AFA National Convention | 2025 Candidates

◀ BACK TO NATIONAL CONVENTION

As established by the AFA Bylaws, the Nominating & Governance Committee met in mid-April to interview and select four candidates to run in the 2025 elections for open Board positions. Meet the 2025 Slate of Candidates below!

Speeches from candidates will be available in early June.

Open Positions:

Chair of the Board

Kathleen Ferguson

I served nearly 35 years as a civilian in the Air Force, retiring as the Principal Assistant Secretary for Installations, Energy, and Environment, overseeing infrastructure critical to mission success and quality of life. Now with The Roosevelt Group, I advocate for defense communities nationwide. My experience in policy, mission support, and family advocacy uniquely positions me to advance AFA’s mission of supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families.

The Air Force became my career by chance, not by choice. As I look back on the tremendous opportunities I was given in my Air Force career, the experiences I was provided, and the love I have for the institution, I think being the Chairman of AFA would be a fitting way to give back. I could not imagine another career that would have been as rewarding.

I understand the mission of the Air Force and AFA, I have managed large organizations throughout my Air Force career, and worked Air Force budget for nearly 20 years. My “superpower” is being able to work well under pressure and I was always the Senior Exec the SECAF sent to the Hill to answer the tough questions. I always treat people with kindness, work to fully understand the issues, and I’m not afraid to make a decision.

National Director, Central Area

Janelle Stafford

I have nearly 25 years in the aerospace and defense industry, with strong ties to Tinker AFB and Oklahoma’s defense sector. I advocate for airpower, support STEM education through AFA’s programs, and promote family and quality-of-life issues vital to recruitment and retention. I also believe in honoring veterans and preserving our heritage to educate future generations.

I seek a board position to further support AFA’s mission through advocacy for airpower, STEM education, and military family quality-of-life. With deep roots in the Oklahoma defense industry and active engagement in programs like CyberPatriot and StellarXplorers, I aim to strengthen workforce development and honor our service members’ contributions.

I bring deep organizational knowledge from experience at all levels of AFA. I’m committed to financial sustainability and unafraid to address tough challenges. I helped redefine the Area Director role and led the Chapter Health and Membership initiative, now being implemented, to strengthen chapters and attract younger members—enhancing our impact and mission delivery.

National Director, at Large

Dwyer Dennis

I am a retired U.S. Air Force officer with 35+ years in Acquisition, overseeing cost, schedule, and performance of major weapon systems. I served as Group and Wing Commander and twice as Program Executive Officer (Fighters & Bombers; C3I & Networks). I am currently EVP and advisor at DAI, offering strategic guidance to government and industry while mentoring future leaders. A lifelong AFA member, I revitalized the Space Coast Chapter post-retirement, serving as Chapter President, AFA Florida EVP, and now Florida State/Regional President—I’m deeply committed to advancing AFA’s mission through leadership, advocacy, and community engagement.

Initially hesitant due to limited AFA experience, I ran for an At-Large position in 2019 and was not elected. Since then, I’ve served in multiple field roles, gaining valuable insight into AFA’s structure and mission. As I conclude my term as State/Regional President, I’m eager to bring my expanded knowledge, leadership experience, and strategic perspective to the national board to help further AFA’s goals and impact.

I bring strong leadership and management skills in strategic planning, organizational development, and innovation. I’ve led the creation of new organizations using “form follows function” principles and bring deep experience in financial oversight, including budgets, 401(k) management, and philanthropic initiatives as EVP at DAI. As a former PEO, I conducted complex program budget reviews and risk assessments. With a background in technology and strategic planning, I evaluated threats and emerging technologies for warfighting application in the Air Force and now advise on innovative solutions as a consultant—skills I’m eager to apply in support of AFA’s mission.

Wesley Hallman

I served 27 years in the Air Force, retiring as a colonel, with roles including Chief Air Force Liaison to the House and commander of both a squadron and fighter group. I was a White House Fellow and held senior staff positions at AFCENT and the Joint Staff. Formerly SVP for Strategy & Policy at NDIA, I now serve as EVP and Head of Washington Operations in the private sector. I hold degrees from the Air Force Academy, The Ohio State University, the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, and the Eisenhower School.

I seek a position on the board to help ensure AFA remains a powerful advocate for Airmen, Guardians, and the advancement of air and space power. As global threats rise, our strategic advantage must be preserved through stronger investment and support. AFA plays a vital role in this effort, and I am committed to strengthening its voice and impact.

I bring experience as an Active-duty Airman, nonprofit board member, national security association executive, and private sector leader. This diverse background enables me to engage effectively with policymakers and resource decision-makers. I excel at uniting teams from varied sectors to drive advocacy, enhance membership services, and support AFA’s continued growth and impact.