2024 AOG Leadership Conference Report
Reflecting on the 2024 WPAOG Leader Conference, I can confidently say it was not just an event but a transformative conference. The connections I made, the insights I gained, and the inspiration I drew from these moments will stay with me as I continue my leadership journey, deeply rooted in the values and traditions of West Point.
Wednesday, August 14 - Honoring the Legacy
The Conference began with the Welcome Reception at the Great Hall, which was an excellent opportunity to meet fellow attendees and speak with old and new connections. Networking is the most vital and most lasting aspect of the conference.
Thursday, August 15 - Leadership Insights
Thursday was filled with remarkable leadership insights. The day began with a powerful keynote from LTG (R) Guy Swan '76, which set a compelling discussion framework. The theme of the conference was “How We All Work Together.” The WPAOG Chairman and President & CEO Update provided an insider's perspective on the organization's future, while the Superintendent's Update offered invaluable insights into the ongoing initiatives at West Point. From a societal standpoint – many of the things we have recommended over the past three years are now integrated into the new AOG Strategy (access our society strategy draft here). Mark Bieger is doing a fantastic job at slowly evolving AOG into a 21st-century organization that is not solely focused on fundraising but is outwardly focused on supporting graduates and our endeavors.
One of the highlights was the Luncheon featuring Mr. Mike Buddie, Athletic Director of USMA. His perspective on leadership within athletics was inspiring and applicable to many areas of life. They continued the How We All Work Together Leader Session in the afternoon. Dr. Jeffrey Peterson '87, Senior Advisor for Character Development, led thought-provoking discussions on the qualities that define influential leaders. Knowing Jeff, and his passion for character development, he is the iron that sharpens all character iron at USMA. He is doing a fantastic job. The evening at Bear Mountain Inn, where BG R.J. Garcia '96, the 81st Commandant of USMA, spoke during the We All Come Together Dinner, was particularly memorable, leaving me with lasting inspiration. Summer training now is far more complex than it was 30 years ago. New Cadets through First Classmen are all expected to inculcate the Army values and grow during the summer.
Friday, August 16 - Growing as a Leader
Friday was all about personal and collective growth as leaders. The sessions were tailored to different leadership roles, providing specific, actionable insights that I found incredibly valuable. Whether I was in discussions with class leaders, parent club leaders, or society leaders, each session reinforced the importance of our collective efforts. The day concluded with a networking lunch and an insightful Fireside Chat with BG Shane Reeves '96 and Elon Musk, which provided a thoughtful capstone to the conference. His visit for the convocation was purposeful, as the Academic focus this year is on the relationship between humans and AI and how we integrate this new technology safely and to our advantage.
Saturday, August 17 - Celebrating a New Generation
The conference concluded with the Acceptance Day Review on The Plain, a powerful reminder of the Long Gray Line's traditions and future. Witnessing the next generation of leaders take a significant step in their West Point journey was inspiring and humbling.
Reflecting on my conference at the 2024 WPAOG Leader Conference, I can confidently say it was not just an event but a transformative conference. The connections I made, the insights I gained, and the inspiration I drew from these moments will stay with me as I continue my leadership journey, deeply rooted in the values and traditions of West Point. Thank you for allowing me to represent you.
Jeff Powell, ‘95, President West Point Society of Washington
