2025 NVLF LEADERSHIP FORUM
A National Gathering Committed to Enhancing Higher Education for Military-Connected Students
Every year, the National Veterans Leadership Foundation (NVLF) gathers campus leaders, military-connected students, and key allies dedicated to enhancing the higher education experience for those who choose to serve.
New in 2025, the NVLF Leadership Forum is launching an enhanced format designed to foster greater collaboration and momentum for progress. This year’s event will bring together student and campus leaders and critical allies to incorporate diverse perspectives into the planning and decision-making process.
The Forum is strategically divided into two segments:
JUNE 25
MIL-VET DIRECTORS, ALLIES and STUDENT FELLOWS
On day one, there is a collaborative session uniting Student Leadership Fellows, Mil-Vet Directors, and other campus allies who will delve into practical strategies and proven success models. This dynamic exchange will provide fresh perspectives and insights to enhance support for military-connected students.
JUNE 26
MIL-VET DIRECTORS and ALLIES
Day two focuses on campus leadership, offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with peers, share best practices, and leave with renewed inspiration and strategies.
The NVLF Leadership Forum is a vital catalyst for empowering military-connected students and the institutions that support them. With its enhanced format in 2025, the Forum is poised to drive even greater progress and innovation in the higher education journey of those who serve.
SESSION HIGHLIGHTS
Day 1: June 25
• Campus Collaboration and Growth: Explore strategies to foster inclusivity and strengthen support for military-connected students.
• Tell Your Advocate Story: Learn how to spotlight the contributions of military-connected students and enrich campus culture through compelling narratives.
• Take Control of Your Career: Discover how to integrate effective career planning into the college experience.
• The Employer Perspective: Explore ways for campuses to partner with companies and prepare students for meaningful civilian careers.
• The Partner Perspective: Learn how to engage donors and partners to bolster program support and impact.
Day 2: June 26
• Growing Your MCA Program: Explore case studies on strengthening and expanding the impact of Advocates on campus.
• Partner Success Stories: Gain inspiration from real-world examples of successful partnerships supporting military-connected students.
• Action Planning: Develop actionable strategies to advance your program goals.
• The Policy Perspective: Understand how federal and state policies shape the higher education experience for military-connected students and learn ways to engage with policymakers.
• Partners Roundtable: Join Mil-Vet office directors and team members for a collaborative discussion on insights, challenges, and next steps.
What schools are eligible?
The NVLF Leadership Forum is open to all NVLF-affiliated universities. Click here for a full list.
Who should attend?
Each university attending the Forum should send at least one representative from its Mil-Vet office (or the office responsible for supporting the military-connected population) and is encouraged to include a representative from their central development office to enhance efforts in increasing resources for the military-connected community.
Other allies critical to the support of mil-vet students—from Academic Affairs, Student Life, Marketing and Communications, Career Services— are also encouraged to take part.
Can I register a student?
NVLF Student Fellows will be attending the first day of the Forum. There is a separate nomination process for this leadership program. Those selected for the fellowship will be registered for the Forum by NVLF and receive some travel support. See here for more information.
If you have a student that you would like to bring to the Forum as a campus ally, you may choose to register them for the conference. Your university will be responsible for travel and lodging for all non-Fellow students.
Where is the conference?
Columbus, Ohio. For those flying, plan to arrive and depart at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
Sessions will be held at the New Albany Country Club and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.
Shuttle transportation will be provided to and from the conference hotel to these locations.
How much does it cost?
Due to support from our donors, conference registration fees are waived for all attendees of the NVLF Leadership Forum.
Where should I stay?
A conference rate is available at the Courtyard by Marriott at Easton Town Center. Click here to book by May 15.
Register Now!
Given capacity constraints, registration is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply, you must complete your registration form by May 15.
Questions
Contact: Mike Carrell, Chief Operating Officer, [email protected] or Laura Gaines, Program Assistant, [email protected]