Based in Rockville, MD, AOAC’s dedicated national office staff provide support for AOAC’s programs and activities.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE

David B. Schmidt
Executive Director

Dave was appointed as Executive Director by AOAC INTERNATIONAL’s Board of Directors effective May 1, 2018. Prior to joining AOAC, he was principal consultant for Schmidt Commonwealth Strategies, LLC. From 2006 to 2015, he served as president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the International Food Information Council (IFIC) and CEO of the IFIC Foundation in Washington, DC. He joined IFIC in 1993 and held positions from Director to Executive Vice President prior to being elected CEO. Dave also served as the first Bush administration’s director of external affairs for USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service where he addressed food safety and nutrition issues and managed the inspection agency’s media, legislative, and consumer education programs. He also gained a thorough understanding of the food industry in previous sales positions with Oscar Mayer Foods, Pepsi-Cola USA, and Canada Dry Corp. He holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Vanderbilt University, and completed graduate business studies at the University of New Orleans. He has also served the Town of Leesburg, Virginia, as a town councilmember. Contact Dave at (301) 924-7077 x102.

Jonathan J. Goodwin
Deputy Executive Director and Chief Human Resources Officer

As the Deputy Executive Director and Chief Human Resources Officer, Jonathan is responsible for a number of operational areas. With an education from Syracuse University that included graduate coursework in Human Resources Management and almost 20 years in scientific association management, he came to AOAC INTERNATIONAL in 2015 with a passion for working with staff as well as understanding associations and what makes them “tick.” Jonathan holds certifications from the Human Resources Certification Institute (SPHR) and the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM-SCP). He has also been very active in the Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives (CESSE) since 1999 and recently completed three years on its Board of Directors. When he isn’t at a sporting event with his family, Jonathan volunteers for his church in various capacities. Contact Jonathan at (301) 924-7077 x104.

Katerina Mastovska, PhD
Deputy Executive Director and Chief Science Officer

As Deputy Executive Director and Chief Science Officer, Kate is responsible for leadership of all science programs and projects at AOAC INTERNATIONAL. She joined the AOAC staff in January 2023 but has been a very active member of AOAC INTERNATIONAL since 2004. Kate is a Fellow of AOAC INTERNATIONAL and received the Association’s highest scientific honor, the Harvey W. Wiley Award, in 2021. An expert in the analysis of chemical residues and contaminants in food, she has worked for the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, the US Department of Agriculture, and founded her own independent consulting business, Excellcon International. In 2009, she began her work at Covance Laboratories where her responsibilities grew rapidly. After the acquisition of Covance Food Solutions by Eurofins Scientific, she has most recently served as Chief Scientific Officer, Eurofins US Food Division. Kate holds a Ph.D. in Food Chemistry and Analysis from the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague. Contact Kate at (301) 924-7077 x163.

Pam Coleman
Chief Innovation Officer

Pam is the Chief Innovation Officer at AOAC INTERNATIONAL, where she was an active member for 25 years during her distinguished career of executive leadership in laboratory science services. She is an experienced, successful, and dynamic executive with a strong track record in the testing, inspection, and certification industry spanning both routine food safety/quality program management as well as project-oriented businesses in support of food product innovation. Pam was employed for 28 years by Mérieux NutriSciences (formerly Silliker, Inc), filling numerous increasingly responsible roles including leading first a single laboratory, then a multi-laboratory region, and directing sales and marketing teams. She established the Global Key Accounts program, before being named the Vice President of Research Services and the Managing Director of Biofortis, Inc. Pam was also recognized for her nonprofit leadership at the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), where she served on the board of directors and in the Office of the President from 2018 to 2021. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Greenville University, with graduate studies in chemistry, and completed an MBA from Georgia State University. Contact Pam at (301) 924-7077 x122.

Alicia D. Meiklejohn
Director of Business Development and Governance

Alicia is Director of Business Development and Governance at AOAC INTERNATIONAL. With AOAC since 2006, she has performed several roles and developed a deep interest in the rich history of the Association. Alicia currently works with the Board of Directors and the Executive Director to identify and grow new business opportunities as they relate to the organization’s vision and mission. She also works closely with the Board of Directors in their management of AOAC’s overall governance structure and maintains the historical records of the Association. Her interest in nonprofit management and governance was fostered while earning a B.A. in Political Science at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she was a member of the national political science honor society Pi Sigma Alpha. Contact Alicia at (301) 924-7077 x101.


MEMBERSHIP, MARKETING, AND COMMUNICATIONS

Dawn L. Frazier
Deputy Executive Director, Engagement

Dawn Frazier

Dawn is the Deputy Executive Director, Engagement at AOAC INTERNATIONAL. Her responsibilities include leading and implementing the organization’s engagement strategy, which includes developing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders and partners, as well as overseeing outreach and communication efforts. The position serves as the membership, communications, publications, and meetings lead to achieve the strategic plan for AOAC. With AOAC since 2003, Dawn was previously a Senior Director of Membership, Marketing, and Communications, and prior to that, the Executive for Scientific Business Development and Senior Director, Membership and Education providing direction to the sections, overall membership, meetings, and education, as well as marketing and communications. With nearly 24 years in association management, she has served in many areas of membership, component relations, strategic planning, board development, and marketing. Prior to AOAC, she served as the Director of Member Relations and Services for both the National Association of Enrolled Agents (2001-2003) and the National Council of Nonprofit Associations (2000-2001). Dawn received her Certified Association Executive designation from the American Society of Association Executives in 2007 and is also a member of ASAE. She received the Association Trends Young and Aspiring Association Professionals Award in 2004. She has a B.A. in English from West Virginia University. Contact Dawn at (301) 924-7077 x117.

Lauren C. Chelf
Director, Meetings and Exposition

Lauren is Director, Meetings and Exposition at AOAC INTERNATIONAL and has been with the Association since 2006, managing the Annual and Midyear Meetings. She has 24 years of total experience working in the meetings department for nonprofit associations. Prior to that, Lauren worked in the catering department of a District of Columbia hotel. A graduate of American University with a B.S. in Business Administration, she is an active member of the Professional Convention Management Association and currently serves on PCMA’s Capital Chapter Membership Committee. Contact Lauren at (301) 924-7077 x118.

May Rose Jones
Director, Membership

As Director of Membership at AOAC INTERNATIONAL, May manages the overall membership program and awards program from start to finish and serves as staff liaison to 17 Sections. She works closely with the Meetings and Exhibition Department, especially poster abstract submission, as well as marketing and communications. Prior to AOAC, she was employed at the United Jewish Appeal Federation (UJAF), American Speech Hearing Association/National Student Speech Language Association (ASHA/NSSLA), Ziners’ Accounting, and was an executive assistant to the Mayor and City Council of the Arima Borough Council of Trinidad and Tobago. Throughout her career, May has gained a wide range of experience in nonprofit, volunteer, project, and accounting management; membership and professional development; marketing and communications; and governance. She is a member of the Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives (CESSE) and American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). She received a B.S. in Management Studies from the University of Maryland University College, an Associate Degree and Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Montgomery College, and numerous certificates from St. George’s Business College in Trinidad and Tobago. Contact May at (301) 924-7077 x114.

Margaret Bell
Manager, Communications

As AOAC INTERNATIONAL’s Communications Manager, Margaret works closely with the Deputy Executive Director, Engagement to plan and deploy strategic communications initiatives across web, print, email, and social channels. She is a creative communications professional with over 30 years of experience in non-profit organizations and higher education. Margaret worked in the Communications Office of the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University for 15 years. She is passionate about theatre and has both volunteered and worked professionally for various theatre organizations. She currently serves as Treasurer of the Towson High School Theatre Boosters parent organization. She holds a BA in Public Relations from Southern Methodist University and an MA in Arts Administration from the University of New Orleans. Contact Margaret at (301) 924-7077 x102.


PUBLICATIONS

Jennifer J. Diatz
Director, Publications

Jennifer joined AOAC in 2001, and accepted the role as Director of Publications in 2019. She is the staff liaison for the Editorial Board and Journal Section Editors. Jennifer continues to assists the Journal’s authors, special guest editors, and section editors with tasks from manuscript submission through publication. She works with the publications contractors, and assists with production of the Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC INTERNATIONAL. Jennifer has served in many other capacities for the Association, including contract work with FDA/NIH, EPA, and industry. For her entire career, she has worked in a production environment, and has much experience in getting projects completed on time. In her free time, Jennifer serves in a leadership capacity for a Christian Women’s Fellowship. She also enjoys doing crafts, gardening, and quilting. Contact Jen at (301) 924-7077 x107.

Tien Milor
Managing Editor, ILM and OMA

Tien is the Managing Editor of AOAC INTERNATIONAL’s membership magazine, Inside Laboratory Management, and compendium of methods, the Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC INTERNATIONAL. Her primary responsibilities include managing the process from start to finish, being involved with publishing both print and online products, and ensuring product quality and timeliness. Tien also manages the publication of the AOAC INTERNATIONAL Guidelines for Laboratories Performing Microbiological and Chemical Analyses of Food, Dietary Supplements, and Pharmaceuticals. She develops news flashes, press releases, and in-house advertising for AOAC, as well. Tien has extensive work experience in a production publishing environment and has also held positions in marketing and public relations prior to joining AOAC in 1997. Tien graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 1993 with a B.S. in Journalism. Contact Tien at (301) 924-7077 x106.


CUSTOMER SERVICE

Lu Ann Cornman
Director, Information Technology

Lu Ann is the Director, Information Technology at AOAC INTERNATIONAL. Lu Ann joined AOAC in October 2020 with 25 years of non-profit association experience including 19 years at the Mechanical Contractors Association of America, where she supported exponential growth and inspired member companies, and the National Association of Independent Schools, where she worked across departments to integrate and improve complex systems. Lu Ann will apply her technical expertise to serve AOAC INTERNATIONAL’s stakeholders and members by expanding AOAC’s core programs and bringing additional flexibility and capacity for growth into AOAC’s database and systems. Lu Ann graduated from Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA, with a B.A. in Art History and Political Science, and an M.A. in Art History from the University of Pittsburgh. She recently added a Certified Scrum Master® (CSM®) credential from the Scrum Alliance to expand her team-building and rapid delivery skills. In her spare time, Lu Ann enjoys learning about art, literature, history, world cultures, travel, gardening, and solving complex logic puzzles. Contact Lu Ann at (301) 924-7077 x133.

Maurice Green
Customer Service Coordinator

Maurice is a Customer Service Coordinator at AOAC INTERNATIONAL who joined the Association in 1999 as an accountant. During his tenure at AOAC, he has worked in various accountancy roles that have served a multi-currency environment while using various accounting software and client resource management tools. With his bookkeeping background and highly organized and detail-oriented skillset, he provides documentation of financial transactions, processing of customer and member payments, weekly and month-end reports, preparation of financial statements, vendor invoicing, and journal entries. In addition to his accountancy role, Maurice transitioned into the Customer Service Department of AOAC INTERNATIONAL to assist the AOAC Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program, the AOAC Research Institute, and Membership Department with processing a variety of financial transactions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and collections. As AOAC continues to grow and evolve as an international organization, Maurice continues to show flexibility, embrace challenges, and effectively respond to changes with integrity with his strong work ethic. Contact Maurice at (301) 924-7077 x130.

Natasha Williams
Customer Service Coordinator

Natasha is a Customer Service Coordinator at AOAC INTERNATIONAL who joined the Association in July 2019. Hitting the ground running, she has already assisted across a few of the departments including Membership. Prior to joining AOAC, she worked in nonprofits for over 13 years as an administrative assistant and program coordinator. Natasha continues to develop new skills and improve in membership communication. She is currently working on a B.A. in Communication Studies at the University Maryland University College. In her free time, Natasha is an avid reader and likes to travel and attend comic conventions. Contact Natasha at (301) 924-7707 x112.


FINANCE

Evelyn Hernandez
Accounting Manager

Evelyn is the Accounting Manager for AOAC INTERNATIONAL. Since 2002, she has worked to direct the Association’s financial planning, accounting, forecasting, and cash management functions. She utilizes her excellent attention to detail to focus on delivering value to AOAC members. Prior to joining AOAC INTERNATIONAL, Evelyn worked as a staff accountant at the Bethesda, Maryland, office of the integrated telecommunications company, Allegiance Telecom. Evelyn is a soccer mom who enjoys watching the sunset, traveling, and just having a quiet relaxing time alone. Contact Evelyn at (301) 924-7077 x125.


RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Brad Stawick
Senior Director, AOAC Research Institute

Brad is the Senior Director of the AOAC Research Institute and has over 30 years of experience in testing, quality, and management. Throughout his career, he has worked for multiple global and national contract laboratory providers where he served in senior management roles in operations and quality specializing in food, environmental, agriculture, and life science specialties. He has a Master of Science in Food Science, a Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.  He is a Certified Food Scientist, and a professional member of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP), and AOAC INTERNATIONAL. At AOAC, he’s been a member of the Analytical Laboratory Accreditation Criteria Committee (ALACC), a member of the Official Methods Board (OMB), and an AOAC Fellow. He also serves on the A2LA Accreditation Council and President’s Advisory Council and is Chair of the Life Science Advisory Committee at A2LA. Contact Brad at (301) 924-7077 x137.

Nora Larkin Marshall
Senior Manager, AOAC Research Institute

Nora is the Senior Manager for the AOAC Research Institute. Since 2008, she has brought experienced guidance to the RI’s Performance Tested Methods (PTM) program, to issues involving certifications, invoicing, applications, renewals, AOAC Research Institute membership, website communications, and more. Nora attended the University of Delaware, studying fine/graphic arts and veterinary sciences. She graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, with a B.S. in Veterinary/Animal Husbandry and Wildlife Management. She is a member of Alpha Zeta, an agricultural professional honor society. Nora also pursues interests in continuing education, fishing, bird watching, sports cars, photography, music, and the outdoors. Contact Nora at (301) 924-7077 x129.


PROFICIENCY TESTING

Shane P. Flynn
Senior Director, Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program

Shane is the Senior Director, Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program, and started at AOAC INTERNATIONAL with the program’s inception in 1998. He has a passion for food safety and biodefense and his job at AOAC casts him into those arenas. Shane is responsible for seeing that the program adheres strictly to ISO 17043 accreditation requirements for proficiency testing providers. Shane also helped design, develop, and implement all the technical requirements of the PT program as well as the web site and the SAS statistical programing used by the program. In addition, he has created new PT programs based on stakeholder and participant feedback to address their analytical needs. He leads the CASP Proficiency Testing Working Group. He has a B.S. degree in Food Science from the University of Maryland and is working toward a M.S. in Biotechnology-Biosecurity and Biodefense at the University of Maryland University College (now UMGC). In his free time, Shane is an adventurer and enjoys the outdoors with his family. Contact Shane at (301) 924-7077 x150.

Chad Stephan
Manager, AOAC Proficiency Testing Program

Chad is the Manager, AOAC Proficiency Testing Program, reporting to the Senior Director of the Proficiency Testing Program. As Manager, AOAC Proficiency Testing, he is the primary staff responsible for the management and administration of the day-to-day operations of the AOAC Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program, including direct communication with program participants. He is responsible for making sure those operations meet accreditation criteria. He is also responsible for project management with Information Technology and statistical subcontractors to ensure that the implementation of changes to the current website/SAS reporting systems, and the creation of new systems, meet the requirements of accreditation. Since 2018, he has been a key member of the Customer Service/Accounting Departments, working closely with the Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program as part of the Customer Service team. Chad graduated from the University of Maryland with a B.A. in Communications in 2010. His work history, which includes data entry and loan processing, has helped shape his appreciation for and attention to detail. Chad is an avid Washington, DC, sports fan and enjoys going to concerts. Contact Chad at (301) 924-7077 x109.


STANDARDS

Deborah McKenzie
Deputy Assistant Executive Director & Chief Standards Officer

Joining AOAC INTERNATIONAL in 2003, Deborah is Deputy Assistant Executive Director & Chief Standards Officer, including method approval processes. Her responsibilities include overseeing implementation and execution of voluntary consensus standards processes and the Official Methods SM and Performance Tested Methods SM programs. She and her team coordinate and administer associated activities with standards development and method approval programs. In support of her responsibilities, she is the lead staff liaison to the AOAC Official Methods Board and develops educational materials and orientations on processes for standards development and method approval programs. Previously, she was responsible for daily management of and business development for the AOAC Research Institute and served as Senior Director, Standards and Official MethodsSM. Most recently, McKenzie also served in an interim role of coordinating the AOAC Science Team which included working with AOAC Research Institute and the Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program in the coordination of the AOAC science programs and resources. Most recently, Deborah also served in an interim role of coordinating the AOAC Science Team which included working with AOAC Research Institute and the Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program in the coordination of the AOAC science programs and resources. 

Before joining AOAC, Deborah was a chemistry teacher and STEM educator and served as co-project director for state and federally funded grants for student and teacher development in STEM education with a focus on socioeconomically underserved communities. Deborah holds M.S. and B.A. degrees in Chemistry from SUNY Oswego and Syracuse University. She is also an ordained rabbi, with a certificate of rabbinic ordination from the Jewish Spiritual Leaders Institute. Deborah is member of the American Chemical Society (ACS), International Association for Food Protection (IAFP), American Institute of Parliamentarians (AIP), Society for Standards Professionals (SES), National Society for Black Engineers (NSBE), and AOAC INTERNATIONAL. Contact Deborah at (301) 924-7077 x157.

Constance Bahr
Manager, Science Programs

Constance is Manager, Science Programs reporting to the Deputy Assistant Executive Director & Chief Standards Officer. Prior to her position at AOAC INTERNATIONAL, she worked as a Project Manager at a startup making biodegradable biopolymers, and performing gut microbiome research and protein crystallography as a research technician and laboratory manager at the University of Queensland and the University of Michigan, respectively. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in Biomolecular Science in 2010. Outside of work she enjoys traveling, being in nature, and pottery. Contact Constance at (301) 924-7077 x143.

Veronica Kays
Manager, Science Programs

Veronica is a Manager, Science Programs reporting to the Chief Innovation Officer. Veronica comes to AOAC INTERNATIONAL with extensive experience in quality control and business development within the functional food and dietary supplement space. Veronica spent seven years at Eurofins Scientific as both an analyst in the lab and customer facing. In her most recent role, Veronica was focused on expanding strength and identity testing of botanicals and fungi. Additionally, she served as the Senior Manager of Quality Control at the personalized nutrition start-up, Care/of, focusing on product development, specifications, and manufacturing. Veronica received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Sonoma State University. In her free time, Veronica enjoys running, film photography, and exploring new restaurants.