More than 150 alumni, faculty, students and friends of NC State’s Poole College of Management gathered at Talley Student Union on September 25 for the inaugural Impact Awards Ceremony – an evening dedicated to celebrating the people, partnerships and legacy that have shaped the college’s 30-year history.

Presented by PNC with support from EchoPark Automotive, the event brought together members of the Poole community from across generations to recognize outstanding alumni and partners whose leadership and service exemplify the university’s mission to “Think and Do.”

Emceed by Amanda Busick ‘08 – broadcast host and pit reporter for FOX Sports – the program highlighted stories of mentorship, leadership and innovation that have propelled Poole’s growth since its founding in 1992.

“The Impact Awards are more than an evening of recognition – they are a commitment to our future,” said Frank Buckless, Stephen P. Zelnak Jr. Dean of the Poole College of Management, who welcomed guests and reflected on the college’s evolution from a fledgling business program to a nationally recognized leader in management education. “By highlighting those who exemplify the very best of our community, we set a standard for what is possible. We create a legacy that inspires our students, strengthens our alumni and propels Poole College forward.”

That sense of community came to life when NC State Chancellor Kevin Howell made a surprise appearance. Howell captured the evening’s warmth perfectly, remarking that NC State is such a close-knit family that it felt like “walking by a gathering, realizing how many friends were in the room, and knowing I had to stop in.” His words reflected the welcoming, family-like atmosphere that defined the celebration.

The Honorees

The event’s first award honored corporate partner Lowe’s, which presenter and Poole College associate dean of academic programs Vikas Anand described as “a true ally, ensuring our students have the tools and opportunities to thrive – both throughout their time in Poole College and in their future careers.” Marcus Rountree ‘12, a global product leader and career coach with over 15 years of experience leading strategy and innovation, received the college’s Emerging Leader award. His heartfelt thanks to his family – especially his son Maxwell, sharing “Daddy is the first ever ever ever recipient of the Poole College Emerging Leader Award. Let’s goooo!” – drew laughs and cheers from the audience. 

One of the most memorable moments came when Matt Hong ‘94 received the Distinguished Alumni Award, presented in partnership with the NC State Alumni Association. Hong is president of the sports division of Versant, overseeing networks including USA Network, Golf Channel and CNBC, as well as premier sports programming such as NASCAR, the PGA TOUR, the English Premier League, WNBA, WWE and the LPGA. 

In a touching full-circle moment, his son Landon Hong (‘22) – who, like his father, served as a Poole College commencement speaker – returned to campus to present the award. The exchange brought the audience to its feet and underscored the generational ties that continue to strengthen the Poole community.

“My time at NC State taught me about EQ and interpersonal skills, about a genuine desire to learn about other people’s backgrounds and how diversity of thought makes things better, about the responsibility of giving back to those who don’t have the same opportunities we are blessed to have,” Matt Hong shared.

Throughout the evening, Busick – who was mentored by Hong early in her career — guided the program with humor and heart, noting how connected the Poole network remains.

The Professional Achievement Award was presented to John Samuel – author of Don’t Ask the Blind Guy for Directions, and the co-founder and CEO of the award-winning company Ablr. His work is dedicated to removing barriers for people with disabilities while advancing global business impact. Samuel, who shared his personal story of hiding his blindness throughout schooling, reminded everyone to turn the challenges they face into opportunities for those around them. 

Poole College Hall of Fame

The night also included the inaugural Poole College Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, honoring four individuals whose leadership, generosity and vision have left a lasting impact on the college: Lonnie Poole, Steve Zelnak, Jim Owens and Ben Jenkins.

The awards were presented by Ira Weiss, former dean of Poole College — a fitting choice, as his tenure played a key role in cultivating the very relationships and partnerships that shaped the honorees’ deep connection to the college.

Ven Poole, son of Lonnie Poole, and Judy Zelnak, wife of Steve Zelnak, accepted the awards in person on behalf of their families, while Owens and Jenkins shared heartfelt video messages expressing their gratitude. Together, the inductees represent the entrepreneurial spirit, leadership excellence and commitment to community that have defined Poole for over three decades.

As the evening drew to a close, attendees lingered – reconnecting with classmates, mentors and colleagues. For many, the night was more than a recognition ceremony – it was a reunion and reminder of what makes Poole special.

“Poole’s story has always been about people,” Buckless says. “When you bring together this many members of our community – alumni, faculty, students and friends – you see the strength of what we’ve built together as a Poole Pack. And you can’t help but feel excited about where we’re going next.”

The Poole College Impact Awards Ceremony marked the beginning of a new tradition – one that celebrates the achievements of its community while looking ahead to the next chapter of impact and innovation.

Enjoy more photos from the event:

View More