#United States #Washington, D.C. #J.P. Morgan #Warrior Rising #Women Veterans

Warrior Rising Hosts 'Saluting Her Service' Gala

On September 23, 2025, Warrior Rising, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering military veterans through entrepreneurship, held its highly anticipated annual event, the 'Saluting Her Service' Business Shower Gala, in Washington, D.C. The Warner Theatre buzzed with excitement as over 550 attendees gathered to support the entrepreneurial aspirations of women veterans and military spouses. Thanks to the leadership of presenting sponsor, J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking, the event successfully raised an impressive $378,211.54. This substantial amount is earmarked to assist veterans in establishing and expanding their businesses, with an incredible utilization rate of 82% directly benefiting the participants and Warrior Rising's programs.

The day kicked off at J.P. Morgan's D.C. offices, where six exceptional women entrepreneurs competed by pitching their innovative business ideas to a panel of judges. The caliber of talent on display prompted the judges to advance three finalists and culminated in an evening gala that celebrated the winners.

Competition Results

The winners showcased a variety of entrepreneurial ventures:
1. First Place: Dr. Darla Bishop from Finansis LLC, a military spouse, who aims to provide bilingual youth programs and financial literacy education to families, assisting them in building wealth.
2. Second Place: Tiffany Jones from TJL Collection, a U.S. Navy veteran, who operates a fashion brand catering to tall women, gaining recognition in publications like Essence and CBS.
3. Third Place: Robyn Gray from Gray Fit Training Recovery, a U.S. Air Force veteran, who offers elite training and recovery programs, credited with helping athletes secure over $50 million in scholarships.

In addition to the main competition, other grants were bestowed upon entrepreneurs including Cenita Williamson (ALYS Always Love Yourself), Sarah Tadesse (The Guest Lab), and Jessica Harris (K9 Salute).

The evening’s program included a unique live-painting portrait of Abraham Lincoln, which was presented to Kara Hourihan, Executive Director of the Pederson Foundation. Attendees also heard inspiring alumni success stories from Paden Sickles of SickFit and Brent Dial of Beek Health. Noteworthy remarks were delivered by Terry Hill from J.P. Morgan, Eduardo Ortiz from Coforma, and Dawn Halfaker from the Continuing to Serve Foundation.

To top off the event, award-winning comedian Zarna Garg delighted the audience with a special performance and gifted everyone a signed copy of her New York Times bestselling book, This American Woman.

Jason Van Camp, Executive Director of Warrior Rising, emphasized the mission behind the gala by stating, "Together, we are not just celebrating—we are building opportunities that last. Thanks to our partners, more women veterans and military spouses will rise through entrepreneurship, creating businesses that strengthen families, communities, and the national economy."

J.P. Morgan expressed pride in collaborating with Warrior Rising, highlighting the 'Saluting Her Service' initiative as a crucial celebration of veteran entrepreneurs' vision and spirit.

The remarkable success of the 'Saluting Her Service' gala was made possible through the invaluable support from presenting sponsor J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking, along with the Continuing to Serve Foundation, Coforma, and additional contributions from BDO, Excentium, PSI, RBCI, and many others.

About Warrior Rising

Founded in 2015 by U.S. Army Green Beret Jason Van Camp, Warrior Rising is committed to empowering veterans and their immediate families to develop sustainable businesses. By providing education, mentorship, funding access, and community support, the organization helps veterans find purpose and prosperity through entrepreneurship. For more information, visit www.warriorrising.org.