Dr. Farouk Shami: From Hairdresser to Peacemaker

Dr. Farouk Shami, a board member for the National Defense University Foundation (NDU), recently attended the annual American Patriot Awards Gala in Washington, DC on October 27, 2016. The American Patriot Award recognizes exceptional leaders who dedicate their lives to enhancing human security and global stability. The NDU Foundation hosts an annual gala to celebrate the accomplishments and service of honorees. The gala was host to over 500 guests from diplomatic, military, government and civilian leadership. Their support of the American Patriot Award benefits the National Defense University, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit nonpartisan organization that fosters a philanthropic community in support of the National Defense University. The NDU is America’s premiere national security institution dedicated to developing leaders that think creatively and act collaboratively. It provides education along with developing and inspiring National Security Leaders.

This year’s 2016 American Patriot Award honored both the Men and Women of the United States Department of Defense, accepted by the Honorable Ashton Carter, Secretary of Defense, and the Men and Women of the Defense and Intelligence Industry, accepted by Mr. Norm Augustine, former OSD DR&E Executive, Acting Secretary of the Army and former Chairman, Lockheed Martin Corporation.

Dr. Farouk Shami, known for his commitment to the beauty industry and hairdressers around the world and for providing the finest education, now shares this same dedication by serving on the board for the National Defense University Foundation. He shared the evening’s festivities with Five Star General Paul J. Selva, who serves as the 10th Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In this capacity, Gen. Selva is a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the nation’s second highest-ranking military officer. The foundation’s board members devote their time and experience to educate future leaders while having a strong focus toward national security.

According to Dr. Shami, “As a proud American by choice, it is both an honor and privilege to be of service to such an important organization such as the National Defense University Foundation.”