Caldwell Fellows Alumni Practice Servant Leadership at NC State

NC State University boasts a remarkable connection to the Caldwell Fellows program, with 18 of its faculty and staff members being former Fellows. These individuals exemplify servant leadership in their work, carrying forward the principles they learned during their time in the program. Through insights from four Caldwell Fellows alumni—Lisa Bullard, Med Byrd, Lauren Welch, and Lexi DeFalco—we explore how the program shaped their careers and continues influencing their contributions at NC State.

The Power of Listening and Humility – Med Byrd

For Med Byrd, a faculty member in the College of Natural Resources, the Caldwell Fellows experience was a wake-up call about the importance of listening. Byrd recalls a moment during a leadership activity when he realized that while he had good intentions, he often dominated discussions. This led him to adopt a practice of actively listening before speaking, which has shaped his approach as a teacher and mentor.

Leadership is not about vocal or psychological dominance. It’s about making things better, even if that means getting down and dirty.”
– Med Byrd, Director of Applied Research; Forest Biomaterials, CNR

Byrd now emphasizes listening and humility in his classroom, helping students navigate engineering education while fostering a spirit of collaboration. He credits Caldwell Fellows for instilling the value that every voice matters, a lesson that continues to guide his work at NC State.

Taking Risks and Investing in People – Lisa Bullard

Lisa Bullard, a chemical engineering professor, found her calling in academia through the mentorship and risk-taking mindset instilled in her by Caldwell Fellows. Before joining NC State, she worked in the industry and was hesitant about transitioning into a teaching role.

One thing the Caldwell Fellows program gave me was the willingness to take a risk and try something that I wasn’t sure I would be successful at.”
– Lisa Bullard, Teaching Professor in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering; COE

Bullard has since become a highly respected faculty member known for her student-first approach. She fosters a culture of support and mentorship, ensuring that students are not just academically prepared but also emotionally supported. Her office, famous for its rocking chairs, symbolizes her open-door policy and commitment to listening and guiding students through challenges.

Making a Difference through Leadership – Lauren Welch

For Lauren Welch, the Caldwell Fellows program helped her understand that leadership is about service and empowerment. Now working as the Executive Director of Philanthropy in the College of Engineering, she uses servant leadership principles to evaluate her impact.

I’m only a leader because I want to serve. My goal is to ensure that when I leave, the people and organizations I support are better off.”
– Lauren Welch, Director of Philanthropy, College of Engineering

Welch credits Caldwell Fellows for teaching her the importance of aligning career choices with personal values. She encourages students and young professionals to take risks, step out of their comfort zones, and remain committed to creating positive change.

Fostering Inclusive Learning – Lexi DeFalco

The next generation of Caldwell leaders is already making an impact at NC State. Among them is Lexi DeFalco, Caldwell Fellow Class of 2020, who brings the spirit of servant leadership into her work as a Training Specialist in Learning and Organizational Development. She focuses on creating inclusive, people-centered learning spaces where every individual feels valued.

I strive to create opportunities for experiential and collaborative learning where employees can engage meaningfully with the material and with one another.”
– Lexi DeFalco, HR Training Specialist.

The Legacy of Caldwell Fellows at NC State

The influence of the Caldwell Fellows program at NC State extends far beyond these individuals. The 21 alumni working across various departments carry forward a shared commitment to servant leadership, ensuring that future generations of students benefit from their mentorship and dedication. Their stories highlight the enduring impact of the program, proving that the principles of listening, humility, and service are just as vital in academia as they are in any leadership role.

As Caldwell Fellows continue to shape the culture of NC State, their work is a testament to the program’s mission: “To develop the next generation of self-aware, globally-minded humans who engage in creative, conscientious leadership.”

Curious about which Caldwell Fellows work at NC State?  Check out the list below:

• Dr. Ondulla T. Toomer, class of 1994, Asst. Prof.; Food, Bioprocess and Nutrition Science, CALS
• Jeanette Hughes Lyerly, class of 1997, Research Asst.; Crop & Soil Sciences
• Michelle Garoutte, class of 1997, Academic Advising Services Coordinator; Exploratory Studies
• Dr. Jason M. Haugh, class of 1994, Professor of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering; COE
• Dr. William F. Hunt, III, class of 1994, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished University Professor and Extension Specialist; Bio & Ag Engineering
• Dr. Lisa Gardner Bullard, class of 1986, (retiring June 2025)
  Teaching Professor in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering; COE
• William R. (Billy) Beaudoin, class of 2002, Manager – Identity & Web Services; Office of Information Technology
• Melanie Walden Smith, class of 1985, Managing Director; SUCCEED, College of Education
• Dr. Medwick V. Byrd, Jr., class of 1984, Director of Applied Research; Forest Biomaterials, CNR
• Dr. Sharon Melissa Bennett Joines, class of 1992, Assoc. Dean; College of Design
• David B. Hill, class of 1996, Professor + Head of the School of Architecture; College of Design
• Lauren E. Welch, class of 2004, Director of Philanthropy; College of Engineering
• Dr. Gregory W. Lucier, class of 2004, Research Assoc. Professor; Civil & Environmental Engineering, COE
• Elisabeth M. Meyer, class of 2009, Lecturer; Dept. of Horticultural Science, CALS
• Lexi De Falco, class of 2020, HR Training Specialist
• Brodie Smith, class of 2024, Intern; University Advancement
• Andy Morehead, class of 1993, Assoc. Professor; College of Vet Med
• Anne Powers, class of 1990, Caldwell Fellows Alumni Engagement Coordinator (Temp)
• Angela Wooten Swicegood, class of 1991, Park Scholars (Temp)
• Craig Prince, class of 2019 – Event Planner and Placemaker; Centennial Campus
• Pablo Campos, class of 2018, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCAS-A)