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College of Natural Resources
Forest Biomaterials

2024 Annual PPAB Spring Events

April 4, 2024

—by Brianna Bui

March 21st was a much anticipated day, for both the Wolfpack and our PSE students, industry partners, donors, family, faculty, and staff. Talley was buzzing with excitement for the general session with the CEO of WestRock, David Sewell, the dinner banquet, and the exciting NCAA game to round off the night.

WestRock General Session

The annual celebration started off with the general session featuring the CEO of WestRock, David Sewell. Mr. Sewell spoke about WestRock’s accomplishments, highlighting the upcoming merger with Smurfit Kappa that will make them the largest paper company in the world. Mr. Sewell also focused on WestRock’s commitment to sustainability and how WestRock is contributing to sustainability now and in the future. Appealing to the audience, Mr. Sewell noted WestRock’s work on the creation and application of CanCollar, replacing the plastic rings for sodas and alcoholic beverages. He also spoke on future innovations, including waterproof boxes for ecommerce and digital tag technology on boxes to combat theft. Mr. Sewell concluded the meeting by answering questions from students and giving invaluable advice to our young leaders that are about to join the industry.

It’s Time to Celebrate!

Following the general session, many joined the networking event where new connections were forged and past relationships reunited. Alumni connected with current students, staff mingled with industry professionals, and parents bonded over their students’ accomplishments. Soon it was time for the banquet to start. Mary Elliston welcomed over 300 attendees in the Talley ballroom – with the promise that everyone would make it home in time for the basketball game. We enjoyed a nice meal while recognizing the newly endowed scholarships made and the endless support that the PSE program receives. The banquet wrapped up with the most anticipated portion of the night: the Senior Spotlight. Every graduating senior was recognized with a round of applause and a paper rose made with paper straight from the WolfPack Baby by ’99 alum, Matt Sholar. The PSE program would not be as successful as it is without the support from donors, industry professionals, staff, and family. On behalf of the PSE students, we thank all that have made an impact on our department. With that, the program concluded, both bellies and hearts full from the festivities.

And as promised, everyone got to watch NC State’s win, ensuring that the celebration continued well into the night and started winning streaks leading to the first Final Four dual placement of both the men’s and women’s basketball teams in history!