[Webinar] From Service to Second Chances: The Role of Business in Veteran Reentry
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 1:30 - 2:15 p.m. ET | Webinar
Without strong transition support after military service, too many U.S. veterans find themselves entangled in the criminal justice system. One in three of the country’s 19 million veterans report having been arrested at least once in their lifetime.
These touches with the justice system can create significant roadblocks for veterans working to rebuild their lives — and critically, their careers — after serving the country. Outdated corporate hiring practices that overlook people with criminal records can lock many veterans out of the workforce, not only depriving them of opportunity but depriving employers of dedicated and skilled talent.
In “From Service to Second Chances: The Role of Business in Veteran Reentry,” attendees will learn why businesses can be a force for solutions — creating opportunities that honor veterans and build stronger, more inclusive teams. Led by business leaders and veterans, this conversation will feature firsthand stories that challenge stigma, deepen understanding, and reveal how veterans bring resilience, discipline, and untapped potential to the workplace.
What you’ll learn:
Why veterans face unique risks for justice involvement — and the lasting workforce barriers that can result
Practical employer strategies, supports, and Second Chance Hiring pathways that strengthen the workforce
Advocacy resources and partnership opportunities that help rebuild veterans’ lives
Insights from veterans’ lived experience that combat stigma and deepen understanding
Meet Our Speakers
Brigadier General David “Mac” MacEwen
Director, Veterans Justice Commission, Council on Criminal Justice
A retired brigadier general in the U.S. Army, David “Mac” MacEwen manages the work of the Council on Criminal Justice’s Veterans Justice Commission.
MacEwen’s last military assignment was as the 59th Adjutant General of the Army. In that role, he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Army’s human resource programs, providing support to its 1.1 million active and reserve soldiers and their families. His responsibilities included oversight of the Army Transition program, Army Education program, and the Army Casualty Program. During more than 33 years in uniform, MacEwen served tours of duty in multiple countries, commanded units at every echelon, and held key staff positions in the joint force. Since his retirement, MacEwen has focused on veterans’ issues and advocated for people affected by food insecurity. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Everglades University, where he teaches crisis and disaster management.
MacEwen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Clarion University, a Bachelor of Science in crisis and disaster management from Everglades University, and a Master of Arts in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He is also a graduate of the Command and General Staff College and the Naval War College, and attended the University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler Business School Executive Development Program.
Derek O. Small, USN (Ret.)
Director of Military Programs, National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation
Derek O. Small, USN (Ret.) serves as the Director of Military Programs at the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). In this role, Derek leads strategic initiatives that connect transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses with meaningful career opportunities in the restaurant, food service, and hospitality industry.
A proud U.S. Navy veteran with over two decades of honorable service, Derek brings extensive leadership experience from his military career, where he managed complex operations, guided diverse teams, and championed professional development programs. His military background instilled in him a deep commitment to service, mentorship, and workforce readiness.
At NRAEF, Derek oversees advanced programs such as AMPED (Advanced Military Professional Educational Development), ACTP (Advanced Culinary Training Program), and SkillBridge, ensuring they deliver impactful training and employment pathways for the military-connected population. He collaborates with industry partners, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies to expand opportunities and strengthen the talent pipeline.
During his distinguished Navy career, Derek earned multiple awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon, recognizing his exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and dedication to mission success.
Derek is passionate about empowering veterans and their families to thrive in civilian careers. His work reflects a dedication to building bridges between the military and hospitality sectors, fostering economic mobility, and creating sustainable futures for those who have served our nation.
Caz Walcott
Director of Inclusive Hiring, Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ)
Caz leads RBIJ’s first and second chance hiring programs. In addition to leading the Inclusive Hiring team, her responsibilities also include collaborating with community-based organizations, advocacy leaders, and social services providers.
Previously, Caz worked at various nonprofits, including as the program manager at the Vera Institute of Justice’s Redefining Public Safety team, the Director of Employment Services for Westhab’s NYC and Westchester County shelter and community-based employment programs, and as Director of Fathers Count Family Services of Westchester’s federally-funded Responsible Fatherhood Program. She received a Citation from Mayor Mike Spano for her contribution to Westchester County and the City of Yonkers and a Certificate of Recognition from the Senate of the State of New York for Exemplary Service to the community. While in the UK, Caz worked as a probation officer for HM Prison & Probation Service and as a youth social worker with Camden Children & Family Services.