At Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), our strength comes from our incredible leaders who refuse to stop serving and strive to continually improve both themselves as advocates and the veteran community at large.

We’re proud to announce the 2026—2027 IAVA Zach McIlwain Leadership Program Selectees:
— Jennifer Ross, MBA, MOL
— Dennis Miller
— Manny Gomez
— Joshua Barnett
— Jonathan H. Tennis

Named in honor of Zach McIlwain, an early IAVA Leader Alumn and passionate advocate whose legacy continues to inspire, this program is one of IAVA’s most impactful leadership initiatives. Through advocacy training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, participants gain the skills and resources needed to amplify veterans’ voices and advance policies that improve the lives of our community.

These emerging leaders represent the future of veteran advocacy, and their work is made possible because of supporters who believe in the power of continued service.