Elisa Cardnell, Veteran, US Navy

President and Chief Executive Officer

Elisa Cardnell is an experienced leader, a military veteran, and a former educator.

Elisa Cardnell served in the Navy on active duty for five years, and in the Navy Reserves for six years. During her time in the military, she specialized in anti-submarine warfare and operational level of war planning. She served onboard USS Ramage (DDG 61) and worked on the staffs for Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic and Yorktown Naval Weapons Station. She also provided support as a Reservist for theater anti-submarine operations for both training and real-life events. Elisa is a service-connected disabled veteran.

Elisa taught high school math and physics while she was in the Reserves. When medical issues ended her Navy Reserves career, Elisa ran for office. As a single mom, her campaign made history as the first federal campaign to have a childcare provider on staff. She then started an educational non-profit, and has worked to support moms and working-class candidates running for office. Her awards include Rookie Teacher of the Year, the Reserve Officer Association Department of Texas Sea Service-Navy Outstanding Junior Officer of the Year 2015-16, and leading her team on USS Ramage to win the Bloodhound Award for excellence in anti-submarine warfare.

Elisa joined SWAN in 2021 as the Director of Operations and has been the Chief Executive Officer of SWAN since July 2023.

Terrell Chandler, Veteran, US Navy Reserves

Director of Operations

Terrell Chandler is a dynamic leader with a rich history of service, having proudly served for over a decade in the US Navy Reserves.

Throughout her tenure, she completed multiple active duty assignments and was attached to an array of military units, including the Marine Corps and Naval Special Warfare. Notably, in 2014, Terrell completed a combat tour in Afghanistan as part of Naval Special Warfare's Cultural Engagement Unit. Deploying with SEAL Team 1, she played a key role supporting Navy SEALs and Army Special Forces as a member of a Cultural Support Team (CST). She also contributed to the Women In Service Review which led to the Armed Services opening of all positions and occupations to women.

Transitioning her expertise into nonprofit leadership, Terrell has spearheaded international programs, leading projects in over 70 countries, and directly influencing US Government policy and objectives through entrepreneurial public-private partnerships. Terrell was pivotal in spearheading global operations, where she led extensive project development and was congressionally recognized for her role in supporting our Afghan allies after the fall of Kabul in August of 2021. Beyond her operational accomplishments, Terrell has a passion for team building, strategic analysis, and impact investing. As the Director of Operations at the Service Women's Action Network, she brings a blend of strategic oversight, steadfast dedication to service, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of service women everywhere.

Alejandra Mann, Veteran, US Army Reserves

Creative Director

Born in Colombia and immigrated to the US at age 15, Alejandra brings a unique perspective and versatility to her professional endeavors. With over 7 years of experience spanning marketing, digital strategies, and public relations, she has honed her craft in various environments including civilian roles, non-profit organizations, and as a current officer in the US Army Reserves.

Currently, Alejandra is the Creative Director at Service Women’s Action Network, where she leads a talented team to drive brand visibility and engagement across digital & media platforms.Her earlier experiences in marketing and sales coordination have been instrumental in developing integrated campaigns that elevate brand awareness and foster meaningful connections.

As a Medical Services Officer in the US Army Reserves, she navigates the complexities of logistics and project management with effectiveness. This experience has instilled in her the principles of discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

Fluency in English, French, and Spanish enhances her ability to communicate and connect with a broad audience, enriching her work in public relations and content creation. With a track record of innovative marketing strategies and a dynamic leadership style, Alejandra is committed to making a significant impact in the digital marketing and communication realms.

Sydney Gilland

Case Manager

Sydney is SWAN’s case manager. She is a Tiffin University graduate, with a Bachelor’s degree in both Forensic Psychology and Psychology with a concentration in Addictions Counseling. In the future, she plans to obtain a Master’s degree in Social Work. Sydney has a particular interest in advocating for social care, breaking down barriers, and helping vulnerable groups overcome obstacles to reach their full potential. She is grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a powerful organization that strives to make a difference in so many lives by passionately advocating for the equal treatment of servicewomen and veterans.

Carra Mann

Executive Assistant

Carra Mann is Executive Assistant. She is a Stockton University graduate with a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. She plans to obtain her Master's degree to further her education in the Criminal Justice field. Carra has always had a vested interest in justice and hopes to create a fairer justice system. She is honored to be a helping hand in aiding SWAN to achieve their mission to advocate and demand equal justice for all women in service and veterans.

Jami Knight

Development Assistant

Jami is SWAN's development assistant. She earned a Bachelor of Science in teaching at the University of Kansas and a Master of Arts at Morningside College. Her time as an English and Special Education teacher in underserved communities allowed her to advocate for students and families in need while also supporting them academically. She has a service-minded heart that she applies to SWAN in its efforts to help female veterans and women in service. For the SWAN team, she conducts research and grant-related tasks to develop funding opportunities.

Our Team