Advisors
David Montanari
Dr. David Montanari, Ph.D. currently serves in leadership and scientific advisory roles in various sectors, including gene therapy, stem cells and philanthropy work through AASuccess. David earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2004. Dr. David Montanari draws from his extensive patent examination background in gene therapy and stem cells, evaluating cutting-edge inventions like transgenic animals and complex gene constructs. With discerning analysis, he handled ethical considerations in emerging biotechnology. His examined cases spanned cancer treatments, skin disorders, blood disorders, and more. Now David leverages this in-depth biopharma expertise to guide US-IBDC’s socially conscious mission.
Mark Keam Esq.
Mark Keam is a strategic innovator with 30 years in legal, regulatory, and political domains, spanning multiple sectors from tech to civil rights. With a collaborative ethos, he's driven results in various government levels, corporations, and nonprofits. His noteworthy roles include a year as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Commerce and 12 years as a Delegate for Virginia House of Delegates. Mark has also contributed as a Business Consultant, CEO of National ACE, and held strategic roles at Verizon for 8 years.
James Kelman
James “Jim” Kelman had over 25 years as a seasoned diplomat, leader, and manager, having served as a Senior Public Diplomacy Advisor at the U.S. Department of State. He was pivotal at the Korea-US Science Cooperation Center and was posted across global capitals including Singapore, Paris, and Japan. Notably, he acted as the Director of the Exchange Visitor (J-1) Program, overseeing international educational and cultural exchanges. A dedicated mentor and Board Member at AASuccess, Jim holds degrees from Clark University, University of Connecticut, and attended the London School of Economics.
John Johnston Esq.
John C. Johnston, Esq. is an accomplished overseas investment strategist and corporate specialist, leveraging his expertise in international business, immigration law, and cross-border ventures to drive global development. As CSO of waste-to-energy firm JWP Energy and advisor to several international healthcare and education nonprofits, Johnston has made significant impacts advancing infrastructure and opportunity abroad. Through his work establishing a cancer treatment center and leadership institute in Afghanistan, as well as guiding families through Grenadian immigration, he demonstrates a commitment to empowering communities in need. Johnston’s diverse skillset and passion for uplifting others reflect the US-IBDC's mission of creating positive change worldwide. When not collaborating across borders, Johnston enjoys offshore fishing and spending time with family.
Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Thang
Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Thang is an excellent alumnus of Advanced Mathematics of Hanoi University and Law University. He once specialized in researching the application of Mathematics in health care and education. He has more than 30 years working in the field of Personnel Organization and has extensive experience in leadership, management and foreign affairs. He is currently a senior advisor on Legal, Human Resources and Foreign Affairs of US-IBDC.
Dr. Mai T. Khoa
Professor and Dr. Mai Trong Khoa is a pioneer in the fields of nuclear medicine and oncology in Vietnam. He has served as Deputy Director of Bach Mai Hospital and currently holds positions including: Head of the Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Department at Hanoi Medical University, Head of the Gene Therapy Unit at Bach Mai Hospital, and General Secretary of the Professor Title Council in the Healthcare Sector of Vietnam. He has led the application of advanced nuclear technology for cancer treatment. His dedication to the health of the Vietnamese people is demonstrated through his leadership roles in medical education, research, and clinical practice. With prestigious awards including the Outstanding Young Researcher Award for the Asia-Pacific region from the Japanese Society of Nuclear Medicine and the Medal for People’s Health from the Minister of Health in 2004, Professor Khoa’s extensive expertise in nuclear medicine along with his creative work and over 20 years of leadership have helped transform the healthcare sector in Vietnam.
Dr. Vo V. Ban
Dr. Vo Van Ban, an esteemed Professor with a PhD from the Medical Academy in Sophia, Bulgaria, has dedicated decades to advancing the fields of psychiatry and psychology. Specializing in depression, addiction, personality disorders, and attention-related syndromes, Dr. Ban's esteemed career includes significant roles as the Deputy General Manager of Hanoi French Hospital and Vietnam International Hospital. He's held esteemed academic positions, including Head of the Department of Psychology at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, and has been a leading lecturer at Hanoi Medical University. His extensive publications and books, covering topics from Gilles de la Tourette’s Syndrome to psychotherapy applications, have contributed immensely to the field. Dr. Ban's expertise makes him a valued honorary advisor for the US-IBDC on education and healthcare.
Dr. Nguyen L. Bau
Dr. Nguyen Luong Bau is a distinguished medical professional with a rich legacy in healthcare management and education. Graduating from Thai Binh Medical University in 1994, he quickly ascended the ranks, contributing significantly to the Bac Giang Health Department. His leadership prowess was further demonstrated during his tenure as the Director of Bac Giang Provincial Rehabilitation Hospital. Dr. Bau's expertise extends to the successful management of various institutions, including the esteemed Song Thuong Hospital and Phuc Thuong Hospital. His dedication and insight have been pivotal in bridging Vietnamese and international healthcare standards.
Thomas Forsberg
Thomas “Tom” Forsberg, the President of YourSource LLC, represents a number of Asian-based printed wiring board, fabricated metal, and plastic injection molding manufacturers to US business clients. With a robust academic background from Hofstra University and SUNY Binghamton, Tom brings 34 years of global supply chain expertise from IBM. As Vice President of Healing Hearts Vietnam, he facilitates life-saving cardiac surgeries for Vietnam's needy children. Collaborating with AASuccess, this synergy aims to amplify resources, fund surgeries, and provide students with unparalleled medical industry insights. Tom's leadership at AASuccess will harness his extensive business acumen.
Andy Tran
Andy Tran is a seasoned sales executive with a track record spanning over 26 years in the financial services sector. With a robust background in operations, sales, and team leadership, Andy has established himself as a dynamic and influential figure in the industry. Andy's journey began in the mortgage division of a national bank, where he honed his skills and expertise. Recognizing his talent, a regional bank with a thriving mortgage lending department welcomed him aboard. Here, Andy's prowess in sales and management became evident as he ascended the corporate ladder, ultimately reaching the prestigious position of Vice President of Sales. As the Vice President of Sales, Andy orchestrated the orchestration of all sales functions, demonstrating proficiency in new business development, lead generation, and client relationship management. His strategic vision and hands-on approach played a pivotal role in the department's success. Presently, Andy remains an active role within the mortgage industry, regularly participating in various industry-related events. His commitment to staying abreast of the latest trends and developments underscores his dedication to professional growth and industry advancement.
Marius Ryrko
Marius Ryrko is a professional German architect with 20 years of experience leading award-winning projects globally as Managing Director at Gerber Architekten International. Driven by curiosity and a passion to push boundaries, he oversees urban planning and architectural design across Europe and Asia. Notable projects include masterplanning King Salman Park in Riyadh; SUS Tech medical campus in Shenzhen; the Zhejiang Intelligent Transportation Exhibition Hall in Hangzhou; and commercial developments in Jinan, China. He actively shares his expertise through university lectureships and conference presentations. Marius considers himself a continuous learner who acquires new knowledge to drive innovation. While navigating client realities, he remains committed to his creative vision and finding opportunities to incorporate groundbreaking solutions into spaces that usher in new eras of building technology. He holds a Diploma in Architecture along with membership in the Royal Institute of British Architects and German Chamber of Architects. Marius believes knowledge-sharing and growth are keys to positive change.
James Holcombe
James Holcombe retired after a 16.5-year tenure at Justice High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, teaching Pre-IB world history, modern world history, psychology, sociology, and U.S. & VA Government. Coached boys and girls varsity tennis, achieving a Virginia singles state runner-up champion in 2003 and earning 'Coach of the Year' in 2004. Elected VP-Funding for the Parent Teachers Student Association in 2013 and nominated for Fairfax County Public Schools' Teacher of the Year in 2014. Honored for educational leadership at the Leadership Fairfax Northern VA Awards in 2015 alongside Gloria Rubin. Jim's second retirement occurred in 2015. Prior to teaching, worked 17.5 years in Fortune 500 pharmaceutical and consumer goods companies, including Sterling Drug Inc. and American Home Products (Wyeth-Ayerst, Whitehall International). Managed diverse roles, such as country manager, president, market analyst, and Area Director-Far East, overseeing half of American Home Products' consumer businesses in Asia.
Nguyen Ngoc Son
Director of Thanh Long Environmental Treatment Construction Trading Co., Ltd., Binh Thuan Province Branch. Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Son is a businessman in many fields of trade and business, especially focusing on the green environment, including waste treatment plants in Binh Thuan. Along with the experience of importing and exporting goods between Vietnam and other countries, Mr. Son has also strongly developed his own commercial activities and achieved certain successes. At the same time, with the passion to bring good values to the community and society, he is also a strong charity activist for his hometown as the vice chairman and co-founder of the Support Club for the Disabled under the Dong Nai Province Young Entrepreneurs Association, accompanying many difficult circumstances to rise up.