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Empowering Military Spouse Symposium in Williamsburg

Military spouses gather for a day of support and empowerment at the symposium.

News Summary

Williamsburg will host the first-ever Empowering Military Spouse Symposium aimed at supporting military spouses’ career and personal development. This in-person event on June 13 will feature sessions on resume development, financial wellness, and more. Organized by the William & Mary Office of Military and Veterans Affairs, the symposium will connect participants with key organizations and provide networking opportunities. The initiative aims to enhance awareness of the challenges faced by military spouses and their unique strengths.

Williamsburg will host the first-ever Empowering Military Spouse Symposium on June 13, aimed at supporting military spouses across various stages of their careers and personal development. The event, taking place in-person, marks a significant initiative to uplift and equip military spouses in their unique journeys.

Organized in collaboration with the William & Mary Office of Military and Veterans Affairs, the symposium is led by Lindsay Blount, an Air Force spouse and a featured cover subject in Military Spouse Magazine for 2023. The full-day experience will cater to a diverse range of military spouses, including those just starting their journey and veterans looking to transition into new chapters of life.

The gathering will feature a variety of informative sessions including a keynote address, a career panel, and multiple breakout sessions. Each breakout session will tackle essential topics such as resume development, financial wellness, higher education opportunities, and entrepreneurial ventures specifically tailored for military spouses. Additionally, the event acknowledges the different focus areas for personal growth among military spouses, which can include community service, volunteering, and wellness education.

Participants will also benefit from complimentary services, such as professional headshots and childcare for the first 50 registrants, enhancing the accessibility of the event. A VA Resource Fair will connect attendees with mission-aligned employers, nonprofits, and educational institutions, providing valuable networking opportunities. Key organizations participating in the resource fair include Blue Star Families, Hiring Our Heroes, MSAN, Wear Blue, and Burn Boot Camp, all of which are dedicated to supporting the military-connected community.

The Empowering Military Spouse Symposium is part of William & Mary’s broader commitment to the military-connected community, facilitating initiatives that foster growth and resilience among military families. The event is sponsored in part by the PenFed Foundation and supported by various organizations, including Fiserv, the Hampton Roads Veteran Employment Center, and the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce. This partnership underscores a collective effort toward uplifting military spouse communities.

For individuals interested in attending and seeking further information about the symposium, registration is available at wm.edu. The event promises to be a significant resource for military spouses looking to advance both their professional and personal lives while drawing upon a supportive network.

By hosting the Empowering Military Spouse Symposium, Williamsburg not only provides a platform for education and connection but also enhances awareness of the unique challenges and strengths inherent to the military spouse community. As the first event of its kind in the area, it is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of many attendees.