Hosted by Cornerstone OnDemand in collaboration with the NCMA Bethesda Chapter
About this Event
Join us for a special Veterans Appreciation gathering as we honor those who have served, celebrate the power of community, and recognize the leaders and professionals who have helped make Cornerstone's Community Conversations Series a meaningful platform for connection, collaboration, and shared learning.
Throughout the year, our Community Conversations have brought together government, military, and industry leaders to exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping today's workforce. Many of these participants are veterans whose leadership, service, and perspectives have enriched our conversations.
This evening is also our opportunity to say THANK YOU to everyone who has contributed to the series, recognize our veterans, and celebrate the relationships we've built together as we look forward to even more meaningful conversations and collaboration in 2027.
Event Details
Thursday, November 12, 2026
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM ET
Open Gov Hub
1100 13th Street NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20005
An Evening of Leadership & Inspiration | Featured Fireside Conversation | Leadership Beyond Service
The evening will feature a special fireside conversation with Avery Q. Muse Sr., U.S. Navy Veteran, former federal Senior Executive Service leader, Advisory Board member of NCMA Bethesda Chapter, Founder and CEO of The Muse Group, and author of The Rooms I Had to Earn: A Memoir of Faith, Leadership, and Service Beyond the Title. Moderated by Michelle Clark, PMP, Executive Director, Federal Alliances & Strategic Growth at Cornerstone OnDemand and President of the NCMA Bethesda Chapter, this intimate discussion will explore the intersection of faith, leadership, resilience, and service.
From his upbringing in West Baltimore to serving at the highest levels of federal civilian leadership, Avery's remarkable journey spans military service, global defense operations, federal law enforcement, congressional security, and national public health missions. His story reflects more than professional achievement. It is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, mentorship, preparation, and the people and experiences that shape us long before we receive a title.
Through his memoir and continued work in the public and private sectors, Avery champions a powerful message: Service does not end when the uniform comes off, and purpose does not end when a title changes.
Together, we'll reflect on the values of service, adaptability, accountability, and leadership—and how these qualities continue to strengthen our organizations, workforces, and communities.
Special Book Signing | Meet the Author
Following the fireside conversation, attendees are invited to meet Avery Muse for a special signing of his book. The first 40 attendees to register willreceive a complimentary book. Other will be on hand to purchase
Evening Agenda
- 4:30 – 5:00 PM: Welcome Reception & Networking
- 5:00 – 5:05 PM: Opening Remarks, Veterans Recognition & Community Conversations Appreciation
- 5:05 – 5:20 PM: Fireside Conversation with Avery Muse — Leadership Beyond Service Moderated by Michelle Clark, Executive Director of Federal Alliances and Growth, Cornerstone OnDemand and NCMA Bethedsa Chapter President
- 5:20 – 5:30 PM: Audience Q&A
- 5:30 – 6:30 PM: Networking, Book Signing & Closing
Agenda subject to change.
Why Attend?
- Honor Our Veterans: Recognize the service, leadership, and lasting contributions of our nation's veterans.
- Celebrate Our Community: Reconnect with participants and supporters of Cornerstone's Community Conversations Series.
- Be Inspired: Hear powerful perspectives on leadership, resilience, and purpose from Avery Muse.
- Build Meaningful Connections: Engage with government, military, acquisition, and industry professionals.
- Look Ahead to 2027: Help us close out a year of meaningful dialogue and set the stage for continued collaboration, innovation, and community engagement.
Whether you've participated in one of our Community Conversations, served our country, or simply share our commitment to leadership and workforce development, we invite you to join us for this special evening of appreciation and connection.
Space is limited. Advance registration is required.
We look forward to celebrating with you, thanking you for being part of our community, and continuing the conversation in 2027!
Getting to the Venue
By Metro
The Open Gov Hub is highly accessible by public transit. The closest Metro stations are:
- McPherson Square Station (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines) – A short, 4-minute walk to the venue.
- Metro Center Station (Red, Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines) – An 8-minute walk to the venue.
By Car & Parking
- On-Site Parking: Covered parking is available directly beneath the building at 1100 13th St NW.
- Nearby Garages: Additional parking garages are located within a one-block radius, including the One Franklin Square garage at 1010 13th St NW.
- Street Parking: Hourly metered street parking is available along 13th Street NW and surrounding blocks. You can pay at the kiosks or via the ParkDC / ParkMobile apps.
Event venue & nearby stays
Open Gov Hub, 1100 13th Street Northwest, Washington, United States
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