Events

Join Blue Star Families and the Association of Defense Communities for a virtual event where we will review lessons learned through six months of research.

What have we learned? CMSI Pain Points Poll research revealed that when families had confidence in their leadership to follow safety protocols, families were more resilient and service members could focus on mission readiness.

During the event, we will share the real-life story of Karly and her family in Norfolk VA. Learn how her family was impacted by COVID-19, how the DOD responded to support Karly’s family, and the lessons learned from their experience.

You will also have the opportunity to hear from leaders in the military and defense community.

Keynote Speaker:

Featured Speaker:

Special Guests include:

• General John Hyten, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Mrs. Laura Hyten

• Dr. Paul Lawrence, Undersecretary of Veterans Affairs for Benefits

• Dr. Lynda Davis, Chief Veterans Experience Officer at the Department of Veterans Affairs

• Carlos Hopkins, Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs

Join senior leaders from the Department of Veterans Affairs and leading veterans health care partners from the Military Service Initiative at the George W. Bush Institute for an interactive discussion on the evolution of healthcare during the pandemic.This virtual event will focus on the changes that have been developed, accelerated, or changed within the healthcare system to maintain the quality and accessibility of care for veterans during the pandemic. Participants will share their perspective and insight and answer your questions during this engaging and thoughtful event.

Hear from Bruce Feiler — American television personality, TED speaker, and best-selling author, including his latest book, Life Is in the Transitions—as he shares his lessons learned and best practices on thriving through times of transition. Bruce will bring a wealth of knowledge to the conversation from many years coaching and supporting parents, families, and employees on how to live life to the fullest through the highs and lows.

This is a free event, but event registration is required.
Capacity is limited, however, so prompt registration is recommended.

How does creativity play a role in your daily life in the military? How has art sustained you through difficult times? Join Hollywood Actors from 30 Rock, Gilmore Girls, and Orange is the New Black with Arts in the Armed Forces (AITAF) for a robust conversation on leveraging creativity to cope with stress. Attendees will have a chance to ask questions during this interactive panel discussion. AITAF will also share upcoming opportunities for engagement and scholarships.

This is a free event, but event registration is required.
Capacity is limited, however, so prompt registration is recommended.

Just a few short months ago when people discussed the “base of the future” the most common terms used were 5G wireless, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence. Fast forward to today and the conversation is now far different and our installations and communities are facing a challenge few envisioned. Join us for a conversation w/ Hon. Jordan Gillis as we explore how COVID-19 has impacted DOD’s installation management priorities and future planning efforts.

As the world adjusts to the new “normal” of life during a pandemic,  many military families are left wondering, “Now what?”

Join us to ask questions and learn from a panel of experts.. Panelists  will share their advice on how to navigate the coming months, covering topics including:

• Planning for your military career
• Strategies for military spouse employment & career growth
• Professional development opportunities
• PCSing in the face of a global pandemic
• Decision-making for military families

Panelists include:

• Mrs. Ellyn Dunford, Spouse of General (ret) Joseph Dunford, Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
• Major General Tammy Smith, Assistant Secretary of the Army Manpower & Reserve Affairs, Quality of Life Programs
• Colonel Anthony Sansano,  Director of Personnel Programs, Air Force Personnel Center
• Mr. Derrick Candler, Chief, Transportation Policy Division, US Army
• Chief Master Sergeant Chad Pryor, Chief, Directorate of Personnel Programs, US Air Force

As summer approaches, many military families still have school on their minds.

How will my child transition from one school to another during the pandemic? How do I ensure that my special needs child receives the support they require? What is the best way to avoid the summer slide after months of virtual learning? How do I prepare my child for a different school environment once the fall semester begins?

If those same thoughts and concerns have been on your mind, please join our upcoming town hall, which will feature a panel of experts from the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC), Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission, Tutor.com, Great Schools, Edmentum, and Partners in PROMISE. Participants will share their professional knowledge and answer your questions during this one-hour deep dive on K-12 education.

This briefing will feature top economic and community development experts as they explore the strategies, tools and resources available to communities and states as they look to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moderator:

Matt Borron
Chief Operating Officer
Association of Defense Communities

Speakers:

Joe Driskill
Executive Director
Missouri Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission
and
President 
Association of Defense Communities

Vicki Selva
Executive Director
Michigan Defense Center

Michael Behm
CEO
State Side Government Affairs

Joe Mariani
Research Manager
Deloitte Center of Government Insights

Bill Cork
CEO
Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission, MS