We sat down recently with BEM students Jessica Argenti and Kate Coble following their trip to the United States Air Force Academy’s National Character and Leadership Symposium that was held February 26-28.
Jessica and Kate represented Wake Forest and the Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character in the School of Business at the symposium, which was attended by students, academics, and leaders from all over the country, and offered opportunities to learn first-hand about a variety of leadership topics directly from the leaders.
Of the experience, Kate noted: The perspective I gained from attending NCLS is irreplaceable. Not only did I hear from notable speakers including Olympian Lisa Leslie and former Air Force Chief of Staff Norton A. Schwartz, who shared their insight on ethics and leadership, but I also experienced an immersion into the life of a cadet that few college students can understand. I am honored to have attended this conference on behalf of the Wake Forest School of Business alongside students who have dedicated their life to our country and who strive to live each day by the high standards set forth by our military.
Jessica, a senior, said: I am honored for the opportunity to participate in such an engaging and enlightening experience. Starting with the wonderful lectures from a wide array of speakers, ranging from Lisa Leslie (my childhood hero) all the way to the second ever four-star female general, General Wolfenbarger I gained a perspective of individual and collective leadership that was truly motivating. As an International Business major I appreciated the diversity of thought and lifestyle that came forth during my time on campus. Additionally, I had the opportunity to be a part of an open forum discussion, where we discussed leadership and ethical situations with current and past cadets. I came to realize that regardless of major, school, or career path, many of the character and leadership attributes truly defy these boundaries and that the lessons learned from these examples are applicable to all roles and responsibilities regardless of where people work. Whether you are a cadet in the services or an aspiring business leader; an organization is an organization, and innate human behaviors tend to be very similar regardless of profession. Finally, I learned much more than I anticipated from the cadet that I was assigned to as she was able to shed light not only on her day-to-day life at the academy but also leadership situations she faces almost every day.
