This November, in honor of Veterans Day, DLCP is proud to spotlight Dog Tag Bakery, a Georgetown gem located at 3206 Grace Street NW in Washington, DC. While known for its delicious pastries and warm atmosphere, Dog Tag is more than just a bakery. It is a launchpad for veterans, military spouses, and caregivers ready to turn their passions into purpose.
At the heart of Dog Tag’s mission is its Fellowship Program, a five-month, full-time experience that combines hands-on bakery operations with academic coursework through a partnership with Georgetown University. Fellows learn business fundamentals, develop leadership skills, and build a strong sense of community, all while receiving a stipend to support their journey.
One alum who exemplifies the impact of this program is Ximena Rozo, a 2015 graduate of the Dog Tag Fellowship. An accomplished industrial and textile designer, Ximena has built a career that spans continents and industries. Her work ranges from designing the interior details of the Boeing 787 passenger cabin to launching a sustainable design business rooted in social impact.
Ximena discovered the program at a job fair and was immediately drawn to its unique blend of business training and real-world experience. As a military spouse, she found the program’s mission deeply personal and the community incredibly welcoming.
“People often showcase military life through the lens of those in uniform, but rarely through the eyes of the spouse. Every time we move, we have to reinvent ourselves while they continue their mission. We start over. Dog Tag was a space where I finally felt safe,” said Ximena Rozo.
During her fellowship, Ximena began developing her business: a line of interior decor products designed in Washington, DC and handmade in Colombia, with 60 percent of the artisans being women. The program gave her the tools and confidence to bring her vision to life.
“I design for hotels, restaurants, and commercial spaces, creating everything from pillows to rugs to lighting features. All products are designed locally and handmade in Colombia by 60 percent women. I empower them to bring my designs to life for clients around the world, including the United States, Costa Rica, Japan, and Spain. And it all started at Dog Tag during the fellowship,” said Rozo.
Since graduating, Ximena has continued to push boundaries. She has taught graduate-level courses in design, strategy, and innovation, and worked to advance the handicraft sector in Bogotá through sustainable enterprise development. Her work shows how creativity and entrepreneurship can drive change.
“It’s about the community. It’s about finding your voice. I always encourage others to apply because it’s more than just the education,” said Ximena.
To explore Ximena’s work and support her mission, visit http://www.ximenarozo.com and follow her on Instagram at: @ximenarozodesign.