FOUNDER

Gary is the Founder and Senior Policy Coordinator for the Thomas Paine Society. He has also been the President and Senior Partner of East West Communities since 1980. Gary’s real estate career began in 1973 with the Sea Pines Company, where he last held the title of Vice President of Finance. He founded The Thomas Paine Society with an interest in combating extremist policy agendas and discovering policy compromise.

POLICY ASSOCIATE

Brandon serves as a Policy Associate at the Thomas Paine Society. Prior to working at TPS, he earned his B.A. in International Affairs from James Madison University, with a concentration in International Conflict and Security and a minor in Asian Studies. His academic work was centered around geopolitical dynamics, international institutions, and comparative security policy. Brandon brings experience and expertise in U.S. foreign policy, conflict resolution, and policy analysis. In his free time, Brandon plays rugby for James River RFC, dabbles in creative writing, and is a trivia connoisseur.

POLICY ASSOCIATE

Vencetia joined the Thomas Paine Society as a Policy Associate in July 2025. Vencetia brings experience in federal healthcare policy and government contracting, bringing a strong foundation in public policy analysis, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Her work is driven by an interest in addressing the needs of rural communities and improving education equity. She earned her B.A. in Political Science, with a minor in Technical Writing and Communication, from James Madison University. In her free time, she enjoys watching live music, running trivia, and thrifting in Richmond.

POLICY ASSOCIATE

Fitch is a recent graduate from the University of Richmond, where he earned his B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law with a concentration in Politics. Fitch brings experience in state legislative affairs, having interned at the Virginia General Assembly, where he conducted policy research, drafted legislative briefings, and managed constituent communications. His academic background offers a strong foundation in policy analysis, political theory, and legal frameworks, with experience in economic justice, international relations, and rational choice theory. In his free time, he enjoys reading, exploring the city of Richmond, playing trivia, and spending time with his friends.

POLICY ASSOCIATE

Coleman earned a B.S. in Economics and Philosophy of Law at Virginia Commonwealth University. His academic and professional philosophy draws influence from thinkers such as Ronald Dworkin, Daniel Kahneman, Richard Thaler, Amos Tversky, and Thomas Jefferson. His previous pursuits have involved running his own woodworking business, participating in Model United Nations, and motorcycle camping. In his free time, he likes to run marathons, write essays, and play trivia.