Over the course of three days in April, more than 150 of Travis Manion Foundation’s most engaged volunteers gathered for the 2026 Spartan Leadership Summit (SLS). This annual invitation-only event took place at Camp Allen in Navasota, TX, offering Veteran Mentors, TMF Chapter and Service Platoon Leaders, athletic event directors, and program alumni a unique and immersive opportunity to focus on personal development and connecting with each other.

SLS participants received tools and resources to increase community involvement, shared lessons with their peers, and forged deeper connections as leaders. They also took part in team workouts, shared meals, small-group strategy sessions, and nightly social hours—all offered at no cost. 

SLS By the Numbers: An Investment In Leadership

• 150+ Attendees

• 1,200 Hours of Personal Development

• 2,400 Hours of Team-Building & Connection

On the final night of SLS, Regional Spartan of the Year Awards and National Core Value Awards were handed out to standout volunteers, who were nominated by TMF staff and fellow Spartans. By living out the “If Not Me, Then Who…” ethos, the winners listed below exemplify what it means to serve with purpose and inspire others to do the same. 

National Core Value Award Winners

National awards are given annually to Spartans from across the country who best represent each of TMF’s six core values.

Build, Measure, Learn, Repeat: Jill Cune

Involvement: Boston (MA) Service Platoon Leader

Affiliation: Navy Veteran 

This Spartan truly lives out a build, measure, learn, repeat mindset in her approach to serving the community. She has intentionally built strong relationships with community partners in a challenging city, and when the initial location proved difficult due to competition in the volunteer space, she didn’t stall—she assessed, adapted, and evolved. Drawing on what she had learned, she made a strategic shift, re-engaging former partners and refining her approach.

Because of that cycle of action and reflection, she was able to build on existing momentum and continue bringing new volunteers into the mission. Her willingness to test, learn, and try again—combined with her resilience in the face of challenges—has made a lasting impact on both the community and the organization. 

Be Accountable: Zack Gallinger-Long

Involvement: Columbia River (OR) Chapter Leader, Character Does Matter Mentor, Operation Legacy Service Project Leader

Affiliation: Family Member of the Fallen

This Spartan embodies what it truly means to be accountable—showing up with commitment, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. Since becoming a CDM mentor in 2018, he has been a steady and dependable force within TMF. From supporting Survivor Expeditions to stepping into chapter leadership roles and managing behind-the-scenes operations, he takes ownership of whatever is needed. He doesn’t wait to be asked—he ensures that events, workflows, and teams run effectively, and that others can rely on him without question.

His service is a reflection of true accountability: doing the work, following through, and showing up time and again for something bigger than himself.

Purpose Begins with Passion: Bobbi Van Reet

Involvement: Ft. Worth (TX) Chapter Co-Leader, CDM Mentor, 9/11 Heroes Run Race Director

Affiliation: Inspired Civilian, Military Family Member

This Spartan’s leadership began when she stepped up as a chapter leader and within months her vision grew, and she launched a spin-off Chapter — creating a seamless and successful partnership between two nearby areas. Her impact was immediate: she secured four Manion WOD gyms, shared the TMF story on local podcasts, and orchestrated The Honor Project at Dallas-Ft. Worth National Cemetery that brought together over 100 volunteers. 

Her true passion lies in the CDM program. She has become a champion for the next generation, managing massive initiatives like the Keller Independent School District Back to School event and a monumental Veterans Day program where an entire school rotated through character classes.  She is the strategist who spent a year on the 9/11 Heroes Run committee and has successfully secured the Medal of Honor Museum in Dallas as the race host for 2026.

Out of Many, One: Doug Merritt 

Involvement: San Antonio (TX) Chapter Leader, CDM Mentor, Operation Legacy Service Project Leader

Affiliation: Army Veteran

This Spartan reflects the spirit of “out of many, one”—bringing people together through a shared commitment to something greater than themselves. He channels his sense of purpose into growing CDM programming in his community, creating opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to connect, contribute, and be part of a unified mission. Through partnerships with schools, events, and community organizations, he helps turn many individual efforts into one collective impact.

As a project leader for The Honor Project and a mentor at Franz Leadership Academy, he brings people together in service of something greater than any one individual. His commitment to building relationships and strengthening community creates a shared sense of purpose, uniting many efforts into one meaningful impact. Through this work, he is helping shape a legacy that will continue to grow and connect others for years to come. 

We are Fueled by Gratitude: Darren Jackson

Involvement: New York City Chapter Leader, CDM Mentor, Operation Legacy Service Project Leader

Affiliation: Marine Corps & Air National Guard Veteran

Over the past year, this Spartan has shown deep gratitude through his actions—consistently stepping up to help expand TMF’s footprint across the New York City and Long Island communities. He steps up to support any Operation Legacy projects across his area, and he never misses an opportunity to thank the volunteers who show up alongside him. He also supported two successful CDM Mentor training courses in 2025 and while speaking, he talked about how grateful he is for this community and for the remarkable people he has met along the way.

Failure is a bruise, Not a Tattoo: Carroll Harris

Involvement: National Capital Region (Washington DC) Chapter Leader, CDM Mentor 

Affiliation: Marine Corps Veteran

This Spartan exemplifies the TMF value of "Failure is a bruise, not a tattoo" in the way he has navigated significant life transitions — with resilience, optimism, and determination. A recent Spartan Leadership Program graduate, he retired from federal service and relocated across the country. Rather than allowing uncertainty to slow him down, he embraced his transition as an opportunity for growth and discovery. He understands that setbacks and moments of discomfort are temporary, and that progress comes from showing up, reflecting, and continuing forward.

Even in the middle of navigating his own transition, he has consistently found ways to contribute to his community and support others on their own paths, both as a CDM Mentor and as a Chapter Leader. His story reflects a simple truth: challenges do not define us, but our response to them does. His ability to bounce back, stay engaged, and keep moving forward is the essence of “failure is a bruise, not a tattoo,” and demonstrates what it truly means to live with purpose beyond the uniform.

Regional Spartan of the Year Award Winners

Each year, standout Spartan volunteers from each region are chosen based on their involvement and the impact they’re creating in their communities.

Northeast Region: Darren Jackson

Involvement: New York City Chapter Leader, CDM Mentor, Operation Legacy Service Project Leader 

Affiliation: Marine Corps & Air National Guard Veteran

Over the past year, Darren has stepped up in multiple ways to expand TMF in New York City and Long Island communities. According to those who work with Darren, he is always grateful for the positive impact TMF has made on his life.

“In March, at a Vietnam Veterans Recognition event held on the Intrepid, TMF was presented with a flag as a token of appreciation. Darren accepted the flag and rucked with it to the 9/11 Museum and Memorial five miles downtown. When he got there, Darren decided to present the flag to a Vietnam Veteran and fellow Spartan who rucked alongside him the whole way instead of keeping the flag for himself. He made a small speech before handing it over, and the gesture made his fellow veteran tear up.”

Mid-Atlantic Region: Jessica Pardinas

Involvement: CDM Mentor

Affiliation: Marine Corps Veteran

As a mentor with the Under Armour (UA) Student Athlete Leadership Council Character Course in Baltimore, Jessica has become a trusted constant for young athletes: someone they recognize, rely on, and learn from. Jessica’s continued presence fosters connection, unity, and belonging, reminding students that they are supported by a community that shows up for them.

“Jessica’s ability to bring people together, lead by example, and remain committed over time makes her truly one of a kind. Among many who serve, this Spartan stands as a unifying force; someone whose dedication and spirit define the very essence of Out of Many, One. Through every season of life, she remains present, modeling what it means to integrate service into everyday living.”

Southeast Region: Bryan Schlund

Involvement: Atlanta (GA) Chapter Leader, CDM Mentor

Affiliation: Army Veteran

As a CDM Mentor supporting a back-to-school event with NJROTC Cadets, Bryan showed up with purpose, giving students lessons on character and inspiration to live it out. At the local 9/11 Heroes Run, he helped generate new leads and relationships that fueled the chapter’s growth. Bryan has proven himself a reliable and tireless leader, by exhibiting trust, care, and consistency in all he does with TMF.

“This past year, after relocating his family from Florida to Georgia, Bryan entered a community in transition. The chapter needed direction. The Spartans needed support. The mission needed a steady hand. Rather than waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect conditions, Bryan saw a gap and chose to fill it. That willingness to step in, to take ownership before certainty existed, is the essence of servant leadership and the beginning of why Bryan reflects the TMF value "Failure Is A Bruise, Not A Tattoo.”

Midwest Region: Kenric Lynn

Involvement: St. Louis (MO) Service Platoon Leader

Affiliation: Army Veteran

From supporting veterans living in group homes, to revitalizing green spaces at the iconic St. Louis Arch, to representing TMF with pride at the opening ceremonies of a St. Louis Battlehawks football game, Kenric ensured that his every effort carried meaning and purpose.

“Kenric’s leadership is defined not just by outcomes, but by compassion—in the way he connects with people, empowers volunteers, and leaves every individual he encounters feeling seen, valued, and inspired. Kenric doesn’t simply lead projects; he builds relationships, strengthens communities, and lives out the mission of service with heart and integrity.”

Central Region: Monica Velez

Involvement: Austin (TX) Chapter Co-Leader, CDM Mentor, Operation Legacy Service Project Leader, 9/11 Heroes Run

Affiliation: Family Member of the Fallen

Monica Velez’s multifaceted commitment to community service includes coaching Texas Rowing for All, providing inclusive recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities, and serving as the Local Race Director for the Austin 9/11 Heroes Run. Additionally, she has pursued a nursing career and advocates for families of the fallen, embodying a spirit of generosity that fuels TMF’s mission.

“Monica exemplifies dedication, sacrifice, and gratitude, living a life that honors the legacies of her fallen brothers. Through her mentorship, she has made a profound impact on local youth, notably guiding a young man from high school through his time at Texas A&M, and commissioning into the Marines. Her selfless sacrifices and achievements inspire others, creating a lasting impact in her community while honoring their brothers' memory.”

West Region: Dale Dumo

Involvement: Yuma (AZ) Chapter Leader, CDM Mentor, 9/11 Heroes Run Race Director, Operation Legacy Service Project Leader

Affiliation: Marine Corps Veteran

The West Region is thriving thanks to Dale’s leadership. Previously it had been a struggle to grow and bring others into the mission there, but Dale engaged with other CDM Mentors, established a TMF Youth Club and also provided feedback (by request) to the National CDM Team as they built and piloted the Teams of Character program. Now his Spartan community is growing and taking on additional initiatives and programs.

“Dale is highly motivated and dedicated, regularly inspiring others and always bringing a can-do and positive attitude. He does not know the word fail (or quit) and is always very persistent and thoughtful on how "we can get to yes" and move the needle forward.”

Pacific Northwest Region: Zack Gallinger-Long

Involvement: Columbia River (OR) Chapter Leader, CDM Mentor, Operation Legacy Service Project Leader

Affiliation: Family Member of the Fallen 

Since becoming a CDM mentor in 2018, Zack has supported TMF in countless ways. His impact spans multiple Survivor Expeditions, chapter leadership roles, and the behind-the-scenes work that ensures events, workflows, and teams operate smoothly. He does the work that needs to be done often quietly, and always reliably.

“What sets Zack apart is the spirit he brings to every space: steady accountability, genuine teamwork, and a sense of joy that reminds others why this work matters. When it would be easy to let things go, he steps in to support the mission, strengthen the community, and lift those around him. His continued service reflects the heart of what it means to be a Spartan: honoring the fallen by showing up for the living, again and again.”

Ready to join them? 

These Spartans represent what it takes to drive TMF’s mission forward. But they don’t do it alone—they are part of thousands of volunteers across the country that show up every day to honor the fallen and serve within their local communities. 

We are always looking for veterans and inspired civilians to mentor, lead, and make an impact. Whether you’re interested in the CDM program, 9/11 Heroes Run, Survivor Expeditions, or other initiatives, there’s a place for everyone. Learn how to get involved here.