John Snyder is CEO and founder of Prospering Solutions, a government relations firm specialized in forging successful outcomes for business and political interests. John has a diverse 32-year background in working with elected officials. He served on the personal staff of a U.S. Senator, a U.S. Representative and was elected twice as a District Attorney in North Carolina. His personal network is based on long standing friendships on both sides of the aisle. 

 

Those relationships allow him to be effective on behalf of his clients on day one of an engagement. He also has a 15-year history as a popular legal analyst for local and national media.

F. Colin Hawkins is a trusted defense policy strategist and government relations professional known for delivering results at the intersection of Congress, the Department of War, and the national security community. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for solving complex challenges, advancing priorities into law, and driving meaningful outcomes for both public and private sector stakeholders.

​

He has served in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, where he led policy and legislative efforts spanning defense, veterans’ affairs, homeland security, and emerging technologies. On Capitol Hill, Colin worked closely with senior Members and staff on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), defense appropriations, and oversight of critical Department of War programs. His work included developing legislative strategy, drafting and advancing bills and report language into law, securing key funding, and building strong bipartisan coalitions across Armed Services and Appropriations.

​

Colin brings a unique blend of public and private sector experience, having worked in both multi-client lobbying environments and in-house government relations for a top NatSec 100 company. In this role, he managed a congressional campaign exceeding $1 million annually and served as Deputy Treasurer of a corporate PAC, helping shape strategic political investment and strengthen relationships across Congress.

​

His work has directly driven business growth and mission adoption in the national security sector, accelerating revenue expansion and deepening engagement across existing customers and mission partners.

A U.S. Navy veteran and Gold Star brother, Colin brings a mission-first mindset shaped by service and sacrifice. He is known for translating complex operational requirements into clear, actionable policy, funding, and execution pathways.

​

Today, Colin advises defense companies, investors, and emerging technology leaders on navigating the federal landscape - aligning innovation with national security priorities, shaping policy, and delivering results across Congress and the Executive Branch.

Mary Catherine McDonald is a dynamic professional stepping into her role at Prospering Solutions, where she brings a results-driven approach and a deep understanding of complex regulatory environments. Recognized as a thought leader in both the medical and franchising sectors, Mary Catherine has built a reputation for connecting strategy with execution, helping organizations navigate growth, compliance, and advocacy at the highest levels.

​

With a proven track record of influencing outcomes and fostering strong stakeholder relationships, she is known for her ability to translate industry challenges into actionable policy solutions. Her experience positions her as a powerful voice for clients seeking meaningful representation in Washington.

​

At Prospering Solutions, Mary Catherine is poised to make an immediate and lasting impact, championing client interests, shaping policy conversations, and driving forward initiatives that matter. Her leadership, insight, and tenacity ensure she will be a force in the federal lobbying space.
 

Kimberly Barch serves as our Director of Operations, bringing years of federal service to her work.

 

Kimberly has extensive experience managing business operations and coordinating activities across federal agencies. She holds a Master of Public Administration and Policy from American University and B.S. from the School of Public Health at the University of Maryland.