As I look back on the journey that has shaped my career and my life, I am often reminded of the values instilled in me by my grandfather, Jim Freeman. His influence looms large, not just as a founding member of the iconic doo-wop group The Five Satins, but as a man of extraordinary vision, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. His legacy of leadership, much like my own path in technology, veteran advocacy, and entrepreneurship, has been one of impact, service, and a commitment to making the world a better place.

It’s a legacy that I have worked to honor in my own endeavors—whether through co-founding National Invest In Veterans Week®, leading the charge for veteran-owned businesses, or pushing the boundaries of innovation in technology. Today, I’m proud to reflect on how my grandfather’s journey has intertwined with mine, and the many lessons I’ve learned from his storied career.

The Power of Influence: A Family Legacy

Growing up, my grandfather's legacy was ever-present. Jim Freeman was not just a man of music but a cultural force who left an indelible mark on American music history. As part of The Five Satins, his hit “In the Still of the Night” has continued to captivate generations. From being played on iconic soundtracks like Dirty Dancing and American Graffiti to receiving recognition in *Rolling Stone’s "500 Greatest Songs of All Time," Freeman’s music is timeless. His contributions to the arts were immortalized when his work was entered into the Congressional Record on April 23, 2015, a testament to the impact he had on the cultural fabric of America.

What struck me most about my grandfather’s success was not just his achievements but his unwavering dedication to his craft. It was his perseverance that influenced me deeply, guiding me toward my own passion for advocacy, technology, and leadership. Much like my grandfather’s recognition in Congress, I had the distinct honor of seeing National Invest In Veterans Week® entered into the Congressional Record in March 2024. The parallel is not lost on me—both of us were acknowledged for contributions that extended beyond our industries, for work that sought to elevate the human experience.

Drawing Inspiration from a Musical Legacy

Music was more than just a profession for my grandfather—it was a way to connect with people on a deeper level. It inspired joy, fostered community, and even provided a sense of escapism during difficult times. I often think about how his ability to create something timeless has influenced my approach to leadership and service.

For Jim Freeman, music was a form of storytelling, a way to communicate shared experiences. For me, advocacy and innovation serve the same purpose. When I co-founded Tech From Vets, a technology firm dedicated to helping veteran-owned businesses, I saw an opportunity to tell a different kind of story—one of resilience, adaptation, and success in a digital world that veterans were striving to navigate. Much like my grandfather’s journey in music, my work was about providing tools that empower others to succeed.

In 2019, I was honored to be recognized by *Black Enterprise* for shaping key cultural narratives within the African American and veteran communities. To me, this recognition echoed my grandfather’s GRAMMY Hall of Fame induction and the enduring legacy of his music. Our family has been fortunate to leave a legacy in both music and business, and these recognitions reflect not just our work but the broader impact of leadership across generations.

National Invest In Veterans Week: Carrying the Torch of Advocacy

The launch of National Invest In Veterans Week® marked a significant milestone in my life, a culmination of my work to support veteran entrepreneurs and advocate for their rightful place in the business world. Established to run every March, this initiative calls on communities across the U.S. to celebrate veteran-owned businesses and encourage their growth through promotions, partnerships, and support networks.

When National Invest In Veterans Week® was entered into the Congressional Record, it was not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collective power of veterans and their entrepreneurial spirit. It was a call to action—reminding businesses, lawmakers, and citizens alike of the immense contributions veterans bring to our economy and society.

Like my grandfather’s musical contributions, which provided a soundtrack for countless lives, I wanted to create an enduring platform that supported veterans in tangible, life-changing ways. Whether it’s through technology, mentorship, or community support, National Invest In Veterans Week® is my way of ensuring that veterans have the resources they need to succeed.

Honoring Veterans: The Road Ahead

Much of my work today revolves around advancing opportunities for veterans, and I see this as a continuation of the legacy my grandfather left behind. Just as Jim Freeman used music to uplift others, I use advocacy and technology to empower those who have served our country. Veterans face unique challenges in the civilian world, and my mission is to bridge those gaps—helping them find success in business, technology, and beyond.

Veterans often bring a wealth of leadership experience, discipline, and problem-solving abilities to the civilian sector. National Invest In Veterans Week® serves as a platform to amplify these strengths, showcasing the value veterans bring to the marketplace. My hope is that, like my grandfather’s music, this initiative will continue to resonate long after I’m gone.

A Shared Spotlight: From Rolling Stone to Congressional Honors

One of the most surreal moments in my career was being featured in Rolling Stone. The magazine, which once celebrated my grandfather’s musical achievements, was now highlighting my work in advocacy and technology. It was a full-circle moment—proof that, though our fields were different, the Shuford-Freeman legacy of impact and leadership remained strong.

Both of us had been honored in Rolling Stone, and both of us had been recognized in the halls of Congress. These moments are a reflection of our shared commitment to excellence and the power of our work to transcend industries and generations.

A Legacy of Leadership

When I think about my grandfather’s words—“Stay committed to your vision, even when the odds seem stacked against you”—I am reminded of the many challenges we both faced in our respective journeys. Yet through it all, the principles of hard work, dedication, and service have been our guiding lights.

As I continue to work in the fields of AI, technology, and veteran advocacy, I carry with me the lessons my grandfather taught me. Whether through a timeless song or a business initiative that changes lives, our family’s legacy is one of leadership, service, and the pursuit of a better world.

Much like Jim Freeman’s music continues to inspire, I hope that my work, too, will leave a lasting impact—empowering veterans, fostering innovation, and creating a better future for all. The legacy we leave behind is not just measured by the accolades or the awards, but by the lives we touch and the difference we make. My grandfather taught me that, and I am honored to carry that lesson forward.

Read more here: https://www.investinveteransweek.com/news/the-legacy-of-leadership-jeff-shuford-and-his-grandfather-jim-freeman