Myles Ibanez - Founder
Myles Ibanez is a seasoned geopolitical risk advisor and national security strategist with experience supporting U.S. defense posture and international engagement across the globe. As the Founder and CEO of M.I. VIII Global Security Consulting LLC, Myles leads initiatives that bridge the gap between security and sustainable development through strategic fellowships, cross-sector consulting, and global partnerships. His work spans AFRICOM, INDOPACOM, EUCOM, and CENTCOM, where he has supported strategic threat reduction, developed operational frameworks, and advised senior leaders on regional security dynamics. With over a decade of experience developing global educational and operational programs—including roles with the U.S. Marine Corps, Defense Threat Reduction Agency and Octant Associates—Myles leads efforts to advance strategic talent development and applied international security training.
Adom M. Cooper
Adom M. Cooper is a national security and foreign policy professional, lawyer, and writer who specializes in risk management, policy development, and emerging technologies. He has work experience with the U.S. government, the United Nations, the American Society of International Law, and private consulting firms. He has a JD from Syracuse University College of Law, a BA from the University of Michigan, and study abroad experience at the University of Western Cape. He is the author of a children's cybersecurity book called RhinoRAM, an avid scuba diver, travel enthusiast who has walked on all seven continents, a member of Black Professionals in International Affairs, a Term Member at Council on Foreign Relations, and a member of the DC Bar.
Dr. Letisha Malcolm
Dr. Letisha Malcolm is an educator, strategist, and international affairs expert with over 15 years of experience in K-12 education, higher education, the United Nations, UNESCO, and other intergovernmental organizations, as well as public and private programs. She is a Fulbright Scholar with dual doctoral degrees in Education Administration and Social Policy from Morgan State University. Additionally, Dr. Malcolm received a certificate in U.S. Public Policy from Harvard University’s Extension School.
Dr. Malcolm leads global initiatives focused on leadership development, policy innovation, and international collaboration. Her expertise includes international affairs, strategic planning, policy analysis, and public diplomacy, with a focus on inclusive governance, cultural policy, economic empowerment, and youth leadership. Dr. Malcolm has worked closely with embassies, multilateral organizations, and government agencies to advance programs that elevates policymaking.
Dr. Malcolm has received recognition for her significant contributions and has delivered keynote speeches and facilitated high-level discussions at esteemed global venues. These include the United Nations General Assembly, the U.S. State Department’s Rangel Fellowship Program, the National Black Business Conference, and the National Association of African American Studies.
Dr. Christopher Shell
Dr. Christopher Shell is a historian and geopolitical analyst specializing in the domestic drivers of U.S. foreign policy and U.S. engagement in the Caribbean region. Based at a Washington, D.C.–based think tank, he brings a research-driven perspective to strategic policy analysis and regional diplomacy. His work has been featured in leading outlets such as Foreign Policy, World Politics Review, The National Interest, and Responsible Statecraft. Dr. Shell holds a Ph.D. in History from Michigan State University and leverages his academic and policy expertise to inform decision-making at the intersection of domestic politics and international strategy.
Mark Shuster
Mark Shuster is a senior operations and program management executive with over 33 years of experience leading defense and aerospace initiatives across the public and private sectors. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel, he brings deep expertise in military logistics, government contracting, systems integration, and strategic program execution.
As Corporate Director at Delta Solutions & Strategies, Mr. Shuster oversees high-value defense contracts supporting the U.S. Air Force and Navy, managing programs totaling over $62 million. His leadership spans across mission-critical operations, ISO-certified quality systems, and lifecycle program management for both domestic and international stakeholders.
His military career includes directing infantry combat training for thousands of Marines deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as serving as Assistant Chief of Staff and Inspector General for the 4th Marine Logistics Group. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and is a graduate of the U.S. Air War College and USMC Command and Staff College. Mr. Shuster continues to advance veteran causes through active community engagement and brings a strategic, service-oriented approach to global defense challenges.