A former Army Strategist who retired as a Colonel, Steve Leonard is senior assistant dean and professor of the practice at The University of Kansas School of Business. He is also a non-resident fellow with the Modern War Institute at West Point; co-founder and board member of the Military Writers Guild; co-founder of the national security blog, Divergent Options; and co-host of the national security podcast, The Smell of Victory.

With over 35 years of experience in leading diverse, high-performing teams in competitive, fast-paced, and resource-constrained environments, I have developed a complex problem-solving skillset and a keen ability to anticipate change, create opportunities, and produce exceptional, measurable outcomes. I have also gained extensive experience in leading interagency, non-governmental, and multinational teams, as well as writing and editing publications on strategy, policy, and military affairs. My mission is to leverage my expertise in operational planning, strategic communication, and interagency cooperation to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of business leaders and professionals.