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Carlene Blanding has always believed in the power of service, leadership, and community. Growing up in Bridgeport, Connecticut, she developed a love for science and a drive to make a difference — passions that led her to McNeese State University, where she earned her Biology degree and was recognized as a Distinguished Military Graduate. That moment launched her into a remarkable career as an officer in the United States Army Medical Service Corps.

Throughout her decades of service, Carlene built a reputation for excellence, integrity, and compassionate leadership. She earned the Army Surgeon General’s prestigious “9A” Proficiency Designation for Professional Excellence and was honored by her alma mater as both the 2023 McNeese State University Black Alumni Trailblazer and the 2023 McNeese State University Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. Her career culminated in commanding the Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center at Fort Gordon, Georgia — a testament to her strategic vision and unwavering commitment to those she led.

Carlene’s dedication to learning is reflected in her academic achievements as well. She holds advanced degrees from Central Michigan University, the University of Georgia, and the U.S. Army War College — each one reflecting her commitment to growing as a leader and helping others do the same.

Today, Carlene brings that same passion to her role as Vice President of Talent Strategy and Culture Enablement at Shaw Industries Group, a Fortune 500 flooring solutions company headquartered in Dalton, Georgia. Her work centers on creating environments where people feel supported, inspired, and empowered to thrive.

Outside of her professional life, Carlene is deeply involved in service and community leadership. She volunteers with organizations across the military and civilian landscape, including the Association of the United States Army (AUSA), Bridge Innovate, the Augusta West Rotary Club, the Military Officers Association of America, the Silver Caduceus Association, the Army War College Foundation, the American Legion, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She’s also a proud member of Leadership Columbia County’s Class of 2023.

At the heart of everything she does is her family. Carlene lives in Evans, Georgia with her husband, Jervis, and their two sons — her greatest motivation and joy.

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United States Army Colonel (Retired) Kelly T. Knitter is a native of New Windsor, Illinois.  She received a Regular Army ROTC commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Signal Corps in 1989 after graduating from Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology.  She studied Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma and Military Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania for her Masters program. 

Kelly’s military career began in 1990 as a Signal Corps Platoon Leader in 304th Signal Battalion, Wonju, South Korea and concluded in 2015 as Deputy Commander of 5th Signal Command, Wiesbaden, Germany.  During her 26-year career, her military assignments included:  304th Signal Battalion, Korea; 67th Signal Battalion, Fort Gordon, GA; NATO HQs North, Brunssum, Netherlands; 86th Signal Battalion & NETCOM HQs, Fort Huachuca, AZ; TF 86, Afghanistan; Army Network Operations Center, Fort Belvoir, VA; 516th Signal Brigade, Fort Shafter, HI; 21st Signal Brigade, Fort Detrick, MD; and 5th Signal Command, Wiesbaden, Germany.  She commanded HHC, 67th Signal Battalion, GA and 114th Signal Battalion, MD.  

Kelly settled in Augusta, GA in 2015 after military retirement and worked at a non-profit organization before starting her own independent consultant business.  Now she devotes her time and talents promoting community service within the CSRA.  She serves on multiple Executive Boards of professional, civic, and charitable organizations and is a 2022 graduate of Leadership Columbia County.  Continuing her role as a leader, she served as President of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Greater Augusta-Fort Gordon Chapter from 2018-2022, culminating in receiving the Best Chapter Award, and is currently VP of NCO/Soldier Programs.  She joined the Rotary Club of Augusta West in 2016; and has served as President (2018-2020), Secretary (6 years) and currently Area Governor in District 6920.  She is the Public Relations Chair for Fort Eisenhower Retiree Council; National Membership Chair of U.S. Army Signal Corps Regimental Association; and a member at large of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12190, American Legion Post 192, Military Order of World Wars, Military Officers Association of America; and Sunday School teacher and Board Member of the Women’s Group at Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Resurrection.

She is married to U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Kevin Knitter of Auburn, NY, a former Army Military Police NCO and Signal Corps Officer, and now a Financial Advisor with First Command Financial Services.  They have two children, Thomas (32), Army Sergeant First Class, Automation Specialist (25B), assigned to XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, NC; and Kristen (30), former Naval Aviation Technology Specialist, and now an Administrative Assistant for First Command Financial Services in Hampton, VA.      

 Kelly’s hobbies include traveling, golfing, quality family time, and helping others.

 

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Jeremiah Adell Jr was born in Rochester, New York and enlisted in the United States Army just prior to September 11th 2001. He later commissioned as a Signal Officer after obtaining a business degree from Texas A&M – Central Texas in 2013 and retired from active duty on September 30th 2023 with 22 years of honorable military service. He married the love of his life in 2006 the former Maria Brown who hails from Augusta, Georgia and she's a US Army veteran as well. They have five wonderful school aged 7children: Nehemiah (17), Taniyah Faith (15), Alyssiah Grace (13), Moriah Joy (12), and Josiah Antonio (11).

Jeremiah loves to give back to his community and believes he is called to a life of service. He serve as the Properties & Structural Integrity Director for the Grace Project which provides homes for homeless veterans, He's the 2026 vice-chair Community Outreach Committee for Realtors of Greater Augusta, He's on the board for the Association of the United States Army Fort Gordon Chapter, and He serves as Associate Pastor for Reconcile Christian Ministries under the leadership of Bishop Ricky Kidd here in Augusta, Georgia. Jeremiah is a proud Rotarian and active member of the Augusta West Rotary club.

Jeremiah purchased his franchise in January of 2023 and chose Pillar to Post Home Inspectors because of the Pillar to Post difference. The brands values and mission to ensure confident home ownership are principles that Jeremiah stands behind. He's a servant at heart and looks forward to partnering with realtors and educating their clients on the condition of their home as he strives to be the most trusted home inspection company in the CSRA!

 

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Tiffany Heitzman is a dynamic and accomplished leader with a proven track record in fostering economic development and community engagement. Since May of 2021, she has served as the Executive Director for the Home Builders Association of Greater Aiken-Augusta Region (HBAA), bringing her extensive expertise and passion to the forefront of the local building industry. Under her leadership, the HBAA has continued its vital work in advocating for builders, promoting professionalism, and contributing to the growth and vitality of the region.

Prior to her tenure at HBAA, Tiffany held significant roles in chamber of commerce leadership, demonstrating her deep understanding of the intricate connections between business and community. She served as the Vice President of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, where she played a key role in supporting local businesses and driving economic initiatives. Her leadership journey also includes a successful period as President/CEO of The Irmo Chamber of Commerce in South Carolina, where she championed the interests of the business community and fostered a thriving local economy.

Tiffany is a strong advocate for continuous learning and professional development, as evidenced by her graduation from both Columbia County and Lexington County Leadership programs. These experiences have further honed her skills in strategic thinking, collaboration, and community impact. She is deeply committed to serving her community in various capacities, currently serving on the esteemed Board of the AUSA Fort Eisenhower Chapter, demonstrating her dedication to supporting those who serve our nation. Tiffany is also an active member of the NAHB EO 20 Club, a prestigious group that fosters peer-to-peer learning and best practices among executive officers in the home building industry. Her commitment to excellence was further recognized in 2022 when she earned her Institute of Organizational Management designation, a testament to her dedication to effective organizational leadership.

Tiffany's impactful contributions have not gone unnoticed. In March of 2024, she was proudly named the Columbia County Chamber Businesswoman of the Year, a well-deserved recognition of her leadership, dedication, and positive influence on the business community. Beyond her professional roles, Tiffany generously dedicates her time and talents to supporting many other local non-profit organizations, embodying her commitment to giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.

At the heart of Tiffany's life are her three beloved daughters, Abby, Emma, and Avery, who bring immense joy and inspiration. The family also includes two cherished fur babies, Leo and Rose. Tiffany and her daughters are active members of the Warren Grovetown church community. When she finds time for leisure, Tiffany enjoys exploring new places through travel, cheering on her favorite college football teams, and cherishing moments spent with family and friends.

Beyond her professional and community endeavors, Tiffany is a passionate advocate for mental health issues, working to raise awareness and reduce stigma. She is also a fierce and dedicated advocate on behalf of her special needs daughter, tirelessly working to ensure she has every opportunity to thrive and advocating for the resources and support needed for individuals with special needs and their families. Tiffany's unwavering commitment to her family and her community truly defines her as a remarkable leader and individual.

 

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Doctor/Command Sergeant Major (retired) Tom Clark was born in Danville, Pennsylvania, graduating from Columbia Montour Vocational-Technical School in 1980 and enlisted in the Army Signal Corps that same year.  He served over 32 years in the Army, culminating his service as the Army’s Signal Regimental Command Sergeant Major, U.S. Army Signal Center and Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia.  He retired from active duty in March of 2011. He spent five years serving as a Training and Capture Manager for General Dynamics (GD) Mission Systems on Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia. He is currently the executive director of the Alliance for Fort Gordon.

In addition to his extensive military education, he holds undergraduate degrees from Central Texas College and Excelsior College. Tom also has a master’s degree in post-secondary adult education from Troy University and a doctorate in Management in Organizational Leadership from Phoenix University. Tom is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

He is a very active volunteer in the community. He is a 2013 Distinguished Member of the Signal Regiment inductee. He is an active member and serves on the board of directors of the Greater Augusta Fort Eisenhower Chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA). He was the 2015 General Dynamics Outstanding Volunteer of the year awardee. He is a congressional appointee to the board of directors of the SRSCRO. He is a 2017 graduate of Leadership Augusta and a 2018 graduate of Leadership Columbia County. He is the recipient of the 2018 Columbia County Lifetime Achievement Award. He was named as one of Georgia Trend’s and James Magazine’s 100 most Influential/notable Georgians in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. He serves as a commissioner on the Georgia Joint Defense Commission. He is a 2023 recipient of the Outstanding Georgia Citizen Award (this award serves as the highest honor given on the state level to any citizen). 

He resides in Evans, Georgia with his wife Kandee. They have four children, four grandsons, and two granddaughters.

 

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Carey Pifer brings a strong foundation in finance and a wealth of real estate expertise to her role as an Associate Broker. Her academic journey began at Auburn University, where she earned a Finance degree, equipping her with a keen understanding of market dynamics, investment principles, and financial planning – skills that prove invaluable in the complex world of real estate.

Carey's professional trajectory within the real estate industry has been diverse and impactful. As an experienced realtor, she has successfully navigated numerous transactions, assisting clients with buying and selling properties across various market segments. Her ability to understand client needs, negotiate effectively, and guide them through the process has earned her a reputation for dedication and results.

Adding another layer to her expertise, Carey has also served as a Relocation Director. In this capacity, she has worked extensively with both corporate and military clients, understanding the unique challenges and time-sensitive nature of relocating. This experience has honed her ability to provide comprehensive support, connect clients with necessary resources, and ensure a smooth transition, whether they are moving across the country or internationally. Her firsthand knowledge of the intricacies of relocation makes her an exceptional resource for those undergoing such a significant life change.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Carey is deeply committed to serving her community and the real estate industry. She actively contributes her time and expertise to several prominent organizations, demonstrating a dedication to fostering growth and making a positive impact. Currently, she holds esteemed positions on the Board of Directors for the Columbia County Chamber, an organization vital to the economic health and development of the region. Her involvement with the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) highlights her support for military personnel and their families, a connection likely strengthened by her work with military relocations. Furthermore, her service on the board of the Georgialina Outdoor Dream Foundation underscores her commitment to providing enriching experiences for children and their families.

Carey's dedication to the real estate profession extends to her active participation within industry associations. She is a valued member of the Education Committee of the REALTORS® of Greater Augusta, contributing to the development and delivery of educational programs that elevate the standards and knowledge base of real estate professionals in the area. Her commitment to the advancement of the industry is further exemplified by her role as a State Director for the REALTORS® of Greater Augusta, where she helps shape policy and advocate for the interests of real estate professionals and consumers at a broader level.

Through her blend of financial acumen, extensive real estate experience, and unwavering commitment to community and industry leadership, Carey Pifer is a highly respected and valuable asset to both her clients and the organizations she serves. Her multifaceted background allows her to approach challenges with a well-rounded perspective and provide insightful guidance in all her endeavors.

 

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A dedicated resident and active community member, Danial Holland brings a wealth of experience and commitment to his role as Treasurer of the Greater Augusta and Fort Eisenhower Chapter of the Association of the US Army. Danial's journey to becoming a naturalized Georgian began in 2020 when he was stationed in Augusta while serving in the United States Army. Upon his retirement from military service, he found himself drawn to the unique charm and appealing lifestyle of the region. The exceptional quality of life, particularly the world-renowned golf courses and the mild, agreeable winters, solidified his decision to make Augusta his permanent home.

Currently, Danial continues to contribute his expertise and dedication to the Army Cyber Command, leveraging his years of service and technical knowledge in a civilian capacity. Beyond his professional endeavors, he is deeply involved in his local community, generously dedicating his time and energy to volunteering at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Grovetown. His commitment to service extends beyond his professional and volunteer work; he is a devoted family man, sharing his life with his wife, Tamara. Together, they are the proud parents of two daughters.

Danial's strong academic foundation underpins his diverse professional and volunteer activities. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the prestigious Tulane University, providing him with a broad base of knowledge. Further enhancing his expertise, he earned a Master of Science degree from the esteemed University of Colorado, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. This combination of military experience, civilian expertise, community involvement, and academic achievement makes Danial Holland a valuable asset to both the Greater Augusta and Fort Eisenhower Chapter of the Association of the US Army and the wider Augusta community.

 

 

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Naomi (Nomi) Stanton, a dynamic and compassionate leader, was born in the vibrant capital of Canada, Ottawa, but spent her formative years in the charming suburb of Highland Park, Illinois. Her academic journey began at Bradley University, where she pursued her passion for both literature and governance, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science. Driven by a deep desire to understand and support mental well-being, Nomi furthered her education by obtaining a Certificate in Clinical Mental Healthcare from the University of Maryland University College (UMUC).

Currently, Nomi serves as the Executive Director of GAP Ministries, an organization dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Her leadership extends beyond this vital role, as she is a driving force in addressing critical community issues. Nomi chairs the Augusta Homeless Task Force, tirelessly working to develop and implement solutions for homelessness in the region. Her commitment to service is also evident in her active involvement with Rotary International, where she is a proud member, embodying the organization's motto of "Service Above Self." Furthermore, Nomi holds the position of Vice President of Family Programming on the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Board, where she advocates for and supports military families.

Nomi's personal life is deeply rooted in love and commitment. She married her high school sweetheart, Paul, and together they have navigated the unique journey of military life for an impressive 30 years. As a proud military spouse, Nomi understands the challenges and rewards of this lifestyle and has dedicated herself to supporting others within the military community. She is also the proud mother of three phenomenal children: Hannah, 24, Charlotte, 23, and Toby, 20. Her family is a source of immense joy and pride, and their accomplishments reflect the nurturing and supportive environment Nomi has created. Through her professional endeavors and personal life, Nomi Stanton exemplifies dedication, compassion, and a tireless commitment to making a positive impact on the world around her.

 

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With over 30 years of experience in information technology and intelligence, Melissa Johnson’s career journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From individual contributor to leadership roles, she has made her mark as a trusted program manager for more than 15 years, overseeing defense contracts for both Fortune 500 companies and small businesses. Melissa earned her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in 2009 and remains an active member of the Project Management Institute Augusta-Aiken Chapter.

Melissa is a lifelong learner and proud alumna of Tuskegee University (B.S., Computer Science), George Mason University (M.S., Information Systems), and Wesley Theological Seminary (M.A., Religious Studies). In 2022, she achieved a major milestone by earning her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Columbia International University.

On a personal note, Melissa is married to her amazing husband—a talented chef who keeps their household well-fed and happy! She is also a proud mom to her beautiful bonus daughter, a Marine Corps veteran, and her teenage son, affectionately called “my shadow,” who attends Westminster Schools of Augusta.

Beyond her professional and family life, Melissa is dedicated to giving back to her community. She serves as the VP of Scholarships & Education for the AFCEA Greater Augusta Chapter, where she manages STEM Teacher Grants and scholarships for students and enlisted members. She is an engaged and passionate leader within the Greater Columbia County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., as well as the Augusta Chapter of Jack and Jill Incorporated.

Faith plays an essential role in Melissa’s life, and she is an active member of Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she contributes to various committees. With roles ranging from sports mom to community leader, Melissa’s life is a beautiful blend of professional success, family commitment, and heartfelt community service.

 

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Tim grew up in an army family, so spent short periods of time in a variety of locations until he entered high school in Serena, IL. Upon graduation in 1986, Tim immediately joined the U.S. Army as a 12B Combat Engineer. A personal tragedy caused him to reclassify into 95B Military Police. His military career consisted of numerous positions including Platoon Sergeant, with his career ending after 20 years @ Fort Gordon, GA as the Assistant Operation’s NCO at the Fort Gordon Military Police Station.

Tim’s post military experience includes 19 years of DoD contracting jobs of increased levels of responsibility and management from Hardware technician, Help Desk, SAN Engineer, IT Project management, Program Management, to mid-level and executive management

Tim’s civilian education consists of an Associate’s of Arts in Criminal Justice, A Bachelor’s of Science in Computer Information Systems, A Master’s of Science in Information Technology Management, and a PhD in Organizational Leadership. Tim also has numerous IT industry, project management, and quality management certifications.

Tim serves on the board of the Greater Augusta-Fort Eisenhower chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) as well as the Immediate Past President of the Central Savanna River Area (CSRA) chapter of the Retired Military Police Association (RMPA). Tim is also a member of the Military Police Regimental Association (MPRA) and the Columba County Chapter of Rotary International.

 

 

Entire AUSA Board Member List