The United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) is proud to announce Vice Admiral Robert “Bob” Sharp, USN (Ret.), as the recipient of the 2025 Arthur C. Lundahl-Thomas C. Finnie Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made distinguished, long-standing contributions to the geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) tradecraft and community. VADM Sharp is being honored for more than three decades of service and leadership in national security and intelligence, culminating in his tenure as the Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) from 2019 to 2022.

As Director of NGA, VADM Sharp led a global workforce of more than 14,000 professionals across 120+ locations, delivering trusted geospatial intelligence to decision-makers, warfighters, first responders, and allies. His leadership was instrumental in modernizing NGA operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing agility, resilience, and a people-centered approach.

For more than 34 years, VADM Sharp was a Naval Intelligence Officer who played a pivotal role within the Navy’s Information Warfare Community. Known for fostering high-performing teams and strategic transformation, his career reflects a deep commitment to service, collaboration, and excellence.

VADM Sharp earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of the Pacific and a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. As CEO of B Sharp – Global Solutions, he advises organizations dedicated to making a positive global impact.

The award will be formally presented at the annual GEOGala, which will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton in Tysons, VA.