Name: Fernando Garcia
Prior NGAW Position(s): Treasurer (2022), Vice President (2023-present)

Candidate Statement:

I’m excited to submit my self-nomination for President of the National Guard Association of Washington (NGAW). Having served as Treasurer and now as Vice President, I’m committed to this organization and the amazing members who make it what it is.

Through my time as Treasurer and VP, I’ve gained a solid understanding of how NGAW operates—everything from finances to strategic planning to member engagement. These experiences have strengthened my passion for making NGAW a place where members feel supported, connected, and empowered. As President, I’d focus on building on the great work of those before me, growing our reach, and making sure we continue to serve our members in the best way possible.

If elected, my goals would be to:

1. Boost Member Engagement – Create fresh, meaningful programs and events that meet the needs of our members.
2. Grow the Organization – Expand outreach and build strategic partnerships to strengthen NGAW’s impact.
3. Honor NGAW’s Legacy – Continue the great work of past leaders while fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.

I truly believe my leadership experience, organizational skills, and team-focused mindset make me a strong candidate for this role. More than anything, I’m passionate about helping our members succeed, and I’d love the opportunity to lead NGAW into its next chapter.

Thanks for your time and consideration—I’d be honored to serve as President and continue working alongside such a dedicated community.

Name: Jesse Morgan
Prior NGAW Position(s): Legislative Director 2024-present

Candidate Statement:

I would like to continue the momentum and direction of the NGAW by using my organizational health and management background from my civilian career combined with my knowledge gained from my state and national level military experience. I am passionate about empowering people with the tools they need to be wildly successful.

Name: James Kovell
Prior NGAW Position(s): Present Secretary

Candidate Statement:

I’m am running to return as your association Secretary. I was previously the NGAW Secretary from 2019-2023 and took a brief hiatus while stationed out of the state. I resumed duties in August 2024 and have been hard at work serving as the interim Secretary for YOUR guard association!

Name: Jeff Cole
Prior NGAW Position(s): Member

Candidate Statement:

Chaplain (LTC) Jeff Cole direct commissioned into the NC Army National Guard Chaplain Corps in 2010 and ISTd to Washington in 2015. He has been an active minister since 1994 and a licensed CPA since 1995, owning and selling two CPA firms since 2009, serving as CFO and board member of a multi-million dollar international NGO for 17 years, He is currently employed by the premier CPA firm in Seattle serving NGOs. He holds a Masters of Divinity and Masters of Accounting (Forensics), and maintains a CPA licenses in Washington State.