CLIFF RICHARDS
PRESIDENT/CEO & CO-FOUNDER
Cliff Richards, born and raised in Augusta, Ga., has made significant contributions to the aviation and non-profit sectors. In 1988, he founded Flightline Services, Inc., an on-site military aircraft restoration company to support U.S. Air Force museums across the US. In 2006 an exclusive collaboration with the U.S. Air Force Museum Program led to receiving the prestigious commission from the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, to meticulously restore the Reagan Air Force One aircraft and the iconic Marine One helicopter.
As a result of being in long-term recovery, in 2007 he assumed the role of President/CEO of The Hale Foundation, a local 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation providing a residential substance use disorder program. His diverse background and capacity to adapt and modify in the ever-changing landscape of military aviation contracting, proved to be the key quality in transitioning to the substance abuse treatment field. His duties include day-to-day operations with a primary focus on business development, organizational growth, and fundraising.
In 2020, became a part of the peer support team for the Georgia Office of Public Safety Support (OPSS). OPSS provides support to officers and first responders that are struggling with suicide ideation, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders due to critical or traumatic events.
ANDY CARRIER, LCSW, MSW, MPA
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER & CO-FOUNDER
Andrew (Andy) Carrier served with the Georgia State Patrol for 31 years, retiring as a Captain and Director of the Office of Public Safety Support at Headquarters, Atlanta. He also served as the state’s crisis/hostage negotiations commander for over ten years. Prior to his career with GSP, he began his law enforcement journey in 1987 with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, serving there for over two years. After earning a master’s in clinical social work, he attained licensure as a licensed master social worker, then later, as a licensed clinical/independent social worker in the states of Georgia, South Carolina, and New York, where he assists members of the public safety community involved in traumatic incidents. He has assisted first responders to the school/mass shootings at Columbine, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook, and most recently, in Uvalde, Texas in the aftermath of the Robb Elementary School Shooting. In 2019, he was appointed by Governor Brian Kemp to the Composite Board of Social Workers, Professional Counselors, and Marriage and Family Therapists. Andy holds a master’s in social work, a master’s in public administration, and a BS in criminal justice. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Session 245, and the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College at Columbus State University. Andy has been a POST certified Firearms, Emergency Vehicle Operations, and Defensive Tactics Instructor for over 25 years. He has served as clinical director at the three day Post Critical Incident Seminar (PCIS) in Georgia, South Carolina, Louisiana, and California. He is published in the Washington Examiner, the FBI National Academy Associates Magazine, the International Chiefs of Police (IACP) Police Chief Magazine, and other publications. He has also presented on various topics around the United States, Canada, and most recently, at the World Police Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Andy resides in Evans, Georgia.
JIM BANISH
VICE PRESIDENT & CO-FOUNDER
NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF TRAINING AND PUBLIC SAFETY RELATIONS
Founder and President New York Law Enforcement Assistance Program (NYLEAP)
Jim has served 25 years as a patrol officer, working in many different roles along the way when in 2008, his life and career took on a whole new path. Jim’s older brother, Lt. Joseph Banish of the New York State Police, took his life on April 1st. After Joseph’s death, Jim's life became very tumultuous, he was suffering from deep depression and PTSD, directly related to the trauma he had experienced as a career Law Enforcement Officer. Fortunately, Jim was able to get the help he needed but discovered that this was a problem within law enforcement ranks, nationwide. His newfound passion grew not just helping local Officers but helping Officers throughout the country and assisted the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services with educating others and assisting in teaching a class called TRAUMA all over the State of New York.
Jim is Founder and President of The New York Law Enforcement Assistance Program (NYLEAP) a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation created to educate and assist law enforcement agencies all over the state of New York and beyond. NYLEAP is working in conjunction with other states and will continue to bring assistance and awareness to prevent law enforcement suicides and provide a better quality of life to law enforcement officers and their families.
MATTHEW CARPENTER, PHD
VICE PRESIDENT & CO-FOUNDER
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Dr. Matthew Carpenter was police officer for 20 years. He started his career with the NYPD at the 46th Precinct in the Bronx. Matt then transferred Upstate to the Rochester Police Department (NY) for the remainder of his career. He holds several police training certifications and multiple police service awards.
As Vice President of the New York Law Enforcement Assistance Program (NYLEAP), Matt has been helping to lead the efforts to provide confidential peer, CISM, and mental health services for all first responders, emergency service workers, and military veterans. Matt received a Ph.D. with a concentration in Behavioral Science from Nova Southeastern University (FL), where he conducted research on the risk factors and precursors to police suicide. This topic is close to his heart and his mission. Matt has a master's degree from Keuka College (NY) and a bachelor's degree from SUNY Brockport.
Matt also leverages his expertise and passion for first responder mental health and wellness in various roles and capacities. Matt is a Care Management Team member for Serve & Protect, another nonprofit organization that offers referrals and vetting of culturally competent mental health clinicians for first responders. Additionally, he retired as the Resilience Officer at the Rochester Police Department (NY) Officer Wellness Unit, he is a LivingWorks ASIST Trainer for suicide intervention, and is also an Assistant Professor at Monroe Community College (NY). Through these roles, Matt has contributed to developing and implementing policies, programs, and training that promote officer wellness and resilience. Matt is published and cited in peer-reviewed journals.
Kristy Ledford, MA, LPC, CTP
CLINICAL DIRECTOR
As a professional counselor and certified trauma professional, Kristy is deeply committed to providing specialized, evidence-based care that addresses the unique challenges faced by law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders.
A graduate of Liberty University with a master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling, Kristy brings extensive experience in trauma-informed care, addiction recovery, and mental health treatment. She previously worked in community mental health, providing outpatient substance use treatment, and later in private practice, specializing in trauma and addiction. In 2022, Kristy was awarded the Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) for Addiction Counseling through NBCC and NAADAC, completing a year-long fellowship with intensive training focused on trauma and addiction in marginalized and underserved communities. This experience reinforced her passion for addressing the complex interplay between trauma, substance use, and mental health recovery.
Driven by a deep passion for healing and a firm belief in the power of recovery, Kristy is dedicated to fostering a safe and compassionate environment where first responders can process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and reclaim their well-being. With a commitment to evidence-based interventions and a deep respect for the first responder community, Kristy is honored to walk alongside these heroes on their path to recovery. At Valor Station, she is proud to be part of a mission that prioritizes the mental health and well-being of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
Thomas Coghlan, PSY.D
CLINICAL CONSULTANT
Tom Coghlan is a retired NYPD Detective and a clinical psychologist specialized in the treatment and assessment of law enforcement and other public safety positions. Dr. Coghlan is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association (Div. 18), a Past Visiting Fellow of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and a member of the Professional Advisory Board to the National Fraternal Order of Police Office of Wellness Services. Dr. Coghlan received a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College, CUNY, a Doctor of Psychology in clinical psychology from Yeshiva University, Ferkauf Graduate School, and a post-doctoral certificate in Forensic Psychology from St. John’s University.
Jennifer Sharpe, MA, RN, BSN, APC
Clinician
Jennifer Sharpe is an Associate Professional Counselor dedicated to supporting first responders through evidence-based therapeutic practices. Holding a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, she brings a unique blend of clinical competence and trauma-informed care to her work.
With a background as a registered nurse (RN, BSN), Jennifer integrates medical and psychological knowledge to provide holistic, person-centered care. She holds certificates in Narrative-Focused Trauma Care through The Allender Center, which is led by Dr. Dan Allender, a pioneer of a unique and innovative approach to trauma and abuse therapy. Her approach prioritizes the power of storytelling, resilience-building, and deep healing.
Jennifer has a growing understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders, including the psychological and emotional toll of high-stress, high-risk environments. She is committed to creating a safe, supportive space where first responders can process trauma, foster emotional well-being, and build long-term resilience.
Currently working toward full licensure as a professional counselor, Jennifer is dedicated to walking alongside those who serve their communities, offering compassionate and effective mental health support.
JULIE CARPENTER
INTAKE COORDINATOR
Treasurer at New York Law Enforcement Assistance Program (NYLEAP)
Julie was forced to medically retire from the Rochester Police Department (NY) after 17 years due to an on-duty knee injury. She spent her entire career in road patrol, and completed many police specialty trainings and received several police service awards. Julie attended Roberts Wesleyan University (NY) on a track & field scholarship and earned a B.S. in Criminal Justice.
Julie is a certified Personal Trainer through American Council On Exercise with specializations in sports performance and behavioral change. She also holds a national certification as a Clinical Medical Assistant and has successfully completed an accredited Clinical Medical Assistant Program. Julie is currently the treasurer and merchandise manager for the New York Law Enforcement Assistant Program (NYLEAP). She regularly attends Post Critical Incident Seminars held through NYLEAP and assists in any way possible.
MARSHALL BROWN
DIRECTOR OF CIVIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Marshall recently concluded his career as Vice President of Investments at Stifel Nicholaus, Inc., marking an impressive 50-year journey in the field of banking and investment. Over the years, Marshall's professional expertise extended to serving on the Board of Directors for numerous esteemed organizations. However, his true passion lies with The Hale Foundation, an organization he has dedicated his time to as a board member since its establishment in 1990.
Since 1982, Marshall has proudly called Augusta his home. During his leisure time, he finds joy in pursuits such as golfing, hunting, and fishing, particularly along the scenic coast of South Carolina. Alongside his beloved wife, Dianne, Marshall cherishes their family, which includes their daughter, Mary Ashton Mills, and two grandchildren.
Deeply ingrained in their community, Marshall and Dianne actively engage as valued members of Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church, assuming leadership roles within the congregation.
Marshall currently serves on the Board of Directors of Valor Station-Augusta, Inc