From the Dean: Impact in Action

May 4, 2026 2-min. read

Poole Dean Frank Buckless standing on the steps of Nelson Hall with two NC State mascots

“At Poole College, our answers are found in the impact we create.”

We are at a moment when higher education is being asked important questions about value, relevance and impact. Those questions deserve thoughtful and confident answers. At Poole College, our answers are found in the impact we create by preparing students for meaningful careers, generating knowledge that informs practice, and engaging with organizations and communities in ways that make a difference.

In this issue, we highlight several examples of that impact in action.

Our students continue to demonstrate the value of applied learning through high-impact experiences that connect the classroom with real-world challenges. “Shining on the Global Stage” spotlights a team of Poole students who earned the college’s first-ever podium finish in an international business case competition. High-impact experiences like this help students develop the skills, perspective and confidence needed to lead in a rapidly-changing world.

Students and judges shake hands — NC State students presented marketing solutions directly to company executives at the case competition in Mexico.

Students and faculty at awards ceremony — The Poole student team and their faculty coaches enjoy the awards ceremony.

At the same time, Poole faculty are advancing research and thought leadership that directly connect to practice. In “Top Insights From the Think and Do Business School” we highlight ten of the most-read Poole Thought Leadership stories from the past six months. These pieces examine timely topics ranging from the rise of prediction markets to the tax implications of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Our faculty bring clear thinking to complex issues across disciplines, extending Poole’s impact across North Carolina and beyond.

We are also seeing strong demand for educational offerings that align with emerging needs in business. “Redefining Accounting Careers” explores how Jenkins MAC graduates are turning their accounting expertise into careers that drive innovation, leadership and social impact.

Thank you for being part of the Poole community. Together, we are expanding opportunities for students, advancing ideas that inform practice, and strengthening the organizations and communities we serve. Your continued engagement and support ensure that Poole College’s impact continues to grow.

Always looking forward,

Frank Buckless
Stephen P. Zelnak Jr. Dean
Poole College of Management

More from Poole Business: Spring 2026

At Poole College, we create impact by preparing students for meaningful careers, generating knowledge that informs practice, and engaging with organizations and communities in ways that make a difference.