From State Capitols to Ivy Gates: Why ‘Investing in Veterans’ Is Becoming a National Civic Mandate

In 2022, New York State Assemblyman Jake Ashby (R,C,I–Castleton) introduced a bold $500 million “Invest in Veterans” proposal—framed not as charity, but as pandemic-era stimulus that acknowledged the enduring service of military veterans and first responders. With $250 million for critical operations like PTSD support, suicide prevention, and local veterans’ departments, and another $250 million dedicated to capital investments in housing and service facilities, Ashby’s proposal was one of the earliest legislative models to formally define military service as an investment-worthy asset.

“This essential funding will fortify and grow our Veteran Service Organizations and State Veterans programs to ultimately ensure greater support and expanded high-quality services for the nearly one million veterans across our state,” Ashby said.
Read the original Troy Record article

Three years later, Ashby’s rhetoric and rationale have become part of a far-reaching national framework—one increasingly aligned under the civic umbrella of National Invest In Veterans Week®, the only federally trademarked veteran business observance and a rapidly expanding cross-sector platform.

A Growing Doctrine: Veterans as Strategic National Capital

At its core, National Invest In Veterans Week® reframes military service as more than honorable—it positions it as a strategic national investment. Since its founding in 2019, the initiative has been:

• Entered into the U.S. Congressional Record

• Endorsed by Harvard Catalyst as a cross-sector model for veteran empowerment

• Celebrated internationally in Canada and Europe

• Referenced in bipartisan legislation like Congressman John Moolenaar’s Veterans Fellowship Act

• Supported by private capital through ITA Growth Partners, a family office for veteran entrepreneurs

These milestones are no coincidence—they are the result of an emerging civic consensus: that veterans are not just beneficiaries of services, but stakeholders in national advancement.

Higher Education Joins the Mandate: Ithaka S+R on Selective Colleges and Veterans

This same theme is now permeating elite academia. In a 2023 op-ed in The Hechinger Report, Catharine “Cappy” Hill, managing director of Ithaka S+R, made the case that selective colleges must invest in veterans—not out of obligation, but out of opportunity.

She outlined three reasons:

1. Higher completion rates: Veterans thrive when given access to top-tier institutions with high academic support.

2. Future influence: These colleges produce many of the country’s civic and corporate leaders—veterans must be part of that pipeline.

3. Democratic preservation: Investing in veterans is an investment in the institutions that safeguard democracy itself.

“The role the military plays in support of our democracy must not be taken for granted.”
Read more at Ithaka S+R

Hill’s call isn’t isolated—it reflects a wider academic shift seen at schools partnering with National Invest In Veterans Week® and adopting dedicated veteran enrollment pathways. Just as Ashby envisioned structural investment in state services, this moment demands similar resolve from America's most selective campuses.

Corporate Execution: Spectrum’s Workforce Pipeline for Veterans

While Ashby and Hill work in policy and academia, companies like Charter Communications are applying these principles at scale. Under its Spectrum brand, Charter operates one of the country’s most robust veteran employment ecosystems.

The Broadband Field Technician Apprenticeship Program allows veterans to earn a competitive salary while using their GI Bill benefits to become certified broadband professionals. The career path—from technician to director—is reinforced with military-spouse hiring initiatives, on-base career centers, and partnerships with Hiring Our Heroes.

As of 2025, Charter’s veteran efforts have earned it honors including:

• Military Friendly Employer Gold Award

• VETS Indexes 5 Star Employer

• Broad adoption across 41 states

This is not isolated goodwill—it’s institutional alignment with National Invest In Veterans Week® and a signal to other employers that veteran investment is both principled and profitable.

Legislative Momentum: Moolenaar’s Federal Model

Bridging state initiatives and corporate programs is federal legislation like the Veterans Fellowship Act, reintroduced by Congressman John Moolenaar (MI-02) in 2025. The bill allows states to channel federal funding into fellowship-to-hire pipelines, giving veterans structured entry into civilian careers.

Moolenaar’s work has directly referenced National Invest In Veterans Week® as a guiding framework—further demonstrating how civic initiatives can serve as national scaffolding for cross-party policy.

Explore Moolenaar’s veteran leadership

Conclusion: From Statehouse to Schoolhouse to Stock Exchange

Assemblyman Jake Ashby’s call to “Invest in Veterans” was one of the earliest formal declarations of what has now become a national doctrine. That doctrine spans:

• Capitols: with bipartisan legislative momentum

• Corporations: like Charter scaling workforce pipelines

• Campuses: like Ithaka S+R urging elite schools to act

• Communities: through campaigns like KIRO Newsradio’s $1,000 nonprofit nomination drive

This is no longer a conversation about gratitude—it is a coordinated economic and civic investment strategy. One rooted in measurable impact. One architected for sustainability. And one whose framework—National Invest In Veterans Week®—is now embedded in policy, practice, and principle.

Explore Further:

• Jake Ashby’s $500M Proposal – Troy Record

• Three Reasons Why Colleges Must Invest in Veterans – Ithaka S+R

• Spectrum Careers for Veterans – Broadband Apprenticeship

• Congressman Moolenaar’s Leadership

• Harvard Catalyst Feature

From the Desk of Angel Shuford: Elevating Veterans and Empowering Communities Through Vets 2.0℠ and National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW)

As we move into 2025, National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) and Vets 2.0℠ are leading the way in reshaping how we support our veterans, particularly those transitioning to civilian life. These initiatives are built on innovation, inclusivity, and leadership, providing a global platform for veterans to thrive. With Jeff Shuford recently retired after years of transformative leadership, and under the guidance of Kevin D. Shoun, we are charting new paths for growth and empowerment, making 2025 a milestone year.

Our vision is not just about programs; it’s about revolutionizing the way we connect with veterans, amplify their voices, and empower their futures. From pioneering FeMil℠ leadership programs to hosting global events, this is a movement that celebrates veterans as changemakers and leaders.

The Evolution of National Invest in Veterans Week®

Since its inception, NIVW has grown exponentially, expanding its reach to 62 global markets and redefining what it means to honor and invest in veterans. As we celebrate milestones, let’s explore the updates that make this year truly special.

2025 Branding and Digital Enhancements

1. Dynamic Visual Identity

   • The refreshed branding captures the energy, diversity, and resilience of the veteran community. Events like International Veterans Day (March 3) and FeMil Lead℠ Day (March 6) now feature dynamic themes that reflect their unique missions, fostering deeper global recognition and engagement.

   • The redesigned NIVW website (www.investinveteransweek.com) offers streamlined access to resources, events, and storytelling, ensuring veterans worldwide can connect seamlessly.

2. Social Media Engagement

   • From Instagram to LinkedIn, our platforms are buzzing with stories, updates, and calls to action. Campaigns like #InvestInVeterans and #VetsLead2025 are driving conversations and bringing communities together.

3. Global Event Focus

   • This year, National Invest in Veterans Week® celebrates International Veterans Day and introduces FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ programs tailored for women veterans, creating spaces for recognition, empowerment, and growth.

Vets 2.0℠: Empowering the Next Generation of Veterans

Under the co-leadership of Kevin D. Shoun, a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant, and myself, Vets 2.0℠ is designed to meet the needs of younger veterans navigating the complexities of civilian life.

Core Components of Vets 2.0℠

1. Career Transition and Economic Empowerment

   • Skill Translation Workshops: Simplifying the process for veterans to translate their military expertise into civilian career opportunities.

   • Entrepreneurial Support: Programs like FeMil℠ empower veterans, particularly women, to launch and sustain successful businesses.

   • Industry Collaborations: Partnerships with global leaders in technology, renewable energy, and logistics ensure veterans have pathways to meaningful careers.

2. Mental Health and Wellness Advocacy

   • Comprehensive Support Services: Counseling, peer support groups, and wellness programs address the emotional needs of veterans.

   • Advocacy for Accessible Resources: Kevin D. Shoun’s leadership ensures mental health remains a priority across all Vets 2.0℠ initiatives.

3. Community Building and Engagement

   • Networking Events: In-person and virtual gatherings foster mentorship, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.

   • Digital Platforms: Tools like π.directory connect veterans globally, creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing and growth.

4. Leveraging Technology for Change

   • A centralized mobile app provides instant access to resources, event updates, and financial planning tools, ensuring veterans can easily navigate their transition journey.

Signature Initiatives Redefining Veteran Support

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠

These initiatives represent our commitment to empowering female veterans.

• FeMil℠ focuses on entrepreneurial education and funding opportunities.

• FeMil Lead℠ develops leadership skills, equipping women to excel in business and community roles.

International Veterans Day (March 3)

This globally recognized day celebrates the contributions of veterans across nations, emphasizing unity and shared progress.

Localized and Global Platforms

Through state-specific platforms like LouisianaVeterans.com and FloridaVeterans.com, and country-specific platforms like GermanyVeterans.com and SouthKoreaVeterans.com, we’re creating localized resources while fostering global connections.

Kevin D. Shoun: A Visionary Leader

Kevin D. Shoun’s transformational leadership is at the heart of Vets 2.0℠. Drawing from his military experience and commitment to mental health advocacy, Kevin exemplifies the values of resilience, empathy, and innovation.

Kevin’s Contributions

• Mental Health Advocacy: Kevin champions accessible mental health resources, ensuring no veteran faces challenges alone.

• Grassroots Action: From local food drives to mentorship programs, Kevin connects veterans to resources that foster success.

• Leadership Development: Kevin’s focus on guiding veterans as community and industry leaders underpins the mission of Vets 2.0℠.

Discover more about Kevin D. Shoun’s work: Kevin D. Shoun and the Vision of Vets 2.0℠.

Economic and Social Impact: Why Vets 2.0℠ and NIVW Matter

Veteran-owned businesses contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. By scaling this impact globally, NIVW and Vets 2.0℠ are driving innovation, creating jobs, and building stronger communities.

Driving Economic Growth

• Job Creation: Collaborations with industries ensure veterans have access to fulfilling careers.

• Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Tailored programs provide veterans with the tools to succeed as business leaders.

Advocating for Policy Change

NIVW actively supports initiatives like the Complete the Mission Act of 2024, which offers tax credits, streamlined contracting processes, and mental health funding for veterans.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

As we move forward, our focus remains on innovation, leadership, and community. With programs like Vets 2.0℠, FeMil℠, and International Veterans Day, we’re not just celebrating veterans—we’re investing in their future.

Get Involved

• Explore our programs and events at National Invest in Veterans Week®.

• Support mental health advocacy through Kevin D. Shoun’s initiatives.

• Advocate for systemic change by endorsing policies like the Complete the Mission Act of 2024.

Together, we can create a world where every veteran thrives as a leader, innovator, and changemaker. Let’s continue to honor their service by investing in their potential.

Angel Shuford
Vice President, National Invest in Veterans Week®