The board is Civil Air Patrol’s highest governing body. It establishes strategic to guide the nationwide volunteer force as it carries out missions in emergency services, youth development, and aerospace education.
Nationwide, and abroad, Civil Air Patrol volunteers assist with search and rescue operations, support disaster response efforts, teach leadership and develop youth, and provide aerospace education programs in schools and communities.
The board also oversees the organization’s long-term direction and helps ensure Civil Air Patrol remains aligned with national needs and its partnerships.
Governance structure
The Board of Governors includes 11 members drawn from three groups that reflect Civil Air Patrol’s unique relationship with the Air Force and the broader national community.
Four members are appointed by the Secretary of the Air Force. Four are Civil Air Patrol members selected from within the organization. Three are leaders from industry, government, and education jointly appointed by CAP and the Air Force.
Together, the group provides strategic oversight for the nationwide volunteer organization.
Board leadership
The Board of Governors is chaired by Lt. Gen. Kirk Pierce, U.S. Air Force (Ret.).
Serving as vice chair is Col. Rajesh Kothari of Civil Air Patrol, who works alongside the chair to guide the board’s responsibilities and strategic priorities.
Latest members to join board
Two of the board’s newest members bring extensive operational leadership experience.
Brig. Gen. Matthew French, U.S. Air Force, recently joined the board as one of the Air Force-appointed members.
Also joining the board is Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), former commander of U.S. Transportation Command and Air Mobility Command.
Their appointments add senior operational leadership experience to the body responsible for guiding Civil Air Patrol’s strategic direction.
Supporting CAP’s national mission
While Civil Air Patrol’s missions are carried out by volunteers in communities across the country, the Board of Governors provides the strategic oversight that helps ensure the organization remains ready to support the nation.
Its mix of Air Force leaders, Civil Air Patrol members and outside professionals from industry, government and education helps align the organization’s volunteer service with the needs of the communities CAP serves.
