WASHINGTON – Charles W. Nesby, a former Navy captain and air wing commander, has been named director of VA’s Center for Minority Affairs. As director, Nesby is the principal advisor to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi on policies and programs affecting minority veterans.
He will also make recommendations for the establishment of programs to meet the specific needs of minorities, and will be responsible for ensuring that veteran programs are used by minorities.
“Charles Nesby demonstrated his potential very early, becoming the first black regimental commander in the history of the Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida,” said Principi. “He is a second generation fighter pilot, named after his father, Charles Nesby, Sr, who was one of the famous Tuskegee airmen of World War II.”
Nesby has extensive experience in budget administration and management, strategic planning, program development, human resources and equal opportunity fields. More recently, he managed a major computer-based training project for Navy and Marine Corps combat aircrews.
He retired from the Navy in 1997. He is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) and the Maritime Air Superiority syllabus (TOPSCOPE). Following numerous carrier deployed tours in Navy F-14 Tomcat fighter squadrons, Nesby has held three commands culminating as an air wing commander and a major program director for the Naval Air Systems Command. His experience in minority affairs matters is considerable.
Nesby has a bachelor’s degree in economics, political science and history from North Central College in Naperville, Ill. He earned a master’s degree in public administration from the College of the Armed Forces, Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., in 1990. He was awarded the Navy Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Meritorious Service Medal and Battle Efficiency ribbons.
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