NMFA Marks Milestones at the Military Influencer Conference
This year’s Military Influencer Conference (MIC) was an inspiring gathering of military spouses, veterans, advocates, and organizations united by a shared purpose: building stronger futures for military families. From panels on entrepreneurship to celebrations of resilience, the conference highlighted the extraordinary talent and dedication within the service member and family network. For NMFA, being surrounded by so many voices and stories was both energizing and humbling, a reminder of the strength and innovation that define our community.
A Scholarship Milestone
During the MilSpouseFest – Mighty MilSpouse Celebration, we reached a milestone that speaks to the heart of our mission: Dr. Heather Pressler became NMFA’s 10,000th military spouse scholarship recipient. Together with our community of supporters, NMFA has invested more than $10 million in military spouses as they pursue degrees, certifications, training, and business funding that strengthen their families’ futures.
Each scholarship represents more than financial assistance: it represents trust in the potential of military spouses and a commitment to removing barriers so they can reach their goals. Recognizing this milestone at MIC reminded us of the drive and dedication military spouses bring to strengthening their families and communities.
Recognizing Leadership in Service
Amid this vibrant backdrop, our CEO, Besa Pinchotti, and Chief Impact Officer, Raleigh Smith Duttweiler, were honored together on the Mighty 25 list, which recognizes individuals making a difference across the military community. Under Besa and Raleigh’s leadership, NMFA has continued to listen closely to families, identify the unique challenges of military life, and respond with programs and advocacy that meet those needs. From expanding scholarships for military spouses to growing Operation Purple® Camps for military kids, their focus remains on ensuring families have the resources and support they need to thrive. Their inclusion reflects not only their leadership but also the shared strength of the military families and partners who shape NMFA’s mission.
Moving Forward Together
The 2025 Military Influencer Conference was a moment to celebrate milestones, but more importantly, it was a reminder of the work ahead. At NMFA, we remain committed to advocating for policies that strengthen families, expanding programs that foster resilience, and ensuring that the voices of military families are heard at every level.
We are forever grateful to our community of families, partners, and supporters who make this work possible. Together, we can continue building a future where every military family has the resources and opportunities they deserve.
By: Olivia Brinsfield, Content Manager
