The Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children.

Colonel Harold “Odie” Van Opdorp USMC (Ret.)

Colonel Harold “Odie” Van Opdorp USMC (Ret.)

Harold “Odie” Van Opdorp joined the Scholarship Foundation in 2021. He served in the Marine Corps for 30 years, retiring as a Colonel in 2019. Most recently, he was the Chief of Staff for the Undersecretary of Defense (Comptroller) and the Secretary of the Navy. In his role as the Chief Operating Officer, Odie oversees several departments, including Operations (information technology and human resources), and Data Operations. His work includes establishing the Scholarship Foundation’s long-term strategic direction and goals, directing integrated operational activities, and ensuring the Foundation has strong financial strength and operating efficiency. In addition, he serves as the Corporate Secretary for all governance related matters.