Pierre Koshakji

co-founder and Chairman of the board

Pierre Koshakji, co-founder of Apollo Development and experienced executive in the energy sector, is Co-Founder and Chair of the Authentic Leadership Foundation. With degrees in engineering and business from Vanderbilt University and Southern Methodist University respectively, his leadership extends beyond corporate reorganization to promoting character-based leadership. Through his work with ALF, Pierre is committed to advancing leadership programs that emphasize principled decision-making practices in business, educational institutions, and nonprofits, leveraging his vast experience to foster authentic leadership across various sectors.

Darren Smith

co-founder and board member

Darren Smith, Chief Unlearning Officer at Cima Strategic Services and Co-Founder of the Authentic Leadership Foundation, embodies a unique leadership philosophy focused on fostering authentic leadership and community within organizations. A native Texan and graduate of Dallas Jesuit and Texas A&M University, Darren's extensive global experience includes leading 100 strategy programs across 35 countries. Through developing the Authentic Leadership Loop, he aims to establish a common language and seamless accountability, overcoming the primary challenge of building a committed community: the lack of connection. 

Will Hodges

board member

Will Hodges, President of Cadence McShane Construction Company, brings a wealth of experience in general contracting and construction management to the Authentic Leadership Foundation. Will's expertise spans various sectors, including commercial real estate, healthcare, and education. Renowned for his commitment to excellence and community service, Will is Chair of the AJ and Nona Trigg Hodges Foundation and former Board Member of the Dallas Arboretum. His passion for building not just structures, but also teams and relationships, underscores his role on the board.

Jim Schwab

board member

Jim Schwab is an entrepreneurial executive with more than 30 years of leadership in private equity, logistics, manufacturing, telecommunications, and public service. A Harvard Business School MBA and U.S. Naval Academy graduate, he currently serves as Private Equity investor and Operator with CrimStone Partners. Jim’s career reflects a blend of disciplined leadership, strategic growth expertise, and a commitment to driving operational excellence across both private and public sectors.

Sally Smith

treasurer and board member

Sally Smith, is treasurer of  Authentic Leadership Foundation. With a BBA in Finance from the University of Notre Dame and progress towards her CFA, Sally has experience in strategic development, M&A, and financial analysis across various industries in Dallas, Texas. Married to Darren Smith, they share a commitment to fostering authentic leadership and have five children together. 

David Bender

Partner, Haynes and boone llp

David P. Bender, Jr. is a partner at Haynes Boone in the Litigation Practice Group, specializing in insurance recovery and risk management. He has extensive experience in state, federal, and international arbitration. David frequently presents on insurance and risk topics and is dedicated to pro bono work focused on religious liberty, veterans, and individuals with special needs. 

Dr. Warren von Eschenbach

President, the University of North Texas at Dallas

An ethicist and philosopher, Dr. Warren von Eschenbach previously led global programs at the University of Notre Dame and co-founded the Notre Dame Technology Ethics Center. His work focuses on technology ethics, academic innovation, and international collaboration, reflecting a career dedicated to advancing education and leadership grounded in moral and intellectual integrity.

Vincent Higgins

CEO, RuggedEdge

Vincent Higgins is a globally recognized technology executive, keynote speaker, and author with deep expertise in AI, digital transformation, and leadership development. Currently CEO of RuggedEdge, an industrial AI company, he has led global business units at Honeywell and served as president of a NASDAQ-listed firm. Vincent’s career spans five countries, start-up ventures, and two decades of executive training. 

Jeff Lovejoy

Chief Relationship Officer, LAM Technology

Jeff Lovejoy helps enterprise clients optimize strategic technology partnerships. With over 25 years in leadership roles at firms like T-Mobile and XO Communications, he blends insight, strategy, and execution to deliver measurable results. A Virginia Tech graduate and author, Jeff is known for his relational approach to sales leadership and his commitment to building trust, collaboration, and long-term success.

Gregory L. Novinski

Assistant Headmaster, Cistercian Preparatory School

Gregory Novinski is Assistant Headmaster at Cistercian Preparatory School, where he brings decades of experience in Catholic education, faculty leadership, and student formation. A graduate of the University of Dallas, he has served in teaching, administrative, and mentoring roles that reflect his deep commitment to intellectual and spiritual growth. 

Matthew Vereecke

CEO, Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation

Matthew Vereecke is CEO of the Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to suicide and depression awareness, prevention, and education. Previously Matthew was Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Dallas, where he oversaw 37 schools and directed a significant staff and student body.

St. Catherine of Siena

honorary advisory board member