Episode 25 - James Schmeling, J.D. - President and CEO of National Defense University Foundation
James Schmeling, J.D. - President and CEO of National Defense University Foundation
In this episode of Tipping Spears with Hannah Becker, I sit down with James Schmeling, President and CEO of the National Defense University Foundation and U.S. Air Force veteran. With more than 25 years of executive leadership in nonprofits and higher education, James has dedicated his career to advancing military and veteran education, careers, entrepreneurship, disability policy, and civil rights.
In this episode, James shares:
His journey from serving in the U.S. Air Force to leading one of the nation’s premier defense education foundations
The mission and impact of the National Defense University Foundation on defense education, leadership development, and building cross-sector partnerships
Insights on emerging defense and national security trends shaping today’s environment
How nonprofits are transforming opportunities for today’s veteran community
The role of evolving technologies and threats in shaping global stability
Why he’s optimistic about the next generation of leaders in national security
Whether you’re in the defense community, interested in leadership, or passionate about strengthening America’s national security, this episode offers a unique look at the impact of education, philanthropy, and vision in shaping the future of defense.
About the Guest:
As President and CEO of the National Defense University Foundation, James Schmeling brings more than 25 years of executive experience leading nonprofits and research centers in higher education and as standalone 501(c)(3) organizations. His career has focused on advancing military and veteran education, careers, and entrepreneurship, disability policy, and civil rights. A U.S. Air Force veteran, James is a graduate of Iowa State University and the University of Iowa College of Law. Under his leadership, the Foundation connects philanthropists, private sector leaders, businesses, and industry with the National Defense University—the nation’s premier institution for national security and defense education. The Foundation develops resources and relationships to support faculty excellence, student success, infrastructure, libraries, special collections, academic chairs, and international fellows and their families, while also hosting lectures and workshops that foster intellectual exchange among current and future leaders. His mission is to advance national security by raising resources that appropriated funds alone cannot provide, ensuring the university remains agile and relevant in a rapidly changing security environment.
Catch the podcast episode online:
YouTube - click here to listen
Spotify - click here to listen
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