Our Leadership
Knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way!
our team members
Meet the people behind the scenes
Learn more about our leadership and the people who make this project possible.
Mark Thompson
Mark Thompson served as a United States Navy submarine officer from 1984 -2004, His sea duty assignments included service on the USS Boston (SSN 703) and the USS Philadelphia (SSN 690), sister ships to the USS Omaha (SSN 692).
Upon retiring from the Navy, he entered civil service with the Air Force working various assignments at United States Strategic Command located at Offutt AFB. He recently retired and is now spending his time working with various local volunteer organizations.
Lauren Foster
Lauren M. Foster (they/them) is a strategic leader and Creighton University alumna with a deep commitment to Omaha’s civic landscape. Currently serving as the Chair of the City of Omaha Parks, Recreation, and Public Property Commission, Lauren brings years of regional advocacy and governance experience to the USS Omaha Submarine 692 Memorial Action Committee.
In their commission leadership, Lauren has focused on the critical development of parks within Sanitary Improvement Districts (SIDs) to ensure infrastructure is prepared for future city annexation, while championing accessible park designs that exceed ADA standards.
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This dedication to inclusive excellence is central to their current role as Business and Administrative Manager for the Samuel Bak Museum: The Learning Center. Beyond leading accessible marketing and inclusive promotional strategies for the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Samuel Bak Museum, Lauren oversees comprehensive financial operations, donor engagement, HR administration, and data management systems to ensure the institution’s long-term sustainability and reach.
Lauren’s professional background is further anchored by a sophisticated mastery of public fund administration. They previously served as Quality of Life Director for the Greater Fremont Development Council, managing Nebraska State Housing and FEMA Disaster Relief funds, and as Project and Procurement Coordinator for the Council Bluffs Municipal Housing Agency, where they oversaw federal Capital funds to enhance public housing infrastructure.
A graduate of Leadership Omaha Class 42, Lauren combines expertise in public property oversight and large-scale project management to help honor and preserve Omaha’s maritime legacy.
Jay Armstrong
After graduation from East Aurora High School (N,Y,) Jay enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17 on a three year program the navy offered, attaining the rank of Engineman Petty Officer 3rd class during that enlistment. Following boot camp and graduation from A school, he was based at Groton, Conn.
There for two and a half years he served on the USS Waterford ARD5, a floating drydock ship where he was exposed to many different submarines, both diesel and nuclear that were drydocked for maintenance and repair.
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It was during this time in 1964 he was allowed to go to sea on the USS Angler, SS240. For only one day aboard the Angler on (and under) Long island sound it was the experience of a lifetime for Jay.
The United States Navy was instrumental in preparing Jay for a successful business career thru skills and leaned responsibility learned while serving. He is the father of 4 children and married to his life’s partner, Sally, since 1967. Jay will tell you that his wife Sally is responsible for his success as a father, a husband, and business owner. At the same time, the Navy played a big part in his success. As a final thank you to the Navy, the people of Omaha as well as Navy veterans everywhere, Jay is proud to serve on the board to bring the USS Omaha memorial to fruition.
Jeff Green
Jeff Green is the former president and owner of several Midwestern companies specializing in structural steel and pre-cast erection, rebar placement, and crane services.
Jeff served as a trustee for multiple multi-employer benefit funds and has held various leadership roles within Ironworker Labor-Management Task Forces.
A Navy veteran, Jeff served with distinction in the nuclear submarine service on active duty. He retired as a Captain after serving 30 years of active and reserve service. He holds degrees from both MIT and the Stanford Graduate School of Business.