In Marshall’s Footsteps: Fork Union Cadets Learn to Lead with Integrity

Last week, we were pleased to make a return trip to Fork Union Military Academy for the second session of “Five Star Character: The George C. Marshall Ethical Leadership Conference” held at the prestigious military boarding school.

Fifteen high school students participated in a two-day session led by Pete Janhunen, Director of the Marshall Center’s Ethical Leadership Program, which engaged cadets with General Marshall’s example of visionary leadership, selfless service and unwavering integrity.

In his opening remarks, Fork Union Academy President Captain Mark Black (U.S. Navy, Ret.) welcomed the Marshall Center’s return and shared insights from his distinguished career as a naval aviator with the cadets.

Students participated in breakout sessions in which they applied Marshall’s three pillars of ethical leadership to tackle real-world challenges. As a capstone exercise, they designed values-driven nonprofit initiatives addressing key social issues such as tobacco use, littering and gaps in childhood education.

“Once again, I was deeply impressed with the cadets’ dedication, particularly their concern for the younger cadets they are trying to lead,” said Janhunen. “It is an honor to introduce them to General Marshall’s example to help them better understand what ethical and effective leadership looks like in practice.”

“It was a privilege to return to Fork Union for the second time,” said Marshall Center Executive Director Valérie Beaudoin. “We value the growing partnership between the Marshall Center and FUMA and look forward to continuing our shared work in developing ethical leaders.”