Military Spouse Advocacy Network Launches 2025 Leadership Program

The Military Spouse Advocacy Network (MSAN) has announced the opening of applications for the first 2025 cohort of its Military Spouse Leadership Development Program (MSLDP). This program, presented by USAA, aims to cultivate leadership skills among 50 community-oriented military spouses. The application period runs from January 13 to February 7, 2025, marking an expansion of the program which now includes a spring session in addition to its traditional fall offering.

MSAN's initiative addresses a critical need within the military community. By providing world-class leadership training specifically tailored for military spouses, the program contributes to the overall strength and resilience of military families. The MSLDP is open to spouses of currently serving military members across all branches, including Reserves and Guard, as well as post-9/11 Gold Star Spouses, Surviving Spouses, Caregivers, and spouses of Veterans or Retirees.

The four-month program offers a comprehensive curriculum featuring training from prestigious institutions and experts. Participants will receive instruction from Harvard University's National Preparedness Leadership Initiative, obtain a Mental Health Ally Certificate from Psych Hub, and engage with top military leaders and influential community voices. This diverse educational approach aims to create well-rounded leaders capable of making significant impacts in their communities.

Verenice Castillo, MSAN Founder and CEO, emphasized the importance of USAA's continued support, highlighting how it empowers military spouses to grow as community leaders. The program's expansion to include a spring session reflects the high demand and success of previous cohorts, underscoring the ongoing need for specialized leadership development opportunities within the military spouse community.

The MSLDP's focus on leadership, service, advocacy, and mentorship aligns with MSAN's broader mission to create stronger military families through education, empowerment, and support. By equipping military spouses with these skills, the program aims to improve morale, increase military retention, and enhance the utilization of resources within military communities.

This initiative represents a significant investment in the often-overlooked potential of military spouses. By providing them with high-quality leadership training and networking opportunities, MSAN is not only supporting individual growth but also fostering a more robust and interconnected military community. The ripple effects of this program could lead to improved support systems for military families and more effective advocacy for their unique needs and challenges.