Keynote Speakers
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Douglas A. Collins
The Honorable Douglas A. Collins was sworn in as the 12th secretary of Veterans Affairs on Feb. 5, 2025, following his nomination by President Donald J. Trump.
A native of Gainesville, Georgia, Collins saw public service modeled by his father, a Georgia State Trooper, and mother, who provided care to local senior citizens. He earned a degree in political science and criminal justice from the University of North Georgia. ecretary Collins earned his master’s degree in divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and his community roots deepened in the eleven years he pastored Chicopee Baptist Church. In 2006, the people of Georgia’s 27th State House District elected Collins to represent them. During his first term in the state legislature, Collins graduated from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School and established his own legal practice.
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Jeremiah Workman
Jeremiah Workman, a native of Richwood, Ohio, is a decorated Marine Corps combat veteran, author, and lifelong advocate for the well-being of America's service members and their families. With over two decades of military and organizational leadership experience, he has dedicated his career to supporting the successful transition of veterans into civilian life.
During his distinguished service in the United States Marine Corps, Mr. Workman was awarded the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon for valorous actions during Operation Phantom Fury in Iraq. His heroism and commitment to service have earned him induction into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame and a dedicated exhibit at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.
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Kathryn Monet
Kathryn Monet is the Chief Executive Officer of the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. In this role, she focuses on the execution of NCHV’s strategic policy and technical assistance agenda, and on expanding NCHV’s strategic partnerships to more effectively end veteran homelessness. Kathryn has spent over a decade in the public and nonprofit sector working to address housing instability and homelessness among veterans. Full Bio Here