The DRI Foundation’s mission is to provide the means to help those most in need. Whether it be providing after disaster resources, helping veterans transition into civilian life, aiding orphans displaced by war or increasing the number of women in the resilience field, the ultimate goal is to CHANGE LIVES.
Al Berman President, DRI Foundation
How do you Change Lives? The DRI Foundation’s mission statement has a very specific goal, that of improving the lives of a diverse group of individuals. How do you make a difference? It is easy to just donate money to an organization that helps those affected by disasters. Hit the donate button on their website, enter your credit card information and you’re done. It is hard to make sure that the money actually reaches those who need it. To do this requires a substantial amount of effort and dedication. To find these organizations, the DRI Foundation does not wait for requests—it proactively seeks out those who need our help. Whether it be orphans in Ukraine, Women in Africa, residents of Puerto Rico devastated by nature, or rescue and comfort animal organizations, we strive to provide funding for the underfunded, those who may have no other sources of help. That is what our Giving Committee does all year long. Thank You, Sheri and Frank.
Want to give back to those who have protected this country? Start with an awareness program to alert veterans and military personnel that they have a career in resiliency. A career that utilizes their special skills. Create a program that correlates their military experience with their civilian counterparts. Conduct information sessions. Fight through governmental red tape. Explain that the Veterans Outreach Program is totally free and that we want nothing in return. Then trek around the world to provide training, certification, and job placement help.
Do this for over 350 people every year. Thank You, Jerry, Catherine, Chris, and Alan.
Want more diversity in the resilience profession? Go out and build the largest membership organization in business continuity. Convince women that this is a career that will improve their lives and that of their families. Have the Women in Business Continuity Management create an awareness program, an application program, and a mentoring program to help these women with their special needs. Provide free training, certification, job placement help and even pay for childcare while they attend classes. Thank You, Mitzi, Robyn, Marsha, Karina, Aubrey, Melody, Camila, and Diane.
Help certified professionals help pay for the rising cost of higher education? Create a program that provides scholarships to high school seniors. Expand it to higher education undergraduates. Find volunteers to read through the dozens of applications each year. Make awards that help change the lives of students who use the funds to be able to go to the institutions that will shape their future. Thank You, Rosemary, Mike, Steven, Donna, and Jim.
Spend time doing something to help the community. Enlist volunteers, provide transport, and food. Build a barrier out of clamshells to prevent erosion, pack tons of food to help those who need it to survive, help build shelter for those in desperate need, plant trees to better protect against land erosion, plant and harvest community garden crops, repair veteran housing and do whatever is needed. Thank you, Bonnie, Michele, and Maria.
This is what Changing Lives looks like. All volunteers. No one gets paid.
Thank you all who help and support the DRI Foundation and these life-changing programs.
Sincerely,
Al Berman President, DRI Foundation
Philanthropy can take many forms: from small acts of kindness to large-scale initiatives, but regardless of its size or scope, the essence of philanthropy remains the same – a commitment to improve the well-being of others and the planet. Most importantly, because philanthropy isn’t limited to the wealthy or the privileged, everyone can participate. This is where you can help. We are all philanthropists! You may be thinking, ‘I’d like to, but I don’t have any money to spare’. But really, it’s all a matter of perspective. There are many ways you can contribute besides making a monetary donation to the Foundation.
You can participate in the DRI Foundation’s Volunteer Day at our annual conference, join a Foundation group like the Veterans Outreach Program, Women in Business Continuity Management Committee, Volunteerism, or even volunteering at the annual DRI Foundation Auction. We have a number of opportunities to help support the Foundation, its mission and others.
AnneMarie Staley Chair, DRI Foundation
Remember, anyone who gives of their time, ability or donations can make a positive change in someone’s life. Philanthropy provides opportunities for education, relief, growth and success that might not have been available otherwise.
We should all strive to ‘Give Back, Move Forward’.
Sincerely,
AnneMarie Staley Chair, DRI Foundation
The essence of philanthropy remains the same–a commitment to improve the well-being of others and the planet.
Our global giving map is an at-a-glance record of your generous donations at work around the world.
Our interactive global giving map is an at-a-glance record of your generous donations at work around the
$1.2 million Scholarships for Veterans Outreach Program (VOP) and Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM)
396 Scholarships awarded between VOP and WBCM programs
32 VOP mentorships
The DRI Foundation does not wait for requests—it proactively seeks out those who need our help.
100%
900+
Members of the Women in Business Continuity Management committee
Two $5,000 College scholarships to children of DRI Certified Professionals
100% of Donations received spent on initiatives, not administration
Earlier this year, in February, I had the incredible privilege of visiting New Life Home Trust in Nairobi (NLHT), Kenya. This remarkable Charitable Children’s Institution (CCI), founded in 1994, is a special place. It’s not just a place of safety; it’s a beacon of hope under the Children’s Act, providing security to children who need care and protection. Over the past 30 years, NLHT has been a lifeline, rescuing and caring for more than 2,580 babies, with around 85% of them now thriving in loving families.
New Life Home Trust isn’t just an orphanage; it’s a sanctuary for the most vulnerable and abandoned babies, particularly those infected by HIV/AIDS. In close partnership with Kenya’s government departments and key stakeholders, NLHT is on a mission to identify and bring these little ones into residential or community care programs designed to meet their every need—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
The impact of NLHT is profound, and she saw it firsthand how the children there are happier, healthier, and are given better care opportunities with every donation. This year, the DRI Foundation, was one of the donors making a tangible difference in the lives of these precious angels.
These stories will stay with me forever. Like the baby girl found wrapped in a shawl, tightly tied inside a shopping bag. Thanks to a good Samaritan, she was rushed to the hospital, and New Life Home Trust was called in to offer her the care and protection she so desperately needed. She’s now thriving, hitting all her developmental milestones.
Then there’s the little boy who was abandoned in a bush, surrounded by three dogs. He, too, was rushed to the hospital and is now thriving in the loving arms of New Life Home Trust. And perhaps the most harrowing of all—a newborn girl, abandoned in a pit toilet, left there for almost two hours before she was miraculously rescued. Desperate attempts to rescue her succeeded, but she sustained serious body burns from the septic waste. She is now flourishing in the Pendo Unit, and we pray that she will soon find a family who will love her forever.
These stories are why I’m so passionate about our mission at DRI Foundation, and proud to be part of this wonderful organization that makes a difference worldwide. DRI Foundation serves as a charitable organization that recognizes every child deserves a chance, and thrives to make a difference.
Sheri Aghlara Co-Chair, Giving
DRI Foundation serves as a charitable organization that recognizes every child deserves a chance, and thrives to make a difference.
NEW DIRECTOR AND GIVING CO-CHAIR:
Sheri Aghlara, MBCP Manager IT Compliance, Teranet Inc.
Sheri Aghlara, MBCP, is a dedicated and accomplished information security and compliance professional with a robust academic background and over 19 years of experience in the information technology field. She holds extensive expertise in risk and resilience, business continuity management, and disaster recovery.
Aghlara’s journey is decorated with numerous academic achievements and professional recognitions, proudly displayed on her wall of fame, but her story is not solely about personal accomplishments. It’s about the donors, the people who care about others, and those who want to make a difference. Her craving for giving and belief in equality drive her commitment to volunteer work and nonprofit organizations.
She has dedicated time to volunteering, aiding cancer societies, supporting autistic individuals, assisting at animal shelters, and participating in natural cause initiatives. Her devotion to helping others is ingrained and reflects her strong sense of community and compassion.
As a member of the DRI Foundation, Aghlara believes that everyone deserves a chance, regardless of where they are born. She strives to ensure that organizations remain resilient in the face of disruptions, leveraging her knowledge of the IT business landscape to effectively mitigate risks.
Her commitment to making a difference is not just a professional pursuit but a heartfelt mission. She knows that real change is made one good step at a time, creating a more equitable and supportive world for all.
The devastating Maui wildfires have left residents of in dire need of assistance in all forms. To help those affected, the DRI Foundation has provided a grant to Maui Hui Mālama as part of the Donations After Disasters giving program.
Maui Hui Mālama provides inspiring educational opportunities and supportive compassionate learning environments that help Maui youth overcome barriers to education, careers, and cultural goals. Its programs include:
• Liko – Educational assistance to youth ages 5-24 who need additional assistance in meeting their educational goals, including small group tutoring and advocacy communications with schools and teachers
• Pahono – Partnership with local schools to provide credit recovery and intensive support services for at-risk students, and
• Youth Entrepreneurship – Created in response to the impact of COVID-19 on workforce opportunities available to local youth who have an interest in entrepreneurship, exploring career opportunities, and expanding their job skills.
In response to the wildfires, Maui Hui Mālama has also set up a special fund to offer aftercare to local families.
With as many as 4,500 Maui residents displaced as the island recovers from the destructive August wildfires, the DRI Foundation is assists organizations that provide much-needed shelter, including Ka Hale A Ke Ola.
For more than 30 years, Ka Hale A Ke Ola has been breaking the cycle of homelessness on Maui as a housing-focused comprehensive resource center. It provides emergency shelter, life skills training, case management, a primary care medical clinic, and facilities for childcare.
It had a 48-unit homeless shelter and 30 rental units in Lahaina that were all destroyed in the fire, displacing 140 people (50 households). The organization is now working actively in rapid-response mode to find housing for its displaced families, and all donations are currently supporting post-wildfire assistance efforts.
ABOUT THE DRI FOUNDATION’S SUPPORT: The DRI Foundation is proud to provide support and vital financial assistance to nonprofit organizations to aid their missions in communities where they are needed.
One of the DRI Foundation’s primary giving goals is to support communities that are prepared and resilient in the face of disasters. The West Slope Foundation of El Dorado County, CA, also recognizes this goal and has received financial support from the Foundation as a result.
The Caldor Fire was a massive wildfire event that raged from August through October 2021, burning 221,835 acres in the Eldorado National Forest and other areas of the Sierra Nevada. Recognizing the need for more robust disaster planning in the region to deal with future wildfires, the West Slope Foundation was formed.
Its programming focuses on three areas:
• Preparedness – including educational information and workshops
• Response – with multiple programs that help evacuees and survivors
• Recovery – providing individual assistance to survivors
Frank Perlmutter Co-Chair, Giving Committee
“Thank you for your continued support of our organization,” said Scot Telfer, West Slope Foundation Executive Director, who provided the accompanying photos in this article the organization’s efforts. “We are proud of being able to provide [services for] our survivors, and community members.”
As resilience professionals, we are committed to supporting those in need. The DRI Foundation Giving Committee is dedicated to fulfilling this commitment by facilitating meaningful engagement between resilience professionals and nonprofits that significantly impact our communities. Our mission is to ensure that every resilience professional has the opportunity to connect with and support these impactful organizations. We contribute not only through financial support but also by increasing visibility and dedicating time to these nonprofits. With the support of our professionals, we continue to expand our efforts and make a difference globally.
“Our mission is to ensure that every resilience professional has the opportunity to connect with and support these impactful organizations.”
“The Veterans Outreach Program is about giving those who have served in the military help in transitioning from the military to civilian life.”
The DRI Foundation is about giving. Giving back to the community, giving to those impacted by disasters, and giving to help build resilience in communities that need help. This is personal to me. In 1999, I transitioned from 22 years in the Army to civilian life. Moving from a large organization that provided training, support, and work then trying to figure out what is next as a civilian is daunting…and a bit scary. In the past 8 years the VOP has provided scholarships to over 1300 transitioning veterans providing training, a qualifying exam, and then certification as a business continuity professional.
Here are some of their stories:
Larry Furlough, PhD, CBCP
I served in the United States Air Force as an Airfield Manager, responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of airfield activities. During my deployment, I learned about the Disaster Recovery International (DRI) Foundation’s Veterans Outreach Program from Education Office advisors. They connected me with Alan Lake, Col., USAF (Ret.), and Chris Bygum, MSgt, USAF, (Ret) who guided me through the application process. After being accepted for the scholarship, I joined the first-ever military overseas global continuity course, with many students separated by 14 time zones. This outstanding opportunity allowed me to make VOP history as one of the first veterans to take the course, pass the Qualifying Examination, and receive the CBCP certification, all while stationed in a combat zone....
(Read the full statement on page 29)
Jerry Vevon
Vice Chair, DRI Foundation
Donnie Hamilton, CBCP
I served 7 years in the United States Air Force as an Emergency Management Specialist. During my time I trained with many military and civilian professionals. While transitioning, I encountered some difficulty before leaving the military. All military personnel must go through the transition assistance program (TAP) and the challenge of synchronizing civilian employment with the date of separation. Throughout my military career, I’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with some of the most influential, well-respected, experts (Emergency Management) across my career field who poured into my growth and development as an airman and ultimately mentored me....
(Read the full statement on page 29)
I joined the US ARMY and served 10 years as Transportation and Logistics Management Coordinator and 10 years as Signals Intelligence Voice Interceptor and retired at the rank of Sergeant First Class. The Army gave me some insight into continuity, but I never saw it as a possibility as a career. When I was about to retire, I had trouble translating my military experience into an industry. I was on the track to becoming a Logistics PM and wanted to achieve more. Through many sleepless nights of trying to figure out what I was going to do next, through the Army program, Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program...
(Read the full statement on page 29)
As a medically retired Special Agent with the United States Coast Guard, Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), I encountered the challenge of translating my extensive experience in state and federal law enforcement into a corporate context during my transition out of service. This period was marked by uncertainty about how my skills would fit into the business world, mixed with medical challenges that ripped me away from my beloved career devoted to our Nation. Interestingly, this challenge also opened the door to new opportunities, including DRI’s certification program...
(Read the full statements on page 30)
ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP: Each selected candidate will be offered a place in a Business Continuity (BCLE 2000) class in near proximity to their current location or remotely. The scholarship will entitle each selected candidate to attend a business continuity credentialing class, take the qualifying examination, and if they successfully pass the examination, complete the application to become certified.
While transitioning from a United States Marine Field Artilleryman, I grappled with the challenge of finding a profession that could leverage my 23 years of experience in leadership and managing dynamic situations. A friend, who is a retired Marine, introduced me to the Disaster Recovery Institute Foundation (DRI Foundation) Veterans Outreach Program (VOP). I applied and was awarded a scholarship to learn how my military experience and DRI’s professional practices align with each other, and how they both serve in the private sector. Through this program, I discovered the Business Continuity certification from DRI as a Certified Business Continuity Professional....
(Read the full statement on page 30)
As an active-duty United States Marine, I worked for eight years as an Aviation Ordnance Technician on F-18’s and I spent my final two years working at Wounded Warrior Battalion as a troop handler, specializing in the Medical Board process. During the last year in the Marine Corps my transition was certainly stressful in preparing for separation. This was all I knew in my entire adult life. I have a family to provide for, which encouraged me to be proactive. Still in the Marine Corps, I had never heard of the DRI Foundation’s Veterans Outreach Program scholarship program until 2022 when I had the opportunity to apply...
(Read the full statement on page 30)
It’s easy to understand the importance of building a professional network. However, it’s also easy to understand how networking can feel like awkward handshakes and small talk that amounts to more… well, work.
Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) believes that networking is most successful when it goes beyond the mere number of connections one has and transcends into building an authentic community to share ideas and create opportunities – without judgement.
One of the most concrete ways we create opportunities is through our Scholarship Program, which – through certification -- formally acknowledges that the women in our community have the necessary knowledge and skills needed to fill that open role, get that promotion, or be compensated fairly with market rates. Certifications matter, and WBCM is proud to have opened the door for so many women to obtain credentials that broaden their development and ignite their career trajectories.
Here are some of their stories:
WBCM is proud to have opened the door for so many women to obtain credentials that broaden their development and ignite their career trajectories.
I first learned about the scholarship through a YouTube video. A Veteran scholarship recipient recommended the program and it sounded like the perfect opportunity. At the time, I was exploring career paths and business continuity aligned with my long-term goals. I leveraged my experience as an Intelligence Analyst in the US Army and transitioned into the insurance industry where I currently work as a Data Analyst at Progressive Insurance. I reached out and built connections with the business continuity team as I continuously took action on my development plan. Although I recently interviewed for a Senior Business Continuity Analyst position at Progressive and was not selected, I am extremely grateful for the constructive feedback and mentorship offered by the hiring manager who has over 30 years in the business continuity field. Her shared experience is valuable...
(Read the full statement on page 31)
I first learned about the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) Committee and Scholarship while attending an Incident Management course. As I sat in the conference room, captivated by the speakers discussing the challenges and triumphs of crisis management, I connected with a fellow attendee who introduced me to this remarkable scholarship program. Designed to support and empower women in business continuity, the idea instantly resonated with me, sparking my curiosity to learn more. My desire for business continuity planning was ignited by my firsthand experiences with disasters where an organization I worked for was caught off guard by a major natural disaster. Witnessing the chaos and disruption firsthand was a powerful reminder of the critical need for effective preparedness and resilience strategies. Driven by this passion, I applied for the WBCM scholarship, knowing it was my key to receiving the training I so desperately needed...
(Read the full statement on page 31)
Earning the DRI Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) scholarship has been a transformative milestone in my life. While working for HAVI and attending college, a supportive colleague encouraged me to apply for the WBCM scholarship. Her guidance, along with the unwavering support of my family, was crucial during this journey. This past May, I graduated with my first degree while raising four children and battling stage three breast cancer for the past year. Overcoming cancer and achieving this certification amidst such adversity has reinforced the importance of perseverance and hope. The DRI class and certification not only solidified my knowledge but also equipped me with practical skills essential for my role as an Information Security Analyst at HAVI. Through the class, I gained invaluable insights into business continuity, learning how to anticipate risks, develop strategies, and ensure the security and reliability of our operations...
(Read the full statement on page 31)
I first heard about the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) at DRI when I was looking into the Associate Business Continuity Professional (ABCP) certification and exam. Yet I realized I couldn’t afford the course out of pocket. Then, I remembered my colleague, Senorajoy (Joy) Weddington, had taken the course and passed the ABCP exam. She had mentioned the WBCM Foundation scholarship during her presentation on Business Continuity professional development certifications for Aspiring Emergency Managers Online. I applied for the scholarship and was thrilled to receive notification that I would receive funding to cover the course, qualifying exam, and certification. This was a huge relief since most professional certifications are expensive, especially for someone like me who is new to the field. It was one more thing that I didn’t have to worry about...
(Read the full statement on page 32)
In 2003, I left a job I loved to get married, move to another country, and raise a family. During the pandemic, with my kids in high school, I decided to finally complete my bachelor’s degree, which I had started before moving abroad. Upon returning to the US, I found work as an interpreter, a role I enjoyed, but I aspired to return to IT or a related analyst position. About six months before finishing my degree, I saw a posting for a Business Continuity Analyst internship at the same company I had left. It sounded exciting, and since I had chosen a cybersecurity minor, I applied, interviewed, and got the internship. I began learning about Business Continuity and hoped for a full-time position. Towards the end of my internship, my boss, Lisa Mills, a CBCP, suggested I pursue certification. I discovered a potential scholarship from the DRI Foundation’s WBCM Committee and applied, thinking the certification would be valuable even if I didn’t get hired...
(Read the full statement on page 32)
A colleague of mine encouraged me to apply for the WBCM Committee Scholarship program. During my tenure with the Department of Veteran Affairs, I had the honor of working with many veterans who had discovered DRI Foundation’s Veterans Outreach Program. This particular colleague was working on his application to the Veteran Outreach Program and suggested I explore similar assistance from the Foundation. I am so thankful that he did. I am impressed with the opportunities DRI Foundation makes available to individuals looking to expand their skills within the continuity environment. My professional background includes emergency management and continuity work in a variety of sectors – federal contracting, local/municipal government, power/utility, healthcare, and currently, federal employment focused on infrastructure security exercises...
(Read the full statement on page 32)
I first heard about DRI International through a co-worker who had already been certified as a CBCP. With her encouragement and the desire to enhance my knowledge of Business Continuity Planning (BCP), I embarked on a journey that led to a rewarding certification experience. Business Continuity Planning was new to me but given my upcoming role in managing BCP for our organization, I was eager to become a subject matter expert. Although my company offered tuition reimbursement, BCP was not initially included. This led me to explore financial assistance options on the DRI Foundation website, where I discovered and applied for the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) Scholarship. I was thrilled and emotional when I received the news of my selection as a WBCM Scholarship recipient. This scholarship provided the financial support I needed to pursue my certification....(Read the full statement on page 33)
With a degree in emergency and disaster management, I have dedicated nearly a decade to working in emergency management, including roles within state government and humanitarian efforts. My current position as a business continuity consultant, which I have held for four years, solidified my decision to specialize in business continuity. Despite my extensive experience, the lack of a formal certification was a barrier to advancing in my career. My organization couldn’t fund the certification, which further hindered my opportunities for promotion. Discovering the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) scholarship offered by the DRI Foundation was a turning point. Understanding that obtaining this certification would propel my career, I applied for the scholarship and was delighted by the swift and supportive response from the DRI Foundation...
(Read the full statement on page 33)
As a Critical Incident Manager, I identified operational vulnerabilities and managed regulatory changes ensuring compliance for our restaurants. My role pivoted during COVID when our industry faced new challenges related to the pandemic and civil unrest following the death of George Floyd. I became responsible for guiding restaurant operators through difficult and urgent situations. With my additional responsibilities, I became acquainted with the Disaster Recovery Institute (DRI). As the co-chair of my company’s Women’s Employee Resource Group, I was excited to learn that the DRI Foundation had a Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) committee. Joining this group allowed me to increase my credibility and build trust with executive leadership. To increase my knowledge and experience in business continuity, I applied for the WBCM scholarship. When I learned I had been selected as a recipient of the scholarship, I was both honored and grateful...(Read the full statement on page 33)
I first learned about the DRI Foundation’s WBCM Committee scholarship program through my professional network, particularly from colleagues within the disaster management field and my involvement with FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. My professional background as a Management Consultant includes extensive experience in program/project management, knowledge management, and communications across the federal government, non-profit, and private sectors. My roles have spanned from supporting federal clients at FEMA, USDA, and the Department of Homeland Security to developing training programs and facilitating stakeholder engagement. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, a Master of Arts in Disaster Management, and the Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) certification, which has significantly enhanced my career prospects. ...(Read the full statement on page 33)
I was awarded the WBCM scholarship in 2023 and earned my ABCP certification in November. Before I was awarded the scholarship, I was involved with our organization’s business continuity and recovery planning, and had done a lot of research to assist our business in this area. Learning and effectively utilizing the additional skills to properly conduct a risk assessment and business impact analysis, and developing a robust plan for a wide variety of scenarios has been an amazing opportunity. Since my certification, I have spent much of 2024 going through the BCP process for my own organization. It has been a great experience for me to expand my knowledge and increase the readiness of our organization. In the future, I plan to use the information and tools I have learned to benefit other businesses that are part of the Employer Association I work for, as well as the non-profit Board I serve on. (Read the full statement on page 34)
ABOUT THE WBCM SCHOLARSHIP: Each selected candidate will be offered a place in a Business Continuity (BCLE 2000) class in near proximity to their current location or remotely. The scholarship will entitle each selected candidate to attend a business continuity credentialing class, take the qualifying examination, and if they successfully pass the examination and complete the application to become certified.
When Koen Berglund heads to North Carolina State University this fall, the sky is the limit – literally. The inbound freshman has his sights on a degree in aerospace engineering, a goal that grew from a shared experience between him and his father, Morgan Berglund.
“I’m a West Point graduate myself and was in the army for five years after I graduated, so we have a history of service in our family,” said Morgan, a CBCP and business continuity professional with Truist Banking. Koen also attended West Point’s Summer Leadership Experience and considered joining the Air Force, before ultimately focusing on NCSU’s aerospace program thanks to this family’s passion for aviation.
“I’ve always been fascinated by aviation, and have also loved science and math throughout all grade levels,” he said. “So, combining those into doing something that allows you to work with aircraft, where you’re using a lot of science and math skills, that just felt like the perfect major for me.”
When sitting down to write his scholarship essay on community preparedness, another aspect of aerospace was on his mind, due to recent headlines – industrial safety.
“Literally today, there was an airline accident on the news, so yes, that was definitely top of mind – it instantly clicked when I was thinking about preparedness, I knew that’s what I wanted to do.”
In his essay, Koen considered how his future role as an aerospace professional might help improve safety awareness, writing: “I could organize educational workshops and seminars in my community to educate people about the principles of aerospace engineering and airplane safety. Topics I cover might include the physics of flight, the importance of regular maintenance checks, and how technological advancements are improving safety.
“I could also collaborate with local schools, community centers, and emergency services to conduct safety drills and simulations. These activities can prepare the community for emergency situations, such as an airplane emergency landing. By explaining the engineering behind safety features like evacuation slides and oxygen masks, I can demystify these tools and emphasize their importance for the flying public.”
Koen expressed his family’s excitement upon receiving word that he had won the DRI Foundation Scholarship for high school seniors. “The news was great – I was shocked, even though I felt really confident about my essay,” he said. “It was kind of kind of crazy to think that I had won, I was super happy, and everyone was down in our living room when it happened so it was a really good feeling.”
The DRI Foundation predicts Koen will fly high in his studies this fall. Click here to read his winning essay.
Alex Warteck
Alex Wartecki, an undergraduate studying at Queen’s University in Ontario, knows a lot about…well, a lot. He has been president of the Debate Club, co-director of the Band and Strings Club, and a lifelong athlete in everything from taekwondo, swimming to cross-country.
“I’ve always been physically active, my parents raised me that way,” he said. As a volunteer instructor for area children, “being able to share that with a younger generation those same kinds of things I enjoyed when I was a kid is what I find rewarding.”
One thing he didn’t know as much about was his father’s job, until the opportunity came to apply for the DRI Foundation Scholarship for college undergraduates. That’s when Alex was able to connect another knowledge area – economics – with an issue his father, Matt Wartecki, deals with as an ABCP working in emergency management for the Province of Ontario. “For the First Nations communities, they deal very frequently with forest fires and floods as their seasonal events,” Matt said. “They tend to be very remote communities, so my focus in that case is ensuring that the telecommunications and infrastructure in the areas where
they live remain active.” When Alex began work on his essay, Matt suggested how economics plays a part. “I just mentioned to Alex, the preparation and advanced preparation usually cost less than response after the fact.” “My dad touched the economic side of things – that it makes more sense fiscally to take into account vulnerable communities and have a plan beforehand, which relates to what I’m studying as well, so I found that interesting,” Alex said.
In his essay, Alex expounds on the issue: “From an economic perspective, ensuring inclusion and equity within continuity planning is indisputably the best course of action to take. When it comes to disasters, preventative and protective measures are almost always cheaper than reactive measures. Ensuring the safety of all people before a disaster is the smartest, most economically efficient thing to do without a doubt. Take a hurricane as an example. If it is known that a strong hurricane will take place in a city and evacuation orders are issued, there will inevitably be people from lower socio-economic backgrounds without a means of transportation who are unable to evacuate. It is a far more efficient use of resources to charter buses or some other means of transportation to evacuate these people, than to have to rescue people and provide medical aid after a disaster.”
Heading back to university this fall, Alex is enthusiastic about getting further into his economics studies. “In my first year, I started off mostly focusing on general arts, since the economics program doesn’t actually start until the second year. So, diving deeper into economics and really focusing more on my studies in that specific topic is what I’m most looking forward to.”
The DRI Foundation wishes him the best. Click here to read Alex’s winning essay.
The DRI Foundation believes that educating our youth about the importance of disaster preparedness today is key to guaranteeing a more resilient community in the future. Made possible through donations from DRI and DRI Canada, the DRI Foundation Scholarship is the result of our commitment to education.
As we look back on DRI2024’s Volunteer Day, we want to thank all the volunteers who ventured out into the marsh of south Louisiana to help rebuild the disappearing coastline.
Through the Foundation’s partnership with Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL), our volunteers also planted over 500 native Cypress Trees and prepared over 5.51 tons of oyster shells that will be used to rebuild both coastlines and oyster reefs. This helps ensure that there will be a South Louisiana for all of us to enjoy both now and in the future.
The Louisiana coast is an incredibly productive ecosystem largely because of Louisiana’s extensive wetlands. Numerous species of fish, birds and invertebrates inhabit Louisiana’s coastal waters for a portion of their lives, and some reside here for their entire life. Since 1900, Louisiana has lost more than 1 million acres of wetlands and barrier shorelines because of natural processes and human activity. Working with projects like these, our DRI volunteers are really making a difference within the communities that we visit.
Bonnie Canal, MBCP Chair, Volunteerism
If you were a 2024 volunteer or plan to volunteer with us in the future, please check to see if your employer would provide us with a grant to recognize your ongoing support through your employee giving program. For more information, please visit our Ways to Give page.
We want to thank each and everyone who assisted us in this very important project.
Each year the DRI provides an opportunity for DRI Certified Professionals from around the world to volunteer their skills and abilities to make a positive impact on the communities.
The DRI Foundation invites DRI Certified Professionals to participate in Volunteer Day 2025, on Saturday, February 1, 2025, in conjunction with the annual DRI Conference, February 2-5, 2025.
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Option 1: The WASH Foundation (9:00am – 12:00pm)
Option 2: Get Outdoors Nevada (9:00am – 12:00pm)
Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL)’s work to restore and protect Louisiana’s vanishing coast is powered by the support of organizations like the DRI Foundation. We’ve seen the power of partnerships like this to shape a better future. The positive impacts will be evident for generations to come.
We are grateful to the certified professionals, friends, and supporters who are committed to giving back and helping others move forward. This annual review is dedicated to you for supporting our mission to provide aid for those who have been impacted by disasters as well as training and employment to those who have specific needs to create a more prepared and resilient world.
With deep appreciation, we acknowledge the generosity of our donors for gifts made between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024.
$5000 - $9999
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DRI International Board of Directors
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$1000 - $4999
Diane Doering
DRI Canada
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M2
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$200 - $499
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$100 - $199
Anonymous (1)
Sheri Aghlara
Jennifer Bannon
Stephen Baruch
Brendan Bateman
Brittany Bayes
Royal Bennett
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Bonnie Canal
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Anonymous (22)
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Greg Bendel
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Renee Bronzetti
Paul Buss
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Ramil Cabodil
Jennifer Cassidy
Daniel Chandler
Charity Choice
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Ana Corrales
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Jose Duran
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Ama Durham
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Holly Eringis
Raquel Cássia Euzebio
Michele Facchino
Benoit Ferauge
Rick Fernandez
LeRoy Foster
Brad Fresher
Byron Frick
Barbara Frumenti
David Gering
Patricia Glees
David Groesch
Gregg Haege
Michelle Hamamouche
Steven Heisen
Willie Heng
Mery Hidalgo Alferez
William Thiam Hock
Jeffrey Holland
Nancy Holloway-White
Isabella Holmquist
James Hull
Anthony Ishmael
Boris Issavi
Daniel James
Bryant Jenkins
Cortez Jenkins
Alice Jones
Murari Kalyanaramani
Michele Kelley
Mark Kern
Yasminda Khorshidian
Maria Kier
Betty Kildow
Theresa Kirchner
Corrie Klein
Brian Knutson
Nancy Koch
Keith Krueger
Alan Lake
Gustavo Laranja
Masika Lawrence
Patrick Leduc
Brooklynn Lee
On Nam Lee
Amy Sui Ling Low
Meaghan Mackie
Shippensburg Produce and Outreach
Sangita Mallik, Founder of SANPEC Inc
Jamie Beth Maragas
Robin Mattadeen
Gina Mayfield
Enrico Mazzocco
Gregory McNiff
Raymond Meyers
Phyl Monroe
Marcela Montoya Minera
James Moorhouse
Florence Moss
Charity (Tram) Nguyen
Dan Olbur
Damon Owen
Forrest Paddock
Zonia Palencia Camacho
Paula Papis
Darren Pemberton
Eva Perez
Jeremy Pevner
Jennifer Pike
Ricardo Pitol Rotondo
Anthony Frank Pizzitola MBCP
Patrick Pol
Nilesh Prasad
Michael Redmond
Stephan Reissman
Charles Rodriguez
Ricardo Ruiz Ocampo
Sergio Saggese
James Schweyer
Babby Sham of HCLTech
Susan Shelby
Ingrid Shieh
Peter Sinclair
Chelsea Skoog
Debra Smith
Kamal Sonnylal
Keith Spears
Donna Speckhard
Apoorva Srivastava
Nina Strater
Faik Tasan
Beth Thompson
Beth Tomsic
Young’s Communications
Johnny Villarreal
Caitlin Weber
Stephen Weber
Raymond Tee Meng Wee
Rose Wilson
Jason Wright
Edward Wurster, III
Andrew Wynn Sr.
Wei Ying
Alaa Yousef
AnneMarie Staley, CBCP, MBCI Chair
Head of BCP Americas, Credit Agricole CIB
Jerry Vevon, MBCP, CBCP, CPSCP Vice Chair
Senior Manager, BDO United States
Alan Berman, MBCP, CBCLA, CCRP President, DRI Foundation
Sheri Aghlara, MBCP Director Manager IT Compliance, Teranet Inc.
Bonnie Canal, MBCP Director
Business Continuity Manager, Tulane University
Mitzi Harlor, CBCP
Director
Director, Business Continuity Office, Marriott International
Michele Ostler Director
Senior Director of Operations and Conferences, DRI International
Frank Perlmutter, MBCP
Director
President & Founder, Perlmutter Fund for Animal Welfare
Buffy Rojas Leach Director
Senior Director of Communications and Product Delivery, DRI International
Jeff Berman, Esq. General Counsel
Development Committee
Chair: AnneMarie Staley
Giving Committee
Co-Chair: Frank Perlmutter
Co-Chair: Sheri Aghlara
Scholarship Committee
Chair: Al Berman
Veterans Outreach Program Committee
DRI Foundation Representative: Jerry Vevon
Co-Chair: Duane Bygum
Co-Chair: Catherine Cooper
Women in Business Continuity Management Committee
Chair: Mitzi Harlor
Volunteerism Committee
Chair: Bonnie Canal
Special thanks to:
Kathy Acevedo, Senior Program Associate
Jeff Holland, Communications Manager
Simone Johns, Development Associate
There are many ways to support the DRI Foundation’s vision. Visit our website
• Make single or recurring monetary donations > Honor someone with a gift, email getinvolved@driif.org
• Find out if your employer would match your donation at > Double the Donation Matching Gifts
• Donate the balance of your gift cards through > Charity Choice
• Partnership, sponsorship and affiliates: > Inquire about joining us, email Al Berman at aberman@drii.org
• Want to volunteer? > Email Bonnie Canal at bcanal@driif.org
I served in the United States Air Force as an Airfield Manager, responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of airfield activities. During my deployment, I learned about the Disaster Recovery International (DRI) Foundation’s Veterans Outreach Program from Education Office advisors. They connected me with Alan Lake, Col., USAF (Ret.), and Chris Bygum, MSgt, USAF, (Ret) who guided me through the application process. After being accepted for the scholarship, I joined the first-ever military overseas global continuity course, with many students separated by 14 time zones. This outstanding opportunity allowed me to make VOP history as one of the first veterans to take the course, pass the Qualifying Examination, and receive the CBCP certification, all while stationed in a combat zone.
Transitioning out of the military, I faced the overwhelming task of finding a civilian career that would utilize my skills and experiences. The uncertainty of the job market was challenging, and I knew I needed something to stand out to potential employers. Receiving the Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) certification through the DRI Foundation had a significant impact on my career prospects. It validated my military skills and demonstrated my commitment to professional development in disaster recovery and business continuity. With mentorship and support from the DRI Veterans Outreach Program, I secured a position with Marriott International as a Project Manager specializing in Disaster Recovery. This certification has been instrumental in advancing my career, and I am certain that without it, I would have faced greater challenges in securing a role that aligns with my expertise. I am deeply grateful to the DRI Foundation and to my mentors and colleagues who supported me throughout this journey.
I served 7 years in the United States Air Force as an Emergency Management Specialist. During my time I trained with many military and civilian professionals. While transitioning, I encountered some difficultiesbefore leaving the military. All military personnel must go through the transition assistance program (TAP) and the challenge of synchronizing civilian employment with the date of separation. Throughout my military career, I’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with some of the most influential, well-respected, experts (Emergency Management) across my career field who poured into my growth and development as an airman and ultimately mentored me. One of those mentors was Darren Pemberton, who served as the Installation Emergency Manager, who had recently retired from the Air Force, and later became a Director in the Business Continuity industry. He told me about the opportunity and encouraged me to leverage the DRI Foundation as an opportunity to gain a competitive edge, coupled with my Emergency Management experience. Along with Darren Pemberton, there were many business continuity professionals with whom I connected and networked on LinkedIn. They made it their duty to guide me along the way.
Before landing my first Business Continuity role at CPS Energy, the certification opened doors for me. For example, I was awarded the Veterans Outreach Program scholarship and registered to take a course. Before taking the class, I interviewed CPS Energy, and expressed my registering for the course in order to be certified, which would allow me to be a more valuable employee. I firmly believe that expressing this during the interview gave me the advantage, in addition to my experience and business continuity knowledge. I took the course, passed the exam, and gained my certification to which I felt more validated and credible in this space. The certification made me feel complete, as I knew I was equipped with the necessary skills to catapult my career in a promising direction.
I moved back to Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex in Texas, where I call home, to search for employment. My DRI certification most certainly landed me in my current employment working at GM Financial as a Senior Enterprise Resilience Analyst. I am currently the only person on the team with the credible background, experience, and certification to do this job. Although I have experience doing both, I believe that I would still be in the Emergency Management field or Finance/Banking. Thanks, DRI for this opportunity to be a part of something great!
I joined the US ARMY and served 10 years as Transportation and Logistics Management Coordinator and 10 years as Signals Intelligence Voice Interceptor and retired at the rank of Sergeant First Class. The Army gave me some insight into continuity, but I never saw it as a possibility as a career. When I was about to retire, I had trouble translating my military experience into an industry. I was on the track to becoming a Logistics PM and wanted to achieve more.
Through many sleepless nights of trying to figure out what I was going to do next, through the Army program, Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Coordinator email I was introduced to DRI Foundation’s Veterans Outreach Program. I applied and was awarded the scholarship. I became certified in June 2024 as a Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP). The certification helped me to reshape my career narrative. I received help from countless industry professionals using my newfound equivalence as a business continuity professional. Because of this training, certification, and VOP mentorship, I would never have achieved the corporate status or compensation level that I have now. I am now working for Norfolk Southern Corporation, as a Senior Manager in Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery (BC/DR). The program helped me find my calling and passion. Working in the BC / DR field solving complex business problems is a natural transition for the military. It’s just like they say if you love what you do you won’t work a day in your life. That is why I am so eager to give back to the program and share this experience. Without this certification, I would be driving an IT or logistics project with a moderate salary and little fulfilment in the job.
While transitioning from the United States Marine Field Artilleryman, I grappled with the challenge of finding a profession that could leverage my 23 years of experience in leadership and managing dynamic situations. A friend, who is a retired Marine, introduced me to the Disaster Recovery Institute Foundation (DRI Foundation) Veterans Outreach Program (VOP). I applied and was awarded a scholarship to learn how my military experience and DRI’s professional practices align with each other, and how they both serve in the private sector. Through this program, I discovered the Business Continuity certification from DRI as a Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) is what I needed to do after retiring from the US Marine Corps. This professional group of veterans and civilian personnel is where I belonged and be a part of this growing BC community. The certification proved invaluable in helping me transition from a military professional to the corporate world.
I am currently the Regional Director of Business Continuity for the West Region at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits. The certification contributed to showcasing my years of experience in the Business Continuity profession. Without it, I would likely still be tied to the military, but it was important for me to step away from that part of my life and demonstrate my ability to thrive independently. The DRI Foundation’s VOP program and the scholarship provided crucial support during my transition into the civilian workforce, allowing me to focus and showcase my experiences effectively. I cannot thank the DRI Foundation enough for the program, as it made my transition smoother and helped me start a new chapter in my life.
Thank you for the recognition of my Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) award. It is truly an honor to be acknowledged for this achievement, which has already impacted my career and professional development.
As a medically retired Special Agent with the United States Coast Guard, Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), I encountered the challenge of translating my extensive experience in state and federal law enforcement into a corporate context during my transition out of service. This period was marked by uncertainty about how my skills would fit into the business world, mixed with medical challenges that ripped me away from my beloved career devoted to our Nation. Interestingly, this challenge also opened the door to new opportunities, including DRI’s certification program.
My journey towards earning the CBCP certification began with a LinkedIn post by Duane Stamm, which highlighted the value and importance of this credential. Intrigued, I pursued the certification and found that it was a pivotal moment in my career. The CBCP certification was a factor in my immediate promotion to lead a global investigations program at Brambles, a world-leading logistics company. It provided me with credibility and a comprehensive understanding of organizational dynamics, which are crucial when engaging with executives and managing complex global investigations followed by recommendations for improvements.
The certification not only facilitated my promotion, but also enhanced my ability to provide strategic inquiries and recommend actions based on the knowledge gained from the CBCP training. This allowed me to see the organization as a whole, understanding how different components should overlap, especially in the context of disaster preparedness and continuity planning.
Currently, I serve as a Global Compliance Officer - Manager of Investigations. A role that involves managing a global internal investigations program, where the skills and insights from the CBCP certification have been invaluable. They have enabled me to implement strategies that improve efficiency, reduce investigation timelines, and align investigative staff with best practices. The CBCP certification has significantly enhanced the value I bring to the table, providing me with a strategic edge and a deeper understanding of the complexities within the organization.
I am immensely grateful to DRI, Chris, Duane, and Alan for their support in making this opportunity available to veterans. My service has been a blessing in many ways, and earning the CBCP certification is among the most impactful. Thank you once again for this honor.
As an active-duty United States Marine, I worked for eight years as an Aviation Ordnance Technician on F-18’s and I spent my final two years working at Wounded Warrior Battalion as a troop handler, specializing in the Medical Board process. During my last year in the Marine Corps, my transition was certainly stressful preparing for separation. This was all I knew in my entire adult life.
I have a family to provide for, which encouraged me to be proactive. Still in the Marine Corps, I had never heard of the DRI Foundation’s Veterans Outreach Program scholarship program until 2022 when I had the opportunity to apply. A few months later, I was ecstatic to learn that I was awarded the VOP Scholarship, with the course hosted at Wounded Warrior Battalion in California. The course was amazingly familiar, and learning the corporate language was extremely helpful. I passed the exam and obtained my certification as a Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP). In addition, I applied for the DoD Skillbridge program and because of this certification, it helped me find the internship opportunity which I was selected for at the Pentagon Federal (PENFED) Credit Union. Achieving my CBCP certification was crucial in deciding what future to pursue after my career in the Marine Corps.
Because of DRI’s certification and the Skillbridge opportunity I was selected for a full-time position at PENFED as a Program Manager for the Enterprise Business Resilience Management team. Thank you so much to the DRI Foundation for being a world-class organization and putting in so much effort to help veterans like me in transitioning to a successful career as a Business Continuity Professional.
I first learned about the scholarship through a YouTube video. A Veteran scholarship recipient recommended the program and it sounded like the perfect opportunity. At the time, I was exploring career paths and business continuity aligned with my long-term goals. I leveraged my experience as an Intelligence Analyst in the US Army and transitioned into the insurance industry where I currently work as a Data Analyst at Progressive Insurance. I reached out and built connections with the business continuity team as I continuously took action on my development plan.
Although I recently interviewed for a Senior Business Continuity Analyst position at Progressive and was not selected, I am extremely grateful for the constructive feedback and mentorship offered by the hiring manager who has over 30 years in the business continuity field. Her shared experience is valuable. She encouraged me to remain persistent, expressing confidence in my potential for future success. The journey has taught me the importance of resiliency, a key life skill emphasized by business continuity. With patience, perseverance, and a positive mindset, I am committed to securing a career in this field. My experience with the WBCM Committee and Scholarship, including attending insightful webinars and networking events, has been instrumental in my professional development, and this program has been transformational.
I first learned about the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) Committee and Scholarship while attending an Incident Management course. As I sat in the conference room, captivated by the speakers discussing the challenges and triumphs of crisis management, I connected with a fellow attendee who introduced me to this remarkable scholarship program. Designed to support and empower women in business continuity, the idea instantly resonated with me, sparking my curiosity to learn more.
My desire for business continuity planning was ignited by my firsthand experiences with disasters where an organization I worked for was caught off guard by a major natural disaster. Witnessing the chaos and disruption firsthand was a powerful reminder of the critical need for effective preparedness and resilience strategies. Driven by this passion, I applied for the WBCM scholarship, knowing it was my key to receiving the training I so desperately needed.
Winning the scholarship was a pivotal moment in my career. It offered me an incredible opportunity to expand my knowledge and make a meaningful impact in a field that is strengthening businesses for critical moments. With a background in volunteer
coordination during disasters, animal care, and now as a preparedness planner, my pursuit of a DRI certification marked a significant milestone. Within a few months, it opened doors for me to participate in my agency’s business continuity meetings, a chance I wouldn’t have had without the scholarship.
The journey with WBCM has been challenging and fulfilling. Taking that first step by applying for the scholarship set me on a path toward achieving what I feel is a life-purpose goal. As I continue this journey, I am filled with hope and determination. I know that with my new knowledge, skills, and unwavering passion, I will find a role that allows me to help build resilient organizations and communities.
I am grateful for the experiences that ignited my passion and for the DRI Foundation’s support in building more resilient communities, one business at a time. If you share the same desire to make a difference, I encourage you to explore this path and take that first step toward creating a safer, more resilient world.
Earning the DRI Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) scholarship has been a transformative milestone in my life. While working for HAVI and attending college, a supportive colleague encouraged me to apply for the WBCM scholarship. Her guidance, along with the unwavering support of my family, was crucial during this journey. This past May, I graduated with my first degree while raising four children and battling stage three breast cancer for the past year. Overcoming cancer and achieving this certification amidst such adversity has reinforced the importance of perseverance and hope.
The DRI class and certification not only solidified my knowledge but also equipped me with practical skills essential for my role as an Information Security Analyst at HAVI. Through the class, I gained invaluable insights into business continuity, learning how to anticipate risks, develop strategies, and ensure the security and reliability of our operations. These skills have been instrumental in my efforts to mature our third-party risk management (TPRM) program, pushing for improved processes and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The heartfelt support from my family, friends, and colleagues has been incredibly motivating. Seeing the tangible results of my hard work, like the certification plaque, is a constant reminder of the power of resilience. This journey has shown that with determination and support, it is possible to overcome life’s challenges. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and support that have made this possible, and I extend my gratitude to organizations like the DRI Foundation for making scholarships available to individuals in need, and empowering them to achieve their goals.
Brandi M. Hunter, ABCP
I first heard about the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) at DRI when I was looking into the Associate Business Continuity Professional (ABCP) certification and exam. Yet I realized I couldn’t afford the course out of pocket. Then, I remembered my colleague, Senorajoy (Joy) Weddington, had taken the course and passed the ABCP exam. She mentioned the WBCM Foundation scholarship during her presentation on Business Continuity professional development certifications for Aspiring Emergency Managers Online. I applied for the scholarship and was thrilled to receive notification that I would receive funding to cover the course, qualifying exam, and certification. This was a huge relief since most professional certifications are expensive, especially for someone like me who is new to the field. It was one more thing that I didn’t have to worry about.
In 2003, I left a job I loved to get married, move to another country, and raise a family. During the pandemic, with my kids in high school, I decided to finally complete my bachelor’s degree, which I had started before moving abroad. Upon returning to the US, I found work as an interpreter, a role I enjoyed, but I aspired to return to IT or a related analyst position.
About six months before finishing my degree, I saw a posting for a Business Continuity Analyst internship at the same company I had left. It sounded exciting, and since I had chosen a cybersecurity minor, I applied, interviewed, and got the internship. I began learning about Business Continuity and hoped for a full-time position. Towards the end of my internship, my boss, Lisa Mills, a CBCP, suggested I pursue certification. I discovered a potential scholarship from the DRI Foundation’s WBCM Committee and applied, thinking the certification would be valuable even if I didn’t get hired. To my surprise, within about two months, I received the scholarship, was hired full-time, attended the Business Continuity class, and became certified as an ABCP.
I’ve now been back at TriNet for over two years, gotten certified as a CBCP, and promoted to Senior Security Analyst. I am responsible for developing and maturing the Business Continuity program. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support from the WBCM committee and DRI Foundation.
A colleague of mine encouraged me to apply for the WBCM Committee Scholarship program. During my tenure with the Department of Veteran Affairs, I had the honor of working with many veterans who had discovered the DRI Foundation’s Veteran Outreach Program. This particular colleague was working on his application to the Veteran Outreach Program and suggested I explore similar assistance from the Foundation. I am so thankful that he did. I am impressed with the opportunities DRI Foundation makes available to individuals looking to expand their skill within the continuity environment.
My professional background includes emergency management and continuity work in a variety of sectors – federal contracting, local/municipal government, power/utility, healthcare, and currently, federal employment focuses on infrastructure security exercises. My first emergency management-related role was with AmeriCorps’ National Preparedness and Response Corps, where I was stationed in New Orleans, LA after Hurricane Katrina.
Along my professional journey, I have been acutely aware that significant attention is paid to response efforts without necessarily the same focus on recovery and continuity. During a class many years ago, I was learning about basic emergency management principles; using the example of a fire ablaze in a building, I remember being intensely concerned about the people and organizations in the building after the fire was extinguished and the lights and sirens had faded. The class included little discourse and discussion once immediate life safety and scene preservation work was completed. That struck me – and since then, I have focused my professional efforts on the quieter, more subtle nuances of continuity.
The COVID pandemic was particularly impactful to me – it was far from the disaster scenario, most organizations had exercised in recent memory. Continuity was being discussed and operationalized in strained but innovative ways; organizations needed to flex their human and material resources to meet the constraints of a new type of emergency.
“Here” is a stop on my journey towards being a well-rounded, curious, and engaged professional. “Here” depends on the day; and “there” is wherever my next idea or interest may lay. Getting to “here” was a combination of successes and missteps, shepherded by a network of mentors, contemporaries, and senior leaders. While I am pleased with my “here,” I can’t wait to see what waits for me over “there”… wherever and whenever that might be.
I am incredibly grateful to the WBCM Committee for providing this scholarship opportunity. I look forward to being more engaged with DRI, the Foundation, and the WBCM Committee as a mentor, and an instructor.
DRI International’s dedication to high-quality training and ongoing support through conferences and mentorship has been exceptional. Their efforts have significantly shaped my career in Business Continuity Planning. — Dolores Perea, ABCP
I first heard about DRI International through a co-worker who had already been certified as a CBCP. With her encouragement and the desire to enhance my knowledge in Business Continuity Planning (BCP), I embarked on a journey that led to a rewarding certification experience. Business Continuity Planning was new to me but given my upcoming role in managing BCP for our organization, I was eager to become a subject matter expert.
Although my company offered tuition reimbursement, BCP was not initially included. This led me to explore financial assistance options on the DRI Foundation website, where I discovered and applied for the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) Scholarship. I was thrilled and emotional when I received the news of my selection as a WBCM Scholarship recipient. This scholarship provided the financial support I needed to pursue my certification. In November of last year, I attended the in-person training in San Antonio, Texas, with Jeanne Powell as my instructor. The training was comprehensive and invaluable. Jeanne’s ability to convey complex information clearly and her supportive attitude, especially when I struggled due to illness, was instrumental in my success. Her commitment extended beyond the classroom, ensuring I achieved my ABCP certification.
My certification journey with DRI International has had a lasting impact. Not only did I gain extensive knowledge in BCP, but I also contributed to the inclusion of the Business Continuity Planning Certification in my company’s tuition reimbursement program. I am deeply grateful to the DRI staff, my instructor Jeanne Powell, and the DRI Foundation’s WBCM Scholarship for their support and guidance.
DRI International’s dedication to high-quality training and ongoing support through conferences and mentorship has been exceptional. Their efforts have significantly shaped my career in Business Continuity Planning.
With a degree in emergency and disaster management, I have dedicated nearly a decade to working in emergency management, including roles within state government and humanitarian efforts. My current position as a business continuity consultant, which I have held for four years, solidified my decision to specialize in business continuity. Despite my extensive experience, the lack of a formal certification was a barrier to advancing in my career. My organization couldn’t fund the certification, which further hindered my opportunities for promotion.
Discovering the Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) scholarship offered by the DRI Foundation was a turning point. Understanding that obtaining this certification would propel my career, I applied for the scholarship and was delighted by the swift and supportive response from the DRI Foundation. The process was thorough but efficient: within a month of receiving the scholarship, I completed the four-day course, passed the
qualifying exam, and submitted all necessary documentation promptly. The comprehensive nature of the training equipped me with essential skills, and securing the certification facilitated my promotion. The DRI Foundation’s commitment to fostering diversity and supporting professional growth has significantly impacted my career trajectory, and I am grateful for the opportunity to advance in the field of business continuity.
As a Critical Incident Manager, I identified operational vulnerabilities and managed regulatory changes ensuring compliance for our restaurants. My role pivoted during COVID when our industry faced new challenges related to the pandemic and civil unrest following the death of George Floyd. I became responsible for guiding restaurant operators through difficult and urgent situations. With my additional responsibilities, I became acquainted with the Disaster Recovery Institute (DRI). As the co-chair of my company’s Women’s Employee Resource Group, I was excited to learn that the DRI Foundation had a Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) committee. Joining this group allowed me to increase my credibility and build trust with executive leadership.
To increase my knowledge and experience in business continuity, I applied for the WBCM scholarship. When I learned I had been selected as a recipient of the scholarship, I was both honored and grateful. The course was excellent—the instructor demonstrated their expertise, the material was easy to follow, and the engagement with fellow classmates was invaluable. This certification has truly broadened my professional skillset and enhanced my leadership capabilities related to critical incidents in the restaurant industry.
I first learned about the DRI Foundation’s WBCM Committee scholarship program through my professional network, particularly from colleagues within the disaster management field and my involvement with FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. My professional background as a Management Consultant includes extensive experience in program/project management, knowledge management, and communications across federal government, non-profit, and private sectors. My roles have spanned from supporting federal clients at FEMA, USDA, and the Department of Homeland Security to developing training programs and facilitating stakeholder engagement. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, a Master of Arts in Disaster Management, and the Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) certification, which has significantly enhanced my career prospects. Since obtaining the certification, I’ve been able to take on more responsibilities and specialized roles that require in-depth knowledge of business continuity. Currently, I work for Noblis in Washington D.C. as a Risk Analyst.
My journey has been supported by mentors and colleagues within the disaster management and cybersecurity fields, whose guidance and encouragement have been crucial. The DRI certification has validated my skills and knowledge, providing me with a valuable professional network. My interest in business continuity stemmed from my experiences working with FEMA and the International Rescue Committee, where I recognized the importance of preparing for disruptions and ensuring operational resilience. These experiences, along with my study abroad in Jordan, solidified my commitment to this field. Without the certification, my career progression would have been slower, but it has opened doors to opportunities that might have otherwise been inaccessible. My family and friends have been very supportive, and my employer has recognized the value of the certification and acknowledged its impact on my role within the company.
I was awarded the WBCM scholarship in 2023 and earned my aBCP certification in November. Before I was awarded the scholarship, I was involved with our organization’s business continuity and recovery planning, and had done a lot of research to assist our business in this area. Learning and effectively utilizing the additional skills to properly conduct a risk assessment, business impact analysis, and developing a robust plan for a wide variety of scenarios have been an amazing opportunity.
Since my certification, I have spent much of 2024 going through the BCP process for my own organization. It has been a great experience for me to expand my knowledge and to increase the readiness of our organization. In the future, I plan to use the information and tools I have learned to benefit other businesses that are part of the Employer Association I work for, as well as the non-profit Board I serve on.
The DRI Foundation’s commitment to diversity and supporting professional growth has significantly impacted my career trajectory, and I am grateful for the opportunity to advance in the field of business continuity.
— Nancy Preston, CBCP
The DRI certification has validated my skills and knowledge, providing me with a valuable professional network. Without the certification, my career progression would have been slower, but it has opened doors to opportunities that might have otherwise been inaccessible.
— Alexis Richmond, CBCP
The Foundation provides help to those in need: survivors of disaster, veterans and women seeking to find a career in resilience, students, certified professionals seeking to give back to the community by volunteering, and all those seeking to create a more resilient world.