VOTEDr. LynwoodTownsend
For BIG's National President
Believe BIG!!! Build BIGGER!!!
A Department of the Navy Veteran & Retiree with 40+ years of service — leading with integrity and strategic leadership.
A Life of Service.
A Vision for BIG.
A US Navy veteran and retiree with 20 years in uniform and 24+ years in Navy civilian service, Dr. Townsend now serves as Chief of Staff for the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (RDT&E) — and has spent more than a decade in senior leadership across every level of Blacks In Government.
From Region III Director to National Executive Vice President, his record is one of coalition-building, disciplined governance, and unwavering service to BIG members.
What "Build BIGGER" Means
Five pillars. One mission. A stronger BIG for every member, every chapter, and every generation to come.
Leadership & Succession
Investing in the next generation of BIG members through mentorship, training, and leadership pipelines that prepare tomorrow's advocates today.
Financial Sustainability & Modernization
Strengthening BIG's financial health and modernizing operations so the organization can grow responsibly and serve members for decades to come.
Membership Growth & Retention
Growing membership, deepening engagement, and creating meaningful experiences that keep members active, connected, and proud to be part of BIG.
Advocacy & Workforce Equity
Advancing policies and practices that promote fairness, opportunity, and equity for Black professionals across all levels of government service.
Strategic Partnerships & Impact
Building alliances with organizations, agencies, and community partners to expand BIG's influence and deliver measurable national impact.
Decades of Service.
One Purpose.
- 2009Joined BIG
Became a member of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division Chapter — beginning 17 years of service, advocacy, and leadership within Blacks In Government.
- 2010sRegional Leadership
Rose through chapter and regional roles, championing member development across Region III.
- 2010sNational Board of Directors
Elected Vice Chairman to represent Region III on the National Board of Directors, helping shape governance, policy, and the strategic direction of BIG.
- 2021–2025National Executive Vice President
Served as National EVP, guiding strategy, governance, and organizational health at the highest levels.
- PresentVP, Region III Council
Continues to serve as Vice President of the Region III Council — mentoring leaders and building coalitions.
- August 2026Candidate for National President
Ready to lead BIG into its next era. Believe BIG!!! Build BIGGER!!!
Grounded in Faith.
Guided by Family.
Beyond every title and every uniform, Dr. Townsend is first a husband, father, and man of faith. The values that shape his leadership — devotion, discipline, and unwavering care for others — were forged at home. His family stands with him on this journey, just as they always have.
"Everything I bring to BIG, I first learned around my family's table."
Today, Dr. Skip and Lorraine have been blessed for 38 years, and they have raised two wonderful children, son, Ashton (DeAsia), and daughter, Dedra, and they are also blessed with four grandchildren, Isaiah, Zaire (zy air), Zayden (zay den), and Je’Veah (ja vay ah). Dedra has provided a grand-cat, Galaxy.
Decades of Service in Action
From chapter halls to national stages — moments from a life spent serving BIG members and communities.
Be Ready
to Vote
The August 2026 election is our moment. Pledge your support today and stand with Dr. Townsend to Build BIGGER — together.