NVC is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Distinguished Service Awards (DSA), a signature program that shines a spotlight on veteran leaders and mission-driven organizations across the Greater Washington region.
These awards are a rallying point for the business community to uplift service, leadership, and collaboration. DSA celebrates those who continue to lead with purpose after military service, catalyzing innovation in sectors ranging from defense to healthcare to workforce development.
The winners will be announced during the Distinguished Service Awards on September 18, 2025, from 8:30 to 10:30 am at the Army Navy Country Club.
Spotlighting Leadership That Moves the Needle
This year’s keynote speaker is Jared Shepard, CEO of Hypori. Jared is an Army veteran, entrepreneur, relentless innovator in national security technology, and the founder of both Intelligent Waves and Warriors Ethos. Jared bridges frontline leadership with real-world impact, empowering fellow veterans in their transition to civilian life while pushing the boundaries of defense innovation.
We’re also honored to present the Lifetime Distinguished Service Award to Danielle Applegate, Vice President of Veterans Affairs at CGI Federal. A decorated Army veteran and national leader in federal health IT modernization, Danielle has made it her mission to improve outcomes for veterans through both policy and personal advocacy.
The Veteran Advocate of the Year Award will be presented to Dr. Stacey Dessecker, Director of Workforce Development at Inova Health. As a military spouse and educator, Dr. Dessecker has built powerful, inclusive pathways for veterans and their families to thrive in healthcare careers across Northern Virginia.
In addition, we’re recognizing standout Veteran Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for creating transformative spaces within their organizations:
- Inova Health’s We Who Serve Team Member Resource Group
- Riverside Research’s Veterans Employee Resource Group
These ERGs exemplify how internal culture can drive retention, morale, and leadership growth among veteran employees.
Meet the 2025 Distinguished Service Awards Finalists
(NVC members are bolded)
Employee of the Year Finalists
- Joseph Anderson – Rafael Systems Global Sustainment (RSGS)
- Cedric George – MetroStar
- Andy Gill – MetroStar
- Stephanie Holman – MetroStar
- Larry Johnson – Riverside Research
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year – Emerging (<5 years)
- Hypori
- Not A Very Good Teacher
- ZeroMils
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year – Maturing (5–10 years)
- • Meridian Systematics
• Sherpa 6
• ThinkTek
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year – Established (10+ years)
- Intelligent Waves
- IronArch Technology
- Kentro
- KIHOMAC
Veteran Service Organization of the Year – <$1M Annual Budget
- George Washington Chapter Association of the United States Army
- VETSports
- Warriors Ethos
- Women Veterans Interactive Foundation
Veteran Service Organization of the Year – >$1M Annual Budget
- Easterseals DC MD VA
- Hope For The Warriors
- Luke’s Wings
- The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program
This year’s finalists embody the best of what Northern Virginia stands for: service, innovation, and commitment. We look forward to celebrating them with you next month!
Learn more about event sponsorship and registration here.
