National service has become a powerful strategy for developing leaders with values, skills and optimism to address problems in every sector of society. National service alumni bring the kinds of skills and attitudes sought by leaders from private companies to nonprofit organizations. When the Baby Boom generation retires, there will be an enormous talent gap in the nonprofit and public sectors, and national service alumni are an important resource for addressing that gap. At the same time, national service has proven a powerful strategy to expose youth to potential careers and motivate them to achieve. It has helped disadvantaged young people find an upward path, and inspired college students to choose careers in under-resourced fields.
A luncheon discussion co-sponsored by the Center for American Progress, Hudson Institute, Voices for National Service, and the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service, Tufts University, will examine the role that national service plays in workforce and talent development for the country. Two expert panels will bring together a thoughtful group of leaders from national service, higher-education, and the private sector for a policy discussion on service as a strategy for public and private leadership. First, national service alumni will share stories about the role that their national service experience has played in their professional development and career choices. Second, executives from every sector will give their perspective on the role national service can play in developing leaders and a strong workforce.
Panel Discussion: National Service Alumni Tell Their Stories
Kellie Bentz, Director of Hands On New Orleans
Kaya Henderson, Deputy Chancellor for the District of Columbia Public Schools
Jason Phillips, Crispus Attucks YouthBuild Charter School
Tondalaya Shepard-Turner, Director of Volunteer and Community Service for Mt. Sinai Health System
Panel Discussion: National Service as a Strategy for Workforce Development
Arthur R. Block, Esq., Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, Comcast Corporation
Cheryl L. Dorsey, M.D., M.P.P., President of Echoing Green
Robert Hollister, Dean of the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service, Tufts University
Sally T. Prouty, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Corps Network
Paul Schmitz, President and CEO of Public Allies