FAIR Staff

Dan Stein is an attorney who has worked for more than 35 years in the field of immigration law and law reform. He has been in his present position as President since January 2003.

Prior to leading FAIR, Mr. Stein was the Executive Director of the Immigration Reform Law Institute, a public interest litigation group that has represented a variety of organizations in immigration and administrative law matters.

Mr. Stein has also been in private law practice in real estate, federal agency litigation, criminal law and tax-exempt corporate law.

A native of Washington, D.C., Mr. Stein’s interest in immigration began as a professional staff member of the U. S. House of Representatives’ Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control, where he studied U.S./Mexico border issues and international crop substitution efforts.

Mr. Stein has published hundreds of articles on immigration policy, and through the years has appeared on national television thousands of times on just about every significant news program in America, has spoken to major groups across America, and has been asked to testify before Congress on related issues over 50 times.

Mr. Stein is a graduate of Indiana University and the Catholic University School of Law.

As Executive Director, Ms. Kirchner manages all operations of the organization, including policy development and implementation, and reports directly to FAIR’s Board.

Ms. Kirchner has a proven record of success at FAIR, having worked for the organization between 2005 and 2015, first in government relations and then for eight years as Executive Director. During that time, she led FAIR through the fierce legislative battles of 2006, 2007, and 2013, beating back attempts by amnesty advocates to dismantle our immigration system and decimate the rule of law. She knows and understands FAIR well, and offers FAIR (and the movement it helped create) a sophisticated knowledge of immigration law and policy combined with management experience and leadership ability.  

Ms. Kirchner also brings to FAIR a wealth of knowledge obtained through years of hands-on work in our nation’s immigration agencies. After her initial tenure at FAIR, Ms. Kirchner served four years as an official at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) where she fought to improve our immigration system. Her first role was Senior Advisor to the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), where she guided various border security efforts, including the implementation of tactical infrastructure at the southern border, development of border security metrics, and coordination of outreach initiatives to the public.

Between 2017 and 2019, Ms. Kirchner served as the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Ombudsman. As Ombudsman, she led an independent office within DHS headquarters dedicated to helping immigration benefits seekers and visa applicants navigate USCIS procedures and resolve problems.

In January 2020, Ms. Kirchner was appointed to serve as Senior Advisor at the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO), a new and independent agency within DHS created by Congress. As Senior Advisor, Ms. Kirchner was the executive responsible for building a new agency from scratch by establishing the necessary administrative infrastructure, financial operations, information technology, and reporting functions, and developing the Office’s core programs.

Ms. Kirchner earned her B.A. at Yale University and her law degree, with high distinction, at the University of Iowa College of Law. As a young lawyer, Ms. Kirchner worked as a private litigator, a criminal prosecutor, and as counsel at the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Ms. Harris joined FAIR in 2011. She has 25 years of experience in non-profit accounting and several years of experience in government and private accounting. She is responsible for strategic day-to-day financial activities and is the senior financial leader who ensures the smooth and efficient operation of FAIR and Affiliates at the business and administrative levels. Primary responsibilities include financial reporting and control, business administration, accuracy and security of FAIR’s business and organizational records, governmental reporting, policy development, and managing FAIR’s Information Technology.

Joe Chatham joined FAIR in 2022, bringing significant congressional, campaign, and nonprofit experience to the organization. As part of FAIR’s influential government relations team, he manages Capitol Hill outreach and policy, advocating for a secure border and a just, equitable legal immigration system.

Before joining FAIR, Joe worked with a large range of organizations, from congressional offices and political campaigns, to intergovernmental organizations and think tanks. Most recently, he served as counsel to a member of congress, where he handled the representative’s immigration portfolio for the House Committee on the Judiciary.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan, a Master in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School, and a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School.

Carlos Montero joined FAIR in 2024, bringing nonprofit and presidential campaign experience to the organization. As part of FAIR’s government relations team, he assists with Capitol Hill outreach and policy analysis, advocating for a secure border and strong immigration enforcement. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Liberty University and a Juris Doctor from the Liberty University School of Law.

Kari joined FAIR in June 2023 after graduating from the College of the Holy Cross with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and a concentration in Peace and Conflict Studies. She has spent time working in local, state and federal politics, the most notable being her work on a gubernatorial campaign, and with a U.S. Senator. As FAIR’s Government Relations Associate, Kari uses her prior experience to establish and maintain effective working relationships with congressional offices, federal agency personnel, and coalition members. She also plays a role in complex research and writing assignments on immigration-related topics.

Ira joined FAIR in 1986 with experience as a journalist, professor of journalism, special assistant, and press secretary of the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. His columns have appeared in National Review, LA Times, NY Times, Washington Post, Newsweek, and more. He is an experienced TV and radio commentator.

Joey joined FAIR in September 2023, bringing over three years of experience from the news industry, where he honed his craft at engaging audiences. His background includes key roles in gubernatorial and US Senate campaigns in Montana. His previous work at a non-profit further diversifies his skill set.

As Communications Manager for FAIR, Joey advances the organization’s mission through effective messaging and coordinating with the press. His experience in the news industry gives him a keen understanding of the media landscape and how FAIR can expand its outreach.

Joey graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a minor in Media Analysis.

Shari Rendall brings over 15 years of experience in government relations and grassroots advocacy to FAIR. In her former position, Shari led the legislation department, coordinating lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill and briefing congressional and administration staff on various issues. She has also been responsible for grassroots communications and helping state associations devise legislative strategies. Shari began her time in D.C. working on Capitol Hill as a Legislative Aide.

Susan joined the FAIR staff in 2002. She is a former business owner, manager for municipal code enforcement, immigration coordinator for the Coalition of Government Officials (southern California), and president of Citizens Committee for Immigration Policy. Susan manages FAIR’s extensive and national Field Program. She develops members and activist support and educates the media and public on immigration issues.

Hannah Davis joined FAIR in 2023 as a State and Local Analyst. She brings prior experience in tracking, researching, and writing on evolving immigration trends. Her professional portfolio includes published articles and a passion for distilling complex immigration data into tangible visualizations for the public. Hannah exemplifies a deep commitment to FAIR’s mission of driving immigration reform. Hannah obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security from Campbell University and her Master’s degree in Security Studies from East Carolina University. These qualifications underscore her dedication and knowledge surrounding the topic of immigration.

Nicholas Softy joined FAIR in 2023. As the State & Local Field Representative, Nicholas promotes the initiatives of FAIR across the United States and develops productive relationships with stakeholders, activists, and the general public on immigration issues.

With a strong professional portfolio spanning political campaigns, non-profit organizations, think tanks, and fundraising companies, Nicholas possesses a diverse background in driving impactful results.

As a proud U.S. Navy Veteran who honorably served his country from 2012-2016, Nicholas transfers the military virtues of courage, discipline, and integrity into his professional endeavors.

Nicholas holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Pace University and a Master’s Degree in History from Liberty University.

Jonathan brings judicial immigration experience, legislative research expertise, and a legal background to FAIR.

In his former position, Jonathan served as a Judicial Law Clerk at the Calvert County Circuit Court in Maryland. He worked on a variety of issues, including daily docket intake and management, opinion and order writing, property disputes, immigration-related family law cases, name changes, and extensive legal research. Prior to this role, he served in a research capacity for the Center for Immigration Studies. Jonathan first began his career in D.C. at law school, where he was a Senior Staff Member for the Federal Circuit Bar Journal and a Research Assistant at the George Washington University Law School.

Jonathan holds a Juris Doctor from the George Washington University Law School and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California, Irvine.

Bob joined FAIR in 2016 as the Development Director, overseeing FAIR’s fundraising and donor relations efforts. Bob has over 25 years of experience in the development field, including working for national, international, and local non-profit organizations. He has worked for private schools, institutions of higher education, and national non-profit organizations that support our U.S. military veterans. Bob joined the FAIR staff after starting and running a successful fundraising consulting business.

Megan joined FAIR in 2023 as the Major Gifts Officer and became the Director of Development in 2024. She is recognized as a national expert in development within the public policy and non-profit charitable communities. Megan has been a fundraising executive for 30 years, raising over $400 million for the causes she believes in. She brings expertise in major gifts, foundation grants, planned giving, direct mail, capital campaigns, events, and strategic planning. Megan is a graduate of the College of William & Mary and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government.

Billie joined FAIR in 2015. She uses analytics and innovative industry trends to guide decision-making on the best methods to grow and monetize FAIR’s membership base. Billie holds a B.A. in Communications and a M.A. in Publications Design. She brings to FAIR her marketing and communications experience which she obtained from working in higher education.

Jason joined FAIR in 2024, bringing three years of professional writing experience. He spent two years as an award-winning newspaper reporter in southwestern North Dakota, which equips him to successfully advance and communicate FAIR’s impactful mission. Jason graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Political Science.

Michelle joined FAIR in 2024, bringing her experience working in membership and development for nonprofits. She also has experience working on multiple U.S. congressional campaigns and one U.S. Senatorial Campaign. She uses her expertise from nonprofits and fundraising campaigns to foster the success of FAIR and its mission. She has a Bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University in Political Science with a minor in History and a Master’s degree from George Washington University in Legislative Affairs.

Luke joined FAIR in December 2019 and oversees video production and digital marketing content. With a background in writing, editing, teaching, and video production, he gives FAIR the in-house ability to edit and develop videos and digital media to clearly convey our message. Luke holds a Bachelors in English and a minor in Film Studies from the University of Virginia.

Nicolas joined FAIR May 2023, bringing with him a creative approach to digital media marketing. As FAIR’s Digital Media Strategist, Nicolas leverages his prior agency experience developing and implementing digital media campaigns for Federal PAC and Grassroots clients, by helping FAIR to increase its digital presence and attract new audiences. Nicolas graduated from the University of Mississippi’s school of Journalism with a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications.

Sam joined FAIR in August of 2023, bringing a wealth of creative expertise and technical finesse to our team. He is responsible for producing videos, graphics, podcasts, social media content, and other various digital content. Sam holds a Bachelor of Arts in Cinema (Filmmaking) and a minor in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University. Prior to joining FAIR Sam worked for a small production company as the Director of Photography and worked on various different projects through freelance work.

Michael has 15 years of experience working in politics and international relations. He has worked at the EU institutions and as a professional consultant on projects for international organizations such as the World Bank, overseas development agencies, and national governments. He has experience advising elected officials from multiple countries on the causes of mass migration, terrorism, and economic underdevelopment and the best practices to tackle these issues. He holds two master’s degrees, a professional certificate in Data Analysis and Visualization Fundamentals from IBM, and has an advanced certificate from the Alliance Francaise.

Pawel Styrna was born in Poland but has lived in the United States most of his life. He has MAs in history from the University of Illinois at Chicago and international affairs from the Institute of World Politics in Washington, DC. He is a Ph.D. student in Russian and European history at American University. Having gone through the immigration process himself, he believes in common sense immigration policies and the right of sovereign nations to control their borders. He has written several op-eds on immigration issues.

Michael Capuano joined FAIR in 2022. As a researcher and staff writer, he contributes to the work behind FAIR’s long-form research publications as well as topical content responding to immigration-related issues as they happen.

Before joining FAIR, Michael worked in the Enforcement and Removal Operations Law Division at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during law school at George Washington University and then as an immigration attorney at a Spanish-speaking law firm. Having grown up in Southern California and with experience on both sides of the issue, he is acutely conscious of the importance of the immigration issue to everyday life and the necessity of FAIR’s vision for reform.

Michael’s background before law school was in Urban Studies/Planning at the University of California, San Diego, informing a deep concern for the environment and good urban design, two issues very relevant to the current immigration crisis.

Hemant joined FAIR in 2016. He manages accounts payable and receivable, the monthly closing process, general ledger reconciliations, and state registration filings. Additionally, Hemant is fully trained in all aspects of human resources and is the backup to the Director of Human Resources and Administration. Hemant holds a BS in Finance from the University of Maryland University College and he currently has over a decade of accounting experience.

Katy has been employed at FAIR since 2018. She has a Master’s in Management: Human Resources and a Bachelor’s in Accounting & Business Administration and is certified as a professional in payroll, non-profit accounting, and administration. Katy supports FAIR and Affiliates’ staff in many ways, including training and development, benefits administration, payroll processing, and other employee-related concerns. In charge of recruiting, Katy ensures that the best talent is acquired and retained. Katy is also fully trained in all aspects of accounting and is the backup to FAIR’s Controller.

Brenda joined FAIR in 2018 as the Receptionist/Office Administrator. Brenda greets visitors, processes outgoing mail, answers incoming calls, assists Human Resources with leave tracking, and monitors building security. She also supports the Finance and Administration Department by updating shared files and FAIR’s policy and procedures manuals. Brenda brings over 20 years of experience supporting executive staff in medical billing, collections, accounting, and office management.

Lekan joined FAIR in 2024, bringing six years of professional experience, a Bachelor of Science in Secure Computing and Information Assurance, and a passion for helping others. In addition to his degree, Lekan has an active Public Trust Clearance and CompTIA Security+ Certification. To face future challenges, he enjoys researching advancements in technology.