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Engaging Leaders Program

Group of Students - Engaging Leaders Program - College of Natural Resources NC State University

The College of Natural Resources (CNR) Engaging Leaders Program aims to develop students by equipping them with the confidence and capacity to collaborate with new communities.

Each year, we select up to 20 students to participate this unique program. Students do not need to have prior leadership experience, and we value students with a strong desire to grow personally and professionally. The program is open to freshman, off-campus transfer and on-campus transfer students.

About the Program

Throughout the year, Engaging Leaders attend sessions to help them better understand their personal leadership style, strengths and weaknesses. They also learn essential skills for working in groups, communicating effectively, and project planning.

Benefits of Becoming an Engaging Leader

  • Become part of our supportive EL community and build relationships with your CNR peers from around the country and the world
  • Learn how you can best utilize and improve your unique skills and strengths to prepare you for future leadership positions both on campus and in the professional world
  • Enhance your ability to encourage and cultivate community and student success as both a leader and group member
  • Understand different communication styles and develop the skills necessary to work and communicate well with a variety of individuals
  • Get connected to community service, professional development, and academic opportunities around the college and all of NC State
  • Learn professionalism for academic and work environments, and the skills you need to impress future employers

Key Components of the Program Include:

  • Membership in a supportive community of dedicated leaders representing all majors within CNR
  • One-on-one mentorship with a Buzzard Fellow
  • Tools to help identify personal leadership styles, strengths, and cultural skills
  • Mentoring and guidance from a coordinator
  • Monthly leadership seminars
  • Engagement activities such as a networking dinner
Congratulations to Dr. Lucian Lucia for recently receiving the prestigious TAPPI 2025 Research & Development Division Award and the William H. Aiken Prize. 🎉

His groundbreaking research continues the legacy of innovation in our Department of Forest Biomaterials (@ncstatefb). These awards celebrate innovation and excellence, inspiring researchers to keep pushing boundaries and chasing new discoveries. 

Click the link in the bio to learn more about Dr. Lucian Lucia’s awards.
Meet Dominic Zecca, an #NCState25 graduate who found his passion for conservation and urban water management at NC State. From community college to hands-on research and leadership programs, Dominic is dedicated to protecting our waterways through sustainable solutions. 🌱💧

“Through my time at the College of Natural Resources, I’ve gained both practical skills and theoretical knowledge that directly apply to my career goals in stormwater management and urban water conservation.”

Click the link in the bio to learn more about Dominic Zecca’s passion for conservation at NC State.
What a weekend! We’re so proud of each and every one of our graduates. We can’t wait to see what you #ThinkAndDo next, #NCState25. 🎓🎉