The 2025 National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) National Conference in Spartanburg, South Carolina, was filled with powerful moments celebrating collaboration, leadership, and opportunity. One of the most inspiring highlights came during a special presentation from Denny’s Hungry for Education (HFE) Scholarship Program, recognizing NVBDC’s participation in this national initiative to support student success and community leadership.
During the event, Steve Dunn, representing Denny’s, took the stage to present a ceremonial check to Dr. Sid E. Taylor, Director of the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) JROTC Scholarship Program, symbolizing NVBDC’s ongoing role in the Denny’s HFE partnership. The moment highlighted how both organizations are united in their mission to create educational pathways for JROTC Cadets — the future leaders of America. The Denny’s Hungry for Education™ Scholarship Program is now open for applications. The Denny’s HFE program will award more than $100,000 in scholarships to deserving high school and college students across the United States and Puerto Rico, and NVBDC is proud to be a partner this year.
Don’t wait—the deadline to apply is December 8, 2025. Learn more and submit your application here: https://www.dennys.com/NVBDCK12
Dr. Taylor, who has led NVBDC’s JROTC initiative since its inception, emphasized the growing impact of the program, which has raised over $250,000 in the past four years to support college-bound cadets. Through partnerships like Denny’s HFE, National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) continues to expand scholarship opportunities that reward leadership, academic excellence, and community service among young cadets nationwide.
“This partnership with Denny’s demonstrates the power of collaboration between the corporate and veteran communities,” said Dr. Taylor. “Together, we’re investing in the next generation of leaders — young people who embody the same values of discipline, service, and excellence that define our nation’s veterans.”
As one of America’s most recognized restaurant brands, Denny’s has long championed access to education through its Hungry for Education Program, which provides scholarships to students who demonstrate leadership and community involvement. NVBDC’s participation in the program ensures that JROTC Cadets have greater access to educational opportunities while connecting veteran and corporate communities in a shared mission of service.
Building on the momentum from the conference, National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) is currently running its 2025 JROTC Scholarship Fundraising Campaign, aiming to raise additional funds by Veterans Day to expand scholarship awards for deserving cadets. Every contribution helps ensure that more students have the opportunity to pursue higher education and leadership development.
“We’ve already raised over a quarter of a million dollars to support our future leaders,” Dr. Taylor noted. “Now, we’re asking our partners and supporters to join us as we push toward our Veterans Day goal — because investing in our youth is investing in America’s future.”
Help us reach our Veterans Day fundraising goal and continue empowering the next generation of leaders by visiting our website: https://nvbdc.org/donations-sm/
Learn how to become an National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) Certified SD/VOB by visiting our website: www.nvbdc.org or contacting us directly by calling 888-CERTIFIED.
