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PSE Buzzard Leaders

We speak to the PSE Buzzard Leadership participants from the current academic year and also to the newly appointed participant for '25-26 on her expectations.

Buzzard Leaders group shot - PSE Buzzard Leaders - College of Natural Resources NC State University
'24-25 Buzzard Leaders in DC, Fall 2024

Three PSE students participated in the ’24-25 academic year: Noah Crowder, sophomore, Sami Anthony and Angelina Finnie, both seniors. They took time from their busy exam week to recount their thoughts on the program.

Noah says, “My experience in the James Buzzard Leadership Development Program was nothing short of amazing. My favorite moment was meeting with Gary Salamido, President and CEO of the NC Chamber of Commerce, and Jake Cashion, Vice President of Government Affairs. It was incredible to see all that goes into lobbying efforts and maintaining a healthy state economy. Even more impactful, though, was how Gary perfectly captured the biggest lesson I took from the program: always value the relationship over the transaction. Those words stuck with me, and I know they will guide me throughout my career.”

One lesson that completely flipped my perspective was the idea that if you can’t make a weakness a strength, you probably don’t need to work on it. I used to think good leaders had to be well-rounded and versatile. Instead, I learned that the best leaders focus on their strengths and lead from there. That mindset shift was huge for me.

I’d estimate I spent around two hours per week participating in the program. We had biweekly meetings that usually lasted about 90 minutes. On the “off” weeks, the only commitment was filling out short reflections and preparing for the next session by reading about upcoming speakers and drafting questions.

Anything you would like to add for students considering applying?

DO IT! This program truly is life-changing. You get back tenfold what you put into it. I personally dropped a class to make room in my schedule — and I don’t regret it for a second. The leadership skills, relationships, and confidence you’ll gain are priceless.

Angelina Finnie, Noah Crowder, Sami Anthony of PSE

Angelina Finnie had this to say,

1-What was your favorite experience in the program?

The 321 Coffee Leadership and Philanthropy Panel facilitated by Jennifer Piercy with David Fox, Dawn Mason, Bart Nicholson, and Lindsay Wrege was incredible! Philanthropy is so much more than donating money and so much passion goes into being a steward of society.

2-What surprised you about the program?

There are so many ways to make a living and be fulfilled! As a PSE student, I had this set-in-stone idea that the paper industry was it for me. While my love and passion remain, I feel so comforted by the realization that there are infinite opportunities out there. I know I will be successful wherever I apply myself.

The leaders also shocked me with their humility and down-to-earthness. From Chancellor Woodson to Debbie Yow, you would never know about the brilliant work they have accomplished from how they shared their failures and struggles without shame.

3-How much time was required of you?

Throughout the school year, we had 1.5-hour-long meetings about every other week. Field trips to places like The Decision Center to visit Randy Nelson or the North Carolina General Assembly required about 3 hours with travel and such. There are also biweekly reflections that you may spend 15 minutes on. The program is very well-designed and manageable if you are intentional with your time!

4-Anything else you would like to add for students considering applying?

The program is an awesome way to get involved with the College of Natural Resources. Just the exposure to people within every department is an great way to get out of your comfort zone and learn something new. You will feel the incredible support of NC State and beyond when journeying through the year. 

Abby Hickman will be PSE’s newest Buzzard Leader for the upcoming year, she is highly involved with the department already as one of our incoming recruitment interns and a member of the PPAB Student Advisory Committee. Adding an additional leadership role fits well with her goals. Abby says, “I’m excited about the chance to develop practical leadership skills through real experiences—like the collaborative project, coaching, and field trips. Learning directly from professionals and working with other students who care about leadership is something I’m really looking forward to. I want to learn how to lead more effectively by understanding my strengths and weaknesses, working in teams, and getting feedback from coaches and mentors. I also hope to build connections with people in different industries and walk away with tools I can apply in any career path I take.”

We plan an fun social media series on Abby’s adventures as a Buzzard Fellow in the next year, be looking for it on the PSE LinkedIn and Facebook pages!