Get to Know Us
North Carolina Veterans Business Association is a mission-driven, member-operated association dedicated to empowering veteran/military spouse professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners across North Carolina. Our approach is built on a builder’s mentality that focuses on Connecting, Educating, and Supporting veteran/milspouse owned businesses, ensuring they not only succeed but drive economic impact across the state.
As the leading voice for veteran/milspouse owned businesses, we leverage collective expertise, strategic partnerships, and advocacy to create opportunities for sustainable growth. By strengthening this network, we empower veteran/milspouse entrepreneurs to build, scale, and sustain successful enterprises while fostering a thriving business ecosystem.
Our Mission
Connect, Educate, and Support
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Connect – We cultivate a powerful network of veteran/milspouse entrepreneurs, corporate allies, and government partners to expand opportunities and foster collaboration.
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Educate – We provide access to valuable business resources, mentorship, and industry insights to equip veteran/milspouse owned businesses for success.
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Support – We advocate for policies that enhance veteran/milspouse business opportunities and provide direct assistance to help them navigate challenges and scale effectively.
We specialize in
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Development – Equipping veteran/milspouse businesses with access to capital, education, points of contact and strategic growth resources.
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Strengthen – Expanding connections and fostering a robust network to create meaningful business opportunities.
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Impact – Driving economic prosperity through advocacy, leadership, and sustainable business practices.
NC VET BIZ, officially recognized as the North Carolina Veterans Business Association, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. Together, we are building a stronger future—one veteran/milspouse owned business at a time.
BRICK BY BRICK: We are building the future of resilient veteran/milspouse Owned businesses in North Carolina. Are you ready to BUILD with us?
OUR HISTORY
What started as a casual conversation between two veterans about the challenges faced by veterans and as entrepreneurs in the workforce soon became the idea for a statewide 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated solely to veterans in business.
The North Carolina Veterans Business Association, Inc (d.b.a. NCVETBIZ) was founded in April 2008, and incorporated the following month by Joe Marchesani, Chairman of the Board, John Wharton, Board Member, and John Kennedy, Board Member. The organization was originally headquartered in Charlotte, NC, and has grown to become the recognized private sector advocate and voice for veteran business owners and professionals.
Expanding Our Reach
In 2023, we launched our regional model, bringing together veteran and military spouse-owned businesses from across North Carolina. This expansion has increased accessibility, strengthened connections, and amplified awareness of the incredible contributions these businesses make to our economy.
Through this initiative, veteran/milspouse entrepreneurs are now easier to find, support, and engage with than ever before. By leveraging our mission-driven approach and growing membership network, we continue to empower these businesses, ensuring they have the visibility, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive.
NCVETBIZ remains committed to Connecting, Educating, and Supporting our veteran business community—building a stronger North Carolina, one business at a time.
Mark Haupt, Sr., MBA
Founder/LEGACY BOARD MEMBER (Raleigh)
Mark M. Haupt, a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, owns and operates Converged Services, Inc., a Professional Services company, headquartered in Raleigh, NC. He served as a member of the NC Governor’s Advisory Council for Small and HUB Businesses. He co-founded the NC Veterans Business Association in Charlotte, NC and serves as a Trustee of a large corporate Voluntary Employee Benefits Association. He is past President of the North Carolina Veterans Business Association, served on the Tammy Lynn Foundation Board of Directors and the Research Triangle Park Federal Credit Union Board of Directors in North Carolina. Mark founded Converged Services, Inc. in 2008 after thirty years in the corporate world delivering telecommunications, data, and information technology products and services around the world. A seasoned executive leader of global business development, customer service, and operations organizations, Mark has more than 37 years of global and domestic Information Technology and Telecommunications industry experience. He has introduced products and services in 13+ countries and directed operations teams in Europe, Asia, and South and North America of up to 350 employees. Mark holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from The Fuqua School of Business at Duke University, a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration from Upper Iowa University, and an Associate Degree in Electronic Technology from the Community College of the U.S. Air Force.
Meet the board
DR. TANYA O. JONES
President (CHARLOTTE)
Dr. Tanya O. Jones serves as the two-time elected President of the North Carolina Veterans Business Association (NC Vet Biz), building on the strong foundation established by the organization’s founding leadership and providing strategic direction focused on advancing veteran, military spouse and military-connected entrepreneurship, workforce development, and economic resilience across North Carolina. Her presidency reflects a deep commitment to ethical leadership, respect, and cross-sector collaboration that strengthens opportunity for those who have served. In addition to her role with NC Vet Biz, Dr. Jones is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Interactive Advocacy, a nationally and globally recognized organization specializing in violence prevention, leadership development, and cultural change. Through innovative, immersive, theater-based training and evidence-informed educational tools, her work has reached more than 80,000 individuals across military, academic, corporate, and community settings. Her approach emphasizes prevention, accountability, and community engagement as drivers of long-term systems change. Dr. Jones is a United States Army Veteran and a retired former Department of Defense GS employee, bringing firsthand experience in federal service, operational leadership, and institutional systems. Her service informs her work in veteran economic empowerment and her ability to navigate complex public-sector and policy-adjacent environments with credibility and care. Her leadership and global impact have been widely recognized. Dr. Jones is a conferred United Nations Peacekeeping Ambassador and a recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring a sustained record of service, civic engagement, and community leadership. An award-winning speaker, best-selling author, and playwright, she uses storytelling as a strategic tool to educate, inform, and inspire action. Central to Dr. Jones’s leadership is the GLOW Framework—a governance and leadership philosophy grounded in the principles of growing through adversity, leading with empathy, owning one’s story, and being a warrior for change. This framework guides her work across organizational leadership, advocacy, and community development, emphasizing resilience, accountability, and purposeful action. As the first woman of color to serve as President of NC Vet Biz, Dr. Jones continues to advance a vision rooted in stewardship, respect, and forward-looking service—working to ensure that North Carolina’s veteran, military spouse and military-connected business community remains strong, credible, and prepared for the future. “I serve with NC Vet Biz because veterans deserve access, respect, and opportunity—not just after service, but as they build what comes next.” - Dr. Tanya O. Jones
Lindsay Hinger
Vice President (Raleigh)
Lindsay Hinger is an Air Force Veteran, entrepreneur, and advocate. She served in the Air Force as a Logistics Readiness Officer on the Hickam AFB Flightline in cargo and passenger operations. She founded MilSO Box LLC.; a monthly subscription box for military spouses, as well as Gifting With Valor LLC.; a custom gift box service for military-centric organizations and businesses. Lindsay’s advocacy includes experience as an Air Force Sexual Assault Victim Advocate, a North Carolina Guardian Ad Litem, and a foster parent. Today, her advocacy focuses on military spouse and veteran-owned businesses as well as mental health. She is a mentor to military spouses through the American Corporate Partners (ACP) Mentoring program. She has 17 years of military and civilian logistics experience including air, rail, ocean, over-the-road trucking, warehousing, distribution, and supply chain. A small business owner since 2016, Lindsay is also a Bunker Labs RDU Cohort Graduate and IVMF’s VWise Program Graduate. Now, Lindsay shares her small business knowledge as a business counselor with the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) of North Carolina. why you are a part of NC Vet Biz? NC Vet Biz introduced me to veteran certifications, contracting opportunities, and the SBTDC. Through my membership, I also gained 3 new clients and immeasurable knowledge. Now, NC Vet Biz is like family.
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Christian Kubista
TREASURER (Raleigh)
Christian Kubista is a U.S. Army Veteran, having served ten years as an officer in the Army Reserve. He is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, with his deployment back 2004. As an Army officer, Christian served in various capacities in command, Division budget officer, as well as Chief of Vendor Services during his deployment. He separated from service back in 2005. Christian has successfully built a career in the financial services industry over the past 25 years. He currently works with Wells Fargo Advisors in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he serves in the capacity as branch manager for the Private Client Group of Wells Fargo Advisors. He has been with the company for 20 years, having served in various capacities as Associate Market Manager, Productivity Manager, as well as Product Manager in various departments within the firm. Christian has a high passion for leading and developing people to pursue their goals and building successful careers, skills that he has learned and experienced having served in the U.S. Army. He is a graduate of the University of Richmond, where he earned a degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in Finance. He resides in Raleigh with his wife and two children.
Raven Coleman
HISTORIAN (Raleigh)
Raven Coleman is the Owner/Operator of 4C: Central Carolina Cleaning Company Inc. a specialized bioremediation company that focuses on crime scene/trauma cleanup, decontamination, and restoration services. She is also the owner of Final Passage Transport, an end-of-life body removal/mortuary transport service. Raven brings over 20 years of Criminal Justice and industry-related experience. A former EMT in the US Air Force, Raven possesses a Master’s Degree in Justice Administration and has hands-on work experience in forensic and death investigations. She also holds a certificate in OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) compliance. Raven Coleman started 4C as a way to use her knowledge and expertise in the fields of criminology and forensics to help the people of North Carolina. Help comes in many forms with 4C especially during the most difficult times for some, from the biohazard division to the transportation division which recently expanded into the pet industry as well as a new location in her hometown of Kansas City, Missouri, she and her team of professionals are trained, dedicated, and not afraid to work hard and get their hands dirty. No job is too big or too small. For the past 6 years until this past May, Raven was a full-time Lecturer at NC A&T State University where she taught future criminal justice professionals and forensics. Raven currently serves as the Commander of the only All-Female American Legion Post 540 in North Carolina (Cary, NC). Her passion for veterans both personally and amongst the business community is very strong. She uses her voice to advocate for those who have served and who are currently serving. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, eating good food, working out, listening to music, riding her motorcycle, and spending time with her 3-year-old fur kid Cane Corso Ruger and 11 y/o Boxer Mastiff Glock who crossed the rainbow bridge a few months ago.
Reginal G. Lyerly
Member at Large (CHARLOTTE)
Reginal G. Lyerly is a retired servicemember who served from 1997-2020 in the United States Army and is an Iraqi Freedom Veteran (Iraq-2006), Operation New Dawn Veteran (Kuwait-2011), and Operation Enduring Freedom Veteran (Middle East Countries-2015/2016). He is currently serving as the Vice President of Cybersecurity Recruitment, Veteran Outreach, and Government Contracting for DNA Diversity Executive Search. This firm has offices in Canada, United States, The Philippines, and India. He is also the lead insurance agent/agency owner for Keeping Carolina Families Covered. Keeping Carolina Families Covered serves the communities of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia through life insurance and retirement solutions (term, whole life, final expense, annuities and IULs). Health Insurance will be added to the services in Spring 2025. He is the Sales/Marketing Director for Discover Brightside Worldwide, Inc. He is responsible for the marketing and sales operations of Brightside Worldwide Inc.’s B2B (Business to Business) and (Business to Customer) virtual and in-person networking platforms. He is a three-time time awardee of one of Discover Brightside’s highest honors,the “Veteran Trailblazer Award”. He is also the winner of 2022 Brightside Entrepreneurial Challenge. He recently served as the chairperson for the 2023 Brightside Marketing Challenge. This platform was responsible for teaching over 19 business owners about the way to better leverage marketing to improve their businesses.
GEORGE COPELAND
Member at Large (Raleigh)
George is from Jacksonville, Florida, but also calls Randolph, Virginia home. In 1969 he was drafted to serve in Vietnam in the 44th Med – 82nd Airborne, where he trained as a Special Forces Combat Medic. Upon his return, he pursued a Bachelor in Business Administration and Secondary Education in 1975 at Methodist College. George also taught High School History and Economics as well as coached Football. In 1978 George worked for Coca-Cola Consolidated, where he managed operations. And was Vice President of Marketing and Sales Development. In 1990 George and his wife Sidney, Founded Atlantic Documentation Centers, a Digital Print Services company that was sold in 2000 to a Publicly Traded Company out of Detroit. Today you can find George at Southport Graphics, the most current venture, where he founded with his wife in 2010, a second Digital Print Services Company.
Bryan wiggins
Member at Large (Raleigh)
Bryan Wiggins is supplier diversity and procurement with CISCO.
Dr. Cheryl Sutton
Member at Large (Wilmington)
Dr. Cheryl Sutton has worked for over two decades advocating for the utilization of minority and diverse owned businesses in public and private sectors. She has mastered relationship building and uses this skill as a powerful conduit to provide resources and share opportunities with businesses throughout North Carolina. She is passionate about providing equitable opportunities for all firms having the ability and readiness to participate in the evolving marketplace. When she identifies a need, her goal is to find solutions through her professional mantra, “Making Connections Count”. Throughout her career, she has left her fingerprint on multiple initiatives helping to support, empower, educate, and bring recognition to marginalized business owners. Most recently, she has received the following recognition for her dedication and commitment. •2025 – Diverse Business Champion (National Institute of Minority Economic Development) •2024 – Distinguished Business Advocate (NC MWBE Coordinators Network) •2024 - Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Leader of the Year (Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce) •2024 - Corporate Partner of the Year (National Association Women Business Owners – Greater Raleigh) •2024 - NC Women Business Owners Hall of Fame Inductee (Advocacy honoree) •2023 - North Carolina’s POWER 100 (Black Business, Inc.) A sampling of her signature programs includes the Women’s Owned Business Symposium (City of Dayton, OH), UNC Wilmington’s HUB Academy, and she founded the Cape Fear Region Minority Enterprise Development Week (Wilmington, NC). Since joining the North Carolina Education Lottery in 2022, she created the Supplier Engagement Champions; an internal resource group helping to facilitate ongoing conversations regarding proactive engagement with potential vendors and suppliers. Grateful for her professional successes, when asked what is most important, she unapologetically acknowledges that, “Family comes first at all times”.
OMAR RITTER, CPA, CEPA, CGMA, SPHR
Member at Large (Charlotte)
U.S. Army combat veteran and recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, holding degrees from West Point and Columbia Business School. As CFO of a $1.2 billion organization, I effectively managed the profit and loss (P&L) statement and cash flow. In the technology sector, I oversaw $4.4 billion in technology expenses. I have conducted audits for Fortune 50 companies and led global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and financial planning and analysis (FP&A) for multiple organizations, where I structured deals and executed financial due diligence. Additionally, I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). EXPERIENCE FOCUSCFO, Charlotte, NC2024 - Present Area President and Franchise Owner: I help entrepreneurs realize sustainable business value •Increased regional revenue by 30% through business development and client acquisition. •Led and mentored a team of CFOs to provide financial guidance to support clients' goals. •Advised business owners on exit strategies, including private equity and strategic buyers. CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY, Charlotte, NC2024 - Present Adjunct Professor: I teach ACC 480 Accounting Ethics •Integrate real-world experiences to enhance student understanding of ethical decision-making in accounting practices. •Utilize CPA designation to provide expert insights into professional standards and ethical responsibilities within the accounting profession. WELLS FARGO, NYSE: WFC, Charlotte, NC2021 - 2024 Senior Vice President of Finance; managed $2.4BN of technology spend and allocations •Created an audit system to track technology spend by labor, equipment, and new investments. •Enhanced the bank through guiding and managing a $300 million technology investment portfolio. •Implemented cost-saving measures resulting in a 15% reduction in technology expenses while maintaining operational efficiency. CONDUENT, NASDAQ: CNDT, New York, NY2020 - 2021 Chief Financial Officer for a $1.2BN P&L call center operation with 25K employees Owned P&L for a business that generated $1B in revenue with 25K employees. •Established contract renegotiations and a strategy for remote work, resulting in $10M of savings. •Approved financial performance and provided future guidance to auditors and the board. JPMORGAN & CHASE, NYSE: JPM, New York, NY2017 - 2020 Head of Technology Finance and Operations, overseeing $2.0BN of Technology spend and allocations Supported executives in developing the organization's long-term location and real estate strategy. •Managed a $200M tech budget for 1,200 employees and led business reviews with executives. •Successfully achieved $6 million in cost savings through strategic vendor renegotiations. •Oversaw vendor relationships and real estate strategy and provided strategic expense guidance TIAA, New York, NY 2014 - 2017 Corporate Director of FP&A responsible for consolidating financial metrics related to the firm’s $1 trillion of Assets Under Management •Led the firm's annual and multi-year revenue and expense planning process, encompassing key business metrics such as income, expenses, net flows, and headcount. •Developed strategic review materials for senior management and established a process for business unit CFOs and CEOs to approve financials. •Oversaw capital planning exercises to facilitate SOX capital and risk weighting requirements. PRAXAIR, New York, NY2009 - 2014 Global Director of Financial Planning and Analysis and Mergers and Acquisitions for $8BN Company •Played a crucial role in negotiations and spearheaded financial due diligence for the $1.1 billion acquisition of NuCo2. •Directed the monthly and quarterly results and forecasting for a $1.7 billion business unit. BANK OF AMERICA, NYSE: BAC, New York, NY2006 - 2009 Investment Banking Associate, Global Industrials Group •Orchestrated M&A deals and corporate finance transactions involving due diligence and analysis. US ARMY, West Point, NY2000 - 2006 Captain and Company Commander •Awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for gallantry in combat in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2003. •Ensured the well-being and safety of a dedicated unit of 280 soldiers under my care. CURRENT BOARD SERVICE Chair and President, West Point Class of 2000. Board Member, Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte. Board Member, Teach for America Charlotte EDUCATION Bachelor of Science, General Management, 2000, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY Master of Business Administration, Finance and Strategy, 2007, Columbia Business School, New York, NY Doctor of Business Administration Candidate, Finance, 2026 (Expected), Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). “As a Veteran and fractional CFO to small business owners, I joined the North Carolina Veterans Business Association Board to give back and help fellow Veterans strengthen their financial management for long-term success.”
Brett Jordan
Member at Large (Fayetteville)
Brett is an accomplished organizational leader and management professional with a track record of managing complex operations and high-stakes environments. He is the owner and General Manager of RestoPros of the Sandhills, based out of Fayetteville NC. He is also currently serving as a Battalion Commander in the Army Reserve, overseeing the safety and training management for large-scale global deployments. His leadership was recognized at the highest levels when he was named the 2023 Department of the Army Inspector General of the Year. Brett is a highly qualified business professional holding a dual MBA in Information Systems and Management from Fordham University and a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. With additional certifications in the Restoration Industry and Firefighting, he brings a unique blend of operational expertise and strategic business acumen to the local community. In his personal time, Brett is a skilled carpenter who enjoys scuba diving and world travel.
Brandon Dierker
Member at Large (Matthews, NC)
Brandon Dierker is an accomplished leader with expertise in strategic transformation, project management, and business strategy. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Brandon’s career spans military service, entrepreneurial ventures, and leadership roles in major financial institutions. He has driven large-scale transformation and modernization efforts at Wells Fargo and provides executive leadership over project management governance and tools at USAA. Passionate about supporting veterans, Brandon leads initiatives through USAA’s VetNET and partners with organizations within the community. He holds an MBA from the University of Arkansas. Outside of work, Brandon serves as a Deacon at Hickory Grove Baptist Church, mentors startups, and hosts the Commandant’s Call podcast. He lives in Matthews, NC, with his wife and two sons. Company: USAA Title: Executive Director, Head of Program/Project Management Quote: “Service isn't a job you leave behind; it’s a part of who you are. The same spirit that carried us through the field lives on in the businesses built by our Veterans and spouses. NCVETBIZ is the bridge that carries our legendary camaraderie into commerce, ensuring our Veterans and Mil-spouses don’t just survive— they lead the mission of tomorrow."
Cesar Lopez
Member at Large
Cesar Lopez joined the Marine Corps in July 2000. After deploying as an artilleryman to perform combat duties, serving in California, Tennessee, North Carolina and overseas training ally military in his first ten years as an enlisted Marine, he became a contracting officer after receiving the opportunity to become a Marine officer and receiving a Master’s Degree. Cesar’s first job in the contracting field was supporting the Marine Corps Recruiting Command with supply and services ranging from marketing tools to Kevlar protected office desks in response to the Chattanooga shootings. Later, serving as program manager, Cesar supported the Marine Corps Systems Command and participated in the procurement and fielding of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle and the Ultra-Light Tactical Vehicle. After his work in Quantico, Cesar deployed to Okinawa Japan to serve as the Chief of Contracts for the 3rd Expeditionary Contracting Cell. Here, he managed a team of contingency contracting officers supporting operations and training exercises throughout the Indo Pacific area of operations including the Philippines, Thailand, Guam, and Laos. While still in Okinawa, he was selected to become the Director of Contracts for Marine Corps Installations Pacific. He managed over $250M worth of contracts in support of Marine Corps bases in Japan, Hawaii, and Guam. Cesar Lopez retired from the Marine Corps after 24 years in September 2024. After his retirement, he started a small business, Lobo Consulting, LLC, to support other veteran small businesses seeking to enter the Government contracting world. He also works as Director of Operations for Skyway Acquisitions, LLC. Through Skyway, Cesar helps established businesses get better at Government contracting, win more contracts, and navigate their administration post- award.
Richard L. Paxton
Member at Large
Richard L. Paxton is a seasoned security, emergency management, and communications professional with more than 24 years of distinguished military and interagency experience across maritime security, force protection, homeland security education, and public-sector leadership. His career spans frontline operations, strategic planning, academic instruction, and executive leadership in both government and private-sector environments. A veteran of both the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard, Paxton served from 1986 to 2010, specializing as a Gunner’s Mate with deep expertise in weapons systems, port security, and force protection. His service includes multiple recalls to active duty in response to national security needs, including post-9/11 facility protection, Operation Enduring Freedom, and the development of mission-critical Area Maritime Security and Radiation Protection Plans for the State of North Carolina. He also coordinated maritime security resources across 13 counties, supported nuclear facility emergency preparedness, and led large-scale interagency training exercises involving Customs, Immigration, and local emergency authorities. Paxton has held numerous leadership roles during major emergency response operations, including serving as Commander of evacuation centers and Points of Distribution (PODS) during Hurricanes Florence and Isaias. Internationally, he supported vessel protection missions in the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq conflict, providing asset and force protection in high-risk maritime environments. Beyond operational service, Paxton is a recognized contributor to maritime risk and security policy development. He has served for nearly a decade on the Maritime Risk Symposium committee—most recently as Committee Chair and Co-Chair—and has participated in national initiatives addressing maritime cybersecurity, emissions reduction at sea, and interagency emergency response coordination. Academically, Paxton has taught homeland security and criminal justice at the collegiate level for nearly a decade, including roles as Adjunct Instructor at Campbell University, Lead Instructor at Miller-Motte College, and Adjunct Professor with Everest University. His teaching portfolio includes national and international security, emergency management, terrorism, cyberterrorism, and interagency operations. He is widely regarded as a mentor to students entering public safety, emergency management, and security careers. Paxton holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Appalachian State University, a Master of Arts in Homeland Security from American Military University, and an Executive Certificate in Politics and Civic Engagement from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Public Affairs. In the private sector, Paxton is the President and CEO of Magnetic Marketing, Inc., a full-service marketing firm, and the owner of multiple ventures focused on travel services, personal defense training, and security consulting. He has also worked in public outreach and media, including radio programming focused on constitutional rights and personal safety. A dedicated civic leader, Paxton has served extensively in volunteer and nonprofit roles, including as President of the Board for CUE Center for Missing Persons, a long-time volunteer with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, and in multiple senior leadership positions within the Civil Air Patrol, where he has commanded units, advised on government relations across seven states, and received multiple awards for exceptional and meritorious service. Richard L. Paxton’s career reflects a rare blend of operational credibility, instructional leadership, strategic coordination, and public service, making him a trusted authority in security, emergency preparedness, and risk management.
Michael Staton
Member at Large
Mike is an experienced Procurement and Third-Party Risk Management Executive who currently serves as USAA's Third-Party Risk Management Officer (TPRM). His team overseas the association's TPRM program and respective technologies to effectively identify, assess, and manage the risk introduced by engaging with third parties and affiliates. Mike and the team area currently working on driving TPRM from oversight to insight- turning third-party risk into a strategic advantage! In addition to owning third party risk for the association, Mike also leads USAA’s responsible sourcing team. The team proactively leads an element of USAA’s Honor Through Action program where we partner with Veteran and Military Spouse owned businesses directly and indirectly to support the Mission delivery for the company. We aim to help aim to drive financial security, meaningful careers and well-being for the military community. Prior to his current role, Mike held various leadership roles within USAA including most recently as USAA's Sourcing and Procurement Strategy Executive accountable for Responsible Sourcing, Category Management, 3rd Party Worker Enablement, Secure Lifecycle Management, and Labor Procurement/Vendor Relationship management. Additionally, Mike led Third Party Risk Management Shared Services (Quality Assurance, Data & Analytics, Inventory, Due Diligence Operations) and served an Executive on Loan to the Bank during a critical transition period. Mike's Supply Chain/Procurement/Third Party Risk experience spans across multiple industries including Retail, Power Generation, and Financial Services. Mike provided TPRM leadership across shared services/operations, process design, business controls, and procurement/category management execution at Bank of America and other large corporations prior to joining USAA in 2019. While Mike has not served, he is honored to serve USAA's members. He channels his passion for serving others from his family's service roots. His brother currently serves in the United States Army. His Dad is an Air Force veteran, and his grandfather and Uncle also honorably served their country in the United States Army. Mike lives in Charlotte, NC with his wife, Becky and their three children- Anderson (13), Gibson (10) and Charlie Kate (8). You'll likely find Mike at a baseball/softball/football field, basketball court, swimming pool, or cross-country course supporting his kids in their athletic endeavors. Mike's hobbies include travel, golf, hiking, smoking meats, reading, working out, sporting events, church activities and anything outdoors.
Dawn Marie Westmoreland
Member at Large
Dawn Marie Westmoreland is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and U.S. Air Force veteran who helps audiences rise above adversity with courage and confidence. Drawing on her experience as both a veteran and an HR professional, Dawn shares practical, down-to-earth tools for building resilience, managing stress, and leading with strength. Her work centers on the belief that while change and challenges are a part of life, how we respond to them is a choice. Through her message of Resilience by Choice, Dawn equips leaders, professionals, and teams with strategies that make resilience a daily practice—helping individuals move forward with greater confidence, wisdom, and purpose. Dawn has been recognized by activist Erin Brockovich and The Christian Science Monitor, invited to speak with Senator Bernie Sanders and 30 U.S. Senators on workplace respect, and featured on Access 21 TV and more than 100 radio and podcast shows. She is the author of The Empowered Whistleblower and How to Stand Up to Workplace Bullying & Discrimination. As a resilience and leadership expert, Dawn continues to inspire organizations and communities by providing practical insights that empower people to navigate change, strengthen leadership capacity, and build healthier, more resilient workplaces.
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