Since America’s founding, the rise and fall of ancient Rome has offered a striking parallel, with lessons to be drawn from both the triumphs and challenges of the Roman state. As the United States ascended to global prominence, the ethos of public service—central to both societies—has remained a guiding principle. However, the inequalities that once plagued ancient Rome, dividing its citizens and undermining its prosperity, offer us a cautionary tale. Today, we see similar barriers to opportunity and public service in our own nation, especially among aspiring leaders from marginalized backgrounds.

At The Fifth of August, we see this as a call to action. We are dedicated to advancing the health, welfare, and prosperity of the nation by empowering all citizens—especially those from low-income, rural, minority, and other marginalized backgrounds—to thrive as leaders in the American public sector. Drawing on the Roman ideal of the "salus publica," or collective well-being, we believe that the prosperity of our nation depends on the active participation and leadership of every citizen, particularly those historically excluded from power.

Our vision is clear: by 2030, we will be nationally recognized as the preeminent American public sector workforce development institution, connecting the next generation of leaders to opportunities at the nexus of business, government, and society. We aim to create a future where public service is accessible to all, where diverse talents and perspectives shape the policies and decisions that drive our nation forward.

Through our mission, we imagine, design, build, and scale alternative career pathways and workforce development solutions that create bridges between aspiring leaders and the U.S. federal, state, and local governments. With SalOSTM, our cultural operating system, we empower government agencies to solve today’s complex challenges while preparing for the future by investing in diverse, capable, and committed public sector leaders.

The Fifth of August exists to inspire, empower, and affirm the ability of every citizen to contribute to the health and prosperity of the nation. Together, we can realize a future where freedom, justice, democracy, pluralism, and solidarity are not just ideals—but the lived experience of all Americans.