Earlier this year, our Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG-WI) program launched an exciting new opportunity: selecting two students to serve on our statewide leadership team as the JAG WI State Career Association President and Vice President. We are proud to have Caroline J. from Stanley-Boyd High School serving as State President and Kaden N. from Tomah High School serving as State Vice President.
Earlier this December, these two outstanding students traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the JAG National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA)—a four-day experience that brought together JAG student leaders from across the country for immersive leadership development, networking, and hands-on learning.
Their mission? Strengthen their ability to advocate for their programs, communities, and peers, while learning from national leaders and exploring the history that shapes our nation.
Below is a recap of their impactful week in Washington, D.C.
Day 1: Travel Day & Building Connections
After arriving in D.C., students jumped right into hands-on skill building. They participated in immersive networking exercises focused on:
- Crafting strong personal introductions using the GNAP method (Greeting, Name, Affiliation, Purpose)
- Practicing professional handshakes
- Using open-ended questions to build meaningful conversations
- Identifying key strategies for navigating networking events with confidence
The day was all about setting the foundation for strong connections throughout the week.
Day 2: Leadership Workshops & National Connections
Day 2 offered a deep dive into leadership principles, including an interactive workshop on the Social Change Model and the 7 Cs of leadership development. Students learned that leadership is not a title—it’s a process rooted in collaboration and personal growth.
They also:
- Practiced “working a room” during networking events
- Met with National Officers and National JAG staff
- Attended the NSLA Opening Ceremony
- Gained insight from a panel of former National Career Association members
And to top it off—Caroline was a big BINGO winner during the evening’s student social!
Day 3: Presentations, Etiquette, and Exploring History
With new skills under their belt, Caroline and Kaden spent the morning designing their own workshop, “Connections with Confidence”, which they will present at the FSC Youth Leadership Conference in March.
They later participated in a formal etiquette lunch, where they learned:
- The purpose of each utensil
- Proper table manners
- Strategies for positive conversation at professional meals
The afternoon focused on reflection and inspiration as students toured national monuments and Union Station, gaining a deeper appreciation of our country’s history and leadership legacy.
The day wrapped with a fun “Dream Big” dance, complete with music, decorating pillowcases, and connecting with JAG peers from across the nation. They even filmed a short video at the Capitol!
Day 4: Conflict Resolution & Leadership in Action
The final day centered around conflict resolution. Students discovered their personal conflict styles and practiced strategies to navigate challenges with confidence and self-awareness.
Before heading home, Caroline and Kaden had the incredible opportunity to meet with JAG National CEO & President Janelle Duray and Karey Webb to share updates on the growth and success of JAG WI programs.
The day ended with an unexpected lesson in patience and adaptability—navigating major airport delays and the realities of public travel!
Caroline and Kaden represented JAG WI with professionalism, enthusiasm, and heart. Their experience at NSLA will directly support student leadership back home and help strengthen the JAG WI Career Association statewide. We’re so proud of everything they’ve accomplished this week!
Looking Ahead
Our Jobs for America’s Graduates program helps prepare students for the workforce with this in-school program that offers career guidance, education support, access to financial aid, and help finding a job after graduation. Students can explore post-school careers, military service, or college. Their future starts now and we will help them get there.
To see where JAG is offered near you or to see if you’re eligible, visit www.fsc-corp.org/JAG today!
