Jeff Shuford: A Legacy of Leadership, Innovation, and Service

Retirement and Transition

Jeff Shuford, Iraq War Veteran, nationally syndicated columnist, and co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), has officially retired from his role within the organization. After years of transformative leadership that turned NIVW into a global movement empowering veteran-owned businesses, Shuford is stepping back entirely from day-to-day and strategic operations. He now holds the honorary title of Honorary Ambassador of Veterans Affairs, reflecting his enduring impact on veteran advocacy.

In his absence, Angel Shuford, his wife and an accomplished professional in her own right, has taken on the role of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Angel, a decorated Army Reserve Air Traffic Controller, Military Relocation Professional (MRP), and multi-million-dollar realtor, is tasked with building upon Jeff’s roadmap to expand NIVW’s financial sustainability and profitability. Together with LTC Rickey L. Pope, President and Co-Founder of NIVW, Angel is steering the organization into its next chapter of growth.

A Career Rooted in Service and Innovation

Jeff Shuford’s career has been defined by a deep commitment to service, innovation, and empowering others. As a combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Shuford carried his military values into civilian life, using his skills to advocate for veterans through cutting-edge digital platforms and community initiatives.

Shuford co-founded Tech From Vets, a veteran-led technology company that won the prestigious 2017 BizTech Award from Comcast Business. He also partnered with major organizations like the City of Jacksonville, Florida State College of Jacksonville, and the Wounded Warrior Project to launch initiatives such as the Jacksonville Vetrepreneur Summit, teaching hundreds of veterans how to launch and scale their businesses.

His creation of award-winning platforms like the Vets 22 App, aimed at combating veteran suicide, exemplifies his dedication to leveraging technology for social impact.

National Invest In Veterans Week®

As the co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week®, Shuford played a pivotal role in turning the initiative into a nationally recognized movement. Under his leadership:

• NIVW was recognized in the Congressional Record, highlighting its role in empowering veteran entrepreneurs.

• The initiative expanded globally, with a portfolio of 40 markets across 19 U.S. states and 21 international markets.

• NIVW launched the largest collection of veteran state domains, including platforms like FloridaVeterans.com, GermanyVeterans.com, and JapanVeterans.com, connecting veterans to localized resources worldwide.

Shuford’s achievements at NIVW also include spearheading the development of Progressive Web Apps (PWA) and digital tools that enhance the accessibility and reach of veteran-focused programs. His work earned him the 2024 Lifetime Digital Grassroots Achievement Award and established NIVW as a cornerstone of veteran advocacy.

Media Influence

As a nationally syndicated columnist, Shuford made history as one of the youngest African-American columnists in the United States. His insights into digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and branding have reached millions of readers through platforms such as American City Business Journals and GateHouse Media, where his weekly columns appeared in 144 daily newspapers and over 569 local websites across 40 states.

Shuford’s media contributions extend to partnerships with outlets like Entrepreneur Magazine, Black Enterprise Magazine, and Rolling Stone, where he has shared thought leadership on entrepreneurship and innovation.

A Family Legacy of Excellence

Shuford’s drive for excellence and community impact is deeply rooted in his family history. His grandfather, Jim Freeman, was a founding member of the legendary doo-wop group The Five Satins, best known for the timeless hit “In the Still of the Night.” Freeman’s contributions to American music were recognized in the Congressional Record and the Grammy Hall of Fame, cementing a legacy that continues to inspire Jeff Shuford’s own work in advocacy and innovation.

Retirement: A Time for Rest

Now fully retired, Jeff Shuford plans to focus on absolutely nothing, stepping away entirely from professional and entrepreneurial pursuits. His decision marks the end of a remarkable chapter but leaves behind a thriving organization under the capable leadership of Angel Shuford and LTC Rickey L. Pope.

“Jeff’s legacy is woven into the fabric of National Invest In Veterans Week®,” said LTC Pope. “While he may no longer be involved day-to-day, his vision and contributions will continue to guide us as we expand our mission to empower veterans around the world.”

Key Achievements and Awards

• Congressional Recognition for NIVW’s impact on veteran entrepreneurship.

• Winner of the 2017 BizTech Award from Comcast Business.

• Creator of the Vets 22 App, addressing veteran mental health.

• Featured in Black Enterprise Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Rolling Stone.

• 2024 Lifetime Digital Grassroots Achievement Award recipient.

Looking Ahead

While Jeff Shuford’s role in NIVW has concluded, his influence remains through the strong foundation he built and the leadership team now in place. The future of National Invest In Veterans Week® is bright, and its mission to amplify the voices of veteran entrepreneurs continues stronger than ever.