National Character & Leadership Symposium

The annual National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS) is the United States Air Force Academy’s flagship event on character and leadership. It brings together distinguished scholars, military leaders, corporate executives and world-class athletes to motivate and equip participants for honorable living and effective leadership. The next symposium will take place on February 25-26, 2021. The theme for 2021 is Warrior Ethos as Airmen and Citizens. Warrior Ethos is the embodiment of the warrior spirit: tough mindedness, tireless motivation, an unceasing vigilance, a willingness to sacrifice one’s life for the country, if necessary, and a commitment to be the world’s premier air, space and cyberspace force.

This year’s symposium will be the first of its kind for USAFA. In response to Corona Virus, we will be hosting NCLS 2021 virtually via live-streaming and recorded sessions. Historically this two-day symposium provides an opportunity for all Academy personnel, visiting university students and faculty, and community members to experience dynamic speakers in-person and take part in group discussions to enhance their own understanding of the importance of sound moral character and good leadership. While we won’t be hosting outside visitors to USAFA this year, we are certain the experience of our online attendees through our first-ever virtual NCLS will be nothing short of outstanding.

Each NCLS connects participants with powerful speakers from all walks of life, in presentations and discussion sessions, to encourage reflection and motivate personal action. By reinforcing Air Force Core Values of service, integrity and excellence, NCLS contributes to the Academy’s role as a unique and valuable character and leadership resource for both the Air Force, and the nation.