Meet Our Team
Van Strickland
CEO/Founder
Vital Logistical Services was established in 2024 by Van L. Strickland after he retired from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) after 33 years of service. Prior to his retirement, he served as a Program Operations and Strategic Communications manager for a major Program Office. In this role, he led a team of over 40 professionals who specialized in Infrastructure Management, Program Support and Coordination and Strategic Communications. The experience gained from managing a high-performing team in a fast-pace, highly technical industry assisted Mr. Strickland as he ventured out to serve his community and fraternity as an event planner. He has served as the Director of General Conventions and Events Manager for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for the past 13 years and over the span of 32 years, he has served as the Director of Conventions for the Alabama District of Alpha Phi Alpha and the Southern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha. As the Director of Conventions, he is responsible for venue identification and contract negotiation and the coordination of all aspects of hosting an event. He successfully works with a team of professionals who provide comprehensive services in all areas needed to plan and execute an event. He also serves as a consultant to multiple city's advisory councils and boards.
Christopher A. Evans
COO/ Co-Founder
Christopher A. Evans joined Vital Logistical Services in 2024 as its Chief Operating Officer,
bringing with him a distinguished 36-year career with the Department of Defense, where he held
key roles in Contracts, Acquisition, and the Office of Small Business Programs. His expertise in
logistical planning and strategic execution has positioned him as a leader in organizational
efficiency and event management.
Beyond his corporate leadership, Chris has been deeply engaged in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,
Incorporated, serving as Associate Director of Conventions since 2017 and as Director of
Conventions for the fraternity’s Southern Region from 2021 to 2025. In these roles, he has
worked with meeting planning professionals nationwide to identify premier venues, negotiate
favorable contracts, and oversee logistics, travel, and lodging—always with the goal of
enhancing the event experience for attendees.
Chris’s exceptional organizational skills have enabled him to lead the planning and execution of
executive retreats, college and government outreach programs, and class reunions. His
commitment to excellence extends to his active involvement in professional and community
organizations, including the Society of Government Meeting Planners, the National Coalition of
Black Meeting Professionals, the Delta Theta Lambda Education Foundation, the FAITH
Initiative (where he serves as Vice Chair), and the Education Foundation of Alpha Phi Alpha’s
Alabama District.
