There’s a leader in every military spouse.

At Military Spouse Advocacy Network (MSAN), we wholeheartedly believe this statement, so we created a unique program designed to nurture and strengthen military spouses’ leadership potential: the Military Spouse Leadership Development Program (MSLDP).

This free, virtual program teaches military spouses the fundamentals of leadership, service, advocacy, and mentorship with the expectation that the graduates will share their expertise within their communities and make extraordinary changes for the future.

Participants receive world-class instruction on crisis and meta-leadership, successful collaboration for greater impact, mental health, and stakeholder support and engagement. The exclusive training also allows participants to build a network of leadership-oriented military spouses, earn certificates and micro-certifications, and gain exclusive access to supportive agencies and individuals.

Over the course of four months, the program provides a diverse cohort of 50 military spouses from all military branches training from:

● National Preparedness Leadership Initiative at Harvard University

● Psych Hub-Mental Health Ally Certificate

● Top military leaders and influential panel participants

● Impactful voices in the community

● Professional communications training

The inaugural MSLDP cohort debuted in 2021, and the program’s overwhelming success has led to successive cohorts each year. To meet a high demand for availability, MSAN, with presenting partner Vehicles for Veterans, has recently added a second cohort in 2024. The application session will be open from May 10 through June 7 and can be found at MSAN’s website.

Our MSLDP Graduates

MSLDP graduates are a diverse group, including mothers, fathers, students, professionals, entrepreneurs, volunteers, advocates, and caregivers. They all possess the drive and desire to make a difference in underserved populations. MSLDP provided the pathway to hone their skills and grow their communities.

“From the guest speakers, to the unique content offered, to the magic happening in the breakout rooms, I was able to learn something new with each module,” said Sara Rizzo, 2023 MSLDP graduate. “The virtual atmosphere was a bonus as it allowed for comfortability and the opportunity to connect with spouses from all over the globe.’’

“After graduating from the MSLDP I feel a renewed sense of purpose in my advocacy work and

am looking forward to putting my learning into practice,” said Lauren Nakazono, MSLDP Graduate.

“Thank you for committing to and investing time, energy, and strategic resources towards military spouse leadership,” says Marcy Piasecki, MSLDP graduate. “MSAN is the much-needed change that will empower military spouses and their communities.”

Why Should You Apply for MSLDP?

This program is an opportunity to join a community of like-minded spouses who want to become influential change-makers in their communities. The program will empower you, develop your leadership skills, and help you become a trusted voice in your community.

MSLDP is open to eligible active-duty spouses from any branch of the armed services, including the Reserves and Guard. Post-9/11 Gold Star Spouses, surviving spouses, caregivers, veteran spouses, and retirees are also encouraged to apply.

Join the military spouse advocacy movement if you’ve been searching for a way to improve your leadership skills and authentically connect with other military-related individuals who want to make significant changes in their communities.

Visit www.militaryspouseadvocacynetwork.org/msldp to learn more.