Our Team

Nate Deen

Nathaniel Deen is a passionate filmmaker and advocate for the arts, residing in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with his wife Jessica. With over 30 years of diverse experience at Sight & Sound Theatres, Nathaniel has excelled in various roles such as Staff Photographer, Broadcast Producer, and Associate Film Producer. 

Currently self-employed as a film producer, Nathaniel has made significant contributions to the film industry, with two projects featured on IMDb. Notably, he served as the Associate Film Producer and Assistant Director for “I HEARD THE BELLS,” and took on dual roles as Writer (Original Screenplay) and Executive Producer for “BRAVE THE DARK.” This deeply personal film reflects Nathaniel’s journey of overcoming adversity, highlighting the transformative influence of a devoted teacher, Mr. Stan Deen, who became a pivotal figure in his healing process. In a heartfelt tribute, Nathaniel and Jessica changed their last name to Deen in 2018 to honor Stan’s unwavering support and love.

In addition to his filmmaking endeavors, Nathaniel founded The Stan Deen Foundation, where he aims to inspire the next generation and create opportunities for those in need, embodying the very spirit of compassion and resilience that shaped his own life. He currently resides as Chair of the Board.


Bill Dawson

William (Bill) Dawson is a former Washington D.C. lawyer and corporate general counsel for tech and space companies. Now semi-retired and residing in Lancaster PA with his wife of 45 years, Lynn Dawson, Bill does consulting, and most importantly is fully committed to supporting and advancing the work of The Stan Deen Foundation.

Bill worked for nearly 30 years in the law, first at a prominent Washington D.C. law firm, then as General Counsel for companies in the tech and space sectors where he oversaw an Initial Public Offering and all major financings for the companies. He also successfully litigated the largest overturned federal government contract at the time, which was subsequently awarded to his company. After moving to Lancaster, Bill taught high school and college courses in economics, history and literature where he became friends with one of the most remarkable people he ever met—Stan Deen. They taught at a couple of institutions together and Bill audited Stan’s remarkable theater classes whenever the opportunity arose. 

Bill did not hesitate to accept Nathaniel Deen’s offer to join the board of directors of The Stan Deen Foundation in 2024. He helped to organize the Foundation and is committed to Nathaniel’s empathic vision and goals for the Foundation.


J.D. Shuman

With 24 years in older adult services philanthropy , J.D. brings innovation and a fresh perspective on how philanthropy can impact the lives of others. Throughout his career J.D. has been a part of securing over $100 million in philanthropic support – mostly in senior services.

He serves as President and CEO of Asbury Foundation, the philanthropic arm for Asbury Communities – the nation’s 16th largest non-profit Life Plan Community with 9 Communities in 3 states. Recognized as an industry leader, J.D. has been featured as the Consultant in Residence for the 2025 PAHSA Fundraising Summit and is regularly requested to present at the annual conference for LeadingAge National and several LeadingAge state organizations including PA, DE, VA, and NJ. With a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a specialty in Marketing, J.D. is currently working towards his MBA with Mount St. Mary’s University.

J.D. currently serves on the board of directors of The Stan Deen Foundation, in addition to the editorial review board of Philanthropy In Aging Services Study (PASS), marketing and development committee of Mental Health Association (MHA), and board of directors of Serving Older Adults with Resources (SOAR) and Springbank.


Josh Graber

Josh Graber currently serves as president of The Stan Deen Foundation. Josh and Stan began a friendship while Josh was at Veritas Academy that lasted up until Stan’s passing in 2016. Having developed a close relationship with Nate Deen as well, the opportunity to join The Stan Deen Foundation team was an easy decision for Josh to make.

Josh began his career in education management for an award-winning classical education organization. After this, he transferred into pharmaceuticals, where he ran a team of project managers focused on QC testing for cell and gene therapies at one of the top contract laboratories in the nation.

Josh is an avid traveler, vinyl-record collector, and cat dad who resides in Lancaster, PA. In addition to the Stan Deen Foundation, Josh donates time consulting for Klean Kensington, an initiative to turn neglected city lots into vibrant green spaces and gardens that build community connections.