NEW YORK, NY (June 26, 2017) — Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the leading voice of the Post-9/11 generation of veterans, is proud to announce that Executive Director, Allison Jaslow, was named a 2017 Aspen Ideas Festival Scholar and will be attending the event this week in Aspen, Colorado as part of an elite group of diverse leaders from across the United States and 30 different countries selected for their work, accomplishments, and ability to transform ideas into action.

Presented by the Aspen Institute in partnership with The Atlantic magazine, the Aspen Ideas Festival is the nation’s premier, public gathering place for leaders from around the globe and across many disciplines to present and discuss the ideas and issues that both shape our lives and challenge our times. It runs through July 1.

“Allison is one of the most important veteran leaders in America. Over the last few years, she has quickly established herself as an unparalleled force for our movement,” said Paul Rieckhoff, Founder and CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. “We’re thrilled to have her voice included in the Aspen Ideas community this week. This honor is recognition not only of her wide array of accomplishments, but also her potential to help solve the world’s most pressing problems at the highest level. We are excited to see and support her achievements on behalf of our community and nation in the critical years to come. And we appreciate Aspen’s recognition of the importance of the veterans community.”

The lead spokesperson for IAVA’s groundbreaking “She Who Borne The Battle” women veterans campaign, Jaslow was recently promoted to Executive Director to focus on policy, strategy and external affairs for the organization. Her recognition as an Aspen Ideas Festival Scholar further underscores how her leadership stands out nationwide.

“I’m incredibly humbled to be recognized alongside such remarkable leaders and citizens as an Aspen Ideas Festival Scholar,” said Allison Jaslow. “The theme of my life has been a commitment to service and pursuit of opportunities to make the greatest impact for the greater good. The Aspen Institute is known for bringing together the world’s premiere thought leaders and I’m eager to engage with and learn from them as I look to tackle future challenges.”

A native Virginian, Jaslow served two combat tours in Iraq as before leaving the Army as Captain. She also served in the White House, both Chambers of Congress, and worked on political campaigns across the country before joining IAVA. Allison’s last stint on Capitol Hill was as Chief of Staff for Illinois Congresswoman Cheri Bustos and served previously as Press Secretary for former U.S. Senator and decorated Vietnam veteran Jim Webb. Her previous roles at IAVA were as Chief of Staff and Director of Intergovernmental and Political Affairs.