Investing in Veterans: Citi’s Enduring Partnership with Wyakin

For more than 14 years, Citi has stood alongside the Wyakin Foundation as a champion for veterans transitioning into civilian careers. Their continued support, including long-term sponsorship of the Guardian Ball, reflects a shared belief in opportunity, progress, and the transformative power of community. Citi’s VP of Public Relations and Community Development and Wyakin Board Vice Chair, Laura Cobb, shares the inspiration and values that continue to drive this meaningful partnership.

What inspires Citi to continue investing in the Wyakin Foundation year after year?

Citi is inspired year after year by the Wyakin Foundation’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to empowering wounded and injured veterans. Our 14-year engagement and continued sponsorship of the Guardian Ball stem from witnessing how Wyakin creates meaningful opportunities for veterans to thrive. The transformative impact of their educational and career development support aligns with Citi’s belief in fostering economic progress and helping individuals reach their full potential. Seeing veterans transition into fulfilling civilian careers with the skills and confidence Wyakin provides reinforces our conviction that this partnership strengthens not only individuals, but also our communities and economy.

Citi’s table at Guardian Ball XIV: A Wild West Affair.

How do Citi’s values align with Wyakin’s mission?

Citi’s core values – leadership, responsibility, and enabling progress – align strongly with Wyakin’s mission. Our vision to responsibly provide financial services that fuel growth is grounded in opportunity and inclusion, and Wyakin contributes to this by creating pathways for veterans to re-enter the workforce as skilled, contributing members of society. Their focus on mentorship, education, and career placement mirrors Citi’s own talent development efforts and broader commitment to strengthening communities. We believe in actions that make a difference, honoring veterans’ service, and supporting their transition into the corporate workplace. One way we do this is through our Citi Salutes Affinity Networks, which offer peer support, recruiting, mentoring, leadership opportunities, and community outreach for veterans nationwide.”

What motivated you personally to join the Wyakin Board?

The decision stemmed from a deep respect for military service and an admiration for the resilience shown by Wyakin Veterans. Joining the Board offered a meaningful way to support veterans’ post-service success and apply professional experience to a mission rooted in gratitude and long-term impact.

What experiences with Wyakin have been the most fulfilling?

Many moments with Wyakin have been incredibly fulfilling, yet some stand out vividly. Witnessing a graduation ceremony where veterans, who had overcome immense challenges, walked across the stage with newfound confidence and a clear path forward, was truly inspiring. Hearing their testimonials about how Wyakin’s mentorship and support changed their trajectory has been profoundly meaningful. These moments bring the mission to life, underscoring the vital importance of organizations like Wyakin in building a stronger future for our veterans.

What impact do you hope this partnership will make in the next five years?

Our hope for the Citi-Wyakin partnership is to deepen its impact and help empower even more veterans to achieve their educational and career aspirations, particularly in emerging industries where their skills and leadership can thrive. We envision this partnership not only providing direct support but also serving as a model for corporate engagement and inspiring others to invest in veteran talent pipelines. Ultimately, we hope to see more Wyakin graduates stepping into leadership roles across sectors, demonstrating the immense value veterans bring to the workforce. Together, we can ensure our veterans receive the support they so profoundly deserve.

Through Citi’s dedication and belief in Wyakin’s mission, more veterans are equipped to build meaningful, successful futures and to lead with the resilience and strength that define their service.