Board Members

Mr. Douglas Jones is the founder and President of the Men of Honor Foundation Inc. As a native of Upper Marlboro Maryland, he is a successful recipient of Prince George's County Public School education, graduating from Suitland High School. He holds a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Military Science from Saint Augustine's University (Saint Aug) where he received a scholarship for baseball.  

During his time at Saint Augustine's, he enrolled in the Army ROTC, graduating as the top recruit.  He then commissioned in the Army as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Field Artillery Corps, rising to the Rank of Captain. After serving eight years in the Army, Mr. Jones returned to Upper Marlboro Maryland and began coaching baseball for Upper Marlboro Boys and Girls Club. It was at this time,  Mr. Jones discovered a serious need for local mentorship programs to help the youth of P.G. County Maryland. In July of 2022, he founded the Men of Honor Foundation for the purposes of instilling positive qualities in young men of the community. In his professional capacity, he serves as the Chief of the Supply and Services Division of the Logistics Readiness Center- Ft. Belvoir.

Mr. Thomas (TJ) Appleby is a Principal Advisor of the Men of Honor Foundation Inc. As a native of Upper Marlboro Maryland, he is a proud product of the Prince George's County Public School system, graduating from Suitland High School in 2002. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 2004 in the field of Aviation. 

While serving in the Navy, he grew a passion for analysis, writing, and public speaking and transitioned into the Intelligence field. Moreover, he has a deep passion for coaching young youth on the elegance of diction and how to clearly and properly convey one's thoughts. Furthermore, Mr. Appleby enjoys helping people in our community with their ability to write efficiently and effectively. 

In his usual vocation, Mr. Appleby serves as Chief Warrant Officer in the Navy Reserves and a Senior Intelligence Analyst for the Department of the Navy. Additionally, he is a dedicated member of John F. Cook Lodge #10, under the jurisdiction of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. He is married to his lovely wife Orien and father of two daughters. 

Christmas is a retired military officer and the CFO for Men of Honor Foundation. She hails from Houston, TX and holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from The United States Military Academy at West Point. She is skilled in cash flow management, risk analysis, and budgeting and is responsible for educating team members on the financial weight of various decisions. Christmas is a proud wife and mother who believes “a better tomorrow starts with what we do today.” She has, therefore, devoted her life to making a meaningful impact in her home and local community with a personal goal of uplifting and empowering youth to become critical thinkers prepared to lead their families, churches, communities, and eventually, the country with the utmost character. Christmas’s hobbies include cycling, cooking and sewing. 

Ms. Keyara Thomas is a dedicated educator with a deep-rooted commitment to fostering the growth and development of the next generation. Born and raised in Lothian, Maryland, she has embarked on a lifelong journey to inspire, educate, and empower young minds.

Her academic journey commenced at Bowie State University, where she acquired a Bachelor's Degree in Child and Adolescent Studies. This foundational experience ignited her passion for understanding the complexities of youth development, setting the stage for a fulfilling career in education.  With over 12 years of classroom experience, Ms. Thomas has honed her skills as an educator who is driven by a profound passion to inspire and guide the youth rather than simply imparting knowledge. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she proudly serves as a mentor coach for Girls on the Run. In this role, Ms. Thomas prepares our youth for their educational journeys, encouraging them to explore new horizons and persevere in the face of challenges. Beyond traditional education, she has had the privilege of supervising a private speech therapy practice.

Mr. Marcus Spriggs is a native of Suitland Maryland and a successful product of the Prince George's County Public School system, graduating from Suitland High School in 2009. He holds a bachelor's degree in History with a minor in Military Science from Saint Augustine's University where he was involved in various productive activities on campus. 

During his time at Saint Augustine, he enrolled in the Army ROTC. He then commissioned in the Army as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Signal Corps. After completing his tour in the Army, Mr. Spriggs returned to Suitland Maryland and began teaching History and HVAC at his old high school, Suitland High. During his time as a History and HVAC instructor, Mr. Spriggs grew a deep passion for black male youth and their ability to become successful members of society. He sees a lack in young youth learning trades and finding productive ways to spend their time. In his professional capacity, he serves as a HVAC Professor at Miller-Mott College and the New Jersey Apprenticeship Fund. He is a husband and father of four children and dedicated mentor in his community.