Meet Our Team

Discover the Faces Behind Our Mission

Our team is a force of dedicated individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure care packages reach our troops on the frontlines. Their unwavering commitment reflects in the impact they have on our nation and beyond. From sourcing items to logistical coordination, every effort embodies our mission to support those who serve. Get to know the faces shaping our cause and making a lasting difference in the lives of our military heroes.

Board Members

Guiding Our Mission to Support Our Armed Forces

Chairman / Co-Founder
Howard Kaloogian, a former California Assemblyman, serves as the Chairman and a founding board member of Troopathon, a charity he helped establish and has passionately supported since its inception. Hailing from San Diego, a city housing some of the nation's most significant military bases, Howard recognized the importance of the providing emotional and tangible support to our troops serving abroad to keep us safe.
Howard's dedication to the cause led him to accompany Troopathon to Iraq in 2005, where he participated in a radio tour to raise awareness and support for our troops. He continued his commitment by joining the Gold Star Family trip to northern Iraq in 2006, further demonstrating his unwavering support for our armed forces and their families.
As Chairman and co-founder of Troopathon, Howard Kaloogian plays a pivotal role in leading the organization's efforts to provide assistance and show gratitude to the men and women in uniform who serve our nation. His commitment to the cause is a testament to his enduring dedication to our troops and the mission of Troopathon.

Treasurer / Secretary
Richard Hannaford is a dedicated member of the Troopathon board and a survivor of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. On that fateful day, he was in Tower 2 of the World Trade Center and experienced firsthand the devastation and loss caused by the terrorist attacks. Having emerged from the ashes of that day, Richard holds a deep and unwavering belief that our troops are the first line of defense against the recurrence of such a tragedy. He understands that their tireless dedication and sacrifices are what prevent another 9/11 from happening. The indescribable events he witnessed on that day have left an enduring impact, leaving him with a profound appreciation for the vital role played by our military in safeguarding our nation.
As the Treasurer/Secretary of the board, Richard draws on his years of experience working in the financial sector in New Your City to help guide Troopathon with our finances and budget ensuring that we maximize every dollar donated. One of Richard's significant contributions to Troopathon is his instrumental role in launching the annual Packathon event. This event commemorates the tragic events of 9/11 and ensures that future generations will understand the events of that day and the critical role our troops play in preserving our nation's security. Richard Hannaford's commitment to Troopathon and his passion for supporting our troops stems from his personal experience on 9/11 and his unwavering belief in their mission to protect our nation.

Board Member
Michael A. Nichols has dedicated his life to serving his country and supporting veterans and military families. Growing up in a small town, Michael was influenced by the close-knit community and the local Draft Board, where the mothers of boys he grew up with held influential roles. Their involvement played a significant role in shaping his decision to join the military.
Inspired by the sense of duty instilled by his community, Michael left college to join the military, receiving his draft notice in late December 1969. He reported for induction at the Oakland Army Depot in January 1970 and was sworn into the U.S. Army.
Deployed to Vietnam from 1970 to 1971, Michael served with Delta Company 5/46 198 second platoon in Chu Lai. His experiences in the jungles of I Corp shaped his understanding of sacrifice and camaraderie, and he celebrated his 21st birthday alongside his fellow soldiers in the field.
After his military service, Michael embarked on a successful career with UPS, serving 12 years as a driver and 18 years in management. However, his commitment to supporting veterans remained unwavering. Introduced to the needs of veterans through his brother-in-law, Michael became deeply involved in Stand Down events, eventually serving as President of the Yuba-Sutter Stand Down, which grew to become the third-largest in the state.
Beyond Stand Downs, Michael's dedication to serving military communities led him to various initiatives, including Cast for Kids and organizing food giveaways for those in need. He has been a key coordinator for Troopathon's care package program for over a decade, ensuring that military families receive the support they deserve.
Michael A. Nichols's selfless dedication to his country and fellow veterans makes him an invaluable addition to the Troopathon board of directors. His leadership and passion for serving others will undoubtedly contribute to the organization's continued success in honoring and supporting our nation's heroes. Troopathon is honored to have Michael on its board, knowing that his tireless efforts will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who serve.

Our Dedicated Staff

The Heart of Our Organization

Executive Director
Shawn Callahan serves Executive Director of Troopathon and is a dedicated husband and father. With a passion for giving back to those who serve, Shawn has long been a supporter of troops and brings a wealth of knowledge to our organization. Under his leadership, Troopathon has experienced substantial growth and continues to strive towards even greater success.
As Executive Director, Shawn is committed to upholding the founding principles of the organization, ensuring that the brave men and women serving on the front lines are never forgotten. His tireless efforts have helped to raise awareness and funds for military families, providing them with the support and resources they need to thrive. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by military families, Shawn is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in their lives.
Outside of his work with Troopathon, Shawn is a paddle board enthusiast and devotes his time to his wife and two children. His love for his family and his country is evident in all that he does, and his unwavering commitment to supporting our troops is an inspiration to us all.

Director of Troop Support
Lisa Baron is an integral member of the Troopathon team, serving as Director of Troop Support and playing a key role in our organization’s success. In her capacity, Lisa oversees our Monthly Smiles Program and Corporate Support Program, ensuring that our troops receive the care and support they deserve. As editor-in-chief of our Monthly Newsletter, Lisa is responsible for keeping our supporters informed and engaged with our work.
With nearly 40 years of experience in advertising, public relations, marketing, and publishing, Lisa is well-equipped to handle the many challenges that come with supporting our troops. Her dedication to this cause is deeply personal, as she comes from a military family herself – her father served as a WWII Marine, and her husband is a retired U.S. Coast Guard Chief.
Lisa’s commitment to supporting our troops has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous unit commendations and was even nominated for and received a Certificate of Appreciation from the United States Army Freedom Team Salute Program for her unwavering support of Soldiers fighting the Global War on Terrorism.
A graduate of the prestigious E. W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University, Lisa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism. Her education and experience make her an invaluable asset to our team, and we are grateful for her dedication to our mission of troop support.

Communications Director
Danny Gonzalez is a vital member of the Troopathon team, having been with the organization since its inception. As our Communications Director, he is responsible for overseeing our website, email communications, media requests, and coordinating pro-troop rallies and events that support our troops.
Danny’s dedication to the mission of Troopathon is evident in his willingness to travel to Iraq and Guantanamo Bay in 2007 and 2008, respectively, to document the group’s findings and provide support to our troops.
With a bachelor’s degree in political science and extensive experience working with military supporters across the nation, Danny brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our organization. His tireless efforts and commitment to our troops and veterans are a testament to his character and make him an invaluable asset to our team.
Danny’s contributions to Troopathon are immeasurable, and we are grateful to have him as a part of our organization. His hard work and dedication help ensure that our troops and veterans receive the support and resources they need and deserve.

Director of Outreach
Scott Raab is a dedicated and experienced professional who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team at Troopathon. As a service-connected OEF/OIF veteran, Scott served for five years as an intelligence analyst in the United States Navy, gaining valuable experience in military intelligence and strategy.
In his role as Director of Outreach, Scott is a primary contact and liaison for military members, their families, veterans, volunteer and any military supporters who use Troopathon as a resource. He is well-versed in the challenges and issues facing military personnel and veterans and is committed to providing the support and resources they need to succeed.
In 2006, Scott deployed to the Persian Gulf with the U.S.S. Ronald Reagan strike group aboard the guided missile destroyer, U.S.S. Decatur (DDG – 73). He was honorably discharged after fulfilling his 5-year enlistment. Scott’s real-world experience and understanding of military intelligence, strategy, and concepts in relation to the Global War on Terror make him an invaluable resource for those we support.
Scott is deeply committed to serving our nation’s military and veterans, and his dedication is evident in all that he does. He understands the importance of care packages and personally ensures that every care package sent by Troopathon is worthy of being sent to our nation’s heroes. His unwavering commitment to supporting our troops and veterans makes him an invaluable asset to our organization, and we are proud to have him on our team.