Learning Lab I, an annual experience designed and implemented by freshman Park Scholars, affords students insight into leadership through the lens of a challenge currently facing the state of North Carolina. In the wake of the recent hurricanes that have devastated the state, the Class of 2022 chose to explore public safety and preparedness for natural disasters. The class traveled to Pembroke and Wilmington to visit those who faced tough decisions during the storms and discuss how they were able to lead in the middle of chaos.

While it had been several months since the last hurricane, these areas were still very much recovering from the effects of the storm. The leaders with whom they met spoke about challenges with preparation and evacuation, communication across large communities, distribution of food and food waste, and rebuilding what was lost – a still ongoing effort for many.

Interests from the class covered a broad range. How environmental, financial, social, and political effects of natural disasters affect various populations differently in the community. The obligations, and to what extent, government, business, and non-profit leaders have to protect the people they serve. How past natural disaster history and research can be used to inform preparation for future events. As well as how society can move from a model of relief and recovery to one of resilience.

Learning Laboratory I Speakers

Individuals marked with a plus met with the Class of 2022 on NC State’s campus, shortly before their Learning Lab I trip.

-Travis Bryant, Associate Vice Chancellor for Campus Safety and Emergency Operations, UNC Pembroke
-Sam Cahoon, Owner and Chef, Savorez
-Dr. Robin Cummings, Chancellor, UNC Pembroke
-Sarah Daniels, CEO, Heirloom Ideas Consulting and former Director, Feast Down East
-Carla Edwards, Park Ranger, Carolina Beach State Park
-Dr. Lauren Gainor ‘04, Pediatric Hospitalist, New Hanover Regional Medical Center
-Harvey Godwin Jr., Chairman, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
-Bradley Locklear, Housing Director, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
-Tammy Maynor, Director of Governmental Affairs, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
-Kellie McGlynn, Meteorologist, WECT News
-Danielle McLean, Legal and Compliance Officer, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
-Jodi Phelps, Chief Communications & Marketing Officer, UNC Pembroke
-Dr. Freda Porter, Tribal Administrator, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
-Sam Rodgers, Eastern North Carolina Regional Disaster Officer, American Red Cross+
-Gabe Ross, Weather Forecaster & Executive Producer of Digital Weather, WECT News
-Dr. Jose Sartarelli, Chancellor, UNC Wilmington
-Michael Sprayberry, Director of Emergency Management, North Carolina Department of Public Safety+
-Kyle Stenersen, Co-owner, Humble Roots Farm
-Patrick Strickland, Department of Energy Manager, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
-Dr. Aswani Volety, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, UNC Wilmington
-Dr. David Webster, Senior Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, UNC Wilmington

posted 2019.03.31