, is helping Mo navigate her Second Act after the Air Force. Mo, a retired Colonel, is helping Katy discover and fly into her Second Act as she transitions her in-studio piano, voice, flute and performance instruction into the online airspace. Katy lives in Baltimore, Maryland with her husband, three sons and three dogs. Mo and her partner (also a retired Colonel) live in Linden, Virginia with 2 dogs and a dog-like cat. Mo and Katy are closer to the mid-century mark than either will admit (Katy will gladly admit Mo is closer to it than she is), but have reached a point in life where they’ve come to recognize, acknowledge, appreciate and leverage their respective quirks. Engaging in multiple creative endeavors, Mo & Katy take humor seriously and work to spread gratitude, humor and positivity.

Learn more aboutMark Rozell

Mark Rozell

Networking Reception Welcoming Remarks

Founding Dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University

Mark J. Rozell is the Founding Dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. He holds the Ruth D. and John T. Hazel chair in public policy. He is the author or co-author of thirteen books and editor of twenty additional books on various topics in US government and politics, including the Presidency, religion and politics, media and politics, southern politics, and interest groups in elections. He has testified before Congress on executive privilege issues and has lectured extensively in the US and abroad. In recent years, he has lectured in Austria, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, India, Italy, Poland, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, and Vietnam. Dean Rozell is a contributing writer to The Washington Post. His column on Virginia politics appears twice monthly in Local Opinions. Since 1994 he has served as a Judge for the Gerald R. Ford Award Committee for Outstanding Reporting on the Presidency for the Gerald R. Ford Foundation.

Learn more aboutBonnie Stabile, PhD

Bonnie Stabile, PhD

Networking Reception Welcoming Remarks

Founding Director, Gender and Policy (GAP) Center; Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Student and Academic Affairs in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University

Bonnie Stabile is Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Student and Academic Affairs in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, where she also serves as the Director of the Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) Program. She teaches courses on policy analysis, program evaluation, ethics, and gender in the Schar School's master's programs in public policy, public administration, and biodefense. Professor Stabile was the 2019 recipient of the Schar School's Teaching Award. Professor Stabile is Founder and Director of the Gender and Policy (GAP) Center at the Schar School. Her recent research projects and publications include articles in Public Integrity and the Journal of Public Affairs Education considering the role of women as MPA directors; the implications of women's choice of concentrations in MPA programs; the implication of fake news for women in politics; and Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Management and First Response. Her book Women, Power and Rape Culture: The Politics and Policy of Underrepresentation with co-author Aubrey Grant, Graduate Research Assistant and doctoral candidate at the Schar School, is forthcoming in 2022 from Praeger. Professor Stabile served as Editor-in-Chief of World Medical & Health Policy, a peer reviewed academic journal published by Wiley, from 2019 - 2020, after having served as Deputy and then Co-Editor since 2011. Her federal government work experience includes acting as Installation Coordinator of a U.S. Army post in Amberg, Germany, and as a Program Analyst for the Federal Home Loan Bank Board. From 1989-1993 she was Program Coordinator of the Senior Managers in Government Program at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Learn more about2023 OWLS Speakers

2023 OWLS Speakers

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Learn more aboutSusan Feland

Susan Feland

AcademyWomen, Executive Director

Founder and President, AcademyWomen

Susan Feland is the Founder and Executive Director of AcademyWomen. Susan was the oldest of three sisters to graduate from the United States Air Force Academy. She has worked in space systems acquisitions, taught at the Air Force Academy, and has a wide range of experience in non-profit, government, and corporate roles. Currently, in addition to leading AcademyWomen, Susan manages content and curriculum innovation at Stanford University. Susan has a LEAD Certificate in Corporate Innovation from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, an MA from Middlebury College, a Diplôme from the Université de Paris – Sorbonne and is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy with a BS degree.

Learn more aboutElisabeth Auld

Elisabeth Auld

Event Host

OWLS Chair, AcademyWomen

Elisabeth S. Auld is serving as host and chair of the 2020 Officer Women Leadership Symposium and has been involved in AcademyWomen activities for many years. She is currently employed by SAIC as a project manager for the Federal Aviation Administration and as an Adjunct Professor for the Naval War College. An Air Force veteran, Elisabeth retired as a Colonel in 2014, completing her career assigned as Director of Staff, Air Force Public Affairs, where she led a staff of six and directed the administrative, fiscal, security and personnel activities for a 185-person organization. Prior to this, she was assigned as the Deputy Director, Bases, Ranges, and Airspace, and the Airfield Operations Officer Career Field manager. Before her assignment to the Pentagon, she was honored to command the 506th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron at Kirkuk Regional Air Base, Iraq. Prior to her deployment, she served as Director of Operations for the 316th Operations Support Squadron at Andrews AFB, Maryland. Elisabeth was commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, May 1990, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources from Miami University. Additionally, she earned a Master of Arts, National Security Strategy from the Naval War College (2004) and a Master of Science, Human Resources from Troy University (1998). Elisabeth enjoys writing and blogs at Gals In Blue (https://www.galsinblue.com). There she muses about a myriad of topics, from pop culture to military issues to her family’s latest adventures. These star her favorite people: her husband Greg, their (now grown) kids, Emma and Michael, and their pups, Layla and Griffin.

Learn more aboutGail Crawford

Gail Crawford

MODERATOR: PERSPECTIVE FROM THE TOP

Brigadier General, U.S. Air Force

Brig. Gen. Gail E. Crawford is the Director of Military Justice and Discipline, Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps, Department of the Air Force, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. In this capacity, Brig. Gen. Crawford supervises the administration of military justice throughout the Air Force and the Space Force, including 450 personnel at 79 locations worldwide engaged in development and review of military justice policy and legislation; prosecution, defense, and victims’ representation at the trial and appellate levels; clemency and parole; and representation of Airmen in the disability evaluation system. Brig. Gen. Crawford received a direct appointment as an Air Force judge advocate in January 1997, after serving eight years active duty enlisted. She has deployed in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. She has served as a civil litigation attorney, a defense counsel, and a staff judge advocate at the wing, center and major command levels. Brig. Gen. Crawford is admitted to practice law before the Supreme Court of Florida, the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, and the United States Supreme Court. EDUCATION 1993 Bachelor of Science, Criminology, Florida State University, Tallahassee 1996 Juris Doctor, Florida State University College of Law, Tallahassee 2002 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., by correspondence 2005 Master of Laws, Labor and Employment Law, The George Washington University Law School, Washington, D.C. 2007 Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala., by correspondence 2011 Air War College, Maxwell AFB, Ala. by correspondence 2014 Air War College, Maxwell AFB, Ala., in residence

Learn more aboutTelita Crosland

Telita Crosland

PANELIST: PERSPECTIVE FROM THE TOP

Lieutenant General, U.S. Army

Lt. Gen. Telita Crosland is the Director of the Defense Health Agency (DHA), with headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Crosland is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy, the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. In addition to her Doctor of Medicine, she also holds a Master of Public Health from the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences and a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School. Crosland entered the Army as a Medical Corps Officer in 1993. She is Board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, and a recipient of The Surgeon General's “A” proficiency designator. Crosland has served in a variety of leadership positions including: Officer in Charge, Camp Walker Health Clinic, South Korea; Officer in Charge, Bennett Health Clinic, Fort Hood, Texas; Associate Program Director, Department of Family Medicine, Fort Lewis, Washington; Chief, Soldier Care, Fort Lewis, Washington; Deputy Chief, Department of Family Medicine, Fort Lewis, Washington; Commander, U.S. Army Health Clinic, Grafenwoehr, Germany; Senior Medical Officer, Office of The Surgeon General, Falls Church, Virginia; Commander, U.S. Army Medical Department Activity, Heidelberg, Germany; Deputy Commander, U.S. Army Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany; Medical Corps Branch Chief, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, Fort Knox, Kentucky; Commander, U.S. Army Medical Department Activity, Fort Campbell, Kentucky; Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, U.S. Army Medical Command (MEDCOM), Falls Church, Virginia; Commanding General, Regional Health Command-Atlantic, Fort Belvoir, Virginia. She most recently served as the Army Deputy Surgeon General and Deputy Commanding General (Operations) of MEDCOM. Her awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters; Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Staff Badge and the Parachutist’s Badge. She is also a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit.

Learn more aboutLinda Fagan

Linda Fagan

PANELIST: PERSPECTIVE FROM THE TOP

Admiral, Commandant of the United States Coast Guard

Admiral Linda L. Fagan assumed the duties as the 27th Commandant of the United States Coast Guard on June 1st, 2022. As Commandant, she oversees all global Coast Guard operations and 42,000 active-duty, 7,000 reserve, and 8,700 civilian personnel, as well as the support of 21,000 Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers. She previously served as the 32nd Vice Commandant. Prior flag assignments include Commander, Pacific Area, and Commander, Coast Guard Defense Force West; Deputy Commandant for Operations, Policy, and Capability; Commander, First Coast Guard District; and a joint assignment as Deputy Director of Operations for Headquarters, United States Northern Command. Admiral Fagan has served on all seven continents, from the snows of Ross Island, Antarctica to the heart of Africa, from Tokyo to Geneva, and in many ports along the way. Operational tours include Commander, Sector New York, more than 15 years as a Marine Inspector, and sea duty in USCGC POLAR STAR, a 399 ft heavy polar icebreaker. Staff assignments include Executive Assistant to the Commandant and Vice Commandant, and Division Chief of the Foreign and Offshore Compliance Office. Possessing extensive interagency as well as intergovernmental experience, Admiral Fagan has worked with both the International Maritime Organization and International Labor Organization on flag state and port state issues. This work includes the development of the International Ship and Port Security Code (ISPS), and the Consolidated Maritime Labor Convention. Admiral Fagan holds a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science degree from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, a Master of Science in Marine Affairs degree from the University of Washington, and a Master in National Resource Strategy degree from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. She has earned numerous personal and team awards during her 37 years of Coast Guard service. Admiral Fagan is the longest serving active duty Marine Safety Officer and holds the distinction of being the Coast Guard’s first-ever Gold Ancient Trident.

Learn more aboutLisa Franchetti

Lisa Franchetti

PANELIST: PERSPECTIVE FROM THE TOP

Admiral, Vice Chief of Naval Operations

Adm. Lisa Franchetti is a native of Rochester, New York. She received her commission in 1985 through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Program at Northwestern University, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. She also attended the Naval War College and holds a master degree in organizational management from the University of Phoenix. Her operational tours include auxiliaries officer and first division officer on USS Shenandoah (AD 44); navigator and jumboization coordinator onboard USS Monongahela (AO 178); operations officer on USS Moosbrugger (DD 980); combat systems officer and chief staff officer for Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2; executive officer of USS Stout (DDG 55); and assistant surface operations officer on USS George Washington Strike Group. She commanded USS Ross (DDG 71) and DESRON-21, embarked on USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). She also served as commander of Pacific Partnership 2010, embarked on USNS Mercy (T-AH 19). Ashore, Franchetti’s assignments include commander, Naval Reserve Center Central Point, Oregon; aide to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations; protocol officer for the commander, U.S. Atlantic Fleet; 4th Battalion officer at the U.S. Naval Academy; division chief, Joint Concept Development and Experimentation, on the Joint Staff, J7; deputy director of International Engagement and executive assistant to N3/N5 on the Navy staff; and military assistant to the Secretary of the Navy. Her flag assignments include commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea; commander, Carrier Strike Group 9; commander, Carrier Strike Group 15; chief of staff, Strategy, Plans and Policy (J-5) Joint Staff; commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO; deputy commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe; deputy commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa; Joint Force Maritime Component Commander; deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Development, N7; and director for Strategy, Plans and Policy (J-5), Joint Staff. Franchetti assumed the duties as Vice Chief of Naval Operations Sept. 2, 2022. Her personal awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal (two awards), Legion of Merit (five awards), Meritorious Service Medal (five awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards).

Learn more aboutBeth Teach

Beth Teach

MODERATOR: BALANCING WORK, LIFE, AND SANITY

Commander, U.S. Navy

Beth Teach is an active-duty U.S. Navy Commander and currently serves as the Public Affairs Advisor to the 12th Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Throughout her 15-year career, she has deployed on U.S. Navy ships in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM, INHERENT RESOLVE, and FREEDOM’s SENTINEL. Commander Teach commissioned in 2007 from Purdue University, and earned her M.A. in Communication and Media Studies from San Diego State University. She holds her Accreditation in Public Relations, and currently volunteers as the DOD Liaison to the Universal Accreditation Board. Commander Teach is third-generation Navy, and both of her sisters currently serve on active duty. She is the proud mother of 8-year old Hunter, who loves baseball, music, and military history.

Learn more aboutTamara Campbell

Tamara Campbell

PANELIST: BALANCING WORK, LIFE, AND SANITY

Colonel, United States Marine Corps

Colonel Campbell graduated from the United States Naval Academy in May 1997 with a degree in Oceanography and then became Marine Air Defense Control Officer. In 2001, Captain Campbell earned a dual Master of Science degree in Program Management and Financial Management. From 2003 to 2006, she served in the Marine Corps Systems Command as: Project Officer and Assistant Business Manager with the ACAT II Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S) Program and an ACAT III Joint Program - Joint Interface Control Officers (JICO) Support System (JSS). In July 2006, Captain Campbell was assigned as an Integrated Air and Missile Defense Capabilities Officer within the Combat Development Directorate, Marine Corps Combat Development Command. In September 2007, she was assigned as the Command and Control Plans Officer within the G-3, Force Fires Section at III MEF, Okinawa, Japan. In March 2008, Major Campbell was selected for lateral re-designation as an Acquisition Professional. In September 2009, she transferred to MTACS-18 to serve as the S-6, Maintenance Officer and Senior Air Coordinator within the Tactical Air Command Center. From 2010-2013, she served as the Deputy Program Manager for Air Traffic Control (ATC) Systems at PMA213, NAVAIR, where she was responsible for the Acquisition and Life Cycle Support of various Navy and Marine Corps ATC Systems. In 2013 she served within PM-MAGTF Command, Control and Communications as the Product Manager for Integration, Interoperability and Situational Awareness then attended The Eisenhower School at National Defense University, earning a Master of Science degree in National Security and Resource Strategy. She was then the Chief of Staff for the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy, for Expeditionary Programs and Logistics Management. She then served as the Strategic IPT Lead for PMA-272, Advanced Tactical Aircraft Protection Systems. Colonel Campbell now commands the Program Manager of PMA-272.

Learn more aboutBree B. Fram

Bree B. Fram

PANELIST: BALANCING WORK, LIFE, AND SANITY

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Space Force

Lt Col Bree B. Fram is currently as Deputy Chief, Acquisition Policies and Processes Division in the office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration. In her previous assignment she served as Materiel Leader, Cyberspace Integration and Transition at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome New York. She was responsible for developing critical Counter-small Unmanned Aerial Systems technology and special programs cyberspace technologies in support of DoD and Intelligence Community priorities where she directed an annual budget in excess of $100 Million. Earlier assignments include oversight of Air Force Security Cooperation in four strategically important countries in the Middle East and 258 Foreign Military Sales cases valued at $15.79 Billion, Executive Officer to the Air Force Director of Strategic Plans where she integrated the 30-year, $3.6 Trillion Air Force Plan, a legislative fellowship on the staff of Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo (D-GU) handling all military, veterans, and foreign affairs issues, and a program management tour at the National Reconnaissance Office where she led a $700 million multi-site, multi-agency engineering, maintenance, and information technology contract overseeing 510 people and supporting $40 billion in assets. She has also directed 24X7 worldwide operations and maintenance of mission data processing for space-based and airborne national intelligence assets. Lt Col Fram received her commission from the United States Air Force Officer Training School in April 2003. She has served as an advanced space technology developer, led numerous acquisition efforts, and been the principal advisor for Space Based Infrared programs to the commander of the Space and Missile System Center. Lt Col Fram deployed in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM to develop airborne counter-improvised explosive device technologies.

Learn more aboutTracey A. Olson

Tracey A. Olson

PANELIST: BALANCING WORK, LIFE AND SANITY

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired); Talent Sourcer - Activision Blizzard King (ABK)

Tracey serves as a Talent Sourcer for Activision Blizzard King’s (ABK) Diversity & Military Sourcing Team. In this role, she identifies and connects top talent from under-represented communities to opportunities at ABK – the leading creators of the most epic interactive gaming and entertainment experiences. Born in the Philippines and raised on the island of Saipan – before joining ABK, Tracey served in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. She received her commission in the Quartermaster Corps from the University of Hawaii where she was a Distinguished Military Graduate; later, she transferred to the Adjutant General Corps. Her numerous command & staff positions include: Platoon Leader (PL) and Company Executive Officer, 1st US Army Support Battalion (BN) in Sinai, Egypt; PL and BN S1, 203d Forward Support BN, 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Benning, GA; Group S4, 1st Personnel Group; Company Commander, 22d Personnel Services BN; Chief, Readiness & Officer Strength Manager, 1st Corps at Fort Lewis, WA; Brigade (BDE) S1, 3rd BDE Combat Team “Rakkasan” and Deputy G1, 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, KY; Observer Coach/Trainer for Operations Group Delta, Mission Command Training Program at Fort Leavenworth, KS; and, Professor of Military Science at the University of Kansas Army ROTC in Lawrence, KS. Prior to retiring, she served as a Liaison Officer for Army Talent Management Task Force. She deployed with the Rakkasans in support of Operation Enduring Freedom X–XI; her military training, education, awards and decorations are numerous. Tracey holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Chaminade University of Honolulu and a Master of Science Degree in Adult Education from Kansas State University. Tracey and her husband, COL (R) Eric Olson, have two sons – Matthew and Jake.

Learn more aboutTomeka O'Neal

Tomeka O'Neal

PANELIST: BALANCING WORK, LIFE, AND SANITY

Command Sergeant Major, U.S. Army

Command Sgt. Major Tomeka N. O’Neal serves as the Senior Enlisted Leader for Defense Logistics Agency. A native of Chicago and raised in East Point, Georgia, she enlisted in the U.S. Army in August 1989 as a Parachute Rigger. She entered the Automated Logistical Specialist (92A) military occupational specialty in 1998. Her previous assignments include Parachute Rigger; Battalion Parachute Office Clerk; Operations Squad Leader; Heavy Pack Section Chief/Platoon Sergeant; Aerial Equipment Repair Platoon Sergeant/Shop Foreman; Battalion Schools NCO, ; Assistant Operations/Platoon Sergeant/Rear Detachment First Sergeant/Senior Supply NCO; European Command Plans and Operations NCO; Army Special Operations Forces Liaison; Special Operations Support Command Liaison in support of Blackhawk Down movie production; Support Operations NCO in Charge; First Sergeant; special staff for the U.S. Army Special Warfare Center and School Advanced NCO Course online developmental program; Command Sergeant Major for multiple battalions, brigades, commands, and agencies; CSM O’Neal has attended all levels of the NCO Education System and several other functional courses. She has an BA from Campbell University and an MBA from Trident University International.

Learn more aboutVictoria Grady

Victoria Grady

WORKSHOP FACILITATOR: LEADING FOR IMPACT: UNDERSTANDING CHANGE AS LOSS

Assistant Professor, School of Business George Mason University

Victoria Grady is currently an assistant professor of management in the School of Business at George Mason University. Her research is focused on the inherent loss of stability suffered by organizations introducing and implementing organizational change. Grady continues to build on her original research and actively integrates theoretical concepts with practical application in the field of management. Her practice case studies include issues of organizational change/trust and include federal government institutions, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies.

Learn more aboutJames Bogle

James Bogle

MODERATOR: MEN AS ALLIES

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired); Director, Master of Business for Veterans (MBV), USC Marshall School of Business

James Bogle is the Director of the Master of Business for Veterans (MBV) program, and an Adjunct Professor of Management and Organization with the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California (USC). James joined the Marshall School in 2013 with a background in leadership, public policy and international affairs following 25 years of military service in the U.S. Army. While serving as an Army officer, James commanded two artillery units and led troops in combat in Iraq. Later, he served on the staff of Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld in the Office of European and NATO Policy. James also served at the U.S. Embassy in Paris, coordinating a range of conventional and special military operations with the French Joint Staff. He concluded his military career as an instructor at the U.S. Air Force Academy. James holds a BA in History from Arizona State University, an MA in International Relations from USC Dornsife, and a Master of Business for Veterans (MBV) from the USC Marshall School of Business.

Learn more aboutAllen Herritage

Allen Herritage

PANELIST: MEN AS ALLIES

U.S. Air Force, Colonel

Colonel Allen Herritage is the Principal Deputy Director, Air Force Public Affairs, Secretary of the Air Force Office of Public Affairs, the Pentagon, Washington, D. C. He is responsible for supporting the Director of Public Affairs in creating and executing strategies to build informed public support for the Air Force and air and space power. He provides guidance and policy oversight for internal information, community and media relations, and security review programs during peacetime and war, as well as resources and readiness oversight for nearly 4,500 active duty, Guard and Reserve Airmen and civilians. Col Herritage also develops and integrates Air Staff-level strategic communication plans supporting major policy and programming initiatives. Colonel Herritage entered the Air Force through the Reserve Officer Training Corps program at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, in 1997 after receiving a degree in English. He has served as a mission support group commander, a combat camera squadron commander, and in various positions as a public affairs officer at the wing, center, numbered Air Force, major command and headquarters levels, as well as joint tours. He has deployed to Haiti in support of humanitarian exercises, Kyrgyzstan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and to Iraq twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His last assignment was Public Affairs Advisor to the Chief of Space Operations, Secretary of the Air Force Office of Public Affairs, the Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

Learn more aboutDevin R. Pepper

Devin R. Pepper

PANELIST: MEN AS ALLIES

Brigadier General, U.S. Space Force

Brig. Gen. Devin R. Pepper is the Deputy Director of the Strategy, Plans and Policy Directorate, United States Space Command, Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado. In this position, he is responsible for developing military strategies, issuing strategic guidance, planning military campaigns and contingency operations, and formulating policy in support of Combatant Commander’s responsibilities outlined in the Unified Command Plan. Brig. Gen. Pepper enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1989 and received his commission through the Officer Training School in 1996. He is a career space and missile operations officer and has commanded the Air Force Element Operations Squadron at Royal Air Force Menwith Hill, United Kingdom; Deputy Commander and Commander, 21st Operations Group; the 460th Space Wing; and the Buckley Garrison. Brig. Gen. Pepper’s staff assignments include positions at Headquarters U.S. Space Command; U.S. Strategic Command; Air Force Global Strike Command; Air Combat Command; Eighth Air Force; and Seventh Air Force. He also served in the Pentagon as an Air Force Strategic Policy Intern in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Equal Opportunity; and Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense. Brig. Gen. Pepper deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and is a graduate of the United States Air Force Weapons School.

Learn more aboutRoberta Shea

Roberta Shea

PANELIST: MEN AS ALLIES

Major General, U.S. Marine Corps

Major General Shea enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 1985. Trained as a ground support equipment mechanic, she served with 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. She was commissioned from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1991 and was assigned as a communications officer. Major General Shea's operational assignments have included: platoon commander and company commander with 2d Landing Support Battalion, 2d Force Service Support Group in Camp Lejeune, NC; company commander with Marine Wing Communications Squadron-38, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, San Diego, CA; S-6 Officer for the 22d Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) for deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq; Director of the Commander's Initiatives Group for the Commander, International Security Assistance Forces, Afghanistan; Assistant Chief of Staff G-6, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, San Diego, CA; and Commanding Officer, I MEF Headquarters Group, Camp Pendleton, CA. Her duties have included duty as a series commander, company commander, and battalion commander with 4th Recruit Training Battalion, and the Assistant Director of the Drill Instructor School, MCRD Parris Island, SC; as a White House Fellow and Special Assistant to the Homeland Security Advisor, The White House, Washington, DC; as a Strategic Analyst with the Strategic Initiatives Group, Headquarters, Marine Corps; as the Director, Commandants Staff Group, Headquarters, Marine Corps; as the Deputy Commandant of Midshipmen, U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD; and as Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for East Asia. Major General Shea's military education includes graduating as an honor graduate from both the Marine Corps Basic Communications Officers Course and the Amphibious Warfare School, and as the Commandant's Distinguished Graduate from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, National Defense University. She holds a Masters degree in Computer Information Systems from Boston University (2000) and a Masters degree in National Resource Strategy from ICAF (2011). Her personal decorations and awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Commendation Medal; Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Learn more aboutDavid H. Berger

David H. Berger

AFTERNOON KEYNOTE: VISION FOR THE FUTURE

General, USMC Commandant of the Marine Corps

General David H. Berger assumed the duties of Commandant of the Marine Corps on July 11, 2019. A native of Woodbine, Maryland, General Berger graduated from Tulane University and was commissioned in 1981. He commanded at every level – including a Reconnaissance Company; 3d Battalion, 8th Marines in Haiti during Operation SECURE TOMORROW; Regimental Combat Team 8 in Fallujah, Iraq during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. As a General Officer, he commanded 1st Marine Division (Forward) in Afghanistan during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM; I Marine Expeditionary Force; U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific/Fleet Marine Forces Pacific; and Marine Corps Combat Development Command. General Berger’s staff and joint assignments include serving as Assistant Division Commander of 2d Marine Division; policy planner in the Strategic Plans and Policy Directorate, J-5; Chief of Staff for Kosovo Force (KFOR) Headquarters in Pristina, Kosovo; and Director of Operations in Plans, Policies, and Operations, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps; Deputy Commandant for Combat Development and Integration. General Berger’s formal military education includes the U.S. Army Infantry Officer Advanced Course, U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and U.S. Marine Corps School of Advanced Warfighting. He holds multiple advanced degrees including a Master of International Public Policy from Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies.

Learn more aboutJill Rough

Jill Rough

MODERATOR: LOOKING BACKWARDS, SIDEWAYS, AND FORWARD TO LEAD WITH IMPACT

U.S. Navy Reserves, Captain

Captain Jill Rough brings extensive research and leadership experience to the AcademyWomen team. A 1996 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, she has 25 years of combined active and reserve service in both the surface warfare and intelligence communities. She has served in multiple leadership positions, including five reserve command tours and a year supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM with the Combined Joint Intelligence Operations Center in Kabul, Afghanistan. She has an MA in International Affairs from The George Washington University and a PhD in Public Policy from George Mason University. Jill recently led a federally-funded research project as the Director of Research and Analysis for the National Commission on Military, National, and Public Service and is now a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at George Mason University. She resides in Alexandria, Virginia with her husband and three children.

Learn more aboutEdna Cummings

Edna Cummings

PANELIST: LOOKING BACKWARDS, SIDEWAYS, AND FORWARD TO LEAD WITH IMPACT

Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired); 6888th Advocate and Producer; Army Reserve Ambassador

Colonel Edna Cummings is an Army brat and native of Fayetteville, NC. She received her commission from Appalachian State University’s Army ROTC program in Boone, NC. Afterwards, she embarked on a distinguished 25-year military career in a variety of assignments culminating with senior-level positions at Georgetown University, the Pentagon, and NORAD/USNORTHCOM. After retiring from the Army, COL Cummings held management positions for federal contracting companies where she led homeland security and information technology initiatives for federal agencies including the DOD and DOJ. Since 2018, COL Cummings has worked to bring recognition to the WWII Women’s Army Corps African American unit, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion also known as the Six Triple Eight. COL Cummings raised funds for the 6888th monument and co-produced an award-winning documentary about the unit. In 2019, the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom hosted COL Cummings and the production team during a UK visit where he dedicated a plaque to mark where the 6888th was stationed in Birmingham, England. COL Cummings also championed efforts with Congress to enact passage of the 6888th Congressional Gold Medal Act. On 14 MAR 2022, President Biden signed the legislation into law awarding the 6888th the nation’s highest civilian honor. Through her research and outreach efforts, the story of the 6888th has reached millions worldwide. COL Cummings is a former member of ASU’s Foundation Board of Directors, a current member of the History Makers' Military Advisory Board, a member of the Army Women’s Foundation Board of Directors, and an Army Reserve Ambassador for the state of Maryland - a volunteer government role equivalent to a Major General in the Armed Forces. COL Cummings holds a Master of Strategic Studies from the Army War College; a Master of Science Degree in Foundations of Education from Troy State; and certifications in Information Technology Information Library, Maryland Circuit Court Training for Mediators, and as an EEO Investigator. In 2020, COL Cummings was inducted into the Army Women’s Foundation Hall of Fame and was also selected by MOAA as one its national Changemakers. In 2022, she received the NAACP’s Jesse Brown Distinguished Leadership Award. COL Cummings is also a consultant for the upcoming 6888th Broadway-bound musical.

Learn more aboutBrett W. Mietus

Brett W. Mietus

PANEL: LOOKING BACKWARDS, SIDEWAYS, AND FORWARD TO LEAD WITH IMPACT

Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy

Rear Adm. Mietus is the Director, Navy Culture and Resilience Office, N17, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations. He is a native of Chesterfield, Virginia and a 1992 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Economics. He received a master’s degree with highest distinction in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in 2003. In 2014, he completed Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase II as part of Seminar 13, and is an alumnus of Massachusetts Institute of Technology Seminar XXI. Mietus was designated a naval flight officer in 1994, and joined Patrol Squadron Nine (VP-9), Barbers Point, Hawaii. Subsequent flying tours include service as a Fleet Replacement Squadron instructor at VP-30, Jacksonville, Florida; department head, VP-4, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii; commanding officer, VP-40, Whidbey Island, Washington; and commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 10, Whidbey Island, Washington. Previous staff tours include service as the Russia and Baltics desk officer on the Joint Chiefs of Staff (DJ-5); Japanese Engagement, Operational Plans and Requirements officer on the staff of Commander, Task Force 72, Atsugi, Japan; and in the front offices of Commander, Carrier Group SEVEN, San Diego, California; director, Air Warfare (OPNAV N98), Integrated Warfare (OPNAV N9I), and Warfighting Requirements and Capabilities (OPNAV N9); and the Vice Chief of Naval Operations. He was the Navy’s first Strategic Integration Group Director and a plank owner of the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Community’s first Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) class. Upon graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy, he served as a graduate assistant football coach. His personal awards include the Legion of Merit (three awards), the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards). While on the Joint Staff, he was recognized as the DJ-5 Action Officer of the Year.

Learn more aboutSharon Preszler

Sharon Preszler

PANELIST: LOOKING BACKWARDS, SIDEWAYS, AND FORWARD TO LEAD WITH IMPACT

Professor and Lieutenant Colonel (ret), U.S. Air Force

Sharon “Betty” Preszler is an aviation pioneer, hand-picked to be the first woman to fly the F-16 in the United States Air Force. Sharon uses her experiences integrating the F-16 and as a Captain at Southwest Airlines as the basis for her inspiring and enlightening speeches. While Sharon has three separate keynotes, the common themes are overcoming obstacles maximizing your performance and defining your own future. During her 20 years in the Air Force, Sharon was a navigator, flew a Lear Jet and the F-16. She was the first woman to fly the F-16 (a single seat, single engine fighter) and the first woman to fly combat missions and instruct in the F-16. Sharon has over 1300 hours in the F-16, including over 50 combat hours in Iraq and one ejection, due to electrical failure. Sharon also accumulated over 9,000 hours in the Boeing 737 during her 14 years at Southwest Airlines. Sharon is currently a professional speaker, life coach and adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University.

Learn more aboutNichole K.A. Scott

Nichole K.A. Scott

PANELIST: LOOKING BACKWARDS, SIDEWAYS, AND FORWARD TO LEAD WITH IMPACT

Colonel, U.S. Air Force Reserve Training Corps

Col Nichole K.A. Scott is the Commander of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, Detachment 880 at Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia. She leads a team of eight active duty personnel in training and developing a cadet wing of more than 300 members into Air Force officers. Colonel Scott entered the Air Force in July 1998 as a graduate of the Reserve Officers Training Corps program at the Illinois Institute of Technology. She is a career Civil Engineering officer with multiple deployments in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM and OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. She has held multiple staff and base level assignments. She also served as a Political Affairs Strategist at the U.S. Pacific Command. She was a deployed squadron commander of the 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait. Her second squadron command was the 375th Civil Engineer Squadron at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. She is a licensed engineer in the state of Georgia. Prior to her current assignment, Colonel Scott was the commander of the 316th Mission Support Group, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

Learn more aboutChris Obadal

Chris Obadal

PANELIST: LOOKING BACKWARDS, SIDEWAYS, AND FORWARD TO LEAD WITH IMPACT

U.S. Army Veteran and Deloitte Managing Director

Chris Obadal is a Managing Director in Deloitte’s Defense sector. She has more than 20 years of professional experience, with the last 15 being focused on OSD, CCMD and Army organizations. Chris works with her clients to drive growth through digital innovation and analytics. She has also advised on a broad range of challenges related to improving end-user experience and enabling mission and business outcomes through transformation efforts. Her passion resides in teaming with clients to get the impossible done through creative problem solving and stakeholder management.” Chris is also a West Point graduate and Strategic Intel Army Officer Veteran.

Learn more about2023 Career Workshop Small Group Discussion Facilitators