who we are

leadership

Meet the team behind Uncommon Grit SEAL Foundation.

Board of Directors

 

DARREN MCBURNETT “MCB,” US NAVY SEAL, RET.

Co-Founder and Vice President. McB is the frontman of the foundation, drawing on his 24 years of experience as a Navy SEAL, along with his network of connections through fundraising and public speaking, to spread awareness and bring new support to Uncommon Grit Foundation. Learn more about McB at dmcburnett.com.

KIM MCBURNETT

Co-Founder and President. Kim does much of the daily work for Uncommon Grit Foundation—event planning, sponsor relations, outgoing grants, communication, branding, and accounting. Her background is in design, but she’s been a business owner since 2004 and loves being involved in all aspects of running the foundation.

 
 

RAMONA MILLER

Director. Ramona brings experience from her careers in both military service and executive healthcare leadership. She served as the president and chief operating officer at Ascension Medical Group, where she was instrumental in advancing patient care and operational excellence. A proud veteran, she retired as a Chief Master Sergeant, exemplifying dedication and leadership throughout her military tenure. Now retired, Ramona continues to contribute her knowledge and strategic insight to the foundation. Her unique background in nursing, military service, and executive leadership provides invaluable perspective, ensuring the foundation remains grounded and mission-focused.

Jason Fowler

Director. Physician assistant and entrepreneur driven by a deep sense of patriotism and respect for our nation's warriors. Jason’s background in event planning and fundraising are helping Uncommon Grit Foundation to expand its reach and garner new support.

 
 

John wingfield

Director. Director of commercial lending at United Federal Credit Union in South Bend, Indiana. John studied history at Indiana University before joining the U.S. Coast Guard where he spent 10 years as a coxswain, doing search and rescue and law enforcement. He is an avid historian and collector, focusing on Global War on Terror. His network of veterans expands the foundation’s visibility and exposure to veteran needs, while his business and banking experience helps the foundation navigate the intricacies of operating as a not-for-profit. 

JC Ledbetter

Director. 20-year Naval Special Warfare Boat Operator with over 20,000 skydives. JC has five operational deployments overseas and is the most accomplished parachutist the Navy has produced. He was the COO of the Navy Parachute School for more than 14 years, where he was responsible for training over 7,000 Navy SEALS, SWCC, and EOD operators. He holds several world records and is a member of a world-class demonstration skydiving team of military veterans who perform nationwide for legendary organizations like the NFL, MLB, MLS, professional racing events, and LIV GOLF. He has been in several movies and TV shows and has a resume unmatched by anyone.

 
 

Jamie Morey

Director. Senior manager of treasury at Spectrum Control, Inc. and OEF Veteran (Army). With more than 15 years of corporate finance experience, and a deeply rooted family of veterans, Jamie leverages both community and industry relationships in support of Uncommon Grit Foundation's growth.

Mary Lou Gelzinis

Director. Financial controller of the Erie City Public School District. With over 25 years of financial experience ranging from public accounting to private, Mary Lou has worked in sectors such as manufacturing and education. She has a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve those who served for us and our every day freedoms.

 

Ambassadors

 

Michael “Happy” Cascioli

Ambassador. Mike spent 15 years in the classroom as a public school educator. He followed that with 15 more years in the business world managing multibillion-dollar operations. Coming from a military family, he has a strong, deep sense of patriotism as well as a call to service for his community. Mike is a proficient golfer, competing successfully in the Florida and National Senior Games. Mike’s business acumen as well as extensive fundraising experience is being utilized to advance Uncommon Grit Foundation to new levels.

Brian Oleary

Ambassador. Brian brings a strong commitment to supporting veterans and active-duty service members through his work with the organization. With a background in leadership, community outreach, and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by our military, Brian plays a vital role in advancing Uncommon Grit Foundation’s mission. His dedication ensures that programs and resources reach those who need them most, fostering a culture of respect, support, and empowerment for the military community.