Recognizing Excellence: NOVA Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award – Veteran Employee of the Year Danielle Applegate
In a world where exceptional service often goes unnoticed, it’s vital to take a moment to acknowledge individuals who go above and beyond. The NOVA Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award is a platform that does just that, honoring outstanding individuals who make a significant impact in their respective fields. IT Concepts Inc (ITC) Service Delivery, VA Portfolio Director Danielle Applegate received the NOVA Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award Veteran Employee of the Year 2023 award.
Prior to bringing her 25 years’ experience to ITC, she led Veteran and Military Family Engagement at Oracle Cerner, was the executive-in-charge of nonprofit VetsFirst, an accredited Veteran Service Organization, and worked as a government official in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Center for Women Veterans, where she created groundbreaking women veteran initiatives and nationwide VA programming. A ninth-generation veteran with dual-military parents, Danielle served on active duty in the US Army and the National Guard; her duty included a tour in Korea. Due to service-connected injuries, she left active duty and earned an MBA from the University of Massachusetts and a nonprofit executive certificate from Georgetown University. As a published military and veteran community subject matter expert and advocate, she gives her time and expertise widely, to include chairing the Board of Directors for the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, and serving on the Board of Directors for PsychArmor Institute, Hesperus, the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation, the National Physical Activity Alliance, and Carry the Load. She lives in Northern Virginia where she is being raised by two delightful teens who enjoy volunteering as much as she does.
The NOVA Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award is a fitting recognition of her outstanding service to both her country and her community. Danielle’s commitment to excellence, mentorship, community engagement, and advocacy embodies the spirit of the award, and her contributions continue to make a positive impact on the lives of veterans and the Northern Virginia community as a whole.
