In February, three students represented Wake Forest University at virtual student leadership conferences for the United States Naval Academy and United States Air Force Academy. The Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character sponsors the Student Academies Leadership Conference Program, for which any undergraduate business student at the University is welcome to apply.
Senior BEM Majors, Jackson Cannon, Nat Shattock, and Naomi Cutter shared this regarding their conference experience:
Attending as a delegate to the Naval Academy Leadership Conference was an opportunity unlike any other. Focusing on the importance of culture, the Conference allowed for a deeper understanding of the vulnerability leadership requires and the “If not me, then who” mindset. Hearing from an honorable and distinguished group of speakers, attending breakout sessions, and networking with cadets and leaders from other schools is unparalleled in my leadership development and I am grateful to the Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character and the Wake Forest School of Business for the opportunity to attend. ~ Jackson Cannon
The U.S. Naval Academy Leadership Conference was an inspiring event that further developed my leadership philosophy. Each speaker imparted profound knowledge surrounding their experiences and the methods through which they cultivate winning cultures. In a time when the world is facing unprecedented challenges, this experience reinforced with me how adversity presents a great opportunity for growth and leaders command a significant responsibility in driving the culture of an organization forward through tough times. ~ Nat Shattock
Throughout the Leadership Conference with the US Air Force Academy, I had the incredible opportunity to learn more about leadership from some of the most esteemed leaders our nation has. The theme of “Warrior Ethos” was especially relevant this year in the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic and listening to stories that exemplified this theme were truly inspiring to my own leadership journey. In hearing about these experiences and the tremendous obstacles that these men and women have overcome, I learned the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, speaking up, and not being afraid to fail as it will ultimately help you succeed in the future. ~ Naomi Cutter
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