Please RSVP by September 5th!
2025 Conference Details
Thursday, Sept 18 - Evening Welcoming Reception
We’ll kick off the conference with an evening reception graciously hosted by Rumsfeld Foundation Board President, Torie Clarke, in Georgetown. Of additional note, we are delighted that many of Secretary Rumsfeld’s colleagues from the Department of Defense will join our network for this special reception.
Friday, Sept 19 - Daytime Sessions and Closing Dinner
Our main daytime programming, beginning with breakfast, will take place at The Army Navy Club and include networking sessions, breakout discussions, speaker sessions and more.
To follow, our Closing Dinner and Alumni of the Year Award Ceremony will be hosted at Joe’s Seafood & Steak.
Note: Spouses and significant others are welcome to join the Thursday reception and Friday dinner!
Hotel Block
To receive travel reimbursement and/or hotel coverage, alumni must attend the majority of daytime sessions. A discounted room block is available at Courtyard Washington – Dupont Circle for the nights of September 18th and 19th.The Foundation offers to cover rooms for these nights for out-of-town attendees. Attendees are responsible for booking their own rooms using this booking link.
Reservations must be made by September 5th.
To receive travel reimbursement and/or hotel coverage, alumni must attend the majority of daytime sessions.
Find our full Travel and Accommodations policies below:
2025 Conference Theme
Our Annual Conference brings together both rising and seasoned leaders who share a commitment to public service and principled leadership. In a time of mounting complexities and challenges, the conference provides a meaningful space to reconnect with purpose, exchange insights across disciplines and to honor our network members who embody the values at the heart of our Fellowship – integrity, service and leadership.
As Secretary Rumsfeld said, “Our democracy will be sustained by America's bright, young leaders committed to public service and public policy.”
This gathering serves as an important touchpoint for our vibrant community to offer support to one another, collaborate and to provide helpful guidance as each member advances on their professional journey.
Coming together, we reflect, recharge and recommit to the vital work of creating a better future for our nation.
Keynote Speaker
