The Cornerstone Experience: Summer 2023

The Cornerstone Experience SUMMER 2023

our growing footprint

The firm has officially opened doors in New Hampshire Perhaps some of the biggest news of the quarter, Cornerstone officially entered the New Hampshire market.

Our move to Concord marks an exciting expansion of our national footprint and state government relations physical presence, particularly in the Northeast region of the U.S. Leading this expansion are two distinguished professionals who bring a wealth of experience and insight to our team.

Marc Goldberg, former chief of staff for Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Mike Vlacich, former senior advisor to Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Biden appointee at the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Goldberg joins the firm’s public affairs team, bringing nearly two decades of experience developing communications strategies. Marc’s extensive background includes a tenure in Sen. Hassan’s office, where he skillfully managed a team across multiple offices and played pivotal roles in various capacities, such as campaign manager and communications director during her governorship.

Vlacich, with nearly three decades of leadership in public policy strategy, government and political campaign management at various levels, will be a true asset to the firm’s government relations efforts. His impressive portfolio includes roles as president and CEO of the New Hampshire College and University Council, University System of New Hampshire Trustee, and active participation in various committees and authorities, earning him a reputation as a trusted advisor in the business and political realms of the state.

MARC GOLDBERG PRINCIPAL (NH)

MIKE VLACICH PRINCIPAL (NH)

The opening of our Concord office ushers in a new era of full-scale, comprehensive government relations and public affairs operations in the Northeast region. Through maintaining a keen focus on New Hampshire’s dynamics and supporting clients in navigating its unique landscape, the physical presence will enable us to provide more hands-on services to our clients, while also deepening our roots in the state and amplifying our impact on local and national matters alike. We are excited about the opportunities this new venture presents and looks forward to forging stronger connections for our clients within the Granite State community.

SUMMER 2023 www.cgagroup.com

QUARTERLY REFLECTIONS Team Offsite Reflections and Founders Day

In July, Cornerstone's associate team from across the country joined together in our Washington D.C. office for a day of business sessions and team-building activities. With associates convening from all of our offices, the offsite served as an opportunity for team members to connect and collaborate through various business and strategy discussions.

The associates spent the day sharing wins, challenges and goals from both an individual and team perspective, as well as learning more about our team functions and the business overall.

Cornerstone's public affairs team members travelled to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for a business unit offsite in late July. The public affairs team was joined by the firm’s executive leadership and gathered for a three-day event focused on strategic planning and fostering team cohesion, amidst the vibrant backdrop of Oklahoma's capital city.

Our colleagues conducted a series of sessions, which encompassed a comprehensive analysis of strengths, challenges, growth opportunities and an array of other subjects pertinent to the public affairs and strategic communications sphere within our firm. The sessions were immensely valuable in facilitating the exchange of innovative ideas, constructive feedback and the development of a cohesive vision for the future trajectory of the business unit.

GEOFF GONELLA

CAMP KAUFMAN

AMY SOUDERS

MARK MIODUSKI

LOUIE PERRY

In honor of our Founders' Anniversary on August 1, which marks the day 21 years ago when Geoff Gonella, Camp Kaufman, Amy Sounders, Mark Mioduski and Louie Perry united to establish Cornerstone, we curated a video that traces the remarkable journey and transformation of our organization. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our visionary Founders, not only for their active involvement but also for crafting the very foundation upon which our present-day success stands.

SUMMER 2023 www.cgagroup.com

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Client Victories and Pathways to Success We are proud to support our client, the Newton County Water & Sewerage Authority (NCWSA), as we extend our congratulations on the success of their inaugural Open House.

This event, attended by members of the media and local officials, showcased NCWSA's profound community collaborations and dedication to fostering responsible development and water stewardship. NCWSA welcomed esteemed community leaders to the A. Scott Emmons Water Reclamation Facility to partake in the occasion. This event notably underscored the pivotal role NCWSA plays in furnishing secure, top-tier water services.

Congratulations to our client Lowndes County, Georgia, for the work the County has done to support Moody Air Force Base, which was just selected as the preferred location to host the next active-duty F-35A Lightning II mission by the Air Force.

Georgia lawmakers say the selection of Moody marks a major step forward and a long-term investment in the region’s military community as the country’s priorities change.

Cornerstone clients Anduril Industries, Lyten, PsiQuantum, Applied Intuition, Epirus and Shift5 were all named top venture-funded defense and dual-use startups on the Sillicon Valley Defense Group's 2023 NatSec100 list. The NatSec100 is a newly developed, annual ranked list of the top venturefunded defense and dual-use startups. It was developed to offer a data-driven snapshot of the evolving techno-security ecosystem.

Cornerstone client Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University's (AAMU) Bulldog Transit System received an $8.1 million grant to upgrade its bus storage facility and expand the use of solar energy to power the charging station and other bus facilities. As a result of receiving the grant funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA), university officials believe they will be able to reach their target milestone of zero emissions in 2024.

AAMU was one of only three universities and the only Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in the group of FTA grant awardees, giving them a unique opportunity to lead the way in creating greener campuses.

SUMMER 2023 www.cgagroup.com

EVENTS & ENGAGEMENTS Panels, Conferences and More

In July, several Cornerstone colleagues attended the Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) in Charleston, South Carolina. Among the group were colleagues from our Atlanta, Frankfort, Jackson, Oklahoma City and Washington, DC offices. This was the SLC's 77th annual meeting, and our colleagues enjoyed hosting clients, legislators and staff at a reception during this year's conference, which was the biggest yet, representing more than 30 states.

Cornerstone proudly supported the 2023 Tin Cup Awards Dinner in July, which benefits African-American government relations professionals for their outstanding commitment to enrichment and positive change. This annual dinner is held by Washington Government Relations Group as they pay tribute to individuals in the government relations community who embody leadership in their fields and maintain a proven commitment to diversity. The Tin Cup Awards Dinner supports minority students preparing to pursue full-time undergraduate studies or those who are currently enrolled as full-time students and majoring in fields such as political science or public administration.

Robin Juliano, a principal in our Washington DC office, participated in a panel organized by the National Security Institute and the Software in Defense Coalition on the defense budget in June. The panelists shared insights on how the recent debt ceiling agreement may impact the FY24 Defense Budget, and touched on the several agreement provisions that will directly affect defense spending, defense modernization, supplemental aid for Ukraine and how industry can adjust to these changes. Robin was joined by Cornell Teague, a former staff member for the House Appropriations Committee, and Will Dunham, the former deputy chief of staff and policy director for Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy.

In June, several Cornerstone colleagues - Lizzie Messer, Jonathan Miller, Susan Sweat and Lily-Max Cooke - participated in the Medical Technology Enterprise Consortium 2023 Annual Membership Meeting to discuss the latest research in the defense health space. The meeting facilitates collaboration between members and the military. Our firm is proud to support the revolutionary research, partnerships MTEC fosters to improve the health and safety of military personnel, veterans and civilians.

SUMMER 2023 www.cgagroup.com

CORNERSTONE ACCOLADES Celebrating Colleague Excellence

Cornerstone colleague and former Maryland state delegate Maggie McIntosh was honored by the Baltimore Orioles at their LGBTQ+ Pride Night this summer as the first openly gay Maryland legislator and the first woman to serve as Democratic majority leader.

Maggie threw the ceremonial first pitch prior to a baseball game between the Baltimore Orioles and the Cincinnati Reds on June 28th in Baltimore.

Karen van Stralen, a principal in the firm's Denver office, was accepted into the 50th class of the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation's "Leadership Denver" program. As a part of the Class of 2024, Kara will spend time over 11 months learning about regional issues, exploring different perspectives and building personal and professional relationships with civicminded individuals who share a passion for the Denver community. As the region's premier leadership program, Leadership Denver works to transform actively engaged civic leaders into community champions through in-depth experiences with a close network of new personal and professional relationships that last a lifetime. We are excited to celebrate Kara's acceptance into the program and look forward to watching her continue to grow her impact in Denver.

Jonathan Miller, Ph.D., J.D., a principal in our Washington, DC office, received the Icon Award for his service to Medical Technology Enterprise Consortium. We are excited to honor Jonathan's commitment to supporting revolutionary medical research and partnerships through his work with MTEC for the military, veterans and civilian population.

Stacy Rich, a principal and director in the firm's Washington, DC office, will represent Cornerstone on the newly created Global Women's Innovation Network (GlobalWIN) Advisory Council. Each year, GlobalWIN hosts more then 30 events that help promote women working in politics and innovationdriven fields, and the Council will play an active role in shaping the future of the organization. Stacy previously participated in GlobalWIN programming as a Senate staffer, and we are thrilled to recognize her continued commitment to building women leaders.

SUMMER 2023 www.cgagroup.com

COLLEAGUE CHRONICLES Colleague Milestones and Joyful Moments

Cornerstone president Camp Kaufman completed his Master of Fine Arts in Fiction Writing, graduating from the Sewanee School of Letters in July. In recognition of this accomplishment, the Cornerstone team gathered to celebrate Camp's graduation. Camp's dedication to cultivating his craft in creative writing is truly commendable, and a testament to his commitment to both individual growth and collective success.

Cornerstone colleague Lizzie Messer Imber, a vice president in the firm's Washington, DC office, celebrated nuptials in June. We are so excited for Lizzie and her husband, Gabe, and wish them all the best as they celebrate the beginning of their life together.

Cornerstone's senior marketing manager, Molly Kiernan, got engaged in June to her fiance, Gillin. We look forward to celebrating this exciting milestone with them throughout the upcoming year.

Jenna Sublett (formerly Massoni), a senior associate in the firm's Annapolis office, celebrated nuptials earlier this summer. We are so thrilled for Jenna and her husband Brik and wish them well as they celebrate this milestone.

Jonathan Miller, a principal in our Washington DC office, welcomed a new addition to his family in August. Emerson Rae Miller was born on August 11, and weighed 7lbs 1 oz. We extend our warmest congratulations to Jonathan and his family on this beautiful new chapter in their lives.

Cornerstone's chief of staff Madeleine Diakiwski welcomed a new addition to her family on August 3rd. Katherine ("Kate") Anne Diakiwski weighed 7 lbs 12oz. Just a few weeks prior, team members gathered together to celebrate the upcoming arrival of their newest family addition.

Meredith McLaughlin, a senior associate in our Maine office, welcomed a new baby into her family on August 25th. Cecilia Britt McLaughlin weighed 7 lbs 3 oz. at birth.

SUMMER 2023 www.cgagroup.com

WE'RE GROWING!

Welcoming Cornerstone's Newest Team Members

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

MONTGOMERY OLDE ASSOCIATE (DC)

AMANDA KRONENBERGER ASSOCIATE (DC)

TREVOR MCGOVERN ASSOCIATE (DC)

GRANT SHPEHERD ASSOCIATE (DC)

STATE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

SAMANTHA GUINN PRINCIPAL (OK)

MEREDITH MCLAUGHLIN SENIOR ASSOCIATE (ME)

LAUREN MCKAY ASSOCIATE (OK)

PAIGE THORSON PRINCIPAL / COUNSEL (IA)

PUBLIC AFFAIRS

RICHARD CARBO PRINICIPAL (DC)

MEGAN DAVISSON VICE PRESIDENT (CO)

MARC GOLDBERG PRINCIPAL (NH)

MANNING MCPHILLIPS PRINCIPAL (MS)

NEAL LANCASTER ASSOCIATE (MS)

MIKE VLACICH PRINCIPAL (NH)

OPERATIONS

RYAN GOTTSHALL FINANCE COORDINATOR (DC)

TEREK EL MEHRI IT SUPPORT TECH (DC)

SUMMER 2023 www.cgagroup.com