Retired Army Colonel David W. Sutherland is the Chairman of Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, where he brings innovative approaches to leverage community-based support to deliver profound results for veterans.
Colonel Sutherland culminated his 29 years of service as the Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff with principle focus on Warrior and Family Support. In that position, he created a support network providing grassroots solutions for veterans and military families. Prior to that, he served as Combat Brigade Command during Surge Operations in Iraq in 2007-2008.
Colonel Sutherland has been decorated numerous times during his career and proudly wears the Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, Purple Heart, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge Second Award, and Senior Parachutist Badge. He is also the 2008 Freedom Award recipient presented by the No Greater Sacrifice Foundation; the 2011 Meritorious Service Award recipient presented by the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans; the 2013 Commitment to Service Award presented by Give an Hour for his work on behalf of returning service members, veterans, military families and families of the fallen; and the 2019 Vigiano Family Hope & Courage Award presented by Hope for the Warriors. Colonel Sutherland also holds the title of Honorary Colonel of the 12th Infantry Regiment.
Colonel Sutherland actively contributes to numerous national veteran and military family committees and boards. In addition to his leadership of Dixon Center, he is a trusted advisor to many former senior military leaders including former Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Combatant Commanders, and current and former public and private sector leaders and executives.
He speaks in communities at universities, businesses and conferences around the country as a vocal advocate and leader for transformational change for our service members, military veterans, their families, and the families of our fallen.
Colonel Sutherland received his bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and his Master’s in Strategic Studies from the United States Army Command and General Staff College.
