Guest Biography
Dr. Alveda King
Alveda C. King, PhD, serves as Senior Advisor on Faith and Community Outreach for the USDA. She is a guardian of The King Family Legacy, Chair of the AFPI Center for the American Dream, founder of Alveda King Ministries, and co-founder of She Leads Georgia and Speak for Life. She is founder of King Legacy Farms. She was elected twice to the Georgia State House, a recipient of the Presidential Award, a doctoral graduate from Aidan University, and a film, music, media and entertainment veteran.
Chris Widener
Chris Widener has been named one of the top 50 speakers in the world. He is one of the top 100 leadership speakers in the world by Inc magazine and one of the top 10 sales speakers in the world by Success magazine. He is a member of the Motivational Speakers Hall of Fame and is the author of 25 books, including his latest, The Coming American Revival: the Biblical blueprint for igniting a nation’s soul. His books have been translated into 14 languages worldwide. Chris and his wife Denise live in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Dr. Matthew Kutz
Matt Kutz, Ph.D., BCC, FNAP is a leadership consultant to the NFL. He is a clinical professor at Florida international University, a Fellow of the National Academies of Practice, and an award-winning author, researcher, and educator. He is a board certified coach and Fulbright Scholar in the Medical Sciences. Matt also serves as a leadership coach and trainer for many Fortune 500 and multinational organizations including, P&G, Airtel LTD, The Cleveland Clinic, Brother Inc. and many more. His award-winning research and leadership book on contextual intelligence has been integrated in use in many leadership development programs by organizations around the world. In addition to that, he is also the director of Apostolic Team International and a teaching pastor at Foundation Stone Church in Northwood Ohio. For more on Dr. Kutz visit his website at www.matthewkutz.com.
Shawn Springs
Following a distinguished 13-season NFL career as the third overall draft pick and highest-drafted cornerback in NFL history, Shawn Springs transitioned successfully into entrepreneurship and investing, employing advanced technologies to create meaningful social impact. Shawn founded Windpact, developing the award-winning Crash Cloud™ impact protection prominently featured in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History exhibition, "Change Your Game," as well as the USPTO Invention Hall of Fame. His innovations have enhanced safety across sports, military, and automotive industries, earning multiple NFL Head Health Tech Challenge awards and contracts with the Department of Defense.
He also founded InnateIQ, an AI-driven platform empowering small and medium-sized manufacturers to scale effectively. Shawn regularly invests in startups focused on artificial intelligence, industrial technology, and sports, leveraging strategic partnerships with premier universities, Fortune 500 companies, and an extensive network of industry experts.
Today, Shawn leads The Agena Group, utilizing its advanced AI platform to invest in and identify transformative ventures addressing critical challenges in safety, sustainability, industrial innovation, and community development.
As a speaker, Shawn delivers sophisticated yet actionable insights into innovation, leadership, and successful career transitions, uniquely combining perspectives from elite athletics with impactful entrepreneurship.
Frank D. Murphy
Frank D. Murphy’s life story details his journey from juvenile incarceration to the NFL. After getting a second chance through NFL Super Bowl-winning coach Tony Dungy,Frank successfully became a star player in the NFL. Frank won the Heisman Trophy in junior college at Garden City community college where he was also introduced into the junior college Hall of Fame. Frank is also the NJCAA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Vice Chairman Ambassador. He went on to Kansas State University and still holds 3 records including a 4.22 yard dash. Frank played his professional career with the NFL and CFL teams, such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Chicago Bears, Houston Texans, and the Miami Dolphins.
Following a successful football career, Murphy founded a Charity called The CCS Plan Legacy Institute Inc. CCS stands for Churches, Communities and Schools. Including winning the Hero Award from the Tampa Bay Lightning, and he is a two-time recipient of the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and also won the Most Valuable Philanthropist in Sports Award. Frank was rewarded the diploma Doctorate In Humanitarianism. Murphy is the bestselling author of The Man Behind The Helmet book, "God of second chances" This book is Forwarded by Hall of Fame Coach Tony Dungy. Frank new book call "The Secret Playbook" from the jail cell to the NFL". This book is forwarded by the great Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz.
Rep. James Lankford
Congressman James Lankford serves Oklahomans. He served four years in the US House of Representatives for central Oklahoma, until he was overwhelmingly elected to the US Senate in 2014. Before his service in Congress, James served students and families for more than 20 years in ministry, including 15 years as the Director of Student Ministry for the Baptist Convention of Oklahoma and Director of the Falls Creek Youth Camp, the largest youth camp in the United States, with more than 51,000 individuals attending each summer.
James and his staff enjoy serving people from all backgrounds across Oklahoma. As Chair of the Government Operations and Border Management Subcommittee, which covers border security, management, and operations; regulatory reform; and the federal workforce. He demands we have a secure, more fiscally responsible, and transparent federal government, and our nation remains the world leader. He believes that the federal government has an important role in our nation, but empowered families, individual people, and private businesses grow our economy and pass down our values. James was recognized as the Senate’s top-ranked “Taxpayers Friend” by the National Taxpayers Union for his strong record in support of lower taxes, limited government, and economic freedom.
His annual Federal Fumbles report is a must-read in Washington, DC, because of its commonsense solutions to the problems our federal government faces. He has also been recognized by many other organizations for his work toward increased personal freedom, economic growth, and religious liberty. James lives in Oklahoma City with his wife Cindy. They have been married more than 30 years and have two daughters, Hannah and Jordan. He enjoys spending time with his family, working in his yard, and reading.
Rep. April Delaney
Congresswoman April McClain Delaney was elected in 2024 to represent Maryland’s Sixth Congressional District, which encompasses all or parts of Montgomery, Frederick, Washington, Allegany, and Garrett Counties.
Growing up in Buhl, Idaho, as the daughter of a potato farmer, April learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and education. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Northwestern University and her Juris Doctor from Georgetown University, where she met her husband, former Congressman John Delaney.
Before running for Congress, April served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Communications at the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Director of Washington, D.C.’s Common Sense Media. During her time with Common Sense Media, April worked to safeguard children online and address the effects of media on children’s mental health and well-being. At NTIA, April spearheaded efforts to expand broadband access and digital equity, focusing on bringing high-speed internet and workforce training to rural communities nationwide. She also strengthened the nation’s cybersecurity, particularly through the First Responder Network, and played a key role in the White House Task Force to Address Online Harassment and Abuse, enhancing protections against gender-based online threats.
With over three decades of leadership spanning the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, April has built a career delivering results for Americans. In Congress, April is dedicated to bridging the digital divide, holding Big Tech accountable, and championing policies and innovation that move America forward and expand opportunity for all.
April resides in Montgomery County with her husband, John, and their four children: Summer, Brooke, Lily, and Grace.
Rep. Mark Harris
Congressman Mark Harris represents the people of North Carolina’s 8th Congressional District. He wants to be a voice for North Carolina families, not just a vote. He is dedicated to fighting for our values and freedoms and against government overreach.
A native North Carolinian, Mark brings a lifetime of serving others to the U.S. House of Representatives. Mark served as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Charlotte for over a decade, navigating multiple economic downturns and challenges. He has experienced firsthand the many ways that the government can impact people’s lives, for better and for worse. But Mark’s leadership goes beyond the pulpit. Mark served as president of the North Carolina Baptist Convention, where he was a key leader in passing North Carolina’s Marriage Amendment — which defined marriage as between one man and one woman.
Mark is married to his college sweetheart, Beth. They have three adult children and ten grandchildren. Mark graduated from Appalachian State University with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. He went on to receive a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. In Congress, Mark serves on the House Agriculture, Education and Workforce, and Judiciary Committees.
Rep. Michael Cloud
Representative Michael Cloud is a Constitutional Conservative who has proudly represents the 27th Congressional District of Texas. Representative Cloud was first elected in a special election in 2018. He defends American values and Constitutional liberties. His time in office has been marked by promoting the booming economy in south Texas, maintaining a strong national defense, and combating anti-American values that work against the American people, rather than for the American people.
Since he’s been in office, he has worked hard to strengthen our border, while working towards immigration policies that benefit the American people. Representative Cloud has been actively working with Veterans to ensure they receive the care they need, while simultaneously working to reform some of the issues that plague the Department of Veterans Affairs. He has been a voice for the unborn by protecting religious freedom and working to end taxpayer-funded abortions.
His background as a small business owner gives him first-hand insight into the fight against bureaucracy and unnecessary regulations.
Arthur Coleman III
Arthur Coleman III is a retired U.S. Army soldier who served with honor and distinction. During his deployment in Iraq, he sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was injured by an IED explosion—life-altering experiences that he met with unwavering resilience. Through determination and strength, he transitioned from Staff Sergeant to civilian advocate, continuing to serve others in a new capacity.
Mr. Coleman is a proud member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and other veteran service organizations, where he champions the rights and well-being of those who’ve served. His deep commitment to veterans' issues has fueled his active involvement in political campaigns and legislative advocacy. As former National Service Director for the Military Order of the Purple Heart, he represented veterans on a national scale, working to shape policies that improve lives.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Auburn University Montgomery, a Juris Doctorate from Miles Law School, and a Master of Laws from the University of Alabama School of Law. Mr. Coleman currently resides in the Metro Washington, D.C. area, where he continues to pursue his passion for justice, leadership, and service.
Charles Eggleston III
Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Charles Eggleston served for 16 years, including multiple tours in Iraq, on his last tour he was severely wounded from an IED blast.
He is a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient who received treatment at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) for over three years from wounds of war.
While at WRAMC, he advocated for his fellow wounded servicemen from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. In Mr. Eggleston’s civilian career, he was a systems engineer for over 15 years – managing contracts with the Pentagon, White House Communications Agency, U.S. Senate, and U.S. Postal Service.
Now he is currently is the CEO of Three Seven Consulting, a service-disabled, Veteran-owned small business. Mr. Eggleston also holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering from Cornell University.
In addition to serving as a member of Blue Star Families' Board of Directors, he also sit on the board of the Salute Military Golf Association (SMGA) - An organization that uses the game of golf to rehabilitate and mentor wounded warriors with TBIs and PTSD and other Injuries from War.
Rob Wilkins
The Honorable Rob Wilkins, a retired U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant, is a leading advocate for military fitness. As a former member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition (PCSFN) and the nation’s first National Fitness Foundation Ambassador, he drives health and wellness initiatives nationwide. For nearly 20 years, he worked closely with fitness pioneers Joe and Ben Weider as the military liaison to the International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB), underscoring his lifelong commitment to promoting physical activity.
Through co-founding the fitness series, Fit to Serve, and contributing to various seminars and podcasts, Wilkins highlights the importance of physical activity for military readiness, national security, and recruitment. His service extends beyond his military career, actively supporting veteran organizations and promoting youth fitness initiatives and programs.
-Military decorations include Meritorious Service Medal (one oak leaf cluster); Joint Commendation Medal; Commendation Medal (one oak leaf cluster); Achievement Medal (three oak leaf clusters); National Defense Service Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
-Awarded the Humana Military & Boots on the Ground Award on 12/5/23 for sustained service to the military community
-Received Lifetime Achievement Award from Woodbridge, NJ
-Recipient of the National Physique Committee 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award for his work related to health promotion within the military community and volunteer work with youth, Veteran Service Organizations and the Special Olympics.
-Selected for 2019 Who’s Who in America
-Recipient of the 2018 American Veterans Center Board Member of the Year for his work in recognizing, honoring and remembering members of the United States Armed Forces
Ralph Perpignan
Ralph Perpignan has served this country for 24years. With deployments and mobilizations that he served during his Military service from the Bosnian refugee mission, Kosovo ,OIF, OEF, Enduring Freedom and others. Retired from the United States started he has received countless accolades and awards from his peers as well as his soldiers. He has demonstrated above all means that honor and integrity comes above all.
While in the WTU he was able to obtain and internship at the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency doing so he finished his Undergrad at Liberty University 2011 and earned a full Grad Scholarship at Colorado Technical University 2012. At the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency was he was giving several awards in his leadership as a project manager. After being medically discharged from the something Army Mr. Perpignan began a new career with the TSC of the FBI 2011. Three months later shortly after leaving the Army his body began to shut down he found himself back in the hospital at the DC VA.
When transferred to the Warrior transition Unit at Fort Meade he realized that going to and from the hospital and being medicated by Doctors at the WTU was not the only thing that could be done. Mr. Perpignan began advocating in giving veterans another chance besides staying medicated by finding ways activates these young leaders Minds. To remove the depressions and thoughts of suicides that plagues us all to this day.
Mr. Perpignan stated in helping myself become better physically and mentally with the support of the poly-trauma unit at the DC VA he would not be the person he is today. Mr. Perpignan has seen as many other Veterans enough of despair and hopelessness to last more than one life time. As in the WTU as well at the VA he found Veteran Organizations that also shared his passion to help others achieve success in Life, Family, Financial, and Stability of mind and body. Through outside partnership he realized that the VA needs Assistance and Guidance through those who have gone through the system and survived. With greater focus on those who need a hand up not a handout. We must realize not everyone can speak for his or her self or for other. However, you must be willing to assist yourself in being a greater person tomorrow. Most of to his importance to became the Chair of the EFSP a mentor for P-TECH Program at the Fredrick Douglas High School; To include Board Member with the DCVA Mental Health Advisory Council VISN-5
David Vardeman
A highly performing Global Business Development Specialist and Community Banking Leader, David Vardeman has exceptional experience developing and driving robust programs that are bold, innovative and scalable. He is especially noted for consistently achieving aggressive marketing and sales projections, capturing consumer interest, and increasing customer service, satisfaction and retention.
Among his many career achievements: successfully started Business Banking Division; started the Not-for-Profit initiative; considered top national banker supporting U.S. veterans; and earned merit-based promotion to his present position from Department Head to Senior Vice President.
Visionary leader with an entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with sharp management and business acumen, have been hallmarks for leading startups from conception to full-service implementation and highly recognizable successes.
Commissioned by the bank CEO to launch the Not-for-Profit Business Banking Division, David has grown customer relationships into a high figure portfolio exceeding $100 million and has been an instrumental contributor to growing the bank from $400 million to $3.2 billion.
Dedicated to helping not-for-profit organizations (NFPOs) continue to grow and prosper, David’s expertise shines through his understanding of their market, strategic planning of day-to-day operations and with smart solutions to sustain their specific mission.
Throughout the course of his professional career, David has been a tireless advocate for community banking and meeting the needs of non-profit organizations in his community. He took on role of “military advocate” throughout the metro area by assisting military non-profits in their mission of meeting veteran’s needs and it has resulted in building new, long-term bank relationships.
Philanthropist, community volunteer and charitable board of directors’ member, David is highly sought after for his non-profit experience and expertise. A passion for serving military and veterans’ causes, David has earned accolades, recognition and honors from non-profit organizations for making a difference. Recent honors and recognition include:
▪ 2024 – Formally recognized by Wounded Paw Project for outstanding work toward canine rescue and animal protection. Received hand wooden carved Wounded Paw Project logo.
▪ 2024 – Recognized by American GI Forum for outstanding partnership with the military’s Hispanic community nationwide.
▪ 2024 – Received national service recognition from the Navy Safe Harbor Foundation for 10 years of dedicated service, including taking an event from two sponsors to a “full house” event honoring U.S. Navy and Coast Guard Wounded Warrior – Sailor of the Year.
▪ 2022 - Selected to the Coast Guard Foundation Board of Trustees.
▪ 2021 - Recognized for successfully facilitating employment assistance and placement for Afghanistan interpreters through Veterans Service Organizations program.
▪ 2019 - Honored by U.S. naval military officer with 9/11 lapel pin, given only to military personnel at The Pentagon during the 9/11 attack.
▪ 2018 - Presented American flag flown by U.S. Army in Iraq for ongoing work dedicated to veterans and active-duty service members.
▪ 2018 - American Legion Post 1, Washington, DC, conferred “Honorary Member” of the Son of Legion for engaging in outbound activities.
▪ 2017 - Named “100 Most Influential People” in veterans affairs by HillVets Foundation.
Today, David proudly serves as a community volunteer with 20+ military veteran service organizations.
