Tag: Homeland Security

Michael K. Harryman: Empowering Organizations to Withstand the Unexpected

I’m grateful for the opportunity to reflect on my career journey in emergency management, public health preparedness, resilience strategy, and public service leadership. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside dedicated teams across state agencies, federal partners, and community organizations, all committed to strengthening systems and supporting people during their most critical moments. I am proud to share more about my background, values, and experiences. Here is my biography.

Kristina Van Dort: Cross-Sector Innovator in Technical Program Leadership

I'm a results-driven technical program leader with a passion for transforming complex challenges into streamlined, scalable solutions. With over 15 years of experience spanning federal agencies, Fortune 100 companies, and tech-driven startups, I’ve led cross-functional teams in delivering high-impact initiatives in data modernization, autonomous systems, and product innovation. My background in engineering and business, paired with a PMP certification and an MBA in E-Commerce, equips me to bridge strategy and execution across diverse industries. I’m especially energized by opportunities to lead with purpose, collaborate across disciplines, and drive meaningful change.

Maggie A. DeBoard: Leading With Courage, Serving With Compassion

After a 38-year journey in public safety, leadership, and mental wellness advocacy, I’m proud to share this executive biography that captures the essence of my career, values, and vision for the future. I’m deeply committed to supporting organizations in crisis management, community engagement, and building inclusive, resilient cultures.

Donald J. Odell | Strategic Operations Leader | Business Modernization Expert | Servant Leadership Advocate

Donald J. Odell is a seasoned operations and strategy leader with over 26 years of experience driving transformative initiatives across the Department of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs. Renowned for his integrity, servant leadership, and results-driven approach, Donald has successfully led multimillion-dollar federal programs, implemented nationwide modernization efforts, and built high-impact public-private partnerships. With expertise spanning business planning, regulatory compliance, and organizational change, he brings a pragmatic yet visionary mindset to every challenge. Now seeking board and advisory opportunities, Donald is committed to using his experience to guide others, solve complex problems, and support organizations in achieving lasting success.

Dominic Rota: Navigating Integrity with Purpose, Guiding Principles with Precision

After an incredible journey through 25 years of government service, I'm exploring the next chapter of leadership—one that allows me to bring my ethics and compliance background into the dynamic world of private enterprise. I've worked across education, homeland security, and executive government roles, and I'm ready to contribute my experience to organizations committed to principled growth and smart governance. Here is my biography.

John Matthew Felker: Leading with Integrity, Securing the Future, and Serving with Purpose

I’ve been fortunate to serve across public, private, and nonprofit sectors in roles that demanded leadership, foresight, and integrity—especially in the areas of cybersecurity, intelligence, and operations. It’s been a journey filled with challenge, service, and great purpose. Here is my biography.

Dr. TeNeane Bradford: Champion of Resilience, Justice, and Transformational Public Leadership

Dr. TeNeane Bradford is a visionary federal executive with over 20 years of experience leading large-scale initiatives in homeland security, emergency management, and juvenile justice reform. Known for her ethical leadership and strategic innovation, she currently directs a \$3 billion grant portfolio at FEMA, enhancing national preparedness and resilience through effective program oversight and policy development. Her distinguished career spans senior roles at the U.S. Department of Justice, where she advanced critical reforms in juvenile justice and community policing, and earlier leadership in state-level reintegration programs for justice-involved youth. A Ph.D.-level scholar and award-winning public servant, Dr. Bradford is a dynamic force in shaping equitable systems, cultivating high-performance teams, and fostering public trust across complex political landscapes.

Mark A. Porter | Security, Intelligence & Public Safety Strategist | Former U.S. Secret Service Executive | Homeland Security Advisor

Mark A. Porter is a seasoned national security and intelligence executive with more than three decades of experience protecting people, infrastructure, and institutions at the highest levels of government and the private sector. From directing global operations with the U.S. Secret Service and shaping counterterrorism policy at the White House to leading Ohio’s homeland security strategy, Porter has consistently delivered visionary leadership, strategic insight, and trusted crisis management. His deep knowledge of public safety, cybersecurity, and threat assessment—paired with his ability to build cross-sector coalitions—positions him as a transformative asset to any board or advisory role.

Ray Donnelly: Veteran Business Developer and International Marketing Executive

Ray Donnelly is a dynamic and accomplished executive with over 40 years of leadership in international business development, telecommunications, defense, and government economic initiatives. Known for his ability to navigate complex markets and connect cross-sector stakeholders, Ray has led multimillion-dollar growth efforts across North America and Europe while serving in influential roles within both private industry and public service. From securing major defense contracts and expanding global technology operations to revitalizing storm-impacted local economies, his career reflects a rare blend of entrepreneurial vision, strategic foresight, and deep civic commitment.

Aaron Weiss: “Navigating Complexity, Delivering Solutions, and Leading with Purpose.”

I am excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey in defense, counter unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS), intelligence operations, and strategic leadership. With over 30 years of experience managing high-stakes security programs, integrating emerging technologies, and leading global initiatives, I am eager to apply my expertise to advisory and board roles that drive meaningful impact.

Nancy Dragani: Transformational Leader in Emergency Management

Nancy Dragani is an accomplished executive with over 30 years of leadership in state and federal emergency management, known for her ability to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and lead high-performing teams. As Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 8, she has overseen disaster response, recovery, mitigation, and preparedness across six states and 29 tribal nations, implementing a “People First” approach that significantly improved organizational culture and performance. A champion of strategic initiatives, she launched the Readiness and Disaster Summit, established the Interagency Recovery Cell, and enhanced federal recovery programs, ensuring communities receive effective and equitable support. With a distinguished career that includes serving as Executive Director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and holding national leadership roles, Dragani continues to shape the future of emergency management through visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to resilience.

Bryant D. McCray, MA: Strategic Law Enforcement & Security Expert | Border Security & International Affairs Leader

Bryant D. McCray is a highly respected law enforcement and security expert with over 40 years of experience in border security, international relations, and public safety. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Sergeant, he has served in key leadership roles within U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including as CBP Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, where he oversaw border security operations across 16 African nations. His expertise spans security assessments, risk mitigation, international trade compliance, and interagency collaboration, making him a trusted advisor to government entities, law enforcement agencies, and private-sector organizations. Bryant has been instrumental in developing security strategies, facilitating law enforcement training, and improving relations between federal agencies and global partners. As a Visiting Fellow at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), he spearheaded initiatives to enhance law enforcement interactions with communities and improve operational policies. With a Master’s degree in Organizational Management, extensive military service, and global security leadership experience, Bryant continues to be a leading voice in border enforcement, strategic security planning, and law enforcement advisory roles.

Brett Holmgren: A Seasoned National Security and Intelligence Leader

Brett M. Holmgren is a seasoned national security and intelligence leader with over two decades of experience spanning the highest levels of government and the private sector. Most recently, he served as Acting Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), where he led the U.S. government’s premier counterterrorism agency and advised the President on national security threats. Previously, as Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR) at the U.S. Department of State, he spearheaded major digital transformations and governance reforms. Holmgren has also held key intelligence roles at the White House, CIA, and Defense Intelligence Agency, shaping U.S. counterterrorism and cybersecurity strategies. His expertise in risk management extends to the private sector, where he served as Vice President and Acting Chief Technology Risk Officer at Capital One. A recipient of numerous distinguished service awards, Holmgren continues to be a leading voice in intelligence modernization, cybersecurity, and national security strategy.

Richard Bistline: Empowering Lives with Purposeful Passion; Transforming Potential into Excellence.

I’m excited to share my professional biography with you all. My journey has been driven by a passion to help others improve their lives, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to make a positive impact in the fields of public safety and leadership development. My career has been characterized by a steadfast commitment to integrity, strategic vision, and effective communication. As someone recognized as Police Officer of the Year and with extensive expertise supported by a Ph.D. in Public Safety Leadership and advanced executive coaching certifications, I strive to craft and execute strategies that drive success and navigate challenges. I’m deeply committed to engaging and inspiring through effective communication. I invite you to read more about my journey and my mission to support others in their personal and professional growth.