ECPI University Graduate Selected for Exclusive SVA Celebration in Washington, D.C.
Jeff Stump, a 2026 ECPI University graduate who earned his Master of Science in Cybersecurity from the Newport News campus, was selected by Student Veterans of America (SVA) to attend the 2026 Leadership & Legacy Celebration in Washington, D.C., from May 26 to 28.
Only 20 recent graduates from across the country were chosen to attend. Jeff earned his spot through years of campus leadership, including restarting the SVA chapter at Newport News after COVID-19 and representing ECPI at the SVA National Conference in 2025.
What is the SVA Leadership & Legacy Celebration?
The Leadership & Legacy Celebration is an exclusive, high-profile event hosted annually by Student Veterans of America in Washington, D.C. It brings together graduating student veterans from across the country to recognize their academic achievement, campus leadership, and community impact.
The event is also designed to connect attendees with career resources, professional development, and opportunities for what comes next after graduation.
What did the experience include?
The three-day program was anchored at the historic Mayflower Hotel and featured visits to the U.S. Department of State and the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill.
The defining moment of the celebration was a leadership session with Medal of Honor recipient Staff Sergeant Ryan Pitts, who spoke about his service in Afghanistan, his academic journey, and his advocacy for veteran mental health and civilian transition.
Attendees also networked at the Army Navy Club and wrapped up the celebration with a dinner at Hamilton Loft Restaurant. The event was supported by partners including Grow with Google, Hiring Our Heroes, With Honor, and NobleReach, all focused on expanding career pathways and professional development for student veterans nationwide.
"This experience reinforced that our service doesn't end when we take off the uniform,” Jeff says. “I'm incredibly grateful to Student Veterans of America for this opportunity, and I'm excited to bring these insights back to my local community and campus."
How does ECPI University support military and veteran students?
ECPI University is committed to making higher education accessible and practical for those who have served, offering flexible program formats, dedicated support resources, and an active campus community for military-affiliated students. That commitment was recognized last year when ECPI University was named a 2025 Best for Vets College by Military Times.
Jeff's trip to D.C. is part of a broader pattern at ECPI University. Earlier this year, several student veterans traveled to Capitol Hill for Hill Day, meeting with members of Congress to share their experiences and advocate for policies affecting veterans in higher education.
SVA chapters on campuses across the university also play an important role in that work. Recently, an SVA online chapter was launched to extend that same sense of connection to students learning virtually, no matter where they are located.
Jeff's selection is a reflection of what student veterans accomplish at ECPI University and the community that helps make it possible.
