51st George C. Marshall Leadership and Awards Seminar
The George C. Marshall Foundation partnered with the U.S. Army Cadet Command and the Virginia Military Institute to welcome Army ROTC cadets from across the nation for the 51st George C. Marshall Awards and Leadership Seminar, a capstone experience preparing soon-to-be officers to lead with character, judgment, and humility.
“This is the first time the seminar has been held at VMI, Marshall’s alma mater, in eleven years, said Foundation President Dr. Paul Levengood. “It is directly linked to the Foundation’s mission, that Marshall’s example of integrity, humility and selfless service can serve as a beacon for future generations of leaders.”
In keynote remarks, 22nd Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine addressed the responsibilities cadets will soon assume as commissioned leaders. “Your path in service will not always be easy; you will be tested, you will be challenged, you will be asked to make tough decisions,” Caine said. He urged cadets to lean on Marshall’s example when the right answer is not obvious: “From time to time, you will find yourselves at a crossroads where you simply don’t know what to do, ask yourself the question: What would Marshall do?”
Brig. Gen. Maurice Barnett emphasized that the seminar recognizes not only achievement, but the obligation that comes with future service. “You are here in recognition of your leadership excellence; of your talent and your accomplishments during your time in ROTC, but more importantly this is about your potential,” Barnett said.
The 2026 seminar also marked the program’s return to VMI, where it was originally established in recognition of Marshall’s deep connection to the Institute. Its return was advanced through sustained collaboration and support, including significant efforts by George C. Marshall Foundation staff and its trustee Lt. Gen. Anthony G. “Tony” Crutchfield, to help bring the seminar back to Lexington and strengthen its focus on Marshall’s enduring leadership lessons.
Dr. Levengood remarked, “These exceptional young men and women, about to enter the Army as officers, embody Marshall’s values. They carry forward his legacy of the character-based leadership our nation will always need.”
