Staff Leadership

Leadership and Staff

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Executive

Bonnie Carroll

TAPS President and Founder

Surviving Spouse of Brigadier General Tom Carroll, Army National Guard

Bonnie Carroll TAPS President and Founder Surviving Spouse of Brigadier General Tom Carroll, Army National Guard Bonnie Carroll founded the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors in 1994 following the death of her husband, an Army general, who died along with seven other soldiers in an Army plane crash in 1992. She envisioned a program capable of providing lifelong comfort and care for all who grieve the death of a military loved one, and her vision is now America’s leading nonprofit supporting the families of military and veteran deceased. Ms. Carroll also served her country, retiring as a major in the Air Force Reserves. In her civilian career, she served three administrations in the White House, and served in various other government capacities including as the White House Liaison to the Department of Veterans Affairs. She also served as a Department of the Army civilian in Baghdad, Iraq from 2003 to 2004 as the Deputy Senior Advisor to the Ministry of Communications and continues working internationally to bring stability to families of military deceased in areas of conflict around the world. She holds a degree in political science and public administration from American University and has attended Harvard University's Executive Leadership course in International Conflict Resolution. In 2015, Ms. Carroll was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of her work with surviving military families. She is the author of "Healing Your Grieving Heart After a Military Death". /bonniecarroll _self

Lynda Davis

Senior Advisor

Lynda Davis Senior Advisor Dr. Lynda Davis’ career of serving and advocating for members of the military and veteran communities is an asset to the TAPS mission. In addition to her role at TAPS, Dr. Davis is the Founder and Executive Director of the Military and Veteran Caregiver Network and Chief Executive Officer of a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business specializing in education, training, and health and human services. Her government service includes roles as the Chief Veterans Experience Officer for the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA); Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy at the Department of Defense (DoD); and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Military Personnel Policy at the Department of the Navy. A former U.S. Army Signal Officer and mother of a veteran, Dr. Davis previously served as the designated lead for DoD-VA response to the recommendations of the Commission on Care for America’s Returning Wounded Warriors, creating Recovery Care Programs, initiating comprehensive, family-inclusive Recovery Care Plans, and launching the National Resource Directory. She is a former VA Medical Center clinician and former faculty of the Departments of Psychiatry and Public Administration at the University of Southern California. She holds a Ph.D. and master’s degree in public administration with a specialization in human services administration, as well as an M.A. in community clinical psychology. Dr. Davis has also volunteered her time and expertise on multiple military and veteran advisory boards. /LyndaDavis _self

Audri Beugelsdijk

Vice President, Survivor Services

Surviving Spouse of Seaman Jason Springer, U.S. Navy

Audri Beugelsdijk Vice President, Survivor Services Surviving Spouse of Seaman Jason Springer, U.S. Navy As Vice President of Survivor Services at TAPS, Audri Beugelsdijk diligently oversees operations, ensuring immediate and long-term support for survivors. Her purview encompasses a wide range of services, including the 24/7 National Military Survivor Helpline, Survivor Care Team, Peer Mentor Program, and Youth Programs, among others. A holder of bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology, Audri brings extensive training in death, dying, and bereavement to her role. This knowledge was gained through respected institutions, such as the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC), the National Alliance for Grieving Children, and the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing®. Her commitment to the TAPS mission is evident in her tireless efforts to provide a comforting refuge for military families. As a Navy veteran and widow of CTRSN Jason Springer, U.S. Navy, lost at sea on the USS Kinkaid, Audri's dedication is deeply personal and profoundly inspiring. /AudriBeugelsdijk _self

Diana Roday Hosford

Vice President, Sports & Entertainment

Diana Roday Hosford Vice President, Sports & Entertainment Diana Roday Hosford joined TAPS in 2013, and after a trip to Kabul, Afghanistan, she had the vision to create a program that would allow TAPS to create meaningful opportunities for the families of the fallen through sports. Her concept has become the teams4taps program which has grown to include more than 200 sports teams across the country and several international organizations. Diana continues to build international strategic partnerships, and, in her current role, she also oversees stars4taps, the TAPS entertainment program. She is a veteran in the nonprofit world, with more than 20 years of marketing, communications, and partnership development in the sector, including roles at Special Olympics. Prior to transitioning to the nonprofit sector, Diana worked in television news. She attended American University and currently resides in Washington, D.C. with her husband and daughter. /DianaHosford _self

Kelly Shaul

Director, Strategic Partnerships

Surviving Sister of Major Samuel Griffith, U.S. Marine Corps

Kelly Shaul Director, Strategic Partnerships Surviving Sister of Major Samuel Griffith, U.S. Marine Corps Kelly Shaul is responsible for building critical relationships with TAPS partners to expand TAPS’ impact and the support it can bring to survivors. Before stepping into the government sector to gain valuable expertise that helps her excel in her current role, Kelly served on the TAPS Communications Team and edited the TAPS Magazine. While serving in government, Kelly was the Senior Protocol Officer to the Secretary of Defense, Special Assistant to the Deputy Assistant to the President for Homeland Security, and a Human Capital Specialist building relationships across the Executive Branch. While assigned to the White House, Kelly supported military members detailed to the National Security Council staff and liaised with the Defense Department. Her efforts in the government earned her the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Public Service. After graduating with a B.S. in mass communications, Kelly became a managing editor of a newspaper group in Wake County, North Carolina, but she transitioned to nonprofit work following the death of her brother, Major Samuel Griffith, U.S. Marine Corps. /KellyShaul _self

Brittany Bonin-Bruder

Vice President, Casework Assistance and Education Support Services

Brittany Bonin-Bruder Vice President, Casework Assistance and Education Support Services Brittany Bonin-Bruder leads the Casework and Education Support Services teams with more than 10 years of service at TAPS and her experience as a Constituent Advocate of Military and Veteran Affairs with U.S. Senator John McCain. Brittany works diligently to address a wide spectrum of survivor issues, often acting as a direct advocate on behalf of families and engaging the appropriate government agencies, including the Department of Defense, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, the Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as private resources, in order to meet the needs of survivors in her care. She is committed to supporting surviving families with immediate needs and ensuring they receive the benefits and privileges they are entitled to and deserve. Brittany holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with an emphasis on American public policy and public administration. /BrittanyBoninBruder _self

Candace Wheeler

Director, Government and Legislative Affairs

Candace Wheeler Director, Government and Legislative Affairs Candace Wheeler first joined TAPS in 2018 as the Senior Advisor for Policy and Legislation, and she now leads TAPS in policy and legislative work and government relations. As a staunch military-family advocate with over 30 years of experience, Candace works to protect the rights and earned benefits of surviving families. Her advocacy on behalf of TAPS and military survivors on Capitol Hill has directly impacted legislation and survivor benefits, including the passage of the historic Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022; the elimination of the Survivor Benefit Plan — Dependency and Indemnity offset or “Widow’s Tax.” Prior to joining TAPS, Candace was the Vice President of Strategic Communications and Marketing at the American Logistics Association, and she previously served as the Government Relations Deputy Director for the National Military Family Association. She holds a Master of Political Management from George Washington University, a B.A. in international relations from the University of Southern California, and an executive certificate in nonprofit management from Georgetown University. /CandaceWheeler _self

Susan Forbes

Vice President, Communications

Susan Forbes Vice President, Communications Susan Forbes leads the TAPS Communications department at TAPS Headquarters. Prior to joining TAPS, Susan was a network television producer and senior media adviser based in Washington, D.C. She has produced for CNN, CNN International, Comcast/NBCUniversal, Headline News, Middle East Broadcasting, and United Nations Television, among others. Her productions have aired in more than 120 countries through AP Television News, BBC World Service, CNN, CNN International, CNN en Espanol, Lebanese Broadcasting Corporation, Middle East Broadcasting, TV Azteca, and United Nations Television. Earlier in her career, Susan was a CNN medical and feature news producer in Atlanta and a supervising producer at Middle East Broadcasting Centre in London. Her work has spanned the global response to HIV and AIDS in Africa; a United Nations series on World Water Day; the 2004 U.S. Surgeon General’s Report: The Health Consequences of Smoking, the 1996 Olympics, and much more. Susan has represented Brand USA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets, Meta (formerly Facebook), TenCate, World Bank, and the World Health Organization. She is also a Volunteer Engagement Lead for the National Capital and Greater Chesapeake Region of the American Red Cross. /SusanForbes _self

Bill Sather

Director, Accounting & Finance

Bill Sather Director, Accounting & Finance Bill Sather first came to TAPS in 2016 as a contractor supporting the Finance team with closing an audit. Compelled by the mission, he officially stepped into his current role at TAPS Headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, in July 2017. Prior to joining TAPS, Bill enjoyed a long career leading financial operations for a variety of organizations. His varied experiences include leading finance teams for both a government contractor and a nonprofit voter registration organization. He is a graduate of George Mason University, earning a B.S. in accounting, and has been a licensed CPA since 1997. Bill is honored to support the TAPS mission to bring care and comfort to the families of America's fallen heroes. /BillSather _self

Katie Maness

Senior Advisor and Director, Development

Katie Maness Senior Advisor and Director, Development Katie Maness oversees the Development team at TAPS, building connections and bringing in generous donations that fund the TAPS mission to provide critical services and compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one. In her current role, Katie uses the unique perspective she’s gained from decades of work in the Washington, D.C., area and her working knowledge of the dynamics between the Legislative and Executive Branches, the corporate sector, the nonprofit space, and political entities. Her expertise and experience in securing corporate support for TAPS have not only allowed the nonprofit organization to support survivors, but she has built a team of advocates that help the entire organization and each survivor in its care. Katie holds a B.S. in business administration from Salisbury State University and a Juris Doctorate from George Mason University. /KatieManess _self

Nancy Kaplan

Senior Advisor, Human Resources

Nancy Kaplan Senior Advisor, Human Resources Nancy Kaplan, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, has over 30 years of human resource experience in diverse markets, such as nonprofit, high-tech, insurance, and government contracting companies. Nancy's broad experience encompasses all areas of the human resources function. Prior to establishing her Human Resources consulting practice, Nancy held the following senior executive human resources positions: Vice President of Human Resources for In-Q-Tel, a strategic investor with the Intelligence Community; Vice President of Human Resources for ARTEL; Director of Human Resources for InfoPro; and Director of Human Resources for MAXM, an international technology firm. She holds a B.S. in business from Thomas Edison State College. /NancyKaplan _self

Tim Murray

Chief Technical Officer

Retired U.S. Army First Sergeant

Tim Murray Chief Technical Officer Retired U.S. Army First Sergeant Tim Murray, a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant with over 20 years of active service, is the Chief Technical Officer and principal technical advisor to the TAPS Leadership team. He spent the majority of his military career in Special Operations, stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and overseas. His passion for computers began at the age of 13, when he built one for the first time, and he has been directly involved with Information Technology since the 10th grade. Since retiring from the Army, Tim spent three years working for Apple Inc. as an Information Technology manager in the D.C. metro area. Tim enjoys volunteering and found his way to TAPS by supporting multiple events as a Military Mentor. /timmurray _self

Team Leadership

Andy McNiel

Senior Advisor, Youth Programs

Andy McNiel Senior Advisor, Youth Programs Andy McNiel, M.A., is an author and trainer on topics related to grief, bereavement, and end-of-life, and he has been an advocate for healthy children, teenagers, and families throughout his career. He brings his dedication and expertise to TAPS, where he oversees, develops, and facilitates programming for young military survivors. He is co-founder and executive partner of The Satori Group, LLC, a national education, management, and consulting company that provides education, content development, training, and consultation in grief and loss. His leadership has guided the National Alliance for Grieving Children, the Amelia Center at Children's of Alabama, and Hospice of Martin and St. Lucie (now Treasure Health) in South Florida. Andy is a trainer for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention; a co-author of "Supporting and Understanding Bereaved Children: A Practical Guide for Professionals;" and he previously served on the Board of Directors for the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). Andy holds an M.A. in counseling and a B.A. in religion. _self

Carla Stumpf Patton

Senior Director, Suicide Postvention

Surviving Spouse of Sergeant Richard Stumpf, U.S. Marine Corps

Carla Stumpf Patton Senior Director, Suicide Postvention Surviving Spouse of Sergeant Richard Stumpf, U.S. Marine Corps Dr. Carla Stumpf Patton, Ed.D., LMHC, NCC, FT, CCTP, an expert in grief, trauma, and suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention, oversees TAPS’ services for suicide-loss survivors. Carla consults with civilian providers and military leaders to provide effective outreach and clinical care to military personnel, veterans, and military families. She is certified as an ASIST trainer in suicide first aid and is qualified to conduct Psychological Autopsy Investigations through the American Association of Suicidology. Carla holds an Ed. D. in counseling psychology, an M.A. in clinical mental health counseling and school guidance counseling, and a B.S. in psychology. Carla is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Fellow Thanatologist, a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, a Florida Qualified Supervisor, and a counseling educator. She is the surviving spouse of Sergeant Richard Stumpf, U.S. Marine Corps, who died by suicide in 1994. She is now married to a retired U.S. Marine, who was also a suicide-loss survivor, and they share five children. _self

Terri Williams

Senior Advisor, TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing®

Terri Williams Senior Advisor, TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® Terri Williams is a U.S. Army veteran who has worked in the military and veteran communities for over 35 years. With double master’s degrees in human resources and management, she has work experience across the Executive Branch, serving in the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Transportation in a myriad of roles as the Chief of Protocol and Special Events and Chief Learning Officer. She is a survivor of the September 11, 2001 Attack on the Pentagon, a Gulf War-era veteran, and a Department of Defense civilian retiree (GS-15). Terri is an advocate for military family readiness, education, and health care. She volunteers in military communities with TAPS and the U.S. Military Academy Admissions Team, U.S. Military Academy Parents Club, and military spouse clubs. Terri lives in Virginia with her husband, a U.S. Army retiree and U.S. Army Senior Executive. The Williams family is also a Blue Star family; their son is a U.S. Military Academy graduate. _self

Erin Jacobson

Director, Adult Programs and Outdoor Programs

Surviving Fiancé of Corporal Jason Kessler, U.S. Army

Erin Jacobson Director, Adult Programs and Outdoor Programs Surviving Fiancé of Corporal Jason Kessler, U.S. Army Erin Jacobson is a grief professional with a dedication to serving in the nonprofit space and serving the surviving loved ones of fallen military and veteran service members. Erin first joined TAPS in 2011, and her time here has been dedicated to building transformative programming within the retreat and seminar framework, with an emphasis on Women’s Empowerment, art, mindfulness, and nature-based healing. Erin is the surviving fiancée of U.S. Army Ranger Corporal Jason Kessler, and her educational background includes a degree in counseling and studies of nonprofit leadership, religion, and art history. _self

Jessica Harper

Director of Operations, Sports & Entertainment

Surviving Sister-in-law of Staff Sergeant Michael Hullender, U.S. Army

Jessica Harper Director of Operations, Sports & Entertainment Surviving Sister-in-law of Staff Sergeant Michael Hullender, U.S. Army As the Sports & Entertainment Director of Operations, Jessica Harper oversees team operations and works to establish relationships within the sports and entertainment industries in order to create joyful moments and meaningful experiences for TAPS families and unique ways for these families to honor their fallen heroes. Prior to joining the TAPS team, Jessica led industry relations for a national trade organization. Jessica earned a master’s degree from George Washington University, and she earned her undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina. Jessica is proud to be a part of the TAPS team, which brings hope to military and veteran survivors in so many incredible ways. Her work at TAPS is in honor of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Hullender, who was killed in Iraq in April of 2007. _self

Deb Lucey-Maynard

Director of Operations, Survivor Services

Surviving Sister of Corporal Jeffrey Lucey, U.S. Marine Corps

Deb Lucey-Maynard Director of Operations, Survivor Services Surviving Sister of Corporal Jeffrey Lucey, U.S. Marine Corps Deb Lucey-Maynard first came to TAPS after the suicide loss of her brother, Corporal Jeffrey Michael Lucey. As a survivor, she saw firsthand the life-changing support TAPS provides, and in 2012, she transitioned from receiving TAPS’ compassionate support to providing support to newly bereaved siblings through the Peer Mentor program. In 2015, she proudly joined the Survivor Care Team as the Deputy Director and transitioned to her current role in 2019, where she continues to directly support survivors and TAPS staff across Survivor Services. Deb collaborates with other programs across the TAPS organization to ensure strong communication and knowledge of TAPS events. _self

Emily Muñoz

Director, Program Innovation

Surviving Spouse of Captain Gilbert Muñoz, U.S. Army

Emily Muñoz Director, Program Innovation Surviving Spouse of Captain Gilbert Muñoz, U.S. Army Emily Munoz brings fresh concepts to the Survivor Care Team to keep programming and services on the leading edge for the survivor community. Emily works closely with each Survivor Care Team program lead and supports the Programs Committee, facilitating activities that offer a healthy and active healing path for survivors. Emily first came to TAPS in 2005 following the death of her husband, Captain Gilbert Munoz, U.S. Army. _self

Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann

Deputy Director, Government and Legislative Affairs

Surviving Daughter of Sergeant First Class Jeffrey Haycock, U.S. Army & Nichole Haycock, U.S. Air Force Veteran

Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann Deputy Director, Government and Legislative Affairs Surviving Daughter of Sergeant First Class Jeffrey Haycock, U.S. Army & Nichole Haycock, U.S. Air Force Veteran Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann supports the TAPS Government Relations and Legislation team as the Deputy Director for Policy and Legislation. Ashlynne is the surviving daughter of U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Jeffrey Haycock, who died in the line of duty in 2002, and U.S. Air Force veteran Nichole Haycock, who died by suicide in 2011. In addition to her role at TAPS, Ashlynne serves on the Department of Veterans Affairs' Advisory Committee on Education. She graduated from American University with a bachelor’s degree in political science in 2013, and she was one of the first recipients of the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John Fry Scholarship. _self

Leigh Edmonds

Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships

Leigh Edmonds Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships Leigh Edmonds supports and tracks TAPS’ strategic partnerships and relationships. She previously served in the Communications department and on the TAPS Sports & Entertainment team, coordinating unique experiences for survivors, and as the Manager for Team TAPS. Before joining TAPS, she spent two years at the University of South Carolina as a sorority facility manager and teacher. There she served as an ally and advocate for student veterans and other marginalized groups on campus and accumulated hundreds of community service hours, supporting sexual assault and domestic violence education and advocacy; positive body image; health and wellness; disaster relief; and student community service events. Leigh previously spent seven years with the USO, and her dedication to the military and veteran communities is what led her to TAPS. Leigh holds a B.S. in sports and entertainment management from the University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in sports management from the University of Florida. She is trained in ASIST and Suicide Gatekeeper trained. _self

Ashley Leal

Senior Manager, Research and Grant Development

Ashley Leal Senior Manager, Research and Grant Development Ashley Leal, Ed.D., manages TAPS Research initiatives as well as identifies, applies, and secures grants to support the TAPS mission. The wife of a Marine Corps veteran and mother of two, Ashley views her work as a way to honor the dedication and service of all military families and the ultimate sacrifice paid by these families. She is a proud member of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, and she holds a master’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and a doctorate in education. _self

Kristi Stolzenberg

Magazine and Special Projects Editor

Kristi Stolzenberg Magazine and Special Projects Editor Kristi Stolzenberg curates and manages TAPS Magazine and collaborates with survivors and TAPS staff to share the mission and stories of love, loss, and hope online and in print. A proud Marine Corps spouse, granddaughter of veterans, and advocate for military service members and their families, Kristi has worked within the military community for nearly 15 years, including roles as the Think Tank Program Manager and Congressional Engagement Strategist for the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force; Writer and Editor for the Defense Department’s Military Community and Family Policy Office; and support roles aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, and the Naval Postgraduate School. She began her career as a military spouse columnist near MCAS Cherry Point, and she is a contributing blogger for the Military OneSource Blog Brigade. Kristi has a master’s degree in political management and a B.A. in English. Her work at TAPS honors the fallen pilots and crew of SUMO41 and her grandparents, AFCM Leonard Weikum, U.S. Navy, Retired, and PFC Winona Weikum, U.S. Army Veteran. _self

Sheri Lynn Coppersmith

Manager, TAPS Store

Surviving daughter of 1st Lieutenant Edna Dillon, U.S. Air Force

Sheri Lynn Coppersmith Manager, TAPS Store Surviving daughter of 1st Lieutenant Edna Dillon, U.S. Air Force Sheri Lynn Coppersmith supports the TAPS mission by running the TAPS Online Store and pop-up stores at TAPS seminars. Her goal is to increase TAPS brand awareness by offering stylish and practical, branded merchandise for the TAPS family and TAPS supporters. Sheri Lynn grew up in a dual Air Force family, but she married into the Army in 1994. She served military families in many different roles during 17 years as an active-duty Army spouse, including the role of Family Readiness Group Leader during multiple combat deployments. Sheri Lynn has a B.A. in Russian and East European studies. When her husband retired from the Army in 2010, the Coppersmith family sold everything and set sail aboard a 48-foot sailboat with their two children, 10 and 12, and two cats. They completed their circumnavigation in 2014 and returned to the U.S. in 2015. Sheri Lynn joined the TAPS staff in 2017 and serves in honor of her mother, 1st Lt Edna Dillon, U.S. Air Force. _self

Tara Fenty

Manager, Casework

Surviving Fiancé of Sergeant Antonio Rivera, U.S. Army

Tara Fenty Manager, Casework Surviving Fiancé of Sergeant Antonio Rivera, U.S. Army Tara Fenty serves as a manager on TAPS’ Casework team, assisting survivors with benefits through government departments and private organizations. Prior to joining TAPS, she worked at the Army Education Center in a counselor support role. Tara was previously a Family Development Specialist at Tennessee Health Connect of America and a Case Manager at the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. She first found TAPS following the death of her fiancé, U.S. Army SGT Antonio Rivera. _self

Rachel Hunsell

Manager, Outdoor Programs

Surviving Sister of Lance Corporal Jonathan Kyle Price, U.S. Marine Corps

Rachel Hunsell Manager, Outdoor Programs Surviving Sister of Lance Corporal Jonathan Kyle Price, U.S. Marine Corps As the Outdoor Programs Manager, Rachel Hunsell is responsible for the development, implementation, and support of outdoor programming and activities across the TAPS network. A true believer in the healing power of nature, Rachel is passionate about connecting survivors with the outdoors as part of their grief process. She encourages participants to reconnect with their inner strength by creating emotionally safe and understanding environments. In addition to being a pivotal member of the TAPS staff, Rachel is a surviving sibling who knows the valleys and peaks of the journey after loss. She honors the life and death of her brother, Lance Corporal Jonathan Kyle Price, U.S. Marine Corps, through her work with fellow survivors at TAPS. _self

Valerie Gagne

Manager, Survivor Data and Impact Assessment

Surviving Sister-in-law of Seaman Jason Springer, U.S. Navy

Valerie Gagne Manager, Survivor Data and Impact Assessment Surviving Sister-in-law of Seaman Jason Springer, U.S. Navy Valerie Gagne is a U.S. Air Force spouse, Army mom, and surviving sister-in-law. After first supporting TAPS as a volunteer and Peer Mentor, she joined the TAPS staff in 2017 to help provide comfort and care to survivors through the Survivor Helpline before finding her home with the Survivor Data and Impact Assessment team. Valerie’s work with TAPS is dedicated to the life of her brother-in-law, CTRSN Jason Clay Springer, who was serving in the U.S. Navy at the time of his death in 1997. _self

Jon Ganues

Manager, Men’s Program

Surviving Father of Airman First Class Jon Wesley Ganues, Jr., U.S. Air Force

Jon Ganues Manager, Men’s Program Surviving Father of Airman First Class Jon Wesley Ganues, Jr., U.S. Air Force Jon Ganues is a member of the Adult Programs Team, and he leads the Men’s Program, managing all aspects of event planning and coordination. Jon provides a safe space for grieving men to share their stories, connect and support each other, and find ways forward in their unique journeys, building relationships among the surviving community to deepen the foundation of support for male military survivors. Jon served on the Department of the Air Force 2022 - 2024 Survivor Advocacy Council, which served as a forum for the Air Force and Space Force to champion survivor programs. He is a former TAPS Peer Mentor and was the 2019 Peer Mentor of the Year. Jon is a retired U.S. Army Warrant Officer with 21 years of active-duty service, with experience in logistics and information technology. He is a lifetime member of the U.S. Army Warrant Officers Association, and he is a lifetime honorary member of the Board of Directors for Henrico County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Jon holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with information and technology from Colorado Technical University. Through his work at TAPS, Jon honors the memory of his son, Airman First Class Jon Wesley Ganues, Jr., U.S. Air Force, who died by suicide on June 2, 2009. _self

Terri Jones

Manager, Survivor Care Team

Surviving Mother of Specialist Jason Cooper, U.S. Army

Terri Jones Manager, Survivor Care Team Surviving Mother of Specialist Jason Cooper, U.S. Army Terri Jones initially came to TAPS seeking support for herself and her two surviving children after her son, Specialist Jason Cooper, U.S. Army, died by suicide in 2005. Terri’s service at TAPS began through volunteering as a Peer Mentor when she felt ready to support another grieving military survivor. She joined the Survivor Care Team in 2013 and earned her current role in 2019. As the Manager of the Survivor Care Team, she provides compassionate outreach to fellow suicide-loss parents and assists the Survivor Care Team as they support military and veteran survivors of all types of loss. Terri has earned a Death and Grief Studies Certification through the Center of Loss and Life Transition. _self

Natalie Mizell

Manager, Sports & Entertainment

Natalie Mizell Manager, Sports & Entertainment Natalie Mizell built her career serving military families. Prior to joining the TAPS Sports & Entertainment team, she spent 11 years with the National Military Family Association as the Operation Purple Military Family Programs Manager. In that role, she organized events that connected military families to their peers, ensuring they never felt alone. Natalie holds a B.S. in business and a project management certificate. Her work at TAPS honors the lives of her grandfather, James Spruell, and her uncle, Wilbur Mizell, who both served in the U.S. Army. She has wonderful memories of both of them that will last forever, and she looks forward to helping TAPS families make meaningful memories through sports and entertainment experiences. _self

Raylene Moore

Manager, Community-Based Care

Surviving Sister of Airman First Class Bryan Rodney Sanders, Air Force National Guard

Raylene Moore Manager, Community-Based Care Surviving Sister of Airman First Class Bryan Rodney Sanders, Air Force National Guard Raylene Moore leads the Community-Based Care initiative at TAPS, ensuring survivors of military and veteran loss are connected to the resources they need in their local areas. Prior to joining TAPS, Raylene spent 11 years with the Department of Defense; during that time, she served as the Resiliency Trainer for the Texas Air National Guard for five years. She has a B.A. in disaster and emergency management from American Military University in Charles Town, West Virginia, and she holds an M.A. in crisis response and trauma counseling from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. Raylene’s service at TAPS honors the life of her brother, Bryan Rodney Sanders, Oklahoma Air National Guard. _self

Susie Taylor

Manager, National Military Survivor Helpline

Surviving Daughter of 1st Lieutenant William Stuart Taylor, U.S. Air Force

Susie Taylor Manager, National Military Survivor Helpline Surviving Daughter of 1st Lieutenant William Stuart Taylor, U.S. Air Force Susie Taylor manages the critical 24/7 resource that allows military survivors to contact TAPS day or night, in their deepest moments of grief, and with the questions no one else can answer. Her leadership on the Helpline ensures survivors and supporters who call in are heard and connected to the resources they need. Susie previously managed a support program for youth and families in Colorado for over a decade and worked as a caregiver to the dying. She has a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in education from George Mason University. As the daughter of a U.S. Air Force Korean War veteran and U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Susie has a strong appreciation and respect for the dedication and sacrifices of America's military and is honored to serve the TAPS family. _self

Jason Stout

Youth Programs Manager

Jason Stout Youth Programs Manager Jason Stout is passionate about helping youth and adults find their inner strength, form meaningful connections, and experience personal transformation through challenges. This is rooted in the losses of his sister, grandmother, and father — all before Jason was 15 years old. He struggled to deal with these losses as a teen and adult, but he found purpose and healing after completing a 78-day Winter Wilderness Leadership Expedition. In honor of his dad and sister, Jason created a national wilderness program for at-risk and grieving teens, which was featured in Backpacker Magazine, The Denver Post, and the Associated Press. He provides presentations to high schools, universities, and conferences on grief and finding resilience. He previously served Judi’s House as Outreach and Education Manager and Outward Bound as the National Outreach Director. Through his work at TAPS, Jason helps grieving children and teens heal through connection and nature. _self

Sammi Hester

Young Adults Program Manager

Surviving Ex-Spouse of Sergeant First Class Richard Samuel "Sam" Hester, U.S. Army

Sammi Hester Young Adults Program Manager Surviving Ex-Spouse of Sergeant First Class Richard Samuel "Sam" Hester, U.S. Army Sammi Hester leads TAPS’ Young Adults program, which supports survivors ages 18-30. Sammi previously supported the Education Support Services program at TAPS, employing her in-depth experience in the education field. Prior to joining TAPS, Sammi served as the Headmistress of First Presbyterian Christian Academy, which educates many military children stationed at Fort Stewart. There she oversaw 40-plus staff members, developed new course curriculum, and counseled students on expectations, behaviors, and personal goals for furthering their education. She has experience seeking educational support through military programs, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and private scholarship programs. Sammi previously worked as a special education teacher in several schools. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree in education from Nova Southeastern University. Sammi’s work at TAPS honors Sergeant First Class Richard Samuel "Sam" Hester. _self

Karl Hillway

Military Mentor Manager

Karl Hillway Military Mentor Manager Karl Hillway, a former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant, came to TAPS in 2011 as a Military Mentor. After the Army and multiple deployments, his service turned toward supporting children and teenagers. Prior to joining TAPS, he served as an elementary and middle school teacher and coach. In his role at TAPS, Karl continues to support children and teens who have lost a military or veteran loved one by growing the Military Mentor program and supporting the mentors and survivors in his care. He holds a bachelor’s degree in geography from the University of California Los Angeles, an Master of Business Administration, an M.S. in science and technology management, and graduate certificates in project management and leadership and management. _self

Jessica Norsky

Manager, Team TAPS and Special Events

Jessica Norsky Manager, Team TAPS and Special Events Jessica Norsky, a U.S. Space Force spouse, is passionate about supporting the surviving loved ones of military and veteran service members. She supports Team TAPS through outreach, event coordination, and event execution, and she brings years of marketing and event planning at both the local and corporate levels to the team. Prior to joining TAPS, Jessica served as a new restaurant event planner for Chick-fil-A, leading corporate marketing teams throughout the U.S. She is a Master Resilience Trainer for the Department of the Air Force and a graduate of the inaugural class of the Military Spouse Advocacy Network Military Spouse Leadership Development Program. Jessica has completed seven marathons and was the first woman to complete the Triple Crown of Running: Pikes Peak Ascent, Pikes Peak Marathon, and Pikes Peak Road Ascent. She holds a B.S. in psychology from the University of Florida and an M.S. in psychology from Capella University, with a specialization in child and adolescent development. _self

Amy Mingus

Youth Programs Events and Admin Coordinator

Amy Mingus Youth Programs Events and Admin Coordinator Amy Mingus pours perspectives and insight gained through being a military spouse into her work at TAPS and the many other nonprofits she has touched throughout her career, including the nonprofit she co-founded, Tumbleweeds, that provides a center for artistic and creative endeavors. Throughout her husband’s military career, Amy has embraced a calling to care for the families in the unit while unifying and supporting all members of the team. Amy earned a degree in psychology from Appalachian State University and has worked in early childhood intervention through the mental health system, university programs, and Army hospitals. Whenever time allows, Amy enjoys macrame, travel, hiking, and boating. _self