Event Chairs
Mandy & Karl Alzner
Mandy and Karl Alzner are the founders of The Alzner Foundation, an organization committed to building stronger communities by empowering youth sports programs across the DMV with the funding, resources, and visibility needed to increase access, equity, and impact. After more than 15 years of community involvement and philanthropy, Mandy and Karl launched their own nonprofit to formalize and expand the work they had long been doing together. Karl, a former professional hockey player for the Washington Capitals, now channels his teamwork and leadership experience into creating opportunities for young athletes. Mandy, a plant-based chef and dedicated advocate for youth and family wellness, has been deeply involved in charitable initiatives throughout Karl’s career and beyond. Together, they are passionate about strengthening communities, supporting young athletes, and helping create pathways for all children to thrive.
Brandi & Braden Holtby
Brandi and Braden Holtby are husband and wife known for Braden Holtby's career as an NHL goaltender and the couple's activism. They are married with two children and are advocates for social justice, having supported causes like Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ rights, and participating in events like the Capital Pride Parade. A professional NHL goaltender who played for the Washington Capitals, Vancouver Canucks, and Dallas Stars. He won the Vezina Trophy in 2016 and the Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2018.
Kristin & Chip Burkhalter
Kristin and Chip Burkhalter are known for their advocacy and leadership in raising funds for research into tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder that affects their son, Bear. They co-chair the 50 Forward Fund, the TSC Alliance's largest research initiative. Outside of their advocacy, Chip Burkhalter is the Head of Government Relations at Shield AI, a company that develops autonomous systems for defense. He has a background in government relations and intelligence, with previous roles at Palantir and other financial institutions. Kristin Burkhalter is an EVP at Axios, where she oversees Axios Live. She was also a Division 1 athlete at Duke University and is cofounder of Stars Lacrosse club.
Tali & Michael Cohen
Michael Cohen is a Principal at Lerner Enterprises, where he leads investment efforts across the organization. His work includes sourcing new opportunities, managing a diverse portfolio, and helping shape long-term strategy for one of the region’s most established private companies. In addition to his work on the real estate and investment side, Michael is actively involved with the Washington Nationals, contributing to the team’s broader vision and direction. He is also committed to supporting community initiatives across the Washington area, including the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy. His wife, Tali Cohen, is the founder of Jones Street Travel, which offers a personalized approach to luxury travel, creating custom experiences tailored to your every need. Her boutique agency in Washington, DC, is built of a team of seasoned professionals who are passionate about curating itineraries that reflect your style and preferences, with seamless, end-to-end service. Tali began her career in travel after 10 years in finance and entrepreneurship.
Host Committee
Sevil Altinsoy
Leslie Baird
Virginia and Jed Barry
Katherine Kallinis Berman
Jennifer Butler
Asfa & Zahid Butt
Jen Carson
Sandy Davis
Michelle Dawson
Stacy & Mark Ehrlich
Carol & Dale Ellickson *
Kim & Todd Howard
Azali Kassum
Jeanne Keller
Stephanie & Jon Kunkle
Sophie Kallinis LaMontagne
Laura Evans Manatos & Mike Manatos
Dr. Despina Markogiannakis
Tommy McFly
Victoria Lion Monroe
Risa Morrison
Danielle Naeve
Jyothi Raghavan & Ram Ramachandran *
Nitin Ramachandran **
Lindley Thornburg Richardson & Joe Richardson
Pamela Rothka
Kristen Salmon
Tammy & Paul Schmidt
*Wish Family
** Wish Alum