Denny Merideth Class Of 1973
Biography
Successful careers in USAF, farming, Missouri Legislature, U.S. State Department, business development, and coaching provide a breadth of understanding across a variety of disciplines and a depth of leadership skills.
Volunteer service as an Academy Liaison Officer, lifetime AOG member, lifetime USAFA Athletic Association member, ten years coordinating Affinity issues with the AOG, SPEA, and USAFA Rugby Head Coach demonstrate a strong commitment to the AOG mission and connections to the Academy. Sponsor of Afghan refugee family.
Board member training, chairmanship, legislative, and joint committee experience developed operational knowledge and practical skills for the conduct of effective boards.
Specific skills: Finance/Accounting - Senior member of Missouri House Budget Committee’s $19 billion budget; planning/budgeting for 5 businesses (newest opens Jan 2025): Executive leadership – Experience as a Commander, President and Managing Partner of Business Corporations, Diplomat, Chargé d'affaires; Marketing – promotion of business through social media, print, video, and outlet marketing.
Elected independent state legislator experience of communicating and making meaningful impact in a divisive environment will be extremely useful as we navigate how to ensure all AOG members have a voice and the AOG makes an impact.
Most significant award is strength of family and children making a difference in the world.
Candidacy Statement
USAFA graduates brilliant, capable officers. It has been my honor to administer the oath and commission to several of them. As a Squadron Professional Advisor and Coach my daily interactions provided an awareness of culture changes accelerating over the last ten years.
During mentoring sessions cadets welcomed opportunities to freely express opinions and share experiences. Unfortunately, at USAFA, they were often stifled, which compelled them to keep silent, simply enduring sessions that should have encouraged open discussions.
The culture at the Academy has changed dramatically. One of my sons is a 2014 grad; one turned down an appointment because of the toxic environment and lack of discipline he observed. Many grads of all classes share frustrations with the Academy’s direction. These are not one-off observations.
The AOG can wield greater influence and make more of an impact. Graduates are engaged throughout the American fabric in business, government, industry, and the military. Many of us are disillusioned with the direction USAFA and the lack of a voice through the AOG. Many have stopped supporting the AOG. The collective voice of members, including dissenting voices, should be presented to USAFA, DOD, and congressional leadership for consideration.
Together we make a difference!