People - Trust for the National Mall

Cristina E. Blough

Trust for the National Mall — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 19:02:00 +0000

Cristina E. Blough

Senior Director of Philanthropy

Cristina E. Blough serves as the Senior Director of Philanthropy at the Trust for the National Mall. In this role, she plays a leadership role in elevating the individual, corporate and foundation giving programs across the Trust. In addition to mentoring a team of gift officers, Cristina supports the management of the major gift pipeline and collaboratively guides strategy for relationship-based cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Cristina is actively involved in campaign planning and building organizational infrastructure to support a successful fundraising operation.

Most recently, Cristina was the Director of Development at New America where she strategically led the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of over $40M in restricted and unrestricted revenue for the organization. Prior to New America, Cristina was the Director of Corporate & Foundation Philanthropy at World Learning where she cultivated, solicited, and stewarded corporate and foundation donor relationships for the organization. She has also previously served as the Director of Corporate Partnerships & Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Volunteers of America (VOA) where she cultivated HNW individuals and corporations for special events, sponsorships and engagement.

Outside of her professional role, Cristina serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected youth. She is also a member of the Harvard Club of Washington, D.C. and volunteers with Kids In Need of Defense (KIND) as an interpreter/translator for unaccompanied, immigrant youth seeking asylum in the US. In addition, Cristina volunteers with local animal rescues across the DMV as a foster for adoptable dogs.

Cristina has an M.A. in Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard University and a B.A. in Global Studies from the College of William and Mary. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering for local causes, spending time at the beach, baking for her friends and family, learning languages, and traveling the world. Cristina is a first-generation Hispanic American, a proud citizen of both the United States and Uruguay and she is natively fluent in Spanish and English. A northern Virginia native, she currently lives in Alexandria, VA with her husband and two rescue dogs.

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Audrey Brown

Trust for the National Mall — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:45:00 +0000

Audrey Brown

Communications Assistant

Audrey Brown is Communications Assistant for the Trust for the National Mall. Her work for the Trust focuses on graphic design for external signage and documents, social media management, and other support roles.

Audrey began her work in the nonprofit sphere with CityStep, a dance and community engagement organization based in New York City. A native of the D.C. region, she spent much of her early life and education exploring the National Mall and its offerings, and she looks forward to bringing the same sense of wonder and excitement that she enjoyed in her youth to a new generation of visitors to the Mall.

Audrey graduated in 2023 with two English degrees, from Trinity College Dublin and Columbia University. In her free time, she can probably be found either reading or Irish dancing—sometimes she may even be spotted performing in an Irish bar around D.C! She enjoys merging her passion for creating art with magnifying the mission of the Trust.

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Shanice Chesney

Trust for the National Mall — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 21:33:06 +0000

Shanice Chesney

Donor Relations Manager

Shanice Chesney serves as the Donor Relations Manager at the Trust for the National Mall, working to help donors of all levels feel a stronger sense of connection and purpose through a thoughtful & intentional stewardship plan. She comes to the Trust with a background in program management and strategic development in organic agriculture and public greenspaces within the nonprofit sector.

In her previous role, Shanice served as the Fellowship Program Manager at the Charleston Parks Conservancy. There, she was responsible for spearheading a multi-million national Horticulture Fellowship Program creating a path to management within the horticulture industry for emerging leaders. Prior to joining the Charleston Parks Conservancy, Shanice was the Operations Manager at Georgia Organics, an organization that champions organic agriculture, food justice, and healthy families.

In recognition of her service, inclusive leadership strategies, and dedication of connecting people to their community, Shanice was awarded the 30 under 30 Young Nonprofit Leadership Award in Atlanta. Shanice is a graduate of Oglethorpe University and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. In her free time you can find her supporting her local farmers' markets, traveling, and experiencing all Washington D.C. has to offer through its cuisine and inviting community.

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Eneidy Coreano

Trust for the National Mall — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 21:31:38 +0000

Eneidy Coreano

Executive Assistant to the President & CEO

Eneidy Coreano is the Executive Assistant to the President & CEO of the Trust for the National Mall. With over 25 years of experience supporting C-Suite level executives, Eneidy skillfully manages fast-paced office environments, ensuring all components of scheduling, administration, and budget management run smoothly and efficiently. Her attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and collaborative approach ensure best-in-class support of the Trust, its Board of Directors, and stakeholders.

Before joining the Trust, Eneidy served as an executive assistant for over 11 years at two WPP firms in Washington, DC: Burson, Cohn & Wolfe (formerly Burson Marsteller), a multinational public relations and communications company, and PSB Insights (formerly Penn Shoen Berland), a global custom research and analytics organization. She also worked as a marketing associate at Albert Uster Imports, overseeing roadshows for celebrity chefs and assisting in organizing sales meetings, tradeshows, and other events. Eneidy also possesses Capitol Hill experience, serving as scheduler and administrative director for a congressional office.

Eneidy holds a Bachelor's degree in Arts from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. Additionally, she has completed four years of bible seminary as she is passionate about the old and new testaments and Hebrew history. In her spare time, Eneidy enjoys spending time with her family, her two Boston Terriers Coconut and Maví, traveling, reading, indoor gardening, jigsaw puzzles, and collecting vintage world globes.

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Alejandra Diaz-Imlah

Trust for the National Mall — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 20:13:00 +0000

Alejandra Diaz-Imlah

Manager of Corporate Relations

Alejandra Diaz-Imlah is the Manager of Corporate Relations at the Trust for the National Mall. In her role, she is responsible for implementing new business strategies and engaging new corporate supporters to drive the Trust's mission forward. Alejandra is passionate about creating impactful corporate partnerships that advance the Trust's work in restoring, preserving, and enriching the National Mall while meeting corporations' philanthropic and business objectives.

Alejandra previously worked as a Consumer Insights Consultant at The Hartman Group, collaborating with Fortune 500 companies. Before that, she served as New Business Development Associate at Share Our Strength, working on the No Kid Hungry campaign, where she developed transformational partnerships and cause-marketing campaigns to end childhood hunger. Alejandra has a bachelor's degree in both Psychology and Political Science with a focus on Human Rights and Conflict Resolution from Christopher Newport University.

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Alonzo Finch

Trust for the National Mall — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 19:26:00 +0000

Alonzo Finch

Philanthropic Data and Systems Assistant

Alonzo Finch serves as the Philanthropic Data and Systems Assistant for the Trust for the National Mall. In this role, he supports the operations of the philanthropy through the maintenance and improvement of core databases.

Alonzo previously served as a Data and Technology Intern with the Trust. Prior to joining the Trust, he gained experience in both biological research and private equity while working towards his bachelor’s degree.

Alonzo is a graduate of The College at the University of Chicago where he received his Bachelor of Science in Statistics with a concentration in Quantitative Biology. He is currently pursuing his Master of Science in Statistics at George Washington University.

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Bruce D. Broussard

Guest User — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 21:29:00 +0000

Bruce D. Broussard

Chair, Trust Board of Directors

Former President and CEO, Humana Inc.

Bruce Broussard is an American businessman with 30+ years of public company experience in CEO and CFO roles, delivering exceptional results and value for stakeholders across numerous environments, from private to public companies to startups and mid-size to Fortune 50 companies, all with varying levels of financial structures.

A seasoned veteran in the healthcare industry, Bruce has held a wide range of executive leadership positions in publicly traded and private organizations in healthcare sectors of oncology, pharmaceuticals, assisted living/senior housing, home care, physician practice management, surgical centers, and dental networks.

Bruce is the former President and Chief Executive Officer of Humana Inc., one of the nation’s leading public healthcare companies focused on helping improve the quality of life of millions of people in the United States through its insurance and healthcare services.

Prior to leading Humana for 12 years, Bruce was Chief Executive Officer of McKesson Specialty/US Oncology, Inc. US Oncology was purchased by McKesson in December 2010. At US Oncology, Bruce served in numerous senior executive roles, including Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board.

Bruce serves on the board of HP Inc. and the Edward Jones Advisory Board. He is also a strategic advisor to KKR & Co., Inc., and Define Ventures, and plays a leadership role within The Business Council, a prominent business advocacy organization. In the past, Bruce has served on the boards of KeyBank and US Physical Therapy, as well as extending his leadership to numerous advocacy organizations, including the Business Roundtable, the American Heart Association CEO Roundtable, the World Economic Forum Health Governors Board, and AHIP.

Additionally, he currently serves on the Humana Foundation Board and is Chair of the Board of Directors of the Trust for the National Mall, a nonprofit philanthropic partner of the National Park Service dedicated to restoring and preserving the National Mall.

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Sheila Johnson

Guest User — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 15:36:00 +0000

Sheila Johnson

Vice Chair, Trust for the National Mall

Founder and CEO, Salamander Collection

Sheila Johnson is Founder & CEO of the Salamander Collection. The company operates luxury properties centered around unique destinations in the US and the Caribbean that includes Salamander Middleburg which has achieved the Forbes Triple Five-Star ratings for its accommodations, spa and dining.

As a Partner of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Johnson is the only African American woman to have ownership in three professional sports teams: the Washington Wizards, Washington Capitals, and the Washington Mystics.

She spearheaded the formation of WE Capital, a venture capital consortium to support and invest in female-led enterprises.

Ms. Johnson is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences where she serves on the Education Committee. She also serves as chairman of the College of Performing Arts at The New School. The Sheila Johnson Fellowship at the Harvard Kennedy School supported a cohort of 50 fellows. She is also a board member of the Metropolitan Opera, Jackie Robinson Foundation, Simon & Schuster Publishing Advisory Board, PBS Foundation and a committee member of the NeuroArts Blueprint: Advancing the Science of Arts, Health and Well-Being.

A powerful influence in the entertainment industry, she was the co-founder of Black Entertainment Television, served as executive producer of documentary and feature films and is founder and chair of the Middleburg Film Festival.

Ms. Johnson’s memoir, Walk Through Fire, was published by Simon & Schuster in September 2023.

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Edward L. Samek

Guest User — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 15:38:00 +0000

Edward L. Samek

Treasurer, Trust Board of Directors

Retired Chairman & CEO, The MRC Group

Former Chair, Friends of Acadia National Park (2011-2017)

Edward L. Samek is the retired Chairman & CEO of the MRC Group, a leading national provider of medical record services to hospitals and large medical providers. Ed served as the Chair of the Friends of Acadia National Park from 2011 to 2017 and continues to be an advocate for national parks and the National Park Service. Currently he is on the board of advisors of the National Park Conservation Association, Northeast Region. Earlier he served as President of Childcraft Education Corporation, President & CEO of Hudson Pharmaceutical Corporation, and President & CEO of SecrePhone Medical Transcription, Ltd. He has been a member and advisor on numerous public and private corporate boards, including Alliance Healthcare Services, MedPlus, CareMedic, Veritext, WaterJel, Third Millennium Healthcare, and as Vice Chair of Medquist.

Ed joined the Board of the Trust in March 2018 and serves as Treasurer of the Board. Ed has been instrumental in providing financial and operating advice to leadership. Past involvements in other board leadership positions include Treasurer and Finance Chair of The Jackson Laboratory, President of the Board of The Hartridge School, and a member of the Executive Committee of the Wardlaw-Hartridge School. Ed grew up in Westchester County, New York. He and his wife, Martie, live in Manhattan and Southwest Harbor, Maine. They have three daughters and eight grandchildren.

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Georgette “Gigi” Dixon

Guest User — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 17:38:00 +0000

Georgette “Gigi” Dixon

Secretary, Trust Board of Directors

Executive Vice President and Head of External Engagement, Diverse Segments, Representation, and Inclusion, Wells Fargo & Company

Georgette “Gigi” Dixon is the executive vice president and head of External Engagement for Diverse Segments, Representation, and Inclusion. In this diversity-focused role, Gigi is responsible for stakeholder relationships, sponsorship activation, and advocacy and influencer strategies. Her team advances diversity, equity, and inclusion by leading and amplifying our efforts externally to ensure that people across our workforce, communities, and supply chain feel valued and respected and have equal access to resources, services, products, and opportunities to succeed. She is also a member of Wells Fargo’s Management Committee.

Gigi joined Wells Fargo in 1994 and prior to her current role, she was head of External Relations for Wells Fargo Government Relations and Public Policy (GRPP). Her team led national outreach and stakeholder engagement to address social and economic challenges facing our communities and the nation. She provided thought leadership, counsel, and resources by connecting and convening nongovernment institutions, think tanks, trade associations, advocacy groups, and academic institutions to promote Wells Fargo’s policy priorities.

Gigi also has served as marketing manager for Wholesale Banking, Small Business Banking, and Commercial Banking; director of Emerging (multicultural) Markets; and director of Strategic Partnerships for the Wells Fargo Foundation. She also served on the company’s Corporate Diversity Council for six years. Gigi joined Wells Fargo in 1994.

In 2005, Gigi was recognized as one of the Most Powerful Women to Watch by American Banker magazine. In 2023, Diversity Woman magazine named her as one their Elite 100: A Tribute to Black Women Executives.

She currently serves as a member of the NAACP national board of directors; vice chairman of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. corporate advisory board; UnidosUS corporate advisory board member; chair of the Opera Carolina board of advisors; and trustee of the Trust for the National Mall. She is a member of the James Madison Council for the Library of Congress, Rainbow/PUSH Coalition board of directors, the National Urban League corporate advisory board, the Congressional Black Caucus Institute’s 21st Century Council, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Gigi is also member of the Executive Leadership Council, which opens channels of opportunity for the development of black executives to positively impact businesses and communities.

Gigi has a Bachelor of Science, with distinction, from Tennessee State University in speech communications and theater as well as certificates in Corporate Community Involvement and Nonprofit Leadership from the Boston College Carroll School of Management. She also has an honorary doctorate degree from Livingstone College. Gigi resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her family.

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John E. Akridge, III

Guest User — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 15:14:00 +0000

John E. Akridge III

Founder and Chair Emeritus, Trust for the National Mall

Founder and Chairman Emeritus, Akridge

As the Founder and Chairman of the commercial real estate firm bearing his name, Chip is an innovator in the industry, a committed advocate of community initiatives in the Washington, D.C. region, and a dedicated supporter of philanthropic and charitable organizations.

Chip Akridrige is the Founder and Chair Emeritus of the Trust for the National Mall, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service (NPS), dedicated to restoring, improving and maintaining the National Mall, which has over 36 million visitors annually. Motivated by the need to improve the declining condition of the National Mall and its iconic monuments, Chip worked tirelessly, starting in 2002, to develop a partnership with the National Park Service so the Trust could bring much needed resources to improve the National Mall. In 2007, the Trust became the official partner of NPS, serving the National Mall. Since then, more than $150 million has been invested by Congress and private donors for restoration projects, including earthquake damage repairs to the Washington Monument, replacement of the Lincoln reflecting pool, and the installation of the new natural grass turf panels and supporting irrigation system.

Under Chip’s leadership, the Trust accomplishes its mission by raising funds and awareness for restoration projects that include infrastructure, environmental sustainability, conservation management, as well as education and engagement programs. Chip and the Trust’s team of experts advocate about priority projects, provide counsel on needed restoration efforts, and offer expertise on landscape architecture, environmental planning, sustainability, design, and implementation. Private philanthropy has been instrumental in building every monument and memorial on the National Mall. Gifts from private citizens are likewise essential to the restorations and improvements ahead. Chip served as Chair of the Trust Board of Directors from 2007-2022.

Chip founded Akridge in 1974 to specialize in commercial real estate in downtown and suburban Washington, D.C. Since then, Akridge has acquired, developed, or entitled more than 14 million square feet of office, industrial flex, residential, retail, and entertainment space in the metro area. He also worked closely with the city government to develop innovative legislation that created the housing linkage program, Business Improvement Districts, and regulatory guidelines to improve the water quality of the Anacostia River.

Chip has served as a member of the Economic Development and Executive Committees of the Federal City Council, and as chairman of the Greater Washington Board of Trade’s Emergency Preparedness Task Force. He has received numerous industry awards. A strong advocate for the environment, he has served on the Board of Trustees of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the Nature Conservancy of Maryland/D.C., and various agencies of the city government. Chip testifies frequently in support of environmentally friendly legislation.

Committed both personally and professionally to sustainable building design, he earned numerous Smart Growth awards and the LEED Accredited Professional designation. He is also an EPA Energy STAR partner and has been recognized by the Garden Club of America for his environmental work. Chip is a Distinguished Eagle Scout and a Vietnam veteran.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and a Master of Business Administration in Finance, and Real Estate Development from Harvard University.

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Valerie Camillo

Guest User — Sat, 30 Jan 2021 03:25:00 +0000

Valerie camillo

Chief Executive Officer, Spring 4th Advisory

Valerie is an innovative sports and entertainment industry leader who specializes in unlocking growth for sports properties, amusement parks, and adjacent real estate development projects. She operates a strategic advisory practice with clients in hospitality, collegiate athletics, and pro sports. She sits on the Board of Directors of America’s largest family-owned attractions corporation, Herschend Family Entertainment, and the University of Virginia Athletics Foundation.

Valerie was the President & CEO of Comcast NBC Universal’s live sports and entertainment division responsible for the business operation of the Philadelphia Flyers, Wells Fargo Center, and Philadelphia Sports Complex. She led the $400M transformation of the Wells Fargo Center—a comprehensive redesign of the arena focused on elevating the guest experience, creating new sources of revenue, and operating efficiently and sustainably. Prior to Comcast, Valerie served as Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer for the Washington Nationals and as a Senior Vice President in the National Basketball Association’s internal strategy and consulting group. Valerie began her career in management consulting, where she spent 15 years advising business and government leaders for Booz Allen Hamilton and PwC.

Valerie is active in the community as a member of YPO (U.S. Capital Chapter), the Economic Club of DC, and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). She resides in McLean, Virginia with her husband, Lawrence.

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Armeane M. Choksi, Ph.D.

Guest User — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 17:45:00 +0000

Armeane M. Choksi, Ph.D.

Financier, Author, Former Vice President of the World Bank

Dr. Choksi has been integrally involved in international finance in both the private and the public sectors for over 30 years.

Dr. Choksi spent 22 years with the World Bank rising to the senior executive position of Vice President. During his tenure there, Dr. Choksi negotiated investment projects and economic policy changes with governments of several emerging markets in Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. He was integrally involved with Presidents, Prime Ministers, Finance Ministers and Planning Ministers in the macroeconomic stabilization, privatization and the trade and financial reform programs for Brazil, Peru, and Venezuela. After leaving the World Bank, Dr. Choksi was Founding Partner and President of two investment companies, Rubicon Capital that invested in Latin America and Hudson Fairfax Group that invested in India. Subsequently, he was Chairman of Option 3 Ventures LLC, a cyber security investment firm and Director of Copia Global, an internet-based consumer retail company (similar to Amazon.com) in Africa.

Dr. Choksi has published extensively on foreign trade and economic liberalization and has been an Adjunct Professor at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania for nine years. He received the award for Alumnus of Notable Achievement from the University of Minnesota. He also serves on several governing boards and national cabinets including The Brady Urological Institute at Johns Hopkins Medicine, The National Portrait Gallery of the Smithsonian Institute, The Heller-Hurwicz Economic Institute at the University of Minnesota, The University of Edinburgh USA Board, and The American Enterprise Institute. He has also served on the Boards of the Washington National Opera, the Washington Ballet, Levine Music, the National Cathedral School for Girls and Microcredit Enterprises

Dr. Choksi holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, a Master of Engineering from McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, both in chemical engineering and an MA and a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Minnesota.

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Kate Curtin Lindsey

Guest User — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 17:43:00 +0000

Kate Curtin Lindsey

Owner/Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Alpha Corporation

Kate Curtin Lindsey (Kerr) is the current Chairwoman and Chief Executive Officer of Alpha Corporation a top 100 civil/structural and project management firm headquartered in Dulles, Virginia. Kate inherited the firm from her late husband, Jeffrey, who died in 2013. In addition to its headquarters, the firm has offices in Baltimore, MD, Virginia Beach, VA, Alexandria, VA and Miami, FL. Alpha’s work includes design and project management for a diverse client base – both private as well as public ranging from Princeton University to National Institute of Health to the DOTs throughout the region. Alpha has done extensive project management for the National Park Service working closely with the Denver Service Center. Included in these award-winning projects are the St. Louis Arch as well as the Washington Monument and turf restoration of the National Mall.

With her team of professional engineers, project managers and technologists, Kate has broadened and expanded the firm’s services to include new and innovative technologies to support the built environment. Partnering with a variety of software, AI, and design firms, Alpha is one of the industry’s leaders in developing and introducing creative solutions for data collection and management, drawing/as-built designs replication, and cost and space efficient data centers.

Kate began her career at Morgan Stanley in New York City. Working closely with the Management Team, Kate was promoted to senior associate and worked on the Strategic Planning Task Force helping to shape Morgan’s future through acquisitions and expansion. Using the team’s plan, Morgan expanded significantly over the next four years going global and diversifying their portfolio of services. In 1979, Kate moved to American Security Bank in Washington. Kate took the bank to the rating agencies – securing an A1/P1 commercial paper rating and

expanding the bank’s investment alternatives for their clients by over $500 million.

In 1985, Kate shifted gears and became the first Chief Financial Officer at Georgetown Day School, a large co-ed day school located in DC. Kate led the team in the project management of three major school programs – the acquisition/financing of the new High School on Davenport Street, the extensive renovations of the Lower School and the renovation and expansion of the High School before moving to The Hewitt School in New York City in 2009. At Hewitt, Kate also acquired adjacent property and began the design for the expanded middle and high school footprint. When her husband was diagnosed with advanced cancer, Kate returned to DC and took the position of Assistant Head of School at Sidwell Friends. Kate left Sidwell in 2018 to take the helm fulltime at Alpha.

Kate has taught nearly 1000 business officers of independent schools both here and abroad. As a founding member of NBOA, the National Business Officers Association, Kate was instrumental in the development of its Summer Institute for new business officers and school heads. She has been the recipient of the Ken White Award for excellence along with several other business-related awards. She has mentored both CFOs and Heads of School to ensure they understand the complexities of school finance, the scope involved in school construction and helped shape their fundraising efforts. She has served on several boards, supports the Boys and Girls Club of DC, Memorial Sloan Kettering, Lombardi Cancer Center, and the Children’s Inn at NIH. When not in the DC area, Kate and her husband Eamonn, live between Delray Beach, Florida and London, England.

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Dr. Barbaralee Diamonstein-Spielvogel

Guest User — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 15:22:00 +0000

Dr. Barbaralee Diamonstein-Spielvogel

Throughout her lengthy career, Dr. Barbaralee Diamonstein-Spielvogel has served as a leading voice on some of the defining urban issues of our time, including the preservation of the historic built environment of our country. She has brought unparalleled involvement to the arts, architecture, design and public policy through roles that have brought her from the writer's desk to The White House, and serves as a model for civic and cultural involvement. As the wife of the U.S. Ambassador to the Slovak Republic, she was a model of engagement in public policy issues, the arts, architecture, and human rights, especially the plight of the Roma.

As the first Director of Cultural Affairs for New York City, she was responsible for bringing the Metropolitan Opera to Central Park and the first outdoor sculpture exhibition to Bryant Park. The first woman to serve as Vice Chair of the US Commission of Fine Arts in its then-109 year history, where she served for more than a decade, she has also served as the Vice Chair (2007-2016), and the Chair and CEO (2016-2018) of the New York State Council on the Arts. Other appointed positions include Commissioner of the American Battle Monuments Commission, a founding director of the Trust for the National Mall and of the High Line [the elevated park in the NYC meatpacking district]. She was appointed to the board of the US Holocaust Memorial Museum Commission in Washington, DC. In that role she served as Chair of the Committee that commissioned the original art for all of the spaces in the museum. In 2015, she was named to the Advisory Committee of the National Eisenhower Memorial. Dr. Diamonstein-Spielvogel was appointed to the President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts by President Biden in March, 2022.

She is the author of 24 books on art, architecture and public policy, and the curator of eight traveling museum exhibits, one of which was circulated by the US Department of State to 82 countries on five continents. Her 23rd book, The Landmarks of New York, (now in its Sixth Edition, 2016), was accompanied by a multi-city traveling museum tour throughout NY State. Her most recent book, to be published by the NY Review of Books is entitled, “beyond architecture: The NEW New York”.

As Chair of the Historic Landmarks Preservation Center, she created, had approved and underwrote the distinctive Historic District Street Signs that are installed in 155 Historic Districts in New York City, and was the founder/creator of the Cultural Medallion program.

Her reach extends into other media as well: she was the interviewer/producer for seven television series about the arts, architecture, design, crafts, and public policy for the Arts & Entertainment Network, and many other programs for other national networks, such as CBS and NBC. Many of her television interviews were also shown at the Leo Castelli Gallery, and nearly 200 of her interviews are now available on iTunes U and YouTube, having been digitized by the Diamonstein-Spielvogel Video Archives at the David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library at Duke University. The recipient of numerous honors and awards, in addition to her earned doctorate from NYU with highest honors, she is the recipient of four honorary doctorates. In January 2023, she received the Dr. Jan Papanek Medal, the highest U.N. honor given by the government of Slovakia.

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John Drew

Guest User — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 15:24:00 +0000

John Drew

President and CEO, TCMA, A Drew Company

John P. Drew is president and CEO of TCMA (A Drew Company) which manages, leases and operates the 3.1 million square foot, landmark property, the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, DC.

As the first and only federal building dedicated to both public and private use, TCMA works in partnership with the U.S. General Services Administration to distinguish the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center (RRB/ITC) as DC’s premier venue for hosting infl uential conferences and events, as the World Trade Center Washington, DC off ering a powerful forum for international trade promotion, and as a destination for locals and city visitors alike. TCMA is committed to enhancing the quality of life in DC, for its residents and business community, through sponsorship, volunteerism, and self-produced programming. As the driving force behind the RRB/ITC, TCMA excels in delivering unparalleled service and expertise in real-estate development, leasing, building operations, hospitality services, and international trade promotion.

Mr. Drew also serves as president of Drew Company, an innovative, Boston-based real estate management and development company. Drew Company has developed several major projects in Boston including Waterside Place, The Seaport Hotel and the Seaport World Trade Center Complex, and currently has a number of residential projects under development. In Atlanta, GA, Drew Company developed the city’s largest downtown, ground-up hotel project in the past 40 years, collaborating with Georgia World Congress Center Authority, Hilton and others to open the 976-room Signia by Hilton Atlanta in 2024. Drew Company has additional development projects underway within the region.

As director of the World Trade Centre Dublin, Mr. Drew and his team off er expertise on trade collaborations that cross international boundaries. He also represents the Trade Center as a member of the World Trade Centers Association, whose mission is to link people and businesses around the world that share a common vision for peace through international trade and prosperity.

In addition to his many roles, he is active in the business community, currently serving on the Executive Committee of the Boston Municipal Research Bureau, the Board of Directors for Trust for the National Mall and Pay Lynxs, Inc. He acts as a Trustee for DC’s Federal City Council and a Trustee Associate for St. John’s Prep in Danvers, MA, as well as participating in several other advisory boards and councils.

Mr. Drew received his Bachelor of Science degree from Boston College and Master’s Degree in Business Studies from the University of Dublin/Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, Dublin, Ireland. Prior to working for Drew Company, Mr. Drew was employed by Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. in their Dublin and Boston offices in the Investment Services Division.

Mr. Drew is married to Helene Drew, a native of Belgium, and they make their home on the South Shore with their four children.

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Eric Hoplin

Guest User — Sat, 23 Jan 2021 15:25:00 +0000

Eric Hoplin

CEO, National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors

Eric Hoplin is President and CEO of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), which represents the nearly $6 trillion wholesale distribution industry that accounts for one-third of the American economy and supplies businesses with the products they need to serve their customers in every sector of commerce.

A seasoned executive and communicator who has worked at the highest levels of government and business, Hoplin previously led external relations for Wells Fargo, where his team focused on improving the company’s reputation and advancing pro-growth policy objectives in concert with

third-party organizations across the political spectrum. Before Wells Fargo, Hoplin served as executive director of the Financial Services Roundtable (now BPI), a trade association representing the CEOs of the nation’s largest

financial services companies. Prior to that, he worked in management consulting at Booz Allen Hamilton, where he helped senior leaders across the government solve their most vexing challenges. Earlier in his career, Hoplin worked in politics, supporting many congressional, gubernatorial, and Presidential campaigns.

Hoplin is a leader in the charitable community, where he serves on the Boards of the Trust for the National Mall and the Reagan Ranch. He is a prolific fundraiser, having raised millions of dollars for charitable organizations, NGOs, and political candidates.

A Minnesota native, Hoplin holds a Master of International Affairs degree from Columbia University, an M.B.A. from Augsburg College, a B.A. in political science and communications from St. Olaf College, and a certificate in Change Management from Georgetown University McDonough School of Business. He lives outside of Washington, DC with his wife Nicole and their three boys.

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Stacy Kerr

Guest User — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 17:59:00 +0000

Stacy Kerr

Partner, Penta Group

Stacy Kerr is a strategic communications expert with more than two decades of experience as a trusted advisor to CEOs, global executives, and elected officials who have relied on her judgment, innovative ideas, and strategic insights. She is a partner at Penta Group, a public affairs consulting firm that combines research and analysis with impactful communications strategies. Stacy helps clients, including foundations, trade associations, and corporate leaders articulate and advance their positions, manage their reputations, navigate the political, regulatory and media landscapes, and advance their business goals.

Prior to joining Penta Group, Stacy founded Kerr Strategies, a public affairs and strategic communications consultancy, where she advised clients in the corporate and nonprofit sectors across a variety of industries. She has been a member of the Arthur Page Society, the world’s leading professional association for senior public relations and corporate communications executives. Washingtonian called Stacy a “communications ace,” who Politico noted navigated the dozen years she spent on Capitol Hill “with grace, savvy and energy.”

Stacy previously served as Georgetown University’s chief communications officer, where she was responsible for maintaining and elevating the institution’s iconic, global reputation during a time of increasing complexity and disruption across higher education. She guided the university’s management of high-profile issues, grew the university’s owned platforms, and embedded strategic communications into the senior leadership team. During Stacy’s tenure, she was involved in several monumental advancements, including the University’s public understanding of and engagement with descendants of slaves who helped build the university; the establishment of the new Big East Athletic Conference; the growth and development within Washington, D.C.; and the establishment of a new school of public policy with a $100 million gift.

Stacy spent 15 years working in national politics, including serving nearly a decade as a senior aide to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. During her tenure, she played a role in historic issues and legislation, including the 2008 financial crisis and the Affordable Care Act of 2010. Stacy traveled to more than 50 congressional districts and across the world with Speaker Pelosi and Members of Congress. Stacy got her start in politics working on Bill Bradley’s 2000 Democratic presidential campaign, on various congressional races and as a Press Secretary to Congressman Marty Meehan (MA).

Throughout her career, Stacy has demonstrated a commitment to women’s leadership and has advised clients on equity and institutional diversity. She served as an advisor to the OWN IT Women’s Leadership Summit, was a founding member of the Georgetown Women’s Alliance where she serves on the Steering Committee and leads Georgetown University’s involvement as an IMPACT Champion in the United Nations’ global “HeForShe” campaign for gender equity.

Stacy earned her master’s degree in Global Strategic Communications from Georgetown University and holds an undergraduate degree from Smith College. She lives with her husband and three children near Washington, D.C.

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Nels Olson

Guest User — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 16:56:00 +0000

Nels Olson

Vice Chairman and Co-Leader, Board & CEO Services, Korn Ferry

Recognized in the industry for his keen business sense and political knowledge, Mr. Olson has advised many clients through challenging management transitions. Over the past 20 years, he has completed in excess of 1000 successful searches for a wide range of Fortune 500 companies.

Mr. Olson’s executive search and board assignments span the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America, and lie across multiple industries, including financial services, technology, consumer, industrial and healthcare.

Recent CEO level assignments include Sallie Mae, the Commissioner of the NFL and the Federal Reserve Banks of New York and Boston. Recent Board assignments include American International Group, Occidental Petroleum Corp., The Carlyle Group, NewsCorp and The Travelers Companies.

Mr. Olson is a leader in placing senior-level professionals skilled in Government/Regulatory Affairs, as well as International and Public Affairs, among them: Boeing, Carlyle, Caterpillar, Starbucks, Hilton, Aetna and Wellpoint. He has extensive experience in leading associations and non-profit organizations including: Business Roundtable, National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA), Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA) and Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA).

Mr. Olson joined Korn Ferry in 1993 after a successful career in public relations and government service. Prior to joining the Firm, he was with the public relations firm Fleishman-Hillard, Inc. Preceding this, Mr. Olson gained experience in executive search when he was on the staff of the White House in the Office of Presidential Personnel. In this capacity, he identified and recommended candidates for senior political positions in cabinet agencies and was responsible for the political clearance for all Presidential appointees.

Mr. Olson earned a master’s in business administration from The George Washington University and a bachelor of arts in political science from the State University of New York.

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Catherine Townsend

Guest User — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 14:45:00 +0000

Catherine Townsend

President and CEO

Since 2016, Catherine has led the organization’s vision and strategy to accomplish its mission as the leading philanthropic partner of the National Park Service to restore, enrich, and preserve the National Mall and the White House Grounds. Catherine has strengthened the Trust’s impact through marquee design and restoration projects, educational enrichment opportunities, and expansion of the Volunteers-in-Parks program. She is currently leading a $250 million campaign in honor of the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.

For over 35 years, Catherine has held leadership roles at mission-driven not-for-profit organizations demonstrating impact through strategic partnerships, innovative fundraising and marketing programs, and grassroots organizing.

Prior to joining the Trust, Catherine developed her own consulting practice, providing coaching and resource support to non-profit leaders until she was recruited to join the Trust in 2016. She served as the President and Executive Director of the DC Public Education Fund from 2012 to 2014, the independent non-profit that advances initiatives to improve student outcomes in DC Public Schools, helping implement the IMPACT program with funding from major foundations, as well as help grow its annual Standing Ovation, a star-studded awards ceremony honoring the achievements of top teachers, leaders, and school communities. She has also served as Senior Advisor at Townsend Public Affairs (a family-owned business) and launched their Federal office in Washington, DC in 2008.

Catherine’s non-profit career was shaped as she served for 18 years as the Associate Director of Share Our Strength, a national non-profit organization she helped to build from a fledgling organization to a leader in ending childhood hunger (currently known for its No Kid Hungry campaign). Through national events, such as Taste of the Nation, and pioneering cause-marketing programs with leading fortune 500 companies, such as Charge Against Hunger with American Express, she helped raised millions of dollars annually for direct grants to non-profits organizations throughout the United States and in select developing countries. Catherine helped to mobilize hundreds of prominent chefs and restaurateurs in cities across the country to do events and special initiatives, including a cookbook she co-authored to help raise awareness for the mission, called Home Food: 44 Great American Chefs Cook 160 Recipes on their Night Off.

Catherine is an experienced public speaker and has travelled throughout the U.S. and Canada, as well as to Africa, Europe, and South America. Born and raised in Southern California, she has a B.A. from Scripps College in Claremont, California. She is a member of the 2014 class of Greater Leadership Washington and is the founder and head coach of HoopGirlsDC, a youth basketball and empowerment program for girls, established in 2004. Catherine lives on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC and has four grown children. In her spare time enjoys distance cycling, her Peloton, cooking and watching independent films.