Desiree Butts

Desiree K. Butts is a seasoned higher education and nonprofit executive dedicated to advancing opportunities for military-affiliated students and their families. With more than 20 years of experience in Department of Defense (DoD) Voluntary Education and higher education leadership, she has built a career focused on expanding access, creating partnerships, and driving innovation in educational programs that serve the military community.

She currently serves as the Executive Director for STEAM Imagine, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing youth aboard military installations and in surrounding communities with hands-on training and immersive experiences in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). This initiative is part of a broader mission to prepare youth for the workforce and strengthen communities with skilled and educated young professionals. In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Desiree serves as the School Certifying Official for Total Cyber Academy, where she ensures compliance and oversight for students utilizing VA education benefits.

Previously, Desiree served as Executive Director for Military & VA Programs at National University, where she led strategies and policies impacting military-affiliated students, cultivated partnerships with veteran-serving organizations, and created pathways to success for service members and their families. Prior to her tenure at National University, she held numerous positions with Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (HQMC) Voluntary Education and Library Programs, where she was instrumental in developing and managing programs that supported lifelong learning for Marines worldwide.

Her professional affiliations reflect her deep commitment to the military education community. She is the President of the Virginia Advisory Council on Military Education (VA-ACME), Vice President of the Council of College and Military Educators (CCME), and has served as CCME Conferment Officer. Her service and impact have been recognized nationally, including receiving the WAVES Diana Davis Service Award for her outstanding leadership and advocacy.

Desiree earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from Park University and a Master of Business Administration from National University.

A proud resident of Northern Virginia, Desiree is deeply connected to her community and family. Her youngest daughter Alexandra teaches English 10 and coaches Junior Varsity Cheer at Brooke Point High School, while her oldest daughter Leila, also a Junior Varsity Cheer Coach at Brooke Point High School, is pursuing a degree in English Literature at Norfolk State University. At home, they share their lives with their two dogs, Leo and Maverick. Together, the family embodies a strong commitment to education, mentorship, youth development, and community.