Student Veterans of America's 2024 Leadership Institute
This year’s Student Veterans of America (SVA) Leadership Institute opened with a resounding spirit of inspiration, growth, and purpose. The event officially kicked off with an uplifting Welcome Reception, setting the tone for what would become a transformative experience for all who attended. It brought together student veterans, Senior Leadership Fellows, and dedicated Mentors, all eager to embark on this powerful journey.
The opening remarks at the Welcome Reception were nothing short of impactful, as the distinguished speakers set the stage for the 2024 Leadership Institute experience. Attendees had the honor of hearing from Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass, who served as the event’s keynote speaker. As the 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, her leadership experience and commitment to service deeply resonated with the attendees. Bass’s words were a rallying call for leadership, community, and resilience, reminding everyone in the room of the importance of purpose-driven service.
The Welcome Reception also served as a moment to formally introduce this year’s group of Leadership Institute Mentors: iAsia Brown, Cory Boatwright, Maureen Elias, Nick Palmisciano, Tiffany Daugherty, and Wilton Williamson Jr., as well as the Senior Leadership Fellows: Annsleigh Anderson, Caleb Lindsay, and Farid Murad.
Lead Facilitator Dave Bradt also spoke during the opening reception, bringing his expertise and insights to the forefront. Bradt’s experience guiding student veterans through their growth journeys was evident, as he shared thoughtful insights about the importance of self-awareness, leadership development, and community support. His message of teamwork and leadership resonated with attendees, setting the perfect foundation for the event’s core themes.
Setting the scene in the Nation’s Capital, Washington D.C., student veterans were treated to a guided night tour of the National Mall, focusing their walk on the war memorials dedicated to the generations of service members who paved the way for them. As veterans, they believe that paying homage to fellow soldiers, marines, airmen, coast guardsmen, and sailors is essential to honoring their sacrifices and service.
To close out the first day of the 2024 Leadership Institute, student veterans gathered at Hawk ‘n’ Dove, a cozy restaurant on Capitol Hill, for a networking reception where they got to know their cohorts and reflected on the day.
Day two of the 2024 Leadership Institute was a memorable day for many student veterans, starting with a recap of day one and an all-hands session to set the tone for the events scheduled for the cohort. Following the morning all-hands and cohort sessions, student veterans were treated to a special tour of the White House. After the tour, attendees gathered for a thought-provoking panel discussion led by Dr. Tahina Montoya, who moderated an insightful conversation with a panel of distinguished leaders. The panelists—Terri Tanielian, Mike Freuh, Meg Kabat, James Kvaal, and Loren Voss—shared their diverse experiences and expertise, fostering meaningful conversations among attendees and leaving an indelible mark on the Leadership Institute experience.
Ending day two on a high note, student veterans gathered at Punch Bowl Social for a night of fun and entertainment. This was an amazing experience that brought student veterans together with a backdrop of karaoke, bowling, table tennis, billiards, and more games.
The final day of the Leadership Institute was nothing short of spectacular. Following the morning all-hands and cohort sessions and before the culminating graduation ceremony, student veterans were introduced to the time-honored tradition of the “Rock, Paper, Scissors” battle. This surprise activity is a massive energizer, bringing the cohorts together for a friendly and uniquely intense moment.
Closing the program, the cohort of student veterans celebrated their graduation as Leadership Fellows in an unforgettable ceremony held in the Library of Congress’s iconic Great Hall. This grand venue, filled with historical significance, was the perfect backdrop for an evening of reflection and celebration. The graduates were joined by speakers Jermaine L. Sullivan, M.Ed., and Dr. Tahina Montoya. Each speaker offered words of encouragement and wisdom, urging the newly minted Leadership Fellows to take what they had learned and continue leading in their respective fields. They reminded the graduates that their experiences as veterans uniquely position them to be leaders of integrity and vision, capable of making a lasting impact both in their personal lives and in the broader veteran community.
As the 2024 SVA Leadership Institute concludes, it leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, growth, and achievement. The Leadership Fellows are now equipped with the knowledge, skills, and connections to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Their journey does not end here, and the entire SVA community eagerly anticipates the incredible contributions these leaders will continue to make.
Applications for the 2025 SVA Leadership Institute will open in the summer of 2025, and we look forward to welcoming the next cohort of veterans who are ready to embark on their own leadership journey.
