Service to Service National Network Launches First Cohort
On Thursday, September 11, and Friday, September 12, nearly forty students from eleven universities convened at The Ohio State University (OSU) for the inaugural Service to Service Orientation, launching the national network of Service to Service Fellows.
Supported by the Volcker Alliance and We the Veterans and Military Families, Service to Service connects veterans and military families with public service education pathways to propel them into stable and impactful careers in public leadership. This year’s impressive class of Fellows represents all branches of the military, including active-duty personnel, veterans, spouses, and children of military service members, who are earning master's degrees in public service.
Orientation began with a reception at the National Veterans Museum and Memorial, where Fellows from across the country connected with their cohort for the first time. The next day, public service leaders discussed how military experience uniquely prepares veterans for roles in state and local government. Fellows also participated in professional development workshops designed to support their transition into civilian public service.
“Veterans and military families are among our nation's most trusted communities. Through the Service to Service initiative, we're leveraging that trust to rebuild confidence in government. It's a long road, but we believe this can spark real cultural change,” said Sara Mogulescu, president of the Volcker Alliance.
Featured speakers, including retired Vice Admiral and current Ohio State President, Walter “Ted” Carter Jr., retired Major General Timothy M. Zadalis, and retired Major with the District of Columbia Air National Guard 113th Fighter Wing and Mayor of Athens, Ohio, Steve Patterson, spoke about their individual career trajectories from military to civilian service and provided advice for the fellows.
“This trip inspired me,” said Rayhan Sarwar, Service to Service fellow at Cornell University. “While connecting with like-minded scholars and amazing mentors, I felt the timely call for veterans and their families to build public trust by working in government. I look forward to the future and legacy of this program that we are building together.”
Learn more about the Service to Service Fellowship here.
