ORLANDO, FL — Wendy McManus of Connect 2 Potential can’t stop talking about the 16 enthusiastic college students who are part of the 2023 Southeast Top Agricultural Recruits Scholarship (STARS) program.
“I’ve been blown away by this year’s STARS,” said McManus. “These students are passionate about agriculture and produce and are eager to make a difference in the industry. I think any company that is seeking fresh talent should check out their resumes and bios.”
The STARS program from the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) BB #:191194 aims to support students who are pursuing careers in agriculture, while helping the produce industry to attract fresh talent to meet our collective challenges.
These 16 college students, who are rising stars from top ag colleges in the southeast, have been selected to attend this year’s Southern Exposure conference, taking place March 2 to 4, 2023, in Orlando, FL.
Throughout the conference, students will have the opportunity to network with industry professionals, develop relationships, and perhaps even secure positions in the produce industry.
This year’s STARS represent majors including Ag Business, Ag Communication, Ag Education, Hospitality and Food Industry Management, Environmental Management Systems, Environmental Horticulture, and International Trade and Development.
As part of the SEPC’s commitment to supporting the students in their early careers, the council has partnered with Wendy McManus of Connect 2 Potential for the fourth consecutive year.
McManus, a leadership coach, works with each of the students to complete a DiSC Agile EQ Profile, an assessment tool that helps to develop their self-awareness and emotional intelligence. During one-to-one debrief sessions with McManus, the students identify a growth edge and create a plan for putting their learning into action right away.
“I’ve enjoyed working with this year’s group of STARS and I’m excited to see them take the next steps in their careers,” said McManus. “When I hear the success stories of how this program has helped organizations find great talent, and helped students get a great start in this industry, I know it’s been well worth my time”
McManus and the SEPC are encouraging companies seeking to hire young talent to review the STARS’ resumes and bios, posted on the SEPC website.
During Southern Exposure, companies can schedule face time with the students during the STARS Cocktails & Careers event on Friday, March 3 from 3 to 5 pm. Register today as space is extremely limited and spots could fill up at any moment. Another option is to seek out the students throughout the 3-day conference.
About Wendy McManus, PCC, CPCC, CPQC and Connect 2 Potential
Through one-to-one coaching and her signature Thriving Leaders Circle program, leadership coach, Wendy McManus supports her clients to become more confident, capable leaders. As a speaker, McManus teaches actionable leadership skills and inspires audiences to grow their self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Her passion for the produce industry shines through in everything she does. Learn more about Wendy at connect2potential.com.
