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WENDY LANG, SENIOR ADVISOR FOR POLICY AND RESEARCH

WENDY LANG, SENIOR ADVISOR FOR POLICY AND RESEARCH

Wendy Lang is the Senior Advisor for Policy and Research at Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. In this role, she provides strategic guidance on research-driven solutions and policy initiatives that inform and strengthen our national programs. Her work ensures that our efforts are grounded in data, aligned with evolving veteran needs, and positioned to influence systems that impact veterans and their families.

Since joining Dixon Center, she has applied her expertise in education policy, veteran support services, and cross-sector collaboration to expand access and opportunity for those who have served. She is a nationally recognized leader in veteran and military family policy, known for building innovative programs and advancing practical solutions that empower veterans to thrive in their communities.

Wendy’s career began in the New Jersey state government, where she held key leadership roles in research and policy development for K-12 and higher education. She served as Senator John H. Ewing’s Chief of Staff. She was later appointed to lead the Senate Education Committee and subsequently appointed as Governor Christie Todd Whitman’s Education Policy Advisor.

Since founding OCP in 2008, she has managed all programming, staff, research, public relations, and strategic partnership development. She designed one of the first websites to serve Post-9/11 veterans, authored the nation’s first comprehensive guide for veterans’ service providers (The OCP Field Guide), and designed the Certificate for Veterans’ Service Providers (CVSP) training. In 2011 and 2013, Wendy published landmark research, “Completing the Mission I and II,” on the progress of student veterans toward degree attainment. In 2021, in partnership with the Texas A&M University System, she published a third “Completing the Mission” report on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education and student veterans.

From 2020 to 2024, Wendy led the Bush Institutes’ Higher Education and Employment Task Forces, focusing on contemporary initiatives to optimize the postsecondary success of student veterans and reduce barriers to employment in high-demand fields.

Wendy regularly presents at national conferences as a subject matter expert in best practices to support the military-connected student population. Her work with OCP has been highlighted in The New York Times, USA Today, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Chronicle on Higher Education, Military Times, NBC, NPR, and CNN, among others. She received her BA in Political Science and MA in International Relations from Drew University, where she co-founded the John H. Ewing Center for Public Policy.

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TATUM CAUSEY, DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Team Members

As Development Specialist, Tatum Causey assists the development team with donor management, donor engagement and assists Dixon Center in our overall fundraising strategy and execution. 
 
Most recently, Tatum worked for Community Renewal Society as a Donor Relations Associate. Prior to that position, she served as a Program Director for the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs in Chicago.
 
Tatum proudly attended college at Iowa State University and graduated with a BS in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University. 
 
Tatum has a strong passion for providing resources, support and care for those that need it the most. She enjoys watching sports, spending time with family and friends and enjoying the beautiful lakes in Michigan.
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COLONEL DUNCAN S. MILNE
U.S. MARINE CORPS (RET.), PRESIDENT

COLONEL DUNCAN S. MILNE
U.S. MARINE CORPS (RET.), PRESIDENT

Retired Marine Colonel Duncan S. Milne is the President of Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. In his role as President, he oversees the day-to-day operations of the entire Dixon Center enterprise, business development, and represents the center in its interactions with the Fedcap Group and its associated companies and subsidiaries.

Colonel Milne is an experienced leader with 25 years of active-duty combat and non-combat experience in the United States Marine Corps. While on active duty, he primarily served as an AH-1W attack helicopter pilot.  Colonel Milne has served at the highest levels of our military and government, including in the Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Colonel Milne’s career after active duty has been dedicated in service to those who have had the honor and courage to wear our nation’s military uniform, and he brought his knowledge on interagency coordination and executive-level private sector interaction to the Center in 2015.

Colonel Milne is the recipient of numerous combat, operational, and support awards. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a Master of Military Operational Art and Science from the Air War College, and a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College.

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LATRESE DIXON,
BLUE AND GOLD STAR FAMILY PARTNER

LATRESE DIXON,
BLUE AND GOLD STAR FAMILY PARTNER

Latrese Dixon, a Blue Star mother and Gold Star wife, represents these designations as part of the Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services.

After marrying Staff Sergeant Donnie D. Dixon in 1994, she proudly lived the life of a military spouse, understanding the challenges, solutions, and joys of being a Blue Star family. Since Sgt. Dixon’s death during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007, she added to that knowledge the challenges of being a Gold Star wife and mother.

Latrese assists Dixon Center with program and solution development as well as insights and expertise on the practical needs of Blue and Gold Star families. Additionally, she serves as an inspirational speaker on overcoming challenges.

In addition to her work with Dixon Center, Latrese volunteers in the Memphis community, at her children’s schools, and serves as a mentor for at-risk youths. She self-published From Tragedy to Triumph: The Life of a Widow in 2017.

Latrese holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and a master’s in Human Behavior/Psychology from Capella University. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Capella University for Advanced Studies of Human Behavior/Psychology.

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COLONEL SAM WHITEHURST, U.S. ARMY (RET.),
VICE PRESIDENT, PROGRAMS & SERVICES

COLONEL SAM WHITEHURST, U.S. ARMY (RET.),
VICE PRESIDENT, PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Retired Army Colonel Sam Whitehurst is the Vice President of Programs & Services at Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. In this role, he leads the design, coordination, and execution of our programs and projects that are transforming how organizations deliver support to veterans and their families. He works closely with our partners across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, ensuring our mission is reflected in every initiative and community we serve.

Since joining Dixon Center following his military career, Sam has leveraged his experience in strategic planning, leadership development, and change management to expand our impact nationwide. He is a trusted voice in veteran advocacy and a driving force behind innovative solutions that empower veterans and their families to thrive in the communities they call home.

Colonel Whitehurst has served as an infantry officer for 29 years in various command and staff positions both within the U.S. and overseas. His command experience culminated with brigade command in the 10th Mountain Division, and his most recent staff experience was as the 18th Airborne Corps Chief of Staff. His deployments include Bosnia-Herzegovina and multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Prior to joining Dixon Center, he served as Director of the Army’s Soldier for Life Program.

Colonel Whitehurst graduated from the University of North Carolina with a bachelor’s degree. His advanced degrees consist of a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the National War College, a Master of Science in Military Art and Science from the School of Advanced Military Studies, and a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies from Louisiana State University.

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EILEEN GREENLAY, DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT

EILEEN GREENLAY, DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT

Eileen Greenlay is the Director of Development for Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. Her primary responsibility is to collaborate with leadership to establish, implement and maintain the infrastructure required to sustain and grow Dixon Center’s financial resources.  Her focus is to build on current and forge new private and family foundation relationships, corporate partnerships and government contracts. She also oversees all development operations. 
 
In addition to her experience in fundraising, development and volunteering for several local New Jersey non-profits, she brings her expertise in business development, account management, and the execution of many successful marketing programs, corporate sponsorships, and corporate communication programs for large corporations and Fortune 500 companies.
 
Eileen received a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of Scranton.
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SARA HEIDENHEIMER,
PROGRAM & ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER

SARA HEIDENHEIMER,
PROGRAM & ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER

Sara Heidenheimer is the Program & Administrative Manager for Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services.

In her current position, Sara handles business administration and social media for Dixon Center, and assists with marketing and special events. Additionally, Sara lends her expertise as a Blue Star family member and Navy spouse to Dixon Center’s many programs and projects.

Prior to Dixon Center, Sara served as the newsletter editor and community services coordinator at Lincoln Military Housing (Now Liberty Military Housing) in San Diego as well as the administrative assistant and program coordinator at the San Diego Armed Services YMCA. In these positions, she facilitated activities to enrich the lives of those in the San Diego military community. Currently, Sara volunteers with several different military- and community-facing organizations.

Sara received her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas.

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ELIZABETH MURRAY-BELCASTER,
SENIOR ADVISOR FOR NATIONAL WORKFORCE POLICY & STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENT

ELIZABETH MURRAY-BELCASTER,
SENIOR ADVISOR FOR NATIONAL WORKFORCE POLICY & STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENT

Elizabeth Murray-Belcaster is the Senior Advisor for National Workforce Policy and Strategic Engagement at Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. In this role, she guides the Center’s efforts to influence workforce systems at the federal, state, and local levels, while advancing strategic partnerships that connect transitioning service members and veterans with sustainable career opportunities. Her expertise helps shape policy and programmatic solutions that reflect the real-world needs of military-connected individuals and the organizations that support them.

Since joining Dixon Center, she has leveraged her decades of experience in national workforce strategy, public-private partnerships, and military transition to expand opportunities for veterans and their families. She is a recognized leader in developing large-scale, systemic solutions that drive employment outcomes and strengthen communities by integrating the unique talents of those who have served.

Prior to her work with Dixon Center, Elizabeth served as special assistant to the Teamsters National Military Assistance Helmets to Hardhats program. She co-founded the Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA), Utility Workers Military Assistance Program (UMAP), responsible for placement of 700 military veterans in this transition program for gas and electric sector jobs. She also founded Heroes to Healthcare (H2HC), an employment program for veterans seeking careers in the healthcare profession. She is currently the Executive Director of Task Force Movement, a coalition of organizations and individuals creating opportunities in the transportation, cybersecurity, and healthcare sectors for veterans and their families.

Sought after for her specialized expertise, Elizabeth sits on the American Legion National Licensing and Credentialing Board and has spoken in front of audiences including the Clinton Global Initiative, the White House Joining Forces efforts, and Soldier for Life.

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RICHARD PASSARELLI, SENIOR ADVISOR FOR VETERAN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Team Members

Richard Passarelli is the Senior Advisor for Veteran Workforce Development and Integration at Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. In this role, he provides expert guidance on expanding employment pathways for veterans through partnerships with unions, employers, and training institutions. His work directly supports Dixon Center’s mission to connect veterans with meaningful careers that offer stability, purpose, and long-term success.

Since joining Dixon Center, following his service in the U.S. Navy and decades of leadership in the labor movement, he has developed and implemented nationally recognized workforce development programs. He is a respected voice in veteran employment and workforce integration, known for creating innovative, scalable solutions that help veterans transition successfully to civilian careers in communities across the country.

Rick enlisted in the United States Navy in 1982, where he was deployed for two tours of active duty, 1982-1985, and two-years active reserve duty, 1985-87. His deployments included serving in support of combat operations in Beirut Lebanon, and in the Western Pacific. During his service, Rick was awarded the Humanitarian Service Medal, Navy Battle “E” Ribbon, and the Navy Sea Service Deployment ribbon with silver star, 2nd award. Rick was also awarded a certificate of recognition from the Secretary of Defense for promoting peace and stability for this nation.

After military service, Rick started his career with Peoples Gas where he became a distribution laborer and Senior Pipe Fitter. Rick retired from Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) Local 18007 with 32 years as Business Manager, National Executive Board member, and six years as the UWUA National Director of Veterans Affairs and Workforce Development.

During Ricks tenure at Peoples Gas and the UWUA, he founded the Utility Workers Military Assistance Program (UMAP) in 2011 in partnership with Peoples Gas Executive Team. This workforce development program has served and graduated over 1000 veterans across the United States and is proudly installed in three of the nation’s largest utility providers in Illinois, Michigan, and California.

Throughout his career, Rick has been recognized for his commitment and expertise in serving veterans and his families. His numerous civic awards include Dixon Center’s Michael “Mick” Yauger Point Man Award, Helmets to Hardhats Veterans in Excellence Award, and the American Legion Workforce Development Award.

Rick is a graduate of the Labor Resident Arbitration and Advocacy Academy, as well as Cornell University’s prestigious NLLI program. Rick is a retired committee member for Veterans in Energy, the Committee for Veterans in Workforce Innovation, and is chair of the Workforce Development Subcommittee for the AFL-CIO’s Union Veterans Council.

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ANTHONY PAOLINO, SENIOR ADVISOR FOR STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND INNOVATION

ANTHONY PAOLINO, SENIOR ADVISOR FOR STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND INNOVATION

Anthony Paolino is the Senior Advisor for Strategic Partnerships and Innovation at  Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. In this role, he leads the implementation of national initiatives and provides operational support that enhances the effectiveness and reach of our programs. He works closely with our partners and internal teams to align strategy with execution, ensuring that our efforts directly improve the lives of veterans and their families.

A U.S. Air Force veteran, Anthony is focused on strengthening community-based organizations and advancing collaborative solutions that support veterans where they live. He is a trusted leader with deep experience in nonprofit operations, public policy, and veteran advocacy, and is known for his ability to turn vision into results that make a lasting impact.

Anthony is founder of the Rhode Island Student Veterans Organization and the Rhode Island Military Organization (RIMO), where he led efforts to support veterans and their families, including the creation of community spaces in Warwick, RI, and the Military Lounge at T.F. Green Airport.

He continued his service as Military & Veterans Affairs Liaison for U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse before joining General Dynamics. There, he led Military & Veterans Affairs at Electric Boat and later oversaw communications and strategic outreach at the company’s NASSCO division.

Since 2021, Anthony has held senior roles including Chief Strategy Officer at Virtual Veterans Communities, Associate Dean of Students at Golden Gate University, and COO at Student Veterans of America. He also leads Absolute Potential, a firm committed to helping businesses and individuals unlock their full potential through coaching and consulting. He remains deeply committed to higher education and the veteran community, serving as an adjunct professor and nonprofit board member.

Anthony holds a B.A. from Providence College, a graduate certificate from George Washington University, and an MPA from Brown University.