By Lindsay Blount, Ed.D.
Being featured on the cover of the Military Spouse magazine in Fall 2023 was an extraordinary honor. It provided an opportunity to highlight the resilience of military spouses and to advocate for change, community building, and the reimagining of possibilities.
Since then, I’ve earned my doctorate from William & Mary and fully embraced a mission close to my heart: supporting veterans and military families through every phase of service and transition. This mission is now materializing through an initiative I’m proud to introduce—William & Mary’s inaugural Empowering Military Spouse Symposium, scheduled for June 13, 2025, in Williamsburg, Virginia.
👉 Register today: www.wm.edu/offices/veterans/military-spouses-symposium
Why This Matters
This symposium transcends traditional professional development. It’s a deliberate investment in the individuals who navigate and adapt through every aspect of military life.
As one of the most empowering events of its kind in Hampton Roads, this symposium was created for military spouses and because of military spouses. It reflects a growing movement to not only recognize our experiences but to invest in our futures.
William & Mary is proud to host a gathering that brings together real resources and genuine connection—intentionally blending wellness, personal growth, and professional development into one cohesive and transformative experience.
What to Expect on June 13
Organized by the William & Mary Military & Veteran Affairs (W&M VET) team, the symposium centers the spouse experience and provides tools for clarity, confidence, and connection. Whether you’re new to military life or navigating post-service transitions, this day is about empowerment and momentum.
Highlights of the day include:
- Keynote address by Robin “Phoenix” Johnson, Army veteran, comedian, and founder of Best Medicine Brigade
- Values workshop led by Dr. Kelly Crace to help spouses reconnect with purpose
- Life transitions session co-led by me and military spouse advocate Elaine Willig, focused on navigating change with intentionality
- Fireside chat on civilian career culture featuring speakers from W&M, Organized Q, Military Spouse Advocacy Network, RecruitMilitary, HCA Healthcare, and Hiring Our Heroes
- Breakout sessions on résumé building, entrepreneurship, financial wellness, and higher education
- Professional headshots offered by veteran spouse Christy Silva of Lasting Memories Photography
- Complimentary childcare to ensure full accessibility
- Resource fair featuring military spouse centered organizations
Backed by Belief
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners—including PenFed Foundation, Fiserv, the Hampton Roads Veteran Employment Center, and the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce—whose generosity is helping make this experience possible. Their support underscores the importance of investing in military spouses not just in theory, but in action.
Your Time Is Now
Our goal is simple: to make sure every military spouse leaves feeling seen, supported, and inspired. Your voice matters. Your goals matter. Your time is now.
Stay Connected
Follow along and help us spread the word:
Instagram: @wmveterans
LinkedIn: William & Mary Military & Veteran Affairs
