Ag Sciences' Buckley Named National Veterans Leadership Fellow

Penn State student John Buckley is one of a select number of military-connected students nationwide -- veteran, active duty, reserve, National Guard, ROTC, spouses and dependents -- to be named a 2023 National Veterans Leadership Foundation fellow in recognition of his service and leadership potential.

Buckley, a U.S. Navy veteran, is a senior majoring in forest ecosystem management in the College of Agricultural Sciences.

"It's a great feeling to be selected as an NVLF leadership fellow," Buckley said. "I feel a strong sense of belonging with the student veteran community here at Penn State, so it's a great privilege to represent them and the University. I hope to engage and develop my leadership skills through this opportunity, and I'm excited to share these skills with members of the community and fellow forestry professionals."

The newly selected class of 16 fellows, representing colleges and universities from across the country, will take part in a six-month development program designed to help them grow as leaders, continue their lives of service and make a positive impact on the military-connected community on their campuses. In addition, each fellow will receive a scholarship stipend to help support their higher education studies.

"NVLF fellows have a deep commitment to service and are dedicated to improving the higher education experience for the military-connected students on their campuses. It is an honor to welcome John as a leadership fellow and to offer support and assistance as he continues to impact others at Penn State," said James Miller, NVLF president and founder.

"Returning to school after serving your country -- or balancing schoolwork with the responsibilities of still serving in uniform -- is a challenge," noted retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Timothy Zadalis, dean of the NVLF Fellowship Program. "Student leaders such as John play a critical role in helping create an inclusive campus that supports the military-connected community."

The National Veterans Leadership Foundation partners with American colleges and universities to improve the higher education experience for military-connected students. The NVLF strengthens veteran support offices, empowers students to serve as campus leaders, and creates campus-to-career resources. Through its 16 National Alliance partners and 40-plus affiliated institutions, the NVLF reaches more than 50,000 military-connected students.