Schulte Speaker Series: James Hendon discusses how to support and empower veterans

In observance of Veterans Day and as part of the Schulte Speaker Series, the Veterans Affinity Group welcomed James Hendon, the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner. As a West Point graduate with higher education from Harvard Kennedy School, Columbia Business School and Earth Institute’s Program in Conservation and Environmental Sustainability, he has extensive experience in leadership, military operations and veterans’ affairs. 

James previously held roles as Director of NYU’s Veterans Future Lab and various positions in the US Army, including Active Duty Infantry Officer, Admissions Officer for West Point and Senior Adviser to the Afghan Border Police. Currently, James is a drilling US Army Reservist serving as a Joint Exercise Planner for the Exercises and Coalition Affairs Directorate of US Southern Command and CEO of the Energy Economic Development Corporation, focusing on green job training in New York City. He has also contributed to energy efficiency through his past role as COO for BlocPower.  

In conversation with special counsel Saarah Woodby, James shared how communities, organizations and employers can support veterans, and illustrated how military experience continues to shape his journey as a leader and entrepreneur. He emphasized the importance of self-identifying as a veteran and explained how to bridge the gap between veterans and the numerous services available to them. Key to aiding veterans in this self-recognition is offering support and leading with love, making it easier for them to share their experiences.  

Underscoring the continuous appreciation of all those who have served, James stated, “Veterans Day is every day.”  

Learn more about James. 

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