Board of directors

Sarah Ross Geisen, the President and Founder of the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation and a Gold Star sister to CPT Andrew “Drew” Ross, currently leads the organization. Hailing from Lexington, VA, Sarah and Drew, grounded in small-town values, grew up intimately acquainted with the life of military service throughout their childhood. Sarah, along with her husband, LtCol Brian Geisen, and their four sons, is stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC. As a military spouse, she brings a wealth of experience and understanding to the challenges and commitments of military life. She earned her bachelor's degree from Virginia Commonwealth in 2007 and completed her master's degree in 2014 from Drexel University.

With a family background deeply rooted in military service, including being the daughter of an Airman, sister of a Soldier, and spouse of a Marine, Sarah possesses a profound understanding and appreciation for the commitment of the brave men and women in our nation's service. In addition to her roles as President and Founder, Sarah actively volunteers with numerous Gold Star, military, and other nonprofit organizations to include Travis Manion Foundation and Wear Blue Run to Remember. She has served on the planning committee for the 128th Woody Williams Foundation Gold Star Memorial in Lexington, VA, she has been a guest speaker at events in Lexington, VA, and West Point, NY. showcasing her dedication to honoring and supporting military families across various platforms. Sarah has also been appointed by Virginia's Governor, Glenn Youngkin to the VMSDEP (Virginia Military Survivor and Dependent Education Program) Task Force to uphold and continue the support for Virginia's military families.

Stephen Ross is the DRMF Vice President and Gold Star Father of CPT Andrew Ross.  He graduated from Virginia Military Institute in 1983 with a BA in Economics and earned his master’s degree in operations management from the University of Arkansas. Stephen served 4 years in the USAF, reaching the rank of Captain, and had the opportunity to serve as a Missile Launch Crew Commander Instructor. He thereafter returned to VMI and dedicated a combined 27 years to the institute, coaching men's soccer and swimming, assisting in the Commandant's Office and teaching in the Department of Economics and Business.

In 2014, Stephen became Director of Military Student Services at VCU, managing GI Bill operations, generating $16 million for 1600 military-affiliated students. His commitment extends to the DRMF Flag building program, offering recreational therapy and PTSD support through artistic expression. As Vice President, Stephen ensures his son's legacy thrives at DRMF, embodying values of service, education, and veteran support. He and his wife, Kerry and their dog, Cali, reside in Richmond, Virginia.

Beth Gerschick, DRMF Vice President and Gold Star Mother of CPT Andrew Ross, is a dedicated supporter of military families and channels her grief into meaningful initiatives. Having spent a portion of her life as a military spouse, she understands the unique challenges that military families face. Beth, who works full-time as a nurse, finds the opportunities to work with veterans in the local area particularly meaningful.

Beth is also a member of the Gold Star Mothers of Virginia, a support organization for mothers who have lost a son or daughter in military service. Additionally, she is a member of the Blue Star Mothers of Virginia, a support organization for mothers who have children serving, or who have served, in the United States Armed Forces. As a member of this organization, Beth has participated in events and activities to provide support and camaraderie to fellow military mothers. Excitingly, she is looking forward to her partnership with Wintergreen Adaptive Sports (WAS), a Virginia non-profit with a veteran-focused mission arm, serving as a volunteer for the Wounded Warriors Weekend in Nelson County, VA. Beth's dedication and diverse background make her a valuable asset to the foundation and the community. She and her husband, Joe reside in Richmond, Virginia.

Felicia Torvinen, DRMF Secretary and Gold Star spouse to CPT Drew Ross, shaped her roots in Wisconsin. Bringing diverse experience, she seamlessly blends military insight with administrative proficiency as the General Manager for The Omega Project.

A recent Magna Cum Laude graduate, Felicia's academic achievements underscore her commitment to excellence. In addition to her role as a business director, she serves as a CEO in local hospitality management, embodying the foundation's dedication to community involvement.

Beyond the professional realm, Felicia is deeply engaged in fitness, outdoor sports, and family moments. Her multifaceted approach mirrors the foundation's values, resonating with its mission. In Felicia Torvinen, the DRMF finds not just a dedicated ally but a dynamic individual whose journey aligns seamlessly with the foundation's goal of honoring her late husbands memory and supporting those who have served.

Michael Shepherd, a West Point graduate from the class of 2011, shares a profound connection with the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation through his enduring friendship with Drew. Their journey began at West Point, where they navigated the challenges of Cadet Basic Training (BEAST) together and shared the camaraderie of being part of company F4 from their Yuk through their Firstie years, proudly chanting, "Go Frogs!"

After graduation, Michael and Drew began their service to the nation at Fort Stewart, Georgia, as members of 6-8 CAV, 4th IBCT, 3rd Infantry Division—proudly embracing the designation of Mustangs. Their shared experiences deepened during a deployment to Logar Province, Afghanistan, in 2013, where they served as scout platoon leaders and both earned the Combat Action Badge and Bronze Star.

After serving five years, Michael left the army and attended law school at the University of Florida. There he met his wonderful wife, Jessica, who served as the athletic trainer for the Florida Gators women's basketball team. Currently residing in Coral Gables, Michael is an Assistant United States Attorney and prosecutes federal criminal cases, while Jessica works for the Miami Marlins as their Player Health & Injury Analytic Lead.

Michael serves as the chairperson for United Way Miami's Mission United legal services subcommittee, an organization that assists veterans in Miami-Dade County with a wide array of pro bono legal services. He also volunteers his time with the West Point South Florida Field Force, where he gives presentations and speaks with high school students who are considering attending West Point.

Cathy Vick is the DRMF Treasurer and Drew's aunt. She graduated from the University of Virginia in 1987 with a degree in Engineering. With a career spanning 37 years, she contributed her expertise to Dominion Energy before her well-earned retirement.

She served on the boards of Va 811 and NC 811, both 501(c)(3) organizations focused on public safety. As a leadership volunteer since 2016 for the Dominion Energy Charity Classic, benefiting Richmond Fisher House and Virginia Veterans Services, Cathy exemplifies her dedication to community service. Her family's long history of naval service, including her husband, reflects her profound respect for veterans. Cathy Vick has also demonstrated her dedication as a volunteer for Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery, where her commitment to honoring and remembering fallen heroes shines brightly.

Cathy's bio is a testament to her commitment to public safety, community service, and honoring her nephew's legacy through the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation. Cathy, along with her husband Mark, resides in the Northern Neck region of Virginia.

Jason Pak is a fellow West Point graduate, soccer teammate, and dear friend of Drew and the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation. Born into a military family, Jason followed in his father's footsteps to West Point, where he met Drew and formed an immensely close bond.

In 2012, Jason was injured by a dismounted pressure plate IED in Afghanistan during combat operations. One of the first to visit him at Walter Reed Army Medical Center was Drew, who encouraged Jason and greatly influenced his determination and positive spirit. After medically retiring from the Army as a Captain, Jason shared his recovery story nationwide, serving as a keynote speaker and mentor to many.

Following his deployment, Jason served as a military fellow for Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island, contributing to policy development and congressional relations. He then joined Boeing, where he spent nearly a decade working his way up to Director of Military Veteran Initiatives, leading outreach and engagement efforts, and supporting the military community globally.

In January 2022, Jason was appointed Deputy Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, overseeing the Virginia Department of Veteran Services and leading initiatives to strengthen relationships with Virginia-based military and defense communities. He now serves as a Senior Director of Government Affairs for Hanwha, continuing his work in corporate affairs and defense for a Fortune 500 global company in Washington, D.C.

Jason’s dedication to the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation is deeply personal. He has witnessed the critical impact of DRMF and is committed to supporting its mission. His journey reflects a steadfast commitment to service, leadership, and honoring the memory of Drew and countless others who gave their all for this country.

Justin Allen was commissioned as a U.S. Army Infantry Officer through Officer Candidate School in 2011. Following his commission, he completed multiple training programs, including Infantry School, Ranger School, and Airborne School, before being assigned to Fort Hood, Texas.

In 2015, Justin met Drew Ross at the beginning of the Special Forces Qualification Course, forming a strong friendship that would last throughout their time together. While at Fort Bragg, they completed multiple course alongside each other including the Special Operations Captain Career Course, Small Unit Tactics, the Detachment Commander Course, and Robin Sage. Their bond was forged through shared experiences in both their professional and personal lives.

After completing the qualification course, Justin and Drew maintained close contact, especially as their units were scheduled to rotate in and out of Afghanistan—Drew's unit (3rd Special Forces Group) was set to replace Justin's unit (1st Special Forces Group) in the fall of 2018.

During his time in the Army, Justin served in various leadership roles, ultimately serving as Detachment Commander of ODA 1215 from July 2017 to June 2020. As a Detachment Commander, he led two deployments to Afghanistan, where he led operations against ISIS and Taliban forces in Nangarhar and Helmand Provinces.

In 2020, Justin transitioned out of the Army and pursued an MBA from Northwestern University, focusing on entrepreneurship and finance. He is now a Partner at VictoryBase, a company dedicated to providing superior housing near military bases. VictoryBase enables renters to become investors, allowing them to build wealth for their futures. The company currently operates in two military markets, with plans to expand to every major military base in the U.S.

Nolan Martin is a proud West Point graduate from the class of 2011 and a dear friend of Drew Ross, the Ross Family, and the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation. Nolan and Drew’s journey began at West Point, where they forged a strong bond beginning in their Yuk year. Together, they navigated the challenges and camaraderie of cadet life, sharing in the triumphs and the shenanigans that took place both inside and outside the classroom. Drew played a significant role in Nolan’s life, notably being present when Nolan met his future wife, Erin.

After graduation, fate brought Nolan and Drew together once more at Fort Benning, GA, where they both attended Officer Training School. Though the demands of military life—with its constant deployments, special operations selections, and rigorous training—often kept them apart, their friendship endured. They remained a vital part of each other’s lives, staying in touch and sharing life updates over the phone. Nolan served in the U.S. Army, reaching the rank of Major before transitioning to civilian life. He went on to pursue an executive MBA at the Kellogg School of Management, where he honed his business acumen. Nolan applied these skills to his entrepreneurial ventures, co-founding and leading companies such as Gray Line Media and NEGOTIATEx, where his impact continues to be felt.

In his professional career, Nolan has been recognized for his expertise in strategic operations, digital media, and training solutions. As the Senior Manager of Training Solutions at BDO, he leverages his extensive military experience to train Fortune 500 companies on negotiation, persuasion, and communication, delivering high-impact programs that drive results.

Nolan is deeply committed to giving back to the veteran community. He actively volunteers with veteran organizations, providing mentorship and support to those transitioning from military to civilian life, with an emphasis on Vetrepreneurs. As a board member of the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation, Nolan is dedicated to advancing the foundation’s mission, ensuring that the memory of Drew is honored and remembered.