Board of Directors

Marc Banghart, PhD

Founder & Executive Director

Technology leader and history enthusiast who founded Heritage Data Labs to solve the practical challenge of making massive archives of degraded historical records searchable at scale. Passionate about the intersection of AI and heritage preservation.

Matthew Poe

Board Member

Retired Chief Data Officer and Director of Data & Analytics at the Defense Technical Information Center, where he led a team of data scientists applying AI/ML to improve DoD science and technology collections. A 22-year Army veteran and former CIO for the Office of Naval Research, Matt brings deep expertise in data engineering, knowledge management, and C4ISR systems to Heritage Data Labs.

Brandy Cline

Board Member

A transformation leader who builds clear, human-centered systems that help organizations work with intention and consistency, with experience spanning talent strategy, large-scale program delivery, and multi-year planning. Known for bringing structure to ambiguity, Brandy has led cross-functional efforts, facilitated executive-level strategic planning, and created frameworks that turn scattered information into practical tools and shared narratives. She brings deep expertise in strategic planning, program delivery, and helping teams connect their work to a larger purpose.

Kirsten Wach

Board Member

A talent and recruiting leader who connects highly-trained cleared professionals — engineers, aircrew, and technical experts — to mission-critical roles that align with their goals and values, both stateside and abroad. An award-winning recruiter recognized among the top performers companywide, Kirsten has been honored with a 2022 "Significant Impact" Award and helped earn her team a regional "Office of the Year" distinction. She brings deep expertise in talent acquisition, professional networking, and connecting skilled people to meaningful work.

Shandon Jessup

Board Member

A Navy veteran whose connection to this community comes from lived experience, understanding firsthand how important it is to feel seen, supported, and understood both during and after service. Shandon cares deeply about creating spaces where veterans feel valued and connected, and is committed to giving back in a way that is real, compassionate, and meaningful. She brings deep expertise in veteran advocacy, community building, and peer support.