Nathan L. Copeland, Jr. ’85 has served in the defense and intelligence industry for nearly four decades. Today, he is the owner of , which he formed to assist organizations in addressing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging challenges and opportunities for growth. As a speaker and facilitator, Copeland “NCourages” organizations and teams, through consultation and tailored engagement, to lean into their “discomfort zones,” embrace differences and enhance corporate culture.
During his time in the defense and intelligence industry, Copeland served as the vice president of the (which was acquired by ANSER in 2021) from 2021 to 2023. In this role, he led a portfolio business providing systems engineering and integration, program management, intelligence operations, and training support to defense, intelligence, and other federal clients. Prior to the acquisition, Copeland served as InTec’s president, from 2012 to 2021, where he set strategy, developed and maintained the brand of the company, and drove continued growth and double-digit profits. Some other roles Copeland has held previously were senior director at , from 2011 to 2012 and principal at , from 1992 to 2011.
“The most rewarding experiences in my career continue to be empowering my differing teams to thrive,” said Copeland. “I’ve prided myself on being an inclusive executive who enjoys building and leading high-performing teams while championing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.”
After graduating from Shenandoah in 1985, Copeland joined the where he served in various assignments, ending his Air Force service as a Captain. One of his most rewarding experiences was serving as the Chief of Imagery Intelligence at Headquarters, United States Central Command, during Operation Desert Storm in 1992.
While at Shenandoah, Copeland was able to “dip his toe into leadership.” During his time as an undergrad, he worked with the Dean of Students and the Winchester Chapter of to form and lead Shenandoah’s chapter of Circle K. He also started the first chapter of Chi Beta Phi, a Science Honorary Society, where he eventually served as the national vice president.
“Attendance at Shenandoah is MORE than getting a degree. Use the opportunity to truly grow as a citizen,” said Copeland.
As a member of the Shenandoah Alumni Association Board of Directors, Copeland is ready to “give back to the place where it all started” and is “hopeful to have the opportunity to influence the future leaders coming out of the institution.”
Copeland and wife, Sherri, reside in Manassas, Virginia. Their daughters, Brianna and Kayla, both graduates of James Madison University, reside in Harrisonburg, Virginia.