Categoría: Geovanny Vicente

U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce Calls on President Biden to sign Executive Order to ensure small business access to federal contracts by inclusion in «Category Management Best-In-Class» (BIC) contracts

WASHINGTON, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — To ensure women-owned firms receive their fair share of federal government contracts, today, the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce ( http://www.uswcc.org ) <a target="_blank"…

WASHINGTON, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — To ensure women-owned firms receive their fair share of federal government contracts, today, the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce ( http://www.uswcc.org ) calls on President Biden to sign a single Executive Order requiring small business suppliers are included in «Category Management Best-In-Class» (BIC) contracts.

The U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce and its members call on President Biden to sign a Presidential Executive Order to specifically:

  1. Recognize ALL Small Business spending as BIC Tier 3, regardless of the contract vehicle.
  2. Add a training requirement that all agency leadership and acquisition staff must receive training on the Category Management / BIC initiative that ensures small business inclusion.
  3. Require that new BIC vehicle awards be made in proportion to the population (i.e., proportion of large business vs. small business awards match the business population).

In 2017 through an executive order, the federal government implemented the federal acquisition process known as «Category Management» through «Best-In-Class» solutions, which introduced the concept of «Tiered» procurements. This new and unregulated process resulted in larger contracts going to fewer and larger firms thus limiting competition to a list of preferred vendors comprising only a small percentage of the total contractor market.

A November 2020 Report released by the GAO (GAO-21-40) on the impact of Category Management, found, «Of the tens of thousands of contracts eliminated by category management, 53% of them were small business contracts.»

«This anti-competitive contracting practice known as Category Management / Best-in-Class Contracts was quickly, and without thorough consideration and regulatory authority, inserted in front of the normal federal acquisition process – seemingly as a predicate to the existing Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and the requirements of the Small Business Act,» states Margot Dorfman, CEO of the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce.  «The lack of competition in this new, unregulated process drives up costs, and excludes small business thereby leaving out the vital  contributions small business suppliers bring including agility, innovation, service, etc. Further, the nuanced needs of federal agencies and regions are ignored, which leads to challenges and extra costs. Local economies suffer as small businesses are locked out of key business opportunities — which starts a downward spiral negatively impacting the industrial base and local economies.»

«Women-owned firms have been reporting for decades the difficulties they have accessing government contracts,» continues Dorfman.  «When small business suppliers depart from government contracting (either by choice or due to lack of opportunity), America suffers. Small businesses are the heartbeat of economic recovery. They are widely known to employ local talent, reinvest profits near to home to spur economic development, and bring growth and innovation to their communities.»

The U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce (USWCC) is the leading advocate for women on economic and leadership issues. As the economic leader for women, the USWCC creates opportunities, drives progress, advocates, and provides tools and solutions to support the economic growth of women across America. The USWCC ( http://www.uswcc.org/ ) is a not-for-profit 501(c)6 organization founded in 2001 with over 500,000 members; its headquarters offices are located in Washington, D.C. Contact the USWCC at (202) 607-2488.

Contact:  Charmagne Manning, charmagne@uswcc.org, (202) 607-2488.

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SOURCE U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce

Dionisio Gutiérrez joins Freedom House Board of Trustees

WASHINGTON, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ –The Guatemalan businessman, journalist and PhD in Sociology and Political Science, made history in recent days by becoming the first Latin American to serve on the Board of Trustees of Freedom House, the most important organization in the United States dedicated to the promotion of democracy around the world.

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WASHINGTON, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ –The Guatemalan businessman, journalist and PhD in Sociology and Political Science, made history in recent days by becoming the first Latin American to serve on the Board of Trustees of Freedom House, the most important organization in the United States dedicated to the promotion of democracy around the world.

In the words of the Board’s Chairman⎯and former Secretary of Homeland Security of the United States⎯, Michael Chertoff, Gutiérrez’s admission: «Will bring an important perspective to Freedom House. He will strengthen our understanding of democracy and freedom in Latin America and will assist as we work to empower citizens to exercise their rights and reject repression and promote our fundamental conviction that freedom flourishes in democratic countries where leaders must be held accountable for their behavior. We are honored that he has agreed to offer his talent and wisdom to Freedom House».

The Board Members, including Francis Fukuyama, Stanford Professor and writer, Anthony Lake, former NSA, and other world personalities, congratulated Gutiérrez and recognized his work in promoting democracy in the region.

Dionisio Gutiérrez’s civic career has been prolific. In its beginnings, towards the end of the eighties, he was president of Cámara de la Libre Empresa, and host and director of the successful television program Libre Encuentro, which was broadcasted uninterruptedly for 20 years with high audience levels throughout Central America. From these spaces he dedicated himself to promoting democratic dialogue between different sectors of his country and to denouncing abuses of power. Since 2006 he has presided Fundación Libertad y Desarrollo, in 2013 he hosted the television program Dimensión and in 2018 he premiered the television program Razón de Estado.

Freedom House is an organization based in Washington, D.C., and is constituted of prominent intellectuals around the world. It is dedicated to speak out against the main threats to democracy and empowers citizens to exercise their fundamental rights. Working as an independent watchdog organization dedicated to the expansion of freedom and democracy around the world, Freedom House is notable for its nonpartisan character and commitment to maintaining support for its mission among members of both major US political parties.

 

 

 

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SOURCE Freedom House

The Dolphin Company celebra 16 años de ser una Empresa Socialmente Responsable

CANCÚN, México, 2 de marzo de 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Dolphin Company, la operadora de parques más grande de América Latina y la empresa #1 de nado con delfines, anunció que fue reconocida por el Centro Mexicano para la Filantropía (Cemefi) con el Distintivo de Empresa Socialmente Responsable por cumplir 16 años consecutivos con todos los estándares establecidos en los ámbitos estratégicos de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial que se…

CANCÚN, México, 2 de marzo de 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The Dolphin Company, la operadora de parques más grande de América Latina y la empresa #1 de nado con delfines, anunció que fue reconocida por el Centro Mexicano para la Filantropía (Cemefi) con el Distintivo de Empresa Socialmente Responsable por cumplir 16 años consecutivos con todos los estándares establecidos en los ámbitos estratégicos de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial que se evalúan.

Cemefi es un organismo que promueve la participación filantrópica, comprometida y socialmente responsable de los ciudadanos, organizaciones sociales y empresas para alcanzar una sociedad más equitativa, solidaria y próspera. Cada año Cemefi reconoce a las empresas justas e incluyentes a través de un proceso de autodiagnóstico, agregan rentabilidad y valor a la marca, acreditando a la empresa ante sus grupos de interés como una organización comprometida públicamente con la responsabilidad social.

«Para The Dolphin Company, ser reconocida por Cemefi como Empresa Socialmente Responsable por 16 años consecutivos es el resultado del fuerte compromiso de los que formamos parte de la organización bajo el liderazgo de nuestro director el Mtro. Eduardo Albor. Nuestro diagnóstico está compuesto por más de 150 indicadores divididos en cinco secciones: Gestión de la Responsabilidad Social, Ética Empresarial, Calidad de Vida, Cuidado y Protección del Medio Ambiente y Vinculación con la comunidad. En The Dolphin Company y tenemos estrategias prioritarias enfocadas a nuestro talento, la comunidad en la que nos desarrollamos, las especies bajo nuestro cuidado y al medio ambiente. Así mismo participamos activamente en la creación e implemetación de buenas prácticas que enriquecen nuestros pilares. Agradecemos especialmente a nuestros asociados y asociadas que hacen que este distintivo sea posible cada año», comentó la Mtra. Guadalupe Jiménez, Directora de Valor Humano de The Dolphin Company.

Desde hace seis años, The Dolphin Company cuenta con la insignia ESR con el 1% de inversión social, esto quiere decir que destina este mismo porcentaje de sus utilidades antes de impuestos a acciones sociales. La empresa se caracteriza por realizar acciones en pro de grupos vulnerables de la sociedad, entre las que destacan sus eventos con causa, voluntariado, campañas de cuidado dirigidas a perros y gatos en situación de calle y cuidado del medio ambiente. The Dolphin Company refrenda su compromiso con sus grupos de interés mediante la implementación continua de prácticas sostenibles en lo económico, social y ambiental.  

Acerca de The Dolphin Company:

Por más de 26 años, The Dolphin Company ha contribuido al estudio y conservación de los mamíferos marinos, creando vínculos de amor y respeto a través de la mejor experiencia de interacción con estas especies. Millones de personas han visitado los 31 parques y hábitats que conforman actualmente el mundo de The Dolphin Company, en México, el Caribe, Estados Unidos de América, Argentina e Italia. Para más información visite www.thedolphinco.com

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FUENTE The Dolphin Company

Bipartisan Reintroduction of Background Checks Legislation Comes as U.S. Gun Violence Soars

NEWTOWN, Conn., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Today, H.R. 8, the Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2021, was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chairman Mike Thompson (D-CA), along with original cosponsors House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), and Representatives Fred Upton (R-MI), <span…

NEWTOWN, Conn., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Today, H.R. 8, the Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2021, was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chairman Mike Thompson (D-CA), along with original cosponsors House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), and Representatives Fred Upton (R-MI), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Christopher Smith (R-NJ), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Lucy McBath (D-GA) with strong support from Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT) and the entire Connecticut congressional delegation. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) is leading the legislation in the U.S. Senate, which was also reintroduced today with support from Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). 

Bipartisan Background Checks legislation comes eight years after Sandy Hook tragedy as U.S. gun violence soars.

This bill comes as gun violence and mass shootings continue to rise nationwide, along with record-breaking gun sales. Despite the pandemic, gun deaths have hit historic levels and more than 300,000 guns have been purchased without a background check. According to Quinnipiac research, at least 97 percent of U.S. adults support requiring background checks for all gun purchases.

If passed, the bill would expand the background check requirement for nearly every gun sale occurring in the U.S., including so-called «private sales» at gun shows and over the internet. Background checks have been proven to save lives and reduce levels of gun violence in states that have expanded background checks to all sales, protecting communities and retailers alike.

Sandy Hook Promise, a leading gun violence prevention organization whose co-founding families have been tirelessly advocating for the passage of expanded background checks since the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary in December 2012 where their loved ones were killed, released the following statement:

«While still grieving our children and loved ones in the aftermath of their murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School, we worked tirelessly to try to pass Universal Background Checks. We did this because this bill is a necessary first legislative step to ensuring that no more families experience the excruciating pain of losing a child to gun violence,» said Mark Barden, co-founder and managing director of Sandy Hook Promise, and father of Daniel who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy. «Eight years later, we again call on every member of Congress to do their part to protect our children from gun violence: vote to pass Universal Background Checks immediately. We cannot afford to wait any longer.»

«Background checks are simple, easy, and they save lives. That’s why more than 90 percent of Americans support our legislation to make sure no guns are sold in this country without a check,» said Sen. Chris Murphy. «Joe Biden and hundreds of congressional candidates from both parties ran on the issue of background checks. This is the year to get this bill passed into law. And this legislation has the chance to bring this country together – even 85% of gun owners believe in expanding background checks, and a growing anti-gun violence movement, made up of both Democrats and Republicans, is demanding change.  I look forward to working across the aisle to get background checks legislation across the finish line.»

«No check, no gun buy, should be the rule. Connecticut has already seen background checks save lives in our state, but guns don’t respect state borders. A powerful political movement has been mobilized – reflecting more than 90 percent of Americans who support expanding federal background checks,» said Sen. Richard Blumenthal. «Congress has the moral imperative to enact sensible reforms like Universal Background Checks to prevent more tragedies. We have no time to waste,» he continued. «I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the Biden Administration to swiftly pass such commonsense gun violence prevention measures. We must put an end to the American epidemic of gun violence.»

«Gun safety is an issue that is deeply personal for me,» said Rep. Jahana Hayes. «Universal background checks are supported by over 90% of Americans. This is not a partisan issue. This is a commonsense solution to a problem that affects every community across the country. I thank my colleague Congressman Mike Thompson for this leadership in the House and Senator Chris Murphy for his tireless work in the Senate. I would also like to thank the incredible advocates in my district and across the state of Connecticut who have made this day possible. I look forward to this vital legislation being considered on the floor of the House and Senate and being signed into law by President Biden.»

The Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund has helped pass more than a dozen bipartisan laws to strengthen background checks and create Extreme Risk Protection Orders. The organization led the work to pass the bipartisan STOP School Violence Act of 2018 (H.R. 4909/S. 2495) that is already helping to train millions of students and adults to «know the signs» of gun violence and how to act to prevent it, stopping potential tragedies across the country.

About the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund
Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization committed to protecting all children from gun violence in schools, homes, and communities. The SHP Action Fund champions a holistic policy platform that promotes gun safety, youth mental health, and violence prevention education. The organization works at the state and federal level to pass nonpartisan legislation through inclusive partnerships, diverse grassroots education, and community mobilization. It is part of Sandy Hook Promise, founded and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012. 

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SOURCE Sandy Hook Promise

Georgia Power set to enable electric vehicle fast charging access across major travel corridor

ATLANTA, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — With an increase of electric vehicles (EVs) on Georgia roads every day, Georgia Power is committed to assisting customers with access to efficient and reliable charging options. Southern Company, the utility’s corporate parent, today announced plans to join other utilities across the South, Midwest, Gulf Coast, Central Plains and mid-Atlantic to enable EV drivers’ seamless travel through a coordinated network of Direct Current (DC) Fast Chargers.

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ATLANTA, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — With an increase of electric vehicles (EVs) on Georgia roads every day, Georgia Power is committed to assisting customers with access to efficient and reliable charging options. Southern Company, the utility’s corporate parent, today announced plans to join other utilities across the South, Midwest, Gulf Coast, Central Plains and mid-Atlantic to enable EV drivers’ seamless travel through a coordinated network of Direct Current (DC) Fast Chargers.

This effort, called the «Electric Highway Coalition,» represents an unprecedented level of coordination to increase charging options along major highway routes from Texas to Washington, D.C., and provide easier access to environmentally friendly vehicle options for drivers.

«As the sixth largest market nationally for EV fast charging, Georgia Power is committed to continuing growth of EV infrastructure across the state and providing increased access to customers looking to drive electric,» said Nicole Faulk, senior vice president for customer and corporate services. «As Southern Company’s largest subsidiary, our commitment plays a significant role in the increasing growth of electric vehicle adoption, and the connection of communities across Georgia and the country.»

Working with the Georgia Public Service Commission, the company has installed 49 DC fast chargers in locations statewide and is investing $6 million over three years in fast-charging infrastructure across Georgia. The installation represents the newest technology in EV fast chargers, offering charging speeds up to 125kW – adding 100 miles in 12 minutes – dual dispensers and power sharing capabilities to maximize the number of ports that can be deployed and still receive an optimal charge.

Additionally, the company has partnered with Cox Automotive Mobility to complete one of the largest EV charging single property installations in the southeast at the Pivet Atlanta facility near Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Georgia Power also supports 24 charging stall stations through Electrify America, Tesla and the EVgo Fast Charging Network. These investments further enable electric vehicle adoption and the connection of communities across the country.

Last year, Georgia Power announced it will electrify portions of its vehicle fleet as part of Southern Company’s plans to convert 50 percent of its system fleet vehicles across the auto/SUV/minivan, forklift and ATV/cart/miscellaneous segments by 2030. The internal fleet goal is part of a larger focus on electrification of the transportation industry and the company’s commitment to expanding zero-emission electric vehicles and clean transportation options.

Now offered by most major manufacturers, EVs continue to advance in range, performance and features. In addition, EVs benefit the environment with zero direct emissions, specifically improving air quality in urban areas, have a lower cost of ownership than petroleum vehicles and, with their domestic energy source, promote local jobs.

EV Resources for Customers
In addition to developing public charging infrastructure, the company is committed to explaining the benefits of EV ownership and making the decision to switch easier than ever by providing customers with the resources they need to learn more about the benefits and potential savings of driving electric. By visiting www.GeorgiaPower.com/EV, customers have access to information on:

  • buying an electric vehicle,
  • understanding electric vehicle options,
  • charging an electric vehicle,
  • charging locations,
  • electric transportation news, and
  • frequently asked questions.

Georgia Power also offers EV charger rebates for business and residential customers, an online calculator to help customers find out how much driving electric may save them and a special rate for EV customers. The company’s Plug-in Electric Vehicle rate offers lower prices from 11 p.m. – 7 a.m. to encourage nighttime EV charging.

About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

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SOURCE Georgia Power

Blake Willson Group Wins $25M USDA Rural Development BPA Prime Contract

ARLINGTON, Va., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Blake Willson Group is proud to announce our recently awarded $25M Blank Purchase Agreement (BPA) prime contract with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development (USDA-RD). USDA-RD’s mission is to help improve the economy and quality of life in rural America through loans, grants and loan guarantees to support rural housing, small business, economic development, etc. USDA-RD also supports and guarantees loans…

ARLINGTON, Va., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Blake Willson Group is proud to announce our recently awarded $25M Blank Purchase Agreement (BPA) prime contract with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development (USDA-RD). USDA-RD’s mission is to help improve the economy and quality of life in rural America through loans, grants and loan guarantees to support rural housing, small business, economic development, etc. USDA-RD also supports and guarantees loans to businesses through banks, credit unions and community-managed lending pools and provides technical assistance to help communities develop community empowerment programs.

This opportunity combines Blake Willson Group with Summit Consulting, a specialized analytics advisory firm that is an industry leader supporting federal agencies, financial institutions, and litigators as well as CohnReznick, one of our nation’s top accounting and advisory firms supporting federal, state, and local government agencies.

We are excited to bring together a dynamic team with complementary skill sets and backgrounds to support USDA-RD’s critical mission during one of our nation’s most difficult times.

R.J. Blake, Founder & CEO at Blake Willson Group said, «We are honored to have been awarded this contract and look forward to supporting USDA-RD’s mission in helping improve the economy and quality of life of rural Americans. This one is near and dear to our hearts.»

Drew Griffin, Sr. Vice President further stated, «This is a huge win for Blake Willson Group as it deepens our valued relationship with USDA where we’ve supported as prime under the OCFO since 2019 and brings us into new types of work serving as a testament to all the hard work, dedication, and professionalism shown by our entire team. A big component of winning this work was having strong past performance, only possible through the day-to-day impact every team member makes with our customers that leaves a positive reputation for us as a whole.»

About Blake Willson Group

Blake Willson Group is a licensed CPA firm with a skilled team of dynamic individuals dedicated to providing timely, cost-effective, and forward-thinking solutions to clients. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, BWG serves the Washington, D.C. metro area and beyond. The firm holds Department of VA-certified (CVE) Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) status, is an SBA 8(a) program participant, and is ISO 9001:2015 certified.

Follow Blake Willson Group on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook

Blake Willson Group Media Contact: Marilyn Dyess | HR & Operations Manager | mdyess@blakewillsongroup.com

For more information on Summit Consulting, visit http://www.summitllc.us

For more information on CohnReznick, visit http://www.cohnreznick.com

Media Contact

Marilyn Dyess, Blake Willson Group, +1 571-397-2234, mdyess@blakewillsongroup.com

 

SOURCE Blake Willson Group

Woolpert’s Danielle Meggyesy Promoted to Project Manager in Energy Market

COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Woolpert’s Danielle Meggyesy, PE, has been promoted to project manager in the firm’s energy market. The experienced phase manager and geo-environmental engineer has been with Woolpert since late 2019 and works out of the firm’s Columbus…

COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Woolpert’s Danielle Meggyesy, PE, has been promoted to project manager in the firm’s energy market. The experienced phase manager and geo-environmental engineer has been with Woolpert since late 2019 and works out of the firm’s Columbus office.

Meggyesy has planned and executed civil and environmental engineering projects for both the public and private sectors. She oversaw the planning, construction and testing of the first carbon capture-to-injection well in North America and has worked on projects that supported underground electric transmission, oil and gas initiatives, and agricultural and residential civil construction. Meggyesy said her goal at Woolpert is to build a niche service that focuses on integrating new technologies to support clients’ emerging energy needs.

«I have a strong background in research and development, and I’m a generalist—I’ve worked with a wide variety of public and private clients on various projects,» Meggyesy said. «I’ve been in power plants and on drill rigs, pipelines and civil construction sites. That kind of hands-on experience gives clients an understandable level of comfort. Also, my experience in being on the other side of the contract makes it easier to put myself in the clients’ shoes and to understand what needs to be done to make their jobs easier.»

Woolpert Senior Vice President and Energy Market Director Mike Battles said Meggyesy has developed a diverse skill set that enables her to design and manage a full range of project tasks and logistics, while providing appropriate budgetary oversight. He said her proven track record of managing multidisciplinary teams within emerging energy industry settings has prepared her well.

«We encourage our staff to identify and implement solutions, leveraging our many engineering and geospatial disciplines to achieve what each client needs,» Battles said. «There’s a demand for innovative solutions in the energy market, and Danielle is exceptional at seeing the bigger picture and analyzing opportunities to find the optimal solution our clients desire. We’re excited to see her in this new role.»

About Woolpert
Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG) and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is an ENR Top 150 Global Design Firm, recently earned its fifth-straight Great Place to Work certification and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity and respect. Founded in 1911, Woolpert has been America’s fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. The firm has over 1,100 employees and 42 offices in three countries. For more, visit woolpert.com.

Media Contact

Jill Kelley, Woolpert, 937-531-1258, jill.kelley@woolpert.com

 

SOURCE Woolpert

The Chertoff Group Adds Two Industry Experts to its Growing Team of Senior Advisors

WASHINGTON, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Chertoff Group, a global security advisory firm that enables clients to navigate changes in security risk, technology and policy, today announced the appointment of Ambassador Krishna Urs and John Felker to its growing team of Senior Advisors. Their combined experience in the government and private sectors will expand The Chertoff Group’s proficiency in the areas of international diplomacy, foreign policy and…

WASHINGTON, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Chertoff Group, a global security advisory firm that enables clients to navigate changes in security risk, technology and policy, today announced the appointment of Ambassador Krishna Urs and John Felker to its growing team of Senior Advisors. Their combined experience in the government and private sectors will expand The Chertoff Group’s proficiency in the areas of international diplomacy, foreign policy and cybersecurity.

Ambassador Urs is a 34-year veteran of the Foreign Service having retired in September 2020. Most recently he served as the United States Ambassador to Peru from 2017 to 2020. In addition, he also served as Deputy Chief of Mission at U.S. Embassies in Spain, Bolivia, and the Dominican Republic. Urs also spent a portion of his career in Washington at the Department of State where he served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Transportation Affairs and Chief Government Aviation Negotiator and as Director of the Office of Economic Policy and Summit Coordination in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs.

John Felker spent his career working with senior leaders to understand the larger cybersecurity picture as well as the risk and business impact of cyber threats. He is currently the President of Morse Alpha Associates, Inc., a cyber leadership consultancy. Previously he served as Assistant Director for Integrated Operations at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within the Department of Homeland Security where he focused on integrated operations across the Agency that extended to Regional CISA elements, intelligence, operational planning and mission execution with emphasis on risk mitigation and response efforts. Felker also previously worked as Director of Cyber and Intelligence Strategy for HP Enterprise Services and spent 30 years with the United States Coast Guard where he held the position of Deputy Commander, Coast Guard Cyber Command.

To learn more about The Chertoff Group, visit https://www.chertoffgroup.com/

About The Chertoff Group
The Chertoff Group is a global advisory services firm focused on security and risk management. The firm applies security expertise, technology insights, and policy intelligence to help clients build resilient organizations, gain competitive advantage, and accelerate growth. Through the firm’s Strategic Advisory Services Practice Area, The Chertoff Group offers comprehensive security assessments, risk management strategies, policy and planning frameworks, and ongoing monitoring services to help clients anticipate, prepare for and build capabilities necessary to navigate today’s complex threat environment. For more information about The Chertoff Group, visit http://www.chertoffgroup.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Media Contact

Meagan Hawkins, The Chertoff Group, +1 2028343810, meagan.hawkins@chertoffgroup.com

 

SOURCE The Chertoff Group

Direct Relief Establishes «Fund for Health Equity» with Initial $75 Million

Founding Partner AbbVie Foundation and Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott provide Anchoring Investments

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Direct Relief today announced the formation of its Fund for Health Equity with $75 million raised against a goal of $150 million. The Fund will be steered by an Advisory Council with deep connections and experience in communities in which the effects…

Founding Partner AbbVie Foundation and Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott provide Anchoring Investments

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Direct Relief today announced the formation of its Fund for Health Equity with $75 million raised against a goal of $150 million. The Fund will be steered by an Advisory Council with deep connections and experience in communities in which the effects of historic racism and socioeconomic disparities persist. The members are:

  • Co-Chair Regina Benjamin, MD, MBA, 18th U.S. Surgeon General of the United States, Founder BayouClinic, Inc.
  • Co-Chair Byron Scott, MD, MBA, Board Director of Direct Relief and Chair of its Medical Advisory Council
  • Martha Dawson, DNP, MSN, RN, FACHE, President and CEO President of the National Black Nurses Association, Associate Professor the University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Jane Delgado, PhD, MS, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health
  • Gail Small, JD, Head Chief Woman, a citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe

A key aim of the Fund over the initial five-year period is to provide financial support to community health centers and free & charitable clinics, as well as other community-based organizations and educational institutions that focus on non-clinical matters and circumstances that strongly affect a person’s health – physical environment and social, political, cultural, and economic factors – commonly known as the social determinants of health. The Fund will invite applications at a later date.

Initial anchoring support for the Fund has been provided by long-term partner AbbVie, which announced in December its contribution as part as part of its larger social investment, and by philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This month the NBA also announced its support as part of NBA All-Star 2021, and the Fund welcomes others to join the efforts.

Direct Relief provides extensive, ongoing charitable support to over 2,000 such organizations across the U.S. with donations of essential medications for patients without insurance or means to pay, and also during emergencies. This experience has highlighted the lack of complementary philanthropic financial support in amounts and with flexibility that would enable groups with proven effectiveness and the earned trust of communities to build upon successful programs or try promising new ones – opportunities that the Fund will seek to fulfill.

«Direct Relief is profoundly grateful for the extraordinarily generous financial resources already provided to the Fund for Health Equity and for the guidance offered by distinguished members of the Advisory Council who have devoted their lives to promoting health equity,» said Direct Relief’s CEO Thomas Tighe. «This effort will in no way detract from the immediate, necessary work that remains to be done as the Covid pandemic rages, but it will help shape for the better what exists when we emerge from the pandemic by providing support to those who know best what can make a difference.»

About Direct Relief: A humanitarian organization committed to improving the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies, Direct Relief delivers lifesaving medical resources throughout the world to communities in need—without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay. Over the past year, Direct Relief’s stepped-up efforts in the U.S. have provided $350 million in assistance – $50 million in emergency financial assistance and $300 million in material aid in the form of PPE, medications, and essential supplies such as oxygen concentrators – to 2,841 organizations serving communities hit hardest by the pandemic. Those efforts remain ongoing. For more information, please visit https://www.DirectRelief.org.

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SOURCE Direct Relief

Direct Relief Establishes «Fund for Health Equity» with Initial $75 Million

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Direct Relief today announced the formation of its Fund for Health Equity with $75 million raised against a goal of $150 million. The Fund will be steered by an Advisory Council with deep connections and experience in communities in which the effects of historic racism and socioeconomic disparities persist. The members are:

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SANTA BARBARA, Calif., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Direct Relief today announced the formation of its Fund for Health Equity with $75 million raised against a goal of $150 million. The Fund will be steered by an Advisory Council with deep connections and experience in communities in which the effects of historic racism and socioeconomic disparities persist. The members are:

  • Co-Chair Regina Benjamin, MD, MBA, 18th U.S. Surgeon General of the United States, Founder BayouClinic, Inc.
  • Co-Chair Byron Scott, MD, MBA, Board Director of Direct Relief and Chair of its Medical Advisory Council
  • Martha Dawson, DNP, MSN, RN, FACHE, President and CEO President of the National Black Nurses Association, Associate Professor the University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Jane Delgado, PhD, MS, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health
  • Gail Small, JD, Head Chief Woman, a citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe

A key aim of the Fund over the initial five-year period is to provide financial support to community health centers and free & charitable clinics, as well as other community-based organizations and educational institutions that focus on non-clinical matters and circumstances that strongly affect a person’s health – physical environment and social, political, cultural, and economic factors – commonly known as the social determinants of health. The Fund will invite applications at a later date.

Initial anchoring support for the Fund has been provided by long-term partner AbbVie, which announced in December its contribution as part as part of its larger social investment, and by philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This month the NBA also announced its support as part of NBA All-Star 2021, and the Fund welcomes others to join the efforts.

Direct Relief provides extensive, ongoing charitable support to over 2,000 such organizations across the U.S. with donations of essential medications for patients without insurance or means to pay, and also during emergencies. This experience has highlighted the lack of complementary philanthropic financial support in amounts and with flexibility that would enable groups with proven effectiveness and the earned trust of communities to build upon successful programs or try promising new ones – opportunities that the Fund will seek to fulfill.

«Direct Relief is profoundly grateful for the extraordinarily generous financial resources already provided to the Fund for Health Equity and for the guidance offered by distinguished members of the Advisory Council who have devoted their lives to promoting health equity,» said Direct Relief’s CEO Thomas Tighe. «This effort will in no way detract from the immediate, necessary work that remains to be done as the Covid pandemic rages, but it will help shape for the better what exists when we emerge from the pandemic by providing support to those who know best what can make a difference.»

About Direct Relief: A humanitarian organization committed to improving the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies, Direct Relief delivers lifesaving medical resources throughout the world to communities in need—without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay. Over the past year, Direct Relief’s stepped-up efforts in the U.S. have provided $350 million in assistance – $50 million in emergency financial assistance and $300 million in material aid in the form of PPE, medications, and essential supplies such as oxygen concentrators – to 2,841 organizations serving communities hit hardest by the pandemic. Those efforts remain ongoing. For more information, please visit https://www.DirectRelief.org.

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SOURCE Direct Relief