David A. Shaneyfelt is an attorney with over 30 years of experience in complex civil litigation in state and federal courts. A former partner at Anderson Kill and trial attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice, he now practices with The Alvarez Firm. A California Super Lawyer, he writes, speaks nationally, and serves on TLI’s Advisory Board.
Cristofer Pereyra is the CEO of Tepeyac Leadership, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to forming lay Catholic professionals as virtuous leaders who serve the Church and the common good. Born in Peru, he holds a B.A. in History from Arizona State University and an MBA from Grand Canyon University, and previously served the Diocese of Phoenix.
Tim Staples, a former Southern Baptist, converted to the Catholic Church in 1988 after a deep study of its teachings during his U.S. Marine Corps service. After seminary formation, he discerned a call to lay ministry and has since dedicated his work to Catholic apologetics and evangelization.
Paula Melley is a licensed attorney and national consultant with over 30 years of experience in strategic and broadcast communications. She advises business owners on risk management and workforce optimization as a PEO expert. A lector and member of Tepeyac Leadership’s Advisory Council, she lives in Florida with her husband and twin sons.
James M. “Jim” Trachier is President and CEO of Tiber Crossings LLC. A retired U.S. Air Force officer, he served 33 years, commanding at multiple levels and concluding as Deputy Director of Communications for Air Force Global Strike Command. A committed Catholic, he serves as a Knight of Columbus, lector, and catechist.
Ecclesiastical Accompaniment
Most Rev. José H. Gomez is Archbishop of Los Angeles, the nation’s largest Catholic community. A leading voice on faith and public life, he promotes evangelization, immigration reform, and lay leadership. He served as President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and is a native of Monterrey, Mexico.
The Most Reverend Thomas J. Olmsted was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Lincoln in 1973 and installed as Bishop of Phoenix in 2003. He previously served as Bishop of Wichita and Rector of the Pontifical College Josephinum. He earned advanced degrees in theology and canon law in Rome and served in the Secretariat of State of the Holy See.
The Most Rev. Timothy E. Freyer, a native of Southern California, was ordained a priest in 1989 and serves as Auxiliary Bishop of Orange. He has led several parishes, served as Episcopal Vicar for Priests, and supports clergy formation. He is active in charitable outreach, law enforcement chaplaincy, and statewide Catholic leadership.