Press Release

Applications open for the Bush Institute’s fifth class of Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program Scholars

The Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program is increasing the impact and developing the skills of those serving the military-connected community

DALLAS, TEXAS – Today, the George W. Bush Institute  opened the application process for the 2023 Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program. The first-of-its-kind program is aimed at active-duty service members, veterans, and civilians from diverse backgrounds and sectors who are called to serve our Nation’s veterans and their families. Applications will remain open through Jan. 18, 2023 at midnight.

The Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program features a unique curriculum designed to teach bold and principled leaders the essential skills to be impactful in the military-connected space. Throughout the five-month program, Scholars will hear from a variety of nationally known and distinguished professionals, educators, and experts in veteran transition issues and leadership development. Past guests have included former Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald, retired U.S. Air Force Major General Alfred Flowers, Bush Institute Senior Fellow and former U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator Dr. Deborah L. Birx, and President and Mrs. Bush.

Scholars put their learning into action through a personal leadership project, which allows them to implement what they learn in the program in support of improving outcomes for veterans and their families. Examples of these Scholar-led efforts include: reducing military-connected job seekers’ fears and helping employers become veteran ready; providing education, empowerment, and support to military spouses; and addressing mental health and suicide prevention in the veteran and military-connected community

In a 2021 survey conducted by the Bush Institute, over 90% of Veteran Leadership Program alumni indicated that they gained leadership skills that improved their ability to make a difference in the lives of others by participating in the program.

Alumni include veterans, educators, physicians, public servants, corporate professionals, and nonprofit leaders at the forefront of their fields who all have one mission in common — to drive positive impact for veterans and their families. Since the Veteran Leadership Program launched in 2018, nearly 200 Scholars have participated in the program, building a robust and active alumni network across the United States.

Program tuition, accommodation, meals, and travel are fully funded during the five course sessions.

The Bush Institute gratefully acknowledges the support of The Boeing Company as the Founding Program Underwriter.

To apply for the 2023 program cycle, visit www.bushcenter.org/standto

###

The George W. Bush Institute is a solution-oriented nonpartisan policy organization focused on ensuring opportunity for all, strengthening democracy, and advancing free societies. Housed within the George W. Bush Presidential Center, the Bush Institute is rooted in compassionate conservative values and committed to creating positive, meaningful, and lasting change at home and abroad. We utilize our unique platform and convening power to advance solutions to national and global issues of the day. Learn more at bushcenter.org.