Jason Speede Helps Youth View Life’s Challenges as Learning Opportunities
Retired Sergeant Major Jason Speede joined Youth With Faces in late 2016. As Director of Operations, Jason oversees the day-to-day function of our organization as well as developing curriculum and partnerships to grow our impact working with at-risk youth.
Jason spent 23 years in the Army where he retired as the Brigade S3 Sergeant Major, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division in 2012. After the military, he began a career in restaurant management at Fireside Pies, where he was first introduced to Youth With Faces.
“Jason brings a unique and valuable set of skills to our operations,” said Chris Quadri, CEO of Youth With Faces. “His experience in restaurant leadership, military combat and working as Deputy Commandant at the United States Army Transportation Center and School will strengthen our organization as we continue to build programs that support youth in the juvenile justice system.”
As Operations Director, Jason develops relationships with the juvenile justice system and community partners to offer programming that will prevent recidivism. He applies his military and restaurant experience to curricula development and organizational management.
Jason combines his passion for leadership, discipline and respect for law and order with his compassion for the youth in our programs. “The experience I gained as a Sergeant is as relevant today as it was then. When I worked with new recruits, my motto was ‘perfection is not a prerequisite.’ You’re entitled to make mistakes,” Jason said. “Everyone has an opportunity to take a challenging circumstance and learn from the situation. It makes us better people. I am honored to work with the young men and women in our programs, and help them find confidence and develop the skills to pursue a successful future after their release.”
In addition to his military education, Jason holds an Associate in Applied Science degree in Administrative Management Studies from Excelsior College, a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Administration from TUI University, and an MBA in Human Resource Management and Strategic Leadership Studies from Trident University.
We are proud to welcome him to our team.