The Military Spouse Advocacy Network (MSAN) is reaffirming its commitment to empowering military spouses by extending its partnership with the University of Notre Dame through 2027. The collaboration, which began with the establishment of the Leadership Institute for Military Spouses (LIMS) by MSAN in 2025, aims to provide free, virtual, and meaningful training to military spouses across the globe. Two flagship programs—one focused on ethical leadership and the other on mental health wellness—are set to welcome their second cohorts, continuing a mission to build resilient and capable military families.
Developed and delivered by faculty from the William J. Shaw Center for Children and Families, the Veldman Family Psychology Clinic, and the Notre Dame Deloitte Center for Ethical Leadership, these courses are designed to address the unique challenges faced by military spouses. The curriculum includes topics such as conflict management, voicing values in the workplace, and fostering honesty and empathy in decision-making. The mental health series aims to dispel myths, identify risks common in military communities, and equip spouses with strategies to promote wellness for themselves and their peers.
“I am incredibly excited and deeply grateful to welcome the University of Notre Dame back to the MSAN family,” said Verenice Castillo, MSAN President and CEO. “Their continued investment in our military spouse community and the return of this transformative training reflect a shared commitment to empowering military spouses with the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills to create lasting change.”
The partnership is a multidisciplinary effort involving faculty and staff from ten university organizations, including Notre Dame Research, the Office of Military & Veterans Affairs, and the Mendoza College of Business. The courses are exclusively offered to LIMS alumni, ensuring that graduates have access to advanced training that builds on their foundational leadership development. Since 2020, nearly 300 military spouses have graduated from the flagship program, representing all branches of service, including veteran and retiree spouses, as well as Gold Star and surviving spouses.
The extended collaboration underscores the importance of investing in military spouses, who often serve as the backbone of military communities. By providing advanced education in ethical leadership and mental health, MSAN and Notre Dame are not only enhancing individual capabilities but also fostering stronger, more supportive networks that benefit families and communities nationwide. As the programs continue to expand, they promise to create a lasting impact on the lives of military spouses and the broader military community.
