A VETERAN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM THAT EMPOWERS OUR NATION'S HEROES_
Spartan Leadership Program Presented by:
A Journey of Spartan Leadership Development
Our proprietary 7-month Spartan Leadership Program (SLP) offers a life-changing path for veterans and families of fallen military heroes to connect passion with purpose, and leverage their own experiences to develop themselves as leaders. Through virtual and in-person learning experiences, SLP is aimed at delivering a unique journey of self-development and growth for veterans and surviving family members, who we believe are uniquely positioned to motivate communities toward meaningful change. Rooted in the principles of character-based education and positive psychology, the program's curriculum is delivered by best-in-class, like-minded professionals.
A Commitment To Growth + Leadership Development
Following a detailed application process and acceptance, veteran and survivor participants should be prepared to spend an average of three to four hours per week on program elements, including online instruction, virtual group meetings, practical exercises, and self-reflection. TMF also facilitates three required in-person commitments: a four-day program kickoff in Charlotte, NC; a week-long leadership Expedition to Colorado; and a four-day graduation event in Houston, TX.
Defining Spartan Leadership
Being a Spartan Leader means placing the mission to serve above our own self-interest. We work aggressively to develop and prepare ourselves so we stay in the fight. We live the "If Not Me, Then Who..." ethos at all times, acting with integrity. Our program works to develop this unique mindset by focusing on our four-part framework:
Develop
Participants will develop a deeper understanding of self in order to employ a growth mindset that ensures they always act with intention.
Connect + Challenge
Participants will learn how connecting within a group setting can facilitate self-improvement, and they are challenged to empower others to do the same.
Serve
A desire to serve is at the core of every Spartan Leader. Participants will leave the program with a heightened desire to lead by example, from the front.
Build a Legacy
We want our graduates to cultivate a lasting legacy of service—one that begins with themselves, but also continues on in their communities for many generations to come.
Leader Spotlights
Check out a few reflections from select 2025 Cohort participants on what makes the Spartan Leadership Program special.
Lee Him
Marine Corps Veteran
"SLP has helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. Personally, I’ve become more self-aware and emotionally grounded. I’ve learned to embrace vulnerability as a strength, not something to hide behind a tough exterior. That shift has shown up in how I parent, how I mentor, and how I show up in conversations."
Javae Frazier
Gold Star Sister
"Being able to talk about the darkest part of my life with other people is going to help open me up to a world that I can honor him and his legacy a lot easier than I have over the last almost 20 years. It's easier knowing that there are other people who are going through the same thing or have been through the same thing that I have."
Jason Lily
Army Veteran
"Unlike many leadership programs that emphasize external achievements, SLP goes inward first, helping participants reconnect with their core values, reflect on their personal stories, and understand the impact they can have in their communities."
This program is made possible in part by an NFL-Bob Woodruff Foundation Salute to Service grant.
Additional Information
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Program Details
How is this program different from other leadership programs?
The Spartan Leadership Program is unique not only because we’re bringing together veterans and families of military fallen heroes who are already uniquely positioned to lead, but also because our curriculum is enriched with character-based learning, self-discovery, and experiential Spartan leadership development. Participants are challenged to reflect on and develop a deeper understanding of their personal values, passions, purpose, and leadership. We believe personal purpose is what leads to passion and thriving; our curriculum is built around that idea.
What are the program commitments?
All curriculum meetings will be hosted online. If selected for the Spartan Leadership Program, participants are expected to commit to the process. Participants should be prepared to spend an average of three to four hours per week on program elements, including online instruction, group discussion, practical exercises, and reflection.
There are three mandatory in-person meetings: a four-day Program Kick-off in Charlotte, NC (April 15 - 18, 2026); a six-day Leadership Expedition in Colorado (July 19 - 24, 2026); and a four-day graduation event in Houston, Texas (November 4 - 7, 2026).
Is this an accredited program? Can I receive college credit hours?
When candidates complete the program, they will receive a certificate from the Spartan Leadership Program.
What topics will the program curriculum cover?
The Spartan Leadership Program consists of a 4-part framework: Develop, Connect & Challenge, Serve, and Build a Legacy. The curriculum moves each participant through the framework by way of an in-person Program Kick-off, experiential Leadership Expedition, readings, group discussions, reflection activities/assignments, guest speakers, and a cumulative capstone project.
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Candidate Selection Process
What are the application requirements? How will participants be selected?
The Spartan Leadership Program is designed exclusively for veterans and families of military fallen heroes. Candidates are asked to participate in a detailed application process. Due to limited space, the program selection process is divided into two phases: an online application phase and a person-by-person committee review phase. Select applicants then move forward to a series of phone and/or video interviews by members of the Selection Committee.
Can I apply if I haven’t participated in other TMF programs?
The Spartan Leadership Program is open to veterans and family members of military fallen heroes who are either already engaged Spartans or new to TMF.
When are participants chosen and notified?
The application is currently open for the 2026 cohort. The selection committee will begin the process in November 2025, and contact all applicants with corresponding next steps early December 2025.The final 2026 SLP Cohort 8 will be notified by the end of January 2026.
Are there any fees associated with the Spartan Leadership Program?
Thanks to our generous donors, TMF covers all expenses related to curriculum materials and required travel for the program.
Applications for the Spartan Leadership Program are now open and will close Wednesday, November 12th, 2025
Please direct any additional application or program questions to [email protected].
