Board of Directors
The Board of Directors at No Belt Required is dedicated to empowering law enforcement and first responders through the transformative benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts. Committed to fostering resilience, discipline, and confidence, our leadership team works tirelessly to support those who serve and protect our communities. With a shared passion for service and martial arts, the Board ensures the organization’s mission is upheld: equipping first responders with the tools they need to thrive both on and off duty.
9 members
Led by Mike Pelton (NBR President) and Josh Beren (Executive Director). Tap any member to read their story.
NBR President
Michael Pelton started his martial arts background prior to becoming a Police Officer. He wrestled all four years in high school and during the off season also took judo classes. After graduating high school he became an assistant High School Wrestling Coach for two years where he attended coaching clinics, some including olympic gold medalist Dan Gable. These clinics helped him to become a better teacher, instructor, and coach.
Executive Director
Josh Beren was born and raised in Tucson, AZ where he grew up, went to high school, and lived until attending the University of California at Berkeley. He currently splits time between Arizona and California where he’s attending Antioch University Los Angeles’ Masters in Clinical Psychology program with an emphasis on Trauma studies.
Board Member
Brendon Brumitt has been an avid martial artist since the age of 6 years old. His journey began with Taekwondo and Karate classes provided at the YWCA/YMCA after school program. In his teenage years, he ventured out to Japanese Jujutsu and continued to train Karate as time permitted. Upon joining the military, he continued his Jujutsu training in Japan and eventually obtained his 5th degree black belt. Upon completion of his time in the military, he returned to the US and opened his own Japanese Jujutsu training group and continued to teach and train. In 2005, he returned to Japan and began competing in Judo and training in mixed martial arts. During that time, he competed in MMA, Judo and Combat Submission Wrestling. He returned to the US again in 2014 and began training in Judo and eventually transitioned to Brazilian Jujutsu.
Board Member
Tim started Jiu Jitsu in 2015 and has competed in nationwide tournaments multiple times at every belt level and has competed in several local super fights.
Board Member
Dale Funk is a former police officer turned tech nerd with a knack for solving everyday problems through innovation. He’s the driving force behind multiple tech startups, ranging from a web design agency and a digital business card SaaS to a real estate prop tech venture. Outside the tech world, Dale has devoted over 15 years to training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other various martial arts, proving that discipline and perseverance are at the core of everything he does.
Board Member
My name is Roxanna Rivera-Pelton, and I am a Senior Lecturer at the University of Arizona’s College of Education, where I serve as an instructor and site coordinator. I teach undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Elementary Education, combining my passion for teaching with a commitment to shaping the next generation of educators. My dedication to education extends beyond the classroom, fueling my belief in the importance of training first responders in skillsets that not only protect them but also enhance community safety.
Board Member
Everardo “Reuben” Nunez, retired Marana Police Chief, is embracing life as a civilian after dedicating 40 years to law enforcement. Throughout his distinguished career, he remained committed to enhancing officer safety and community trust, a passion that continues to guide him in retirement. His extensive experience and leadership have made him a strong advocate for programs that prioritize both officer well-being and public safety.
Board Member
I am a passionate advocate for No Belt Required (NBR), emphasizing its critical role in saving lives, not just for First Responders but as a vital step in building public trust and fostering greater awareness. By equipping individuals with lifesaving skills and promoting accountability, NBR strengthens the bonds between communities and those sworn to protect them. This work is about more than skills; it’s about promoting unity, encouraging collaboration, and advancing a culture of collective safety. Together, we can empower individuals, enhance community resilience, and pave the way for stronger, safer communities.
Board Member
I’m honored to serve on the NBR Board of Directors and have always been driven to support and serve First Responders. I strongly believe No Belt Required’s mission and programs are not only impactful, but truly needed at this moment.