Leadership Biographies
Dr. Jason Wingard, President
Dr. Jason Wingard is a nationally recognized executive, scholar, and thought leader in leadership development, organizational strategy, and the future of work. He serves as President of the Potomac Community Foundation, bringing a proven record of transformative leadership in higher education, business, and nonprofit sectors. He is Executive Chairman of Education Board, Inc., a global executive advisory firm, and advises mission-driven organizations through the Social Finance Institute. Previously, Dr. Wingard served as the 12th president of Temple University, where he championed academic innovation and strategic growth. His leadership career also includes serving as Dean of Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies, Chief Learning Officer at Goldman Sachs, and Vice Dean of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. An award-winning author, Dr. Wingard has written extensively on learning, leadership, and workforce transformation, and his insights have been featured widely in Forbes and other national outlets. He serves on the boards of Kroll, JUST Capital, and the Roundabout Theatre Company. Dr. Wingard earned his B.A. from Stanford University, M.A. from Emory University, Ed.M. from Harvard University, and Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania.
Krystal Holland Davis, Inaugural Executive Director, Potomac Community Foundation
Krystal Holland Davis is a transformational nonprofit executive with more than 30 years of experience leading organizations that advance educational access, racial equity, and community resilience. As the inaugural Executive Director of the Potomac Community Foundation, she brings a powerful record of building high-impact programs, driving sustainable change, and delivering measurable outcomes for historically underserved communities.
A proud descendant of Emory Grove—a historic Black community in Montgomery County—Krystal draws strength and purpose from her family’s deep roots in the region. This personal legacy inspires her unwavering commitment to cultural preservation, community empowerment, and intergenerational progress.
Krystal most recently served as the Founding Executive Director of the Institute for Mastery and Integration, a $1.6M nonprofit dedicated to strengthening leadership and institutional effectiveness across the education and human services sectors. Under her leadership, the organization delivered professional development that enhanced the capacity of hundreds of professionals and institutions to better serve children, youth, and families.
Previously, she held senior leadership roles at the National Center for Children and Families, one of the region’s largest social services agencies. There, she led major initiatives, including a $6.5M public health network focused on eliminating racial disparities in healthcare access. Her work mobilized more than 100 organizations, secured significant public funding, and reshaped cross-sector collaboration in service of Black communities.
Throughout her career, Krystal has overseen complex program portfolios spanning youth development, workforce readiness, and health equity. She has led residential services, built agency-wide training systems, and advised executive leaders on crisis response, compliance, and strategic planning. A compelling communicator and published author, she has contributed national thought leadership on racial disparities, youth engagement, and trauma-informed care.
Krystal’s leadership philosophy is grounded in legacy preservation, cultural integrity, and systems transformation. She is widely respected for her ability to lead with vision, build trust across sectors, and center community voice in every facet of organizational growth.
Paul Tukey, Founder, Chief Advancement Officer, Potomac Community Foundation
Paul Tukey is an internationally recognized journalist, sustainability advocate, and public speaker whose four-decade career has spanned media, public health, and environmental innovation. As Chief Advancement Officer for the Potomac Community Foundation (PCF), he leads the organization’s fundraising, partnership development, and external engagement strategies—advancing educational access, economic opportunity, and legacy preservation for historically underserved communities.
Paul served as a lead visionary and strategist behind the 2nd Century Project, a transformative, county-wide campaign to restore and expand the historic Scotland AME Zion Church in Potomac, Maryland. His leadership galvanized support across philanthropy, government, and faith sectors—establishing a replicable model of community-driven engagement, sustainability, and restorative justice. The success of this initiative became the catalyst for founding PCF and broadening its mission to serve other marginalized Black communities throughout Montgomery County and the greater Washington, D.C. region.
A trailblazer in sustainable land care, Paul founded the award-winning People, Places & Plants media company and co-hosted its namesake HGTV show. His documentary, A Chemical Reaction, which chronicled pesticide bans across North America—earned three Emmy nominations. Dubbed the “Godfather of the Natural Lawn Care Movement” by The New York Times, Paul has received numerous honors, including the American Horticultural Society’s Communicator of the Year Award and the Garden Writers Association’s Green Medal.
For 15 years, Paul held senior roles at the Glenstone Museum, where he helped transform its 300-acre campus into one of the most sustainable cultural institutions in the world, establishing native meadows, organic landscapes, and living classrooms rooted in ecological stewardship. At PCF, Paul brings his deep commitment to equity, innovation, and environmental justice to building a philanthropic platform that honors Black cultural heritage and strengthens community resilience across generations.
Debbie Driesman, Secretary
Debbie Driesman has called the Washington, D.C., area home for more than four decades, bringing her technical expertise and philanthropic vision to the region’s cultural and civic life. A native of Ontario, Canada, she began her career as a computer engineer in NASA’s communications division at the Goddard Space Flight Center before retiring in 1999 to pursue community service full time. As Secretary of the Potomac Community Foundation, Debbie plays a key role in organizational governance and strategic direction. She serves on the boards of the National Symphony Orchestra, Washington Performing Arts, Folger Shakespeare Library, the Maryland Public Television Foundation, and the Honorary Board of the Halcyon Foundation. She also holds leadership roles with the Oxford India Centre Advisory Board, Ford’s Theatre, Meridian International’s Cultural Diplomacy Leadership Council, Monticello, the Global Leadership Council of the United Nations Foundation, the Washington Cabinet at Mount Vernon, and the Madison Council at the Library of Congress. Together with her husband, Frank Islam, Debbie has made transformative contributions to arts, culture, historic preservation, and global development.
George E. Ashton III, Treasurer
George E. Ashton III is CEO and Partner at Candide Group, an impact investment advisory firm that designs portfolios aligning financial performance with social change. A recognized leader in the field, he previously served as President of Strategic Investments at the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), where he grew its platform from $200 million to over $850 million in under three years, launched eight innovative funds, and founded the Capital Innovation Lab to invest in real estate and BIPOC-owned small businesses. Earlier in his career, George co-founded Sol Systems, building it into a $1 billion renewable energy investment firm, and traded billions in mortgages at Fannie Mae to expand homeownership opportunities. Over nearly 25 years, he has directed capital toward renewable energy, affordable housing, racial equity, and small business growth. As Treasurer of PCF, George applies his deep expertise in managing large-scale investments to steward the foundation’s resources with integrity and impact.
Robert “Bob” Buchanan
Robert “Bob” Buchanan, a third-generation builder and developer, has played a pivotal role in shaping the economic and physical landscape of the Washington metropolitan area. As a Principal of Buchanan Partners, he led the development of office, retail, industrial, residential, and large mixed-use planned communities. Bob served as President of the 2030 Group, a regional coalition of business leaders focused on long-term planning and solutions, and was the founding Chair of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (2015–2019). His leadership extends to service on the Shady Grove Medical Center Governing Board, the Federal City Council Leadership Committee, the MetroNow coalition, and the George Mason University President’s Cabinet. He has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Urban Land Institute’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the Washington Airports Task Force Williams Trophy, Montgomery County’s Philanthropist of the Year, and the Mason Medal from George Mason University. Named repeatedly to the Washington Business Journal’s Power 100 list, Bob is celebrated for his vision, collaborative leadership, and philanthropic investment in community priorities.
Dr. Sheryl Brissett Chapman
Dr. Sheryl Brissett Chapman is an internationally recognized authority in child and family welfare, with more than three decades of leadership in advocacy, systems reform, and nonprofit management. For 32 years, she served as Executive Director of The National Center for Children and Families (NCCF), transforming it into a $50 million agency with 26 programs serving more than 50,000 vulnerable children, youth, and families annually. She now serves as Senior Advisor to NCCF and as a trustee of Montgomery College, appointed by Maryland Governor Wes Moore. A Harvard-educated scholar with degrees from Brown University and the University of Connecticut, and executive training at Stanford University, Dr. Chapman has been a driving force in shaping policy and practice on juvenile justice, homelessness, racial equity, and cultural competency. Her groundbreaking publication, Black Male Youth Raised in Public Systems: Engagement, Healing, Hope, reflects her commitment to lifting up marginalized voices. For over 30 years, Dr. Chapman taught at Howard University’s School of Social Work, mentoring hundreds of graduate students. She has served on numerous state and national boards and advisory councils, earning widespread recognition for her vision, scholarship, and unwavering dedication to advancing equity and opportunity—values deeply aligned with PCF’s mission.
William B. Conway Jr.
Bill Conway is an attorney and business person working in the electric power sector. As Senior Counsel to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources he was the principal staff architect of the law that opened the U.S. electric power system to market competition in 1992. Since then, he has worked as a partner in major law firms, as an entrepreneur in sustainable energy projects, and general counsel and chief development officer to electric utilities. Most recently he led the development of a major carbon capture and sequestration project in Alexandria, Louisiana from start-up through front end engineering and design. Bill and his wife Diana Conway live in an historic Montgomery County farmhouse they restored thirty years ago. They are both long time supporters and leaders for a multitude of civic causes in Montgomery County. In addition to his PCF role, Bill currently serves as Board Chair of Washington Revels, a performing arts organization.
Dedra Dawson
Dedra Dawson is a philanthropist, community advocate, and healthcare management professional committed to social justice, education, and the arts. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, she studied at the University of North Texas and the University of Maryland before building a successful career in medical management, where she ensures the efficient delivery of healthcare services. Dedra has raised significant funds for the Montgomery County Family Justice Center, participated in mission work in Ethiopia, and supported community development and women’s empowerment initiatives. She serves on the board of Many Hands, contributes to the Dallas Black Dance Theatre, and has been active in supporting the Metropolitan Baptist Church, the Metropolitan Day School, and the Scotland AME Zion Church. Known for her strategic insight and generosity, she combines her professional expertise with her philanthropic vision to strengthen communities and create lasting change.
Karen Herron
Karen Herron is a connector, trusted thought partner, and community leader dedicated to advancing economic, racial, and gender equity, as well as fostering religious pluralism. She works alongside mission-driven organizations to strengthen their capacity, elevate their voices, and drive meaningful change. Karen co-created the SEA (Study/Engage/Act) Change Racial Equity Project, a collaborative network of synagogues committed to courageous conversations, critical education, and collective action to dismantle racial inequities both within congregations and in the wider community. She is equally committed to promoting mindfulness practice, serving on the board of the Or HaLev Center for Jewish Spirituality and Meditation. A founding board member of Youth Renewal Fund Darca, Karen has helped provide transformative educational opportunities for disadvantaged Israeli youth. She also advises both Jewish and secular nonprofits on capacity building and strategic communications, drawing on her early career in brand management and product marketing with global companies such as Donna Karan Beauty, Coach, and Revlon. With her rare combination of corporate expertise, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication to social justice, Karen is a catalyst for building inclusive, resilient, and empowered communities.
Knight A. Kiplinger
Knight A. Kiplinger, a native of Washington, D.C., and steward of the historic Montevideo farm in Seneca, Maryland, has been deeply engaged in the civic life of the District and Montgomery County for decades, with a special focus on the arts, history education, and historic preservation. He serves as Board Chair of Historic Medley District, the historical society of western Montgomery County, and has long supported organizations such as DC History, Montgomery History, Mount Vernon, and Tudor Place. An accomplished choral singer, Knight is a past Board Chair of The Washington Chorus and a trustee of Levine Music, among other arts organizations. Professionally, he is editor emeritus of The Kiplinger Letter and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, which his family published from 1923 until 2019 before becoming part of Future LLC. He is also Chairman and CEO of Outlook, Inc., a closely held real estate investment firm, and heads The Kiplinger Family Foundation. His lifelong dedication to civic leadership and cultural stewardship continues to enrich the Washington region and aligns closely with PCF’s mission of preserving and advancing community legacy.
Catherine S. Leggett
Catherine S. Leggett is a distinguished human resources attorney, corporate executive, and community leader whose work spans equity, historic preservation, and the arts. After earning degrees in sociology, psychology, and law from Howard University, she began her career as a social worker before practicing criminal and employment law. She later served as head of personnel at Hechinger, where she broke barriers for women and underrepresented groups and pioneered inclusive hiring practices. As Montgomery County’s former First Lady, Catherine has amplified the arts, co-founding the Executive Ball, serving on the boards of Imagination Stage, Strathmore Music Center, and Olney Theatre, and leading major fundraising initiatives. She served as Campaign Chair for the Josiah Henson Museum and co-chaired the Scotland Community’s 2nd Century Project, addressing historical inequities and uplifting the church and community. Catherine was also instrumental in creating the Montgomery County Family Justice Center, providing a safe, resource-rich space for survivors of domestic violence. Her career reflects an unwavering commitment to justice, cultural preservation, and community vitality.
Marla Schulman
Marla Schulman is the owner of Schreiber Translations, Inc., one of the nation’s leading providers of translation and interpreting services, serving clients nationwide across government, corporate, and nonprofit sectors. With expertise in corporate strategy, government contracting, and organizational planning, she has served as President of the Association of Language Companies and as Outreach Chair for SCORE DC, mentoring entrepreneurs and small business owners. She co-created SEA Change DMV, a racial equity initiative uniting synagogues to engage in education, dialogue, and collective action. Within the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, she serves as Vice President for Leadership and Volunteer Development and co-chairs the Governance Redesign effort. A past President of B’nai Israel Congregation, Marla continues to lead as Chair of its Faith Community Outreach Committee and serves on the boards of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington and Action in Montgomery. Her leadership bridges strategic expertise with grassroots engagement to foster inclusion and community impact.
Rev. Timothy B. Warner
Rev. Timothy B. Warner is Senior Pastor of Emory Grove United Methodist Church and founder of The Heritage Emory Grove Community Development Corporation, leading the revitalization of the historic Emory Grove community. Trained as a bacterial geneticist, he spent 18 years in pharmaceutical research before committing to full-time ministry. Rev. Warner has held leadership roles in the Baltimore-Washington Conference of the United Methodist Church, the Montgomery County Executive’s Office of Community Partnerships, and Montgomery County Public Schools. Currently Director of Faith Relations for Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland, he engages faith communities in advancing affordable housing. His ministry blends scientific rigor, civic leadership, and deep spiritual commitment—values that reflect and reinforce PCF’s mission of equity and legacy preservation.