James Schenck is the PenFed Foundation CEO and the President & CEO of PenFed Credit Union. Since April 2014, James grew PenFed’s assets from $17.6 billion to $35.5 billion, increased membership from 1.3 million to 3.8 million, and generated $1.2 billion in net worth. In 20 years on the PenFed leadership team, James led nearly […]
Andrea McCarren is a nationally recognized advocate for veterans and military families. She’s also the Senior Vice President and Chief Content Officer for PenFed Digital, a team that produces inspiring content for the PenFed Foundation and Credit Union’s social media platforms. Prior to joining PenFed, Andrea enjoyed a successful career in journalism. A former television news
Rachele Belt is the Director of Outreach & Strategic Partnerships at the PenFed Foundation overseeing the Military Heroes Program. She joined the team in February 2024 bringing both her personal and professional experience of the military and veteran community to the organization. Rachele, a military spouse, has worked in the non-profit space serving the military,
Terry served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 32 years, attaining the rank of Brigadier General. During his time in the Corps, he commanded all levels and served in numerous staff assignments around the world. After retiring from the Marine Corps in 2019, Terry started Van Williams LLC, a consulting film specializing in Facilities Management,
Susan Gerstenzang joined the PenFed Foundation in March 2024 as the Philanthropy Associate. In this role, she supports fundraising and donor stewardship. She is excited to be part of an organization with a mission to advocate for the military community. Susan has a background in journalism and marketing communications. She has worked on the editorial
Sally has more than 20 years of experience in administration, management, client services, and communications. She came to PenFed Foundation from a Real Estate Title Company & Law Firm where she coordinated client services. Prior to that Sally worked with the private sector, nonprofit organizations, and multiple USAID-funded Global Health Projects in the realm of
Growing up in a military town and having had several family members in the military including her grandfather, who served in the Navy during the Korean War, and a great-grandfather, who served as part of the Navy Seabees during WWII, Rachel is passionate about honoring her family’s legacy through her work in helping veterans. Rachel
Chris Sowder is the Director of Finance at the PenFed Foundation, where he leads the financial oversight of the organization and its related programs. He plays a central role in managing the Foundation’s Veteran Entrepreneurial Funds, financial reporting, and strengthening relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners. Chris brings over two decades of experience in
Melany Claros is the Digital Media Coordinator at The PenFed Foundation, where she leads the strategy and execution of digital content across the Foundation’s website and social media platforms. With a strong background in marketing analytics and digital storytelling, Melany brings a data-informed, audience-first approach to enhancing online visibility and engagement. She previously served as
