Staff

Susan became president of the Coast Guard Foundation in 2017 after serving for three years as Regional Director of Philanthropy in the Northeast. With fourteen years of non-profit fundraising work, and two decades of experience working in corporate sales and product management, Susan leads the organization towards a future where all Coast Guard members and their families have the support they need to be prepared for service, build resilience, and excel throughout their lives.

Brad Sisley joined the Coast Guard Foundation in 2008. As Chief Philanthropy Officer, Brad develops the overall strategic and operational direction for the development program. With that in mind, Brad's goal is to ensure that Foundation's staff operate in an efficient, effective, and well-coordinated manner, and that they support and enhance the mission of the Foundation.

Ron joined the Coast Guard Foundation as a regional director of philanthropy following a 29-year career in the U.S. Coast Guard. Currently he oversees the Foundation’s external engagement programs including digital and marketing communications, public relations, events and corporate outreach, and program support to Coast Guard members.

Ron graduated from the Coast Guard Academy and holds a master's degree from Boston University. He also completed MIT’s Seminar XXI program in National Security and served as a military fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. Specializing in search and rescue, law enforcement, and crisis management, his career in the service included senior posts as Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Recruiting Command, Director of Coast Guard Public Affairs, Chief of the National Search and Rescue School, and Assistant Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

Victor joined the Coast Guard Foundation in 2024, bringing more than 25 years of expertise in finance, fundraising operations, and strategic planning. In his current role, he manages finance, accounting, human resources, and reporting functions. He holds a bachelor's degree in computer science and mathematics, as well as a master's degree in business administration.
 

Jean works closely with the President and the Chief Marketing and Communications Officer on the strategic development of our signature events all across the country. In addition to overseeing the implementation of each of these events, she also plays a key role in stewarding our corporate partnerships, supporting our volunteer fundraising committees, and managing the meetings and activities of the Board of Trustees. Jean joined the Foundation in 2006 and has over 26 years of experience in nonprofit events and fundraising.

Kelly leads the Foundation’s philanthropic efforts in the Coast Guard’s Heartland District including the Gulf Coast region in support of Coast Guard members and families.  Kelly is based in Texas and brings more than 20 years of fundraising experiences to his role at the Foundation.

Marc leads the Foundation’s philanthropy efforts throughout New England and New York. Marc joined the organization in 2019 and brings more than 20 years of fundraising experience to his role at the Foundation.

Derek's focus is on our Guardians Circle community and deepening the connection between the Foundation and our most loyal supporters. Derek joined the Coast Guard Foundation in 2026 and brings 15 years of non-profit experience to his role.

Dawn Draayer leads the Foundation’s philanthropy efforts in the Mid-Atlantic region.  Based in DC, Dawn brings over 20 years of mission-based fundraising experience, including support of higher education opportunities for military families as well as programs honoring military heritage, to her work.  She is inspired by connecting donors with the positive impact that the Coast Guard Foundation has on Coast Guard members, their families, and local units throughout her region. 

Jennifer has worked at the Foundation since 2003 and currently leads the organization’s internal and external communications. This effort includes public relations, media coverage and marketing, social media, video production, and brand management. Jennifer also leads the program team, helping to strengthen the Coast Guard community and service by ensuring that Foundation resources are there for members and their families, where and when they need it the most.

Based in California, Arika has a decade of non-profit experience. At the Coast Guard Foundation, Arika focuses on cultivating meaningful relationships with our most loyal supporters on the West Coast, Hawaii and Alaska.

Christopher joined the Coast Guard Foundation in 2015 and leads the organization’s digital fundraising and engagement efforts. Under his direction, the Foundation has significantly expanded its online presence and increased support for Coast Guard members and their families. With a focus on innovation and data-driven strategy, he continually evolves the Foundation’s digital programs to maximize impact and deepen connections with supporters.

Linda leads the organization’s efforts in the west, working closely with local Coast Guard units and supporters to identify and fulfill support needs for Coast Guard members on the West Coast, Hawaii and Alaska. Linda is based in San Francisco.

Brian leads the Foundation’s philanthropy efforts in the Coast Guard’s Seventh District, which includes his home state of Florida. Brian has worked for national and community nonprofit organizations for his entire career, and has worked at the Coast Guard Foundation for more than ten years.

Crystal leads the Foundation’s philanthropic works in the Great Lakes region. Crystal joined the organization in 2023 and has more than 18 years of experience in the non-profit and business development fields.

As Director of Family Assistance Programs, Sage oversees the Coast Guard Foundation’s scholarship, education grant and workforce development programs, youth enrichment initiatives, tragedy assistance and emergency relief efforts, and works closely with the Foundation’s communications and finance teams to deliver morale support to Coast Guard members and families. She also leads the Foundation’s Run to Remember program and helps share the impact of these services with supporters and the Coast Guard community. Sage joined the Foundation in 2017 and has been dedicated to supporting Coast Guard families ever since.