Leadership isn't always about being the loudest voice in the room. Sometimes it's about listening first, building trust, and creating space for others to succeed.

In this episode of Corps Conversations, 1/c Cadet Carl DiGiorgio and Tara King Clark sit down with Dr. Elaine Fitzgerald Lewis '97. Growing up in a Coast Guard family in New London, Elaine's connection to the Academy began long before her Reporting In Day. From serving as a cutterman and international training officer to helping establish the Academy's first marketing department, she shares how each experience strengthened her leadership philosophy and taught her the importance of finding her voice.

Elaine reflects on navigating male-dominated environments, the mentors who helped shape her journey, and the power of representation and belonging. She also discusses her transition from military service to public health, where she now leads the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition, impacting millions of children and families across the Commonwealth.

Throughout the conversation, Elaine offers thoughtful insights on relationship building, self-advocacy, managing through uncertainty, and why listening remains one of the most important leadership skills. Her story is a reminder that the strongest leaders are often those who empower others to be seen, heard, and valued.

Closing out the episode Tara King Clark sits down with 1/c Alli Dela Vega, President of the International Cadet Council, where they discuss how international cadets contribute to the Corps through cultural exchange, global partnerships, and what he describes as "human interoperability." He also shares the impact of donor support that helps international cadets welcome family members to graduation and celebrate one of the most important milestones of their Academy experience.

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Keywords

Leadership Development, Relationship Building, Finding Your Voice, Coast Guard Academy, USCGA Alumni, Public Service, Women in Leadership, Mentorship, Trust and Communication, Team Building, Military Leadership, Veteran Transition, Public Health Leadership, Maternal and Child Health, Community Impact, Diversity and Inclusion, Self-Advocacy, Service Before Self, Filipino American Leadership, Leadership Through Service