security forum series

During these challenging and frightening times for the Jewish community worldwide, we understand that many are concerned about safety—both your own and that of the broader community.

To provide support and address those concerns, we are excited to welcome retired Navy SEAL Senior Chief Sullivan to our community for a fireside chat. Senior Chief Sullivan will answer your questions and provide guidance on a range of topics, including general situational awareness, navigating unruly crowds or demonstrations, and personal safety—at home, at work, and in between.

Tuesday, January 28, 2025
6:00 PM
Location given upon RSVP
Boston

Senior Chief Sullivan served as the Team Leader for a 24-man counter-terrorism team, executing over 75 combat missions to pursue high-value targets and conduct hostage rescue operations during combat deployments worldwide. Additionally, he facilitated research, development, testing, evaluation, and integration of current and emerging technologies, special operations tactics, and joint warfare strategies to enhance the collective warfighting capabilities of Naval Special Warfare (NSW) forces.

Throughout his distinguished service, Senior Chief Sullivan received numerous decorations, including the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars with Valor, a Purple Heart, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, five Joint Service Commendation Medals with Valor, two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals with Valor, three Presidential Unit Citations, and recognition as the 2007 SEAL Team TW Junior Sailor of the Year.

Following his military career, Andrew founded BlueForce Strategic Action Group (BFS), a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) that provides expert assessments, tailored security strategies, and concierge-level services to address complex security challenges. BFS also offers custom high-threat training solutions for individuals and corporate or personal security teams.

In 2021, Andrew established a 501(c)(3) organization, the Community First Project, to improve community safety by providing no-cost training to police officers. Community First Project delivers comprehensive, up-to-date tactical and operational training, equipping officers to serve, protect, and survive in high-threat situations. The curriculum covers critical incidents such as school and workplace violence, domestic terrorism, use of force and accountability, target identification, stress and threat management, de-escalation techniques, and officer ambush mitigation.

Josh Zakim is an accomplished attorney and former Boston City Councilor who has played a pivotal role in shaping Boston’s government and public policy. With years of experience navigating the complexities of municipal government, Josh has been deeply involved in legislative initiatives, community engagement, and policy development. His leadership extended beyond Boston, as he successfully collaborated with regional and statewide leaders to address pressing issues affecting communities across Massachusetts. Josh is also the founder and principal of Zakim Strategies, a consulting firm specializing in advocacy, government relations, and strategic guidance for clients navigating complex public and private sector challenges.

The son of Lenny Zakim, of blessed memory (OB”M), a revered civil rights leader, and Joyce Zakim, a dedicated advocate for social justice, Josh carries forward their legacy of activism and commitment to creating more equitable communities.