FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: info@investinveteransweek.com

Date: December 14, 2024

Jacksonville, FL – LTC Rickey L. Pope, President and Co-Founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), today announced a significant leadership transition within the organization as Jeff Shuford, co-founder of NIVW, officially retires from the initiative. Shuford’s groundbreaking leadership helped shape NIVW into a global movement that empowers veteran entrepreneurs, elevating their voices and businesses on an unprecedented scale.

“Jeff Shuford’s impact on National Invest In Veterans Week® and the veteran community is immeasurable,” said LTC Pope. “His tireless dedication to creating opportunities for veterans and his visionary approach to advocacy leave behind a powerful legacy. While Jeff transitions out of his role, we are proud to honor him as the Honorary Ambassador of Veterans Affairs, recognizing his enduring contributions to our mission.”

As Shuford fully retires from day-to-day and strategic leadership, LTC Pope announced a new leadership structure to drive the organization forward and ensure its continued success and profitability.

Effective immediately:

• Angel Shuford, a decorated Army Reserve Air Traffic Controller, Military Relocation Professional (MRP), and multi-million-dollar realtor, has been appointed as Vice President/Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

• Angel will oversee the implementation of Jeff Shuford’s strategic roadmap, with a focus on expanding the brand’s financial sustainability and profitability.

• In addition to her extensive professional credentials, Angel brings a deep personal connection to NIVW’s mission and a proven ability to lead with vision and integrity.

• Additional leadership roles will be announced soon as the organization positions itself for its next phase of growth.

“As Vice President and CFO, Angel Shuford exemplifies the kind of dynamic leadership that will propel National Invest In Veterans Week® into the future,” said LTC Pope. “Her diverse expertise as a military professional and a top-performing realtor, combined with her passion for supporting veterans, makes her the perfect leader to take this organization to new heights.”

Jeff Shuford, now officially retired from all operational roles, will remain involved solely in an honorary capacity as Honorary Ambassador of Veterans Affairs, supporting NIVW’s mission through advocacy and special engagements.

“National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than an initiative—it’s a legacy built on service, dedication, and impact,” said LTC Pope. “As we honor Jeff’s extraordinary contributions and welcome Angel’s leadership, we remain committed to expanding our mission of empowering veteran entrepreneurs across the globe.”

About National Invest In Veterans Week®

Founded in 2019 by LTC Rickey L. Pope, Drayton Florence, and Jeff Shuford, National Invest In Veterans Week® is a global initiative dedicated to celebrating and supporting veteran-owned businesses. Recognized in the Congressional Record, NIVW has expanded to 40 markets worldwide, providing resources, visibility, and advocacy for veteran entrepreneurs.