On Thursday, two Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character scholars, Matthew Littrell (MSA) and Sailor Troutman (MSM), acted as moderators during the Face to Face student conversation with Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster.
After several preparation sessions where they learned best practices for a moderator and through extensive research, Matthew and Sailor facilitated a discussion with the former National Security Advisor and best selling author. The event took place at Wait Chapel in front of students from Wake Forest, other area colleges and universities, and high schools—including more than 100 ROTC and JROTC students.
The graduate students led McMaster through an in-depth conversation about his
life in public service and his related values and beliefs.
Matthew said, “I knew very little about Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster. However, as I dived into learning about his biographical information and military leadership, I gained a deep respect for the accomplishments of Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster. Serving as a moderator allowed me to learn about an extraordinary man whom I otherwise would not have had the privilege of knowing.”
Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character (ACLC) Affiliate Pete Watson was in attendance and said that the students were “highly professional, well-prepared, poised and demonstrated levity at the appropriate time.”
“The evening was so meaningful. It was a unique experience to engage in a substantive conversation in front of a live audience, and I felt proud to help facilitate a discussion that was thoughtful, respectful, and engaging,” said Sailor. She added that, “preparing for the event challenged me in the best way, as it required thorough research, careful question design, and a focus on creating a conversation that would be valuable for everyone attending.”
Matthew and Sailor are two of six ACLC scholars this academic year. The scholars program aims to teach leadership skills to graduate students through co-curricular enrichment, a team project and one on one coaching sessions with their business leader mentors.