The annual event will feature numerous civilian and military speakers giving their perspective on leadership challenges.

“NCLS encourages us to be engaged citizens and equips us for honorable living and effective leadership,” said Lt. Gen. Michelle D. Johnson, the Academy superintendent. “When you consider the full spectrum of our missions across the globe, honorable living and effective leadership are more than important — they’re absolutely critical to our success as the Air Force’s only academy and as the world’s greatest Air Force.”

The theme, Warrior Ethos, is designed to inspire cadets, Academy faculty and staff, and their family members and guests.

“Our theme corresponds to the idea that every cadet, Airman and civilian comprising our total force contributes to the fight,” Johnson said. “To maintain our legacy of success, we must apply the warrior spirit and drive. We owe this and more to our fellow citizens, the Long Blue Line and those who have gone before us.”

More than 200 students from top U.S. universities were nominated by their schools to attend the symposium centering on military ethics and warrior ethos.

Scheduled speakers include former NFL player Brian Griese, TEDTalk speaker Anthony Porter, and Maj. Heather Penney, ordered on 9-11 to ram a hijacked plane with her unarmed F-16.