Young people are not the future—they are building it right now. At the National Student Leadership Academy, we witnessed this truth in action as Jobs for America’s Graduates students prepared to meet with their congressional representatives, transforming from participants in democracy to active architects of change.

This is precisely why we at Civics Unplugged were thrilled to partner with JAG to help develop students into civic leaders. Led by Patrick, one of our own high school Fellows who successfully passed financial literacy legislation in his home state of Kentucky at just 17 years old, we helped prepare hundreds of students for impactful conversations with their congresspeople about the vital role JAG plays in their lives and communities and how to support them. As a fellow high schooler who had already navigated the legislative process, Patrick was able to show students exactly what is possible when young people step into their power.

Building Agency Through Action

For nearly six years, Civics Unplugged has worked alongside thousands of young people impacting millions of people around the country.  We know that young people do not just need to see the agency they have. They also need the tools and support to live out their purpose and strengthen their communities. This kind of civic advocacy training is essential because democracy does not run on autopilot. It requires citizens who know how to identify challenges and use civic innovation to strengthen communities in new ways—which we teach in our programs. These are skills that must be practiced—and this advocacy training was an opportunity for exactly that.

This partnership with JAG exemplified that mission perfectly. What made this experience remarkable was not just preparing students for their congressional meetings. It was watching conversations ignite about what JAG students want to see improved in their schools and communities, and helping them recognize how these meetings could serve as a launchpad for finding and leading solutions.

Witnessing Transformation in Real Time

Throughout the training, we watched students stand before their peers to deliver practice pitches about JAG’s impact—and the growth was amazing. Students who began hesitantly found their voices, growing in confidence and clarity. These were not  just rehearsals—they were young people discovering they could command a room, that their stories mattered, and that they had the skills to make decision-makers listen.

Moments That Matter, Skills That Last

While each congressional meeting may last only a few minutes, the impact will reverberate far beyond those brief conversations. These students are not just learning to advocate for JAG—they are developing the foundational skills of citizens that will serve them throughout their lives. They are discovering how to engage decision-makers effectively, articulate community needs, and ideate innovative solutions.

These meetings are just the beginning. The students who participated are now equipped to continue leading engagement between JAG, their communities, and elected officials. They’ve gained skills that extend far beyond a single advocacy effort.

The Journey Continues

The JAG students we worked with at NSLA proved what we have always believed: young people aren’t waiting for permission to create change. They are ready to lead—they just need partners willing to invest in their potential. That is the future being built by young people today.

We are excited to see the partnerships that blossom from these meetings and to help JAG students deepen these capabilities in our Civic Innovators Fellowship and future partnerships.

Zoë Jenkins
Director of Civic Trust and Recruitment
Civics Unplugged
[email protected]

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As this year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the people who make this work possible—and on the quiet, steady moments that rarely make headlines, but change lives all the same.

To our Board members: Thank you for your leadership, your stewardship, and your willingness to hold both urgency and patience at the same time. Your belief in this mission—and in the young people we serve—grounds every bold decision we make.

To our Affiliates and national staff: You are the connective tissue of JAG. You turn vision into action, strategy into systems, and ideas into real opportunities for young people across the country. This work is complex and demanding, and you carry it with care and conviction.

To our partners, supporters, and donors: Your generosity—alongside your advocacy, expertise, and collaboration—has made this work possible. Because of you, JAG is able to deepen our impact, reach more young people, and invest in the future with confidence and care.

And to our JAG specialists and staff who walk alongside them every day: You are the heartbeat of this organization. You remind us of a truth we return to again and again: real change doesn’t happen through curriculum alone, but through connection. Through consistent, caring relationships that help young people see themselves as capable, valued, and prepared to succeed in a changing world.

Together, this work is driving us toward a bold goal: serving 1 million young people annually by 2035. To reach it, we are strengthening and evolving the JAG model so it can meet students in more settings, with greater flexibility, and scale through partnerships with like-minded organizations.

We are also building new platforms for collaboration and learning, including EDGE, our new conference, which brings education and workforce leaders together to strengthen the bridge between learning and work. And to extend JAG’s impact beyond graduation, we are investing in a National Alumni Network—transforming decades of student success into a powerful force for mentorship, advocacy, and telling the JAG story at scale.

Thank you for being part of this community, and for moving this mission forward every day.

With deep appreciation,

Janelle Duray

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From the moment I arrived, I felt the power of connection, a theme that runs very close to my heart and my work at JAG. I reconnected with colleagues who have been part of JAG’s evolution for years, including our friends at Headrush, whose partnership has helped us strengthen our learning ecosystems and elevate Specialist and student work in ways we once only imagined. I also had the chance to build new relationships with brilliant thinkers, such as Antonia Rudenstine, Founder and Executive Director of reDesign, who is shaping some of the most courageous and forward-looking conversations happening in education today.

One of the highlights of my time in New Orleans was participating in a panel moderated by Antonia titled: “If ‘future of work’ feels vague, try this: what would it take for every graduate to leave with evidence of real-world skills?” This question sits at the center of the work JAG does every day. We know that readiness cannot be reduced to a test score or a single pathway. Students need portfolios, experiences, and authentic demonstrations of who they are and what they can do.

Sitting alongside leaders from these initiatives and alongside colleagues from as far as New Zealand was energizing. It reminded me that the movement toward authentic, competency-based, human-centered learning is not isolated. It is growing, and JAG has a vital role to play in that growth.

Throughout the symposium, I appreciated how closely the conversations aligned with the core of the JAG Advantage: project-based learning, employer engagement, and trauma-informed care. These are not accessories to the curriculum; they are the curriculum when we design with purpose. Every district, school, and organization represented at FullScale was wrestling with the same questions we are: How do we help students build real skills? How do we ensure they can demonstrate those skills? How do we create pathways that are flexible, meaningful, and deeply connected to the community?

My biggest takeaway from New Orleans is this: the future of work is not a distant policy horizon. It is being built right now, one portfolio, one partnership, one authentic learning experience at a time. And the more we share what is working, the faster we can build systems where every young person leaves school with evidence of their strengths and a vision for their future.

I left the symposium grateful for the collaboration, the candor, and the growing community of educators who are willing to rethink what education can be. Being surrounded by leaders who are actively shaping the intersection of learning, opportunity, and human potential reminded me of how truly aligned our missions are.

And the best news is that we do not have to wait long to continue this conversation.

The next major gathering where education, workforce development, and policy converge is our upcoming EDGE Conference. EDGE is designed for practitioners and leaders who refuse to work in silos, who understand that preparing young people for the future requires alignment across schools, employers, community partners, and systems. It embodies the same candor, collaboration, and forward-thinking spirit I experienced at FullScale, but with an even sharper focus on building pathways that work for all young people.

If FullScale was a spark, EDGE will be the flame, a chance for this growing community of innovators to come together, challenge assumptions, and design what comes next.

I am already looking forward to continuing these conversations there and carrying this momentum forward with everyone committed to this mission.

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What does experience mean to you? In school or work, it usually means how long you’ve been doing something or how much you already know. When someone asks about my skills, I take a moment to feel proud of my hard work. But I’ve learned that you don’t need a long résumé or a shelf full of awards to accomplish great things or create change.

The most important recognition you can get comes from using your voice and making your mark.

Passion Over Experience

What really sets you apart isn’t your title or your medals—it’s the impact you make by being yourself. I used to think experience was everything, but I’ve learned that passion and belief in your abilities matter even more.

Start with your voice. Let confidence lead the way.

Stepping Into Leadership

Joining a brand-new JAG program was already a challenge. Stepping into a state officer role my very first year? That was even bigger. Some days I doubted myself and leaned on others for support, but I kept reminding myself that I belonged there.

Even without years of experience, authenticity and effort helped me grow—and eventually become JAGCA Parliamentarian in my first year. That experience taught me that when you lead with confidence and heart, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

What I’ve Learned

What I want other students—the future leaders of JAG—to know is this: it doesn’t matter where you come from, what your background is, or how much experience you have. You can succeed in anything you set your mind to if you’re true to yourself and your confidence.

Awards and titles are great, but they aren’t the only proof of growth. Every chance you take, every challenge you face, is just as meaningful when you give it your all. Believing in your own skills can be the ultimate reward—even without a medal to show for it.

Leading in Everyday Moments

I try to inspire others every day just by sharing my passion for the Career Association, even in casual conversations. It doesn’t take a microphone or a spotlight to make an impact—leadership starts close to home.

When you recognize your own strengths and use them to lift others, you build confidence that lasts. Within every challenge, a new leader can be born.

From the power of youth in JAG across the country, I’ve learned to lead with pride in who we are. And with that pride—and that power—I believe we can change the world, no matter our backgrounds.

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On August 25, nearly 50 JAG student leaders and alumni from across the country joined the first JAG Career Association (JAGCA) officer-led webinar of the year, where the 2025–26 National Officers shared their Program of Work and plans for the JAG Alumni Network. 

As part of their Program of Work, the officers presented a yearlong roadmap centered on four key areas: alumni engagement, technology and membership systems, marketing and communications, and fund development. Each officer will take the lead on one area, ensuring the plan remains collaborative and alumni-driven. 

 “Membership and technology integration is about making sure alumni and students can stay connected through platforms that work,” Sims said. “We want to make JAG better and continue to tell that JAG story.” 

The Program of Work ties directly to JAGCA’s national goals of leadership development, career preparation, civic awareness, social awareness and service learning. The officers emphasized that the initiatives are not just projects, but long-term investments in building a stronger network of leaders. 

One of the priorities this year is the development of the JAG Alumni Network. Through the Alumni Integration track, led by Small, the officers aim to ensure graduates remain connected to JAG well beyond high school. 

“We know how passionate students are about this alumni network,” Williams said. “Our job this year is to create a structure that future leaders can build from.” By developing this network, the officers believe JAG can provide ongoing opportunities for service, career growth, and leadership long after graduation. 

The officers also announced a schedule of ongoing initiatives for students throughout the year. Monthly officer-led webinars will provide space for peer learning and updates, while “Motivational Mondays”, a new series led by Grubb, will offer weekly encouragement to the JAG community. 

The National Service Project, focused on supporting unhoused individuals, remains a focus of the JAGCA mission. “We want to continue to elevate and make it known that this issue doesn’t stop in April,” Sims said. “It’s a prevalent issue across our network.” 

The officers also shared a timeline of major events. September will feature the first officer webinar, followed by October programming that includes voter awareness campaigns. In November, the team will host another officer webinar while preparing for the National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA) in December. 

January features JAGCA Week, a week of themed events ranging from leadership and mindfulness to career development and service. Spring will bring additional officer webinars, resume and cover letter workshops, and continued promotion of the service project. The year will culminate in April at the National Career Development Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

Closing the webinar, Small thanked attendees for their commitment. “Thank you so much for your dedication and your commitment to the JAG organization,” he said. “We cannot do this work without you. This is your time to step up, make sure that your voice is heard and for you to get involved.” 

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In his role on the national officer team, X’Zaeviun is leading the core area of leadership and technology integration in this year’s Program of Work. He is working to build stronger systems that connect students and alumni across the JAG network through platforms designed for engagement, growth, and leadership development. His vision is to ensure that every JAG member has access to tools and opportunities that strengthen their leadership growth.

“Leadership isn’t about being in front of the camera or taking the spotlight, it’s about understanding the needs of others and stepping up to meet those needs.” He said, “I want to create a space where everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered, and where we can all work together to take meaningful steps toward success.”

X’Zaeviun is also the officer spearheading ongoing initiatives like monthly officer webinars where students from across the country can connect and share their perspectives, learn new skills, and connect directly with the national team. He plays a key role in JAG activities across the network, including JAG Career Association Week and the National Service Project supporting unhoused individuals. From hosting webinars to helping students prepare for resume and cover letter building in the spring, X’Zaeviun is passionate about creating spaces where student voices are heard.

Reflecting on his JAG journey, he explained, “My favorite JAG memory was receiving amazing support from JAG students at NCDC, students I just met two days ago, over my speeches. I learned that it’s okay to speak from the heart and be who I am.”

He also shared how JAG shaped his future, “JAG gave me a room full of opportunities like internships and the chance to shadow professionals in the career field I want to enter. It truly helped me find my passion for service.”

This year, X’Zaeviun is focused on building the foundation of the JAG Alumni Network so every student that passes through doesn’t feel like a statistic, but an asset for the next generation of JAG students. To create a national peer mentorship program and to provide an outline for local chapters to follow and support alumni through life, college and career support. He wants to remind JAG students that leadership is about connection. “Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier,” he said, quoting his favorite leader, Colin Powell. “Always staying positive makes everything and everyone around you stronger.”

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I can still hear my mom scolding me for bringing home a week’s worth of clean underwear and a barely squeezed tube of toothpaste. Hey, I was a 10-year-old boy. That’s how I rolled.

We recently held our specialist state training at Fall Creek Falls, the crown jewel of Tennessee’s state park system. Think of state training as your employment professional development conferences. Ours includes a deep dive into best practices to deliver employable competencies. We try to keep it interesting with plenty of interactive sessions, but let’s face it, data input instruction is no picnic, even at a state park! I’m big on culture, and nothing replicates bonding like face-to-face time.

JAG Tennessee has the best teachers in the state, but even the best need a recharge.

What better place to do it than the t-shirt/flip-flop atmosphere of one of the most beautiful nature spots in the country? While there was the usual grind of course code standards and practices, we wanted to make sure afternoons were free to explore. Some of the tallest waterfalls in the Eastern United States were near the lodge.

A 2-mile hike can be better for the soul heading into another challenging school year than one more refresher on data.

We filled the evenings with training sessions, so nobody felt deprived of classroom seat time. All were worn out by the end of the day, and nobody (at least it didn’t get back to me) broke curfew. It should not be lost that thousands of dollars of state funding were reinvested directly into a state agency. The goal was to make everyone feel valued because they are the boots on the ground.

There is no template for teaching a generation just five years removed from the start of a global pandemic.

Add the mental rewiring due to social media, unprecedented political and social divides, and you have a recipe for teacher burnout. Yes, compensation is a key driver in any career, but new studies reveal that “making progress” in one’s profession is becoming increasingly prevalent.

JAG specialists meet students where they are (sometimes in a confusing and dark space) and inherently know they are guiding students toward becoming better human beings.

It could be a student landing an entry-level job. Other days, it may be a full-ride college scholarship. Heck, some days it’s simply having a teenager show up for school because they love your class. Do they verbalize it? Maybe. Maybe not. But a teacher just knows.

That’s progress.

Conducting a professional development conference where appreciation is expressed as separate hotel rooms, three square meals, school supplies and JAG swag works wonders for a teacher’s mindset.

It wasn’t always that way in Tennessee. I wear our “Bad News Bears” days with honor and feel comfortable stating our teachers have always heard the words “thank you,” whether it’s over donated box lunches or a sit-down dinner. Showing appreciation doesn’t have to involve an invoice.

We still have a few specialists dating back to our rocky transition from a government agency to a nonprofit 11 years ago. It was great reminiscing with them around the fire pit.

Hosting state training at a state park may seem too casual, but it works in Tennessee. It felt like summer camp. And I didn’t bring home any clean underwear, and I brushed every day.

Mom would be proud.

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Through a significant investment from SRP, the JAG program has achieved a remarkable 100% graduation rate over the past two years. Additionally, 78% of graduates have found employment, and 53% are continuing their post-secondary education. Improvements have been seen in student GPA, attendance, and credit recovery. The program has also positively impacted the community, with students completing over 3,000 hours of community service through more than a dozen local events. 

When Dr. Robert Varner became the Superintendent of the Gila Bend High School District in 2021, the graduation rate was below the state average. Dr. Varner stated, “If you need a culture shift, JAG will shift your culture,” crediting the program with significantly improving student outcomes. As a result, Gila Bend High School has been recognized as one of the top three most improved high schools in Arizona and the JAG program has earned the prestigious Program of the Year award. 

JAG Arizona Specialist Jesus Rubalcava, who is being recognized nationally at this month’s JAG National Training Seminar, says the student transformation went beyond academics. “Students are showing stronger behavior, increased involvement in school activities, and a clear sense of pride in their community,” Rubalcava said. “They have become leaders in school, at home, and throughout their town.” Angel Roman, a 2025 graduate, participated in JAG for two years and shared the impact of the program, “JAG motivated me in school and my academics while preparing me for my future goals,” he said. “I had the opportunity to compete nationally and that changed my life. JAG has done so much for me, and I’m ready for what’s next.” 

SRP’s support extends beyond financial assistance as students manage the vending machines at the power plant, gaining essential financial and real-world management skills. SRP also provides plant tours and has hired local interns from the program, some of whom have transitioned into full-time positions. With the Gila River Power Station located in the community, this shared vision creates natural opportunities for collaboration and student success. “SRP and JAG share a strong commitment to education, emphasizing the importance of staying in school and preparing for success after graduation,” said Chelsey Falk, SRP Manager of Community Activation. “Our partnership with JAG has helped SRP advance its workforce development and community impact goals by providing students with real-world exposure to the energy industry.”  

Students who once believed their futures would be in local fast-food jobs are now pursuing careers in veterinary science, engineering, and dental fields. “Our kids will look you in the eye, they will shake your hand properly, they’re prepared to write resumes, and they ask good questions at job fairs,” said Dr. Varner. “JAG has been a game-changer for us.”  

Robert Vertefeuille, Senior Manager of Environmental Laboratory & Field Services at SRP and a longtime board member of JAG Arizona, said the program reflects the strength of cross-sector collaboration. “The Gila Bend JAG Program is a shining example of the power of partnerships between local school districts, the business community, and non-profits such as JAG to support student-focused programming in our schools that includes STEM education, safety, job-readiness, and employment skills.” Vertefeuille explained. “JAG Arizona’s Program of the Year at Gila Bend High School has dramatically improved student graduation rates, produced strong academic outcomes, and ensured the post-graduation college and career success of its students.” 

SRP’s initiative to “adopt” the Gila Bend JAG program serves as a model for other employers looking to create sustainable, community-wide impact. Falk emphasizes that “JAG has been, and continues to be, an outstanding community partner, providing unique educational opportunities that empower and inspire local students.”  

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As we step into this new year together, I find myself energized, focused, and full of gratitude. The opportunity to serve as president for nearly 80,000 students across the nation through the JAG Career Association isn’t just a title—it’s a responsibility and a privilege I carry with great pride.

With each state visit, leadership call, and service project, we are shaping not just the future of JAG, but the lives and legacies of those who are often overlooked. And that’s something I don’t take lightly.

What I’m Looking Forward to This Year 

This year, I’m most looking forward to connection and collaboration.

I’m excited to see our Plan of Work come to life as we engage alumni, launch JAG EDGE 2026, and take our national communication strategies to the next level.

Whether it’s spotlighting members on our social platforms, showing up for JAGCA Week, or supporting the National Service Project focused on unhoused individuals, this year is all about impact.

I’m especially looking forward to traveling and connecting with members from all over the country. There’s something incredibly powerful about meeting JAG students in person—hearing their stories, learning about their dreams, and sharing what unites us all as JAG students: resilience, leadership, and purpose.

My Goals for the Year 

Personally, and professionally, my goals are rooted in growth and service. As a first-generation college student, former unhoused youth, and a product of the JAG model, I want to continue using my story as a light for others navigating difficult paths.

As the JAGCA National President, I’ve set three major goals for this year:

1. Elevate the Alumni Experience – I want to help build stronger pipelines between current members and alumni by providing networking, mentoring, and leadership opportunities beyond graduation.
2. Empower State & Local Chapters – Through monthly campaigns, webinars, and leadership challenges, I hope to give local officers the tools and confidence to lead with excellence in their schools and communities.
3. Strengthen the Voice of the Association – Through our marcoms (marketing & communications) pillar, I plan to work closely with my fellow officers to share more stories, spotlight more members, and build a brand we can all be proud of.

What I Want the Network to Know 

To everyone across our JAG network—specialists, students, alumni, partners, and staff—I want you to know this: your voice matters.

Whether you’re in a classroom in rural Arkansas or representing your state at Capitol Hill Day in Washington DC, your leadership is shaping lives in ways you may not even realize yet.

This year don’t be afraid to take up space. Be bold in your leadership. Be present in your service. And be proud of your story—because it’s that story that may be able to inspire others to move forward.

And to the JAG specialists and educators out there—thank you. Your work changes lives. You certainly changed mine!

 Lessons from Our National Officer Retreat 

Coming together with my fellow National Officers during our retreat was nothing short of transformative. One of the biggest lessons I walked away with was this: true leadership starts with listening.

In that space, surrounded by passionate and driven students from different states, I saw firsthand the importance of respecting different perspectives, collaborating with humility, and leading with both your head and your heart.

I also learned that vision without a carefully thought-out strategy is just a dream. That’s why our plan of work is so important—it ensures we stay on track, remain accountable, and deliver on what we promised our members.

Our retreat was a powerful reminder that I’m not in this alone. I’m part of a team—a family—of national leaders, all united in our commitment to elevate JAG and its mission.

Let’s make this a year of purpose, progress, and power. If you’re reading this, I hope you know that you belong here, you have something to offer, and we’re better because you’re in the JAG family.

With pride and service,

Austin C. Small

National President, JAG Career Association

Grambling State University | Class of 2027

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