The Doughboy Foundation Elects Three New Board Members
Published: 23 October 2025
By Doughboy Foundation Staff
Foundation logo framed
The Doughboy Foundation (DBF), the non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of World War I, is pleased to announce the election of three new members to its Board of Directors: Michael Basile, Emily Schell, and James Theres. The appointments were unanimously approved at the Foundation’s Board of Directors meeting on September 11, 2025.
“We are thrilled to welcome Michael, Emily, and Jim to the Board,” said Denise VanBuren, Chair, Doughboy Foundation. “Each brings a unique and invaluable set of skills, experience, and deep dedication to service that will be critical as the Foundation expands its reach and educational mission. Their expertise in law, fundraising, communications, and veteran affairs will significantly strengthen our ability to honor the Doughboys and share the story of World War I with a national audience.”
New Board Member Highlights
-
Michael Basile
Michael Basile is a distinguished former leader of a Global Communications Practice Group, where he focused on transactions, policy advocacy, and regulatory compliance counseling for traditional and new media interests. Recognized as a ‘Super Lawyers’ selectee from 2014-2019 and a BTI Consulting Group Client Service All-Star, among other professional accolades, Mr. Basile brings significant legal, media, and strategic counsel experience. He is also a member of the USO Mid Atlantic Advisory Council.
Emily Schell is a proven fundraising leader with nearly two decades of experience, having provided executive oversight for the successful $50 million campaign to raise resources for the National World War I Memorial in Washington D.C. Ms. Schell’s background includes serving as a key fundraiser on the Pearl Harbor Memorial Fund, Virginia’s American Revolution 250 Commission and providing strategic guidance to organizations like United Way Worldwide. She continues to work on DBF’s ongoing fundraising strategy and implementation.
James Theres (Jim) is a Senior Public Affairs Officer for the National Cemetery Administration (NCA), Department of Veterans Affairs, bringing a wealth of experience and national contacts. His work at the NCA includes managing strategic communications, coordinating critical partnerships with non-profit veteran organizations, and serving as NCA’s speechwriter. An award-winning documentary producer, Mr. Theres will continue to provide his expertise on the ongoing ‘Hello Girls’ project matters.
