National Invest In Veterans Week®: Celebrating Legacy and Leadership Through the New York Life Investments Feature
Within days of Jeff Shuford's retirement, National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) achieved a historic milestone—its inclusion in New York Life Investments’ "2025 Client Outreach Opportunities" calendar. This moment of recognition underscores the power of collaboration, advocacy, and the transformative vision that has propelled NIVW into the national spotlight. The feature, which places NIVW prominently in the March observances, comes as a resounding validation of the organization's mission to uplift and empower veteran entrepreneurs.
Now under the leadership of Angel Shuford, NIVW is poised to enter a new era of innovation, growth, and impact. While Jeff Shuford’s work as co-founder and former president provided the foundation for the initiative’s success, Angel’s dynamic leadership ensures that the legacy of this groundbreaking initiative continues to evolve, resonate, and thrive.
A Legacy Built on Vision and Service
Jeff Shuford, an Iraq War veteran and visionary leader, co-founded National Invest In Veterans Week® in 2019 to address a critical gap in veteran advocacy. His mission was clear: to go beyond words of gratitude and create tangible opportunities that honor the contributions of veterans transitioning into civilian life. Under his leadership, NIVW earned Congressional recognition, expanded into 19 U.S. markets and 21 international communities, and became a trusted resource for veterans seeking entrepreneurial success.
Drawing from his family’s legacy of excellence—his grandfather, Jim Freeman, was a founding member of The Five Satins, whose hit “In the Still of the Night” earned recognition in the Congressional Record—Jeff Shuford brought creativity, resilience, and innovation to every facet of his work.
“Jeff Shuford didn’t just build an organization; he built a movement,” says LTC Rickey L. Pope, President of NIVW. “His vision created a framework that continues to empower veterans, inspire communities, and build economic opportunities.”
Upon his retirement in late 2024, the organization was already at the cusp of even greater recognition, as evidenced by its inclusion in the prestigious New York Life Investments calendar. This pivotal feature reflects how NIVW’s impact has grown far beyond its origins and stands as a testament to the strength of Jeff’s foundational leadership.
A Transformative Milestone: New York Life Investments Feature
The inclusion of National Invest In Veterans Week® in New York Life Investments’ "2025 Client Outreach Opportunities" is much more than a feature—it is a call to action for organizations, investors, and communities to join in supporting veteran entrepreneurs. The publication, renowned for showcasing impactful initiatives, highlights NIVW as one of the marquee events for March 2025.
“Being featured by New York Life is a tremendous honor and a validation of our work,” says Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO of NIVW. “This recognition amplifies our mission and connects us with audiences and organizations that can help us expand our reach.”
The calendar emphasizes the importance of supporting veteran-owned businesses, offering actionable pathways for companies and communities to get involved. This recognition underscores the value of investing in veterans—not just as a gesture of gratitude, but as a strategic investment in the future of local economies and global innovation.
“The timing of this feature is deeply significant,” LTC Pope reflects. “Coming on the heels of Jeff Shuford’s retirement, it reinforces how far we’ve come as an organization and the incredible opportunities ahead under Angel’s leadership.”
Angel Shuford: Leading a New Era
Angel Shuford stepped into her role as Vice President and CFO with a vision to build on Jeff Shuford’s legacy while introducing innovative strategies to ensure the continued growth of National Invest In Veterans Week®. A decorated U.S. Army Sergeant and entrepreneur, Angel’s background in technology, real estate, and advocacy uniquely positions her to lead NIVW into its next chapter.
“Angel Shuford is the perfect leader to carry forward the mission of NIVW,” LTC Pope emphasizes. “Her ability to think strategically, connect with stakeholders, and execute transformative initiatives is unmatched.”
Since assuming leadership, Angel has launched several groundbreaking programs, including:
"The Pledge to Invest in Veteran Businesses": A national initiative that mobilizes corporations, local governments, and communities to commit resources to veteran entrepreneurs.
State-Specific Veteran Domains: Expanding digital infrastructure with platforms like FloridaVeterans.com to provide localized resources and advocacy.
AI-Driven Networking Tools: Leveraging advanced technology to connect veterans with funding opportunities, mentorship, and market access.
“This isn’t just about building on a legacy,” Angel explains. “It’s about innovating, adapting, and finding new ways to empower the veterans we serve.”
The Power of New York Life’s Recognition
The feature in New York Life Investments’ calendar is a pivotal moment for National Invest In Veterans Week®, bringing increased visibility and credibility to its mission. The March placement aligns perfectly with the themes of renewal, growth, and community action, making it an ideal opportunity for organizations to engage with NIVW’s programs.
“New York Life’s inclusion of NIVW is more than recognition—it’s an invitation,” Angel shares. “It’s a way to show the business community how they can make a meaningful impact by supporting veteran entrepreneurs.”
The calendar highlights the growing importance of corporate partnerships in advancing NIVW’s mission. By aligning with financial institutions and other stakeholders, the organization can extend its reach and create even more opportunities for veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.
Sustaining and Expanding the Legacy
While Jeff Shuford’s retirement marks the end of an era, it also heralds the beginning of a new chapter for National Invest In Veterans Week®. Under Angel’s leadership, the organization is focused on scaling its impact and addressing emerging challenges faced by veteran entrepreneurs.
Key initiatives include:
1. Expanding International Reach
Building on its presence in 21 international communities, NIVW aims to foster global collaboration among veteran entrepreneurs. By creating networks that span borders, the organization seeks to drive innovation and economic growth on a global scale.
2. Strengthening Localized Resources
Through its portfolio of state-specific domains, NIVW is creating targeted platforms that address the unique needs of veterans in different regions. These platforms provide access to funding, mentorship, and advocacy tailored to local markets.
3. Enhancing Corporate Partnerships
NIVW continues to build relationships with corporations that share its commitment to veteran empowerment. By collaborating with companies like Google and Comcast Business, the organization is increasing access to capital and mentorship for veteran entrepreneurs.
“Our goal is to create systems that work for every veteran, everywhere,” Angel states. “Whether it’s a local entrepreneur in Florida or a global innovator in London, we want to ensure they have the tools to succeed.”
The Spirit of March: A Month of Action
The March observance of National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than a date on the calendar—it is a movement that calls on individuals, organizations, and communities to take action. The New York Life Investments feature reinforces this call, encouraging stakeholders to turn gratitude into meaningful contributions.
“March is a time to reflect on what veterans have given and what we can do in return,” Angel emphasizes. “It’s a moment to commit to creating opportunities that truly honor their service.”
A Call to Action
As National Invest In Veterans Week® continues to grow, the need for engagement and support becomes even more critical. The recognition by New York Life Investments is a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in veterans—not just as individuals, but as drivers of innovation, resilience, and economic progress.
“Veterans have already proven their ability to lead and innovate,” LTC Pope says. “Now it’s our responsibility to ensure they have the opportunities they deserve.”
Angel adds, “Every action counts—whether it’s mentoring a veteran entrepreneur, supporting their business, or spreading the word about our mission. Together, we can create a legacy of impact that lasts for generations.”
Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
The journey of National Invest In Veterans Week® is one of vision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment. From Jeff Shuford’s foundational leadership to Angel Shuford’s transformative strategies, the organization continues to set the standard for how communities can support veterans.
The New York Life Investments feature is both a milestone and a call to action, reminding us of the power of partnership and the importance of investing in those who have served. As we look to the future, the legacy of NIVW remains strong, evolving to meet new challenges and opportunities.
“Investing in veterans isn’t just about gratitude—it’s about belief in their potential,” Angel concludes. “When veterans succeed, we all succeed.”
For more information about National Invest In Veterans Week®, visit the official website.
National Invest In Veterans Week® Featured in New York Life Investments’ 2025 Client Outreach Calendar
National Invest In Veterans Week® (March 1–7) has been highlighted in the prestigious New York Life Investments’ "2025 Client Outreach Opportunities" calendar. This feature recognizes NIVW’s impactful mission to empower veteran entrepreneurs and encourages organizations to align with its initiatives. The calendar underscores the importance of fostering partnerships and investing in those who have served our nation.
Download the full publication to explore how you can engage with this impactful initiative: Client Outreach Opportunities – New York Life Investments
Be part of the movement that’s transforming veteran advocacy and creating lasting opportunities.
