MVP Board Spotlight: Van L. Strickland

Meet the Madison Visionary Partners Board! This month we are highlighting Van Strickland.

Prior to his retirement on May 31, 2024, Van L. Strickland served as the manager of the Space Launch System (SLS) Program Operations and Strategic Communications office at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). In this role, Mr. Strickland was responsible for strategic planning and development; infrastructure management, including cyber and physical security; and guiding the Program’s strategic communications efforts.

Before joining the SLS Program, Mr. Strickland worked at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. as a review manager in the Independent Program Assessment Office. He has also served as the Chief Safety & Mission Assurance (SMA) Officer for the Ares I Vehicle Integration Office at NASA’s MSFC. 

During his career with NASA, he has received numerous awards including a Space Flight Awareness Honoree Award, a NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, an Exceptional Achievement Medal, and a Director’s Commendation Honor Award.

Mr. Strickland is currently the President and CEO of Vital Logistical Services (VLS), an event production and strategic planning company that provides all critical elements needed to transform a vision into reality.

Mr. Strickland is also the Director of General Conventions and Events Manager for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.  He has served in this position for 14 years and over the span of 33 years, he has served as the Director of Conventions for the Alabama District of Alpha Phi Alpha and the Southern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha.  He is currently serving on the Nashville Customer Advisory Council and the Visit Milwaukee Advisory Council.  He has previously served on the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau Customer Advisory Board. 

Mr. Strickland currently serves as the 1st Vice President of the Rocket City Society of Government Meeting Professionals and actively participates in community service in his community.  He’s a member of the Madison Visionary Partners (MVP) Board of Directors, the Delta Theta Lambda Education Foundation Board, and has served on the Alabama A&M University Business School Advisory Board, the J.F. Drake State Community & Technical College Foundation Board, and the Union Chapel Christian Academy Foundation Board. He was a member of Class XXII of Leadership Alabama and was inducted into the Congress of Outstanding Young Alabamians in 1985.

Mr. Strickland and his wife, Rosalynne, are the proud parents of two children, Lauren and Miles and they have one grandson – Miles Maddix. 

Why is MVP important to you? I've lived in Madison for a total of 38 years (moved to California for 5 years, then back to Madison in 2001).  The city has shown amazing, positive growth and MVP plays an important role in ensuring that the growth of the city is inclusive and complimentary to all of its citizens. 

What do you enjoy most about being part of the board? Being a member of the board helps provide visibility into current and future opportunities for continued positive growth.

Why do you like living in Madison?  Although the growth and expansion of the city has been steady, I still love the fact that Madison provides a "suburban-like environment" to the larger Madison County community.

What is your favorite thing to do in Madison? The greenways and parks are unique to our area and provide a great backdrop to family activities.

Can you share a fun fact about yourself or explain something you enjoy doing outside of work?  I'm a new Grandfather (grandson will be a year old in May).  He was born in May of '24 and I retired from NASA in May of '24.  Since retirement, my wife and I watch my grandson 5 days a week and this is the best "non-paying" job I've ever had!!!

Is there a favorite quote or mantra that inspires you?  Never major in the minor!  Always keep your eyes on the bigger picture.