5 Outstanding Graduates from Jenkins Class of 2024

As the graduation caps prepare to fly at the Poole College of Management, we are taking a moment to spotlight five outstanding graduates from our Jenkins Graduate Programs, each with their unique contributions and success stories. From an online MBA candidate who balances a corporate role with military service, to a marketing analytics master’s student transitioning into a coveted role at a major company, these students’ stories portray the real-world impact and academic excellence at Poole. Join us in applauding the accomplishments of all our graduates and looking forward to their bright futures!

Mary Luse, MBA 

Mary Luse is a dedicated student completing the Full-Time MBA program with a concentration in supply chain management, augmented by certificates in supply chain and data analytics. After growing up in Charlotte, NC, Mary completed her undergraduate studies at UNC Chapel Hill and later joined Poole College in the fall of 2022.

One of the highlights of the MBA program for Mary has been the practicum projects, which have provided her with hands-on experiences, valuable connections with employers, and practical insights with real-world applications. She has also appreciated the opportunity to participate in the McLauchlan Leadership Series, which she says has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her student experience.

Mary has been actively engaged with the campus community, serving as the secretary for the Student Parent Association (SPA) and participating in the MBA Student Association (MBASA). 

Mary completed two internships during the program: a summer position in 2023 as a senior consultant intern at GEP, and a spring 2024 internship as a data analytics intern for procurement at Toshiba.

Post-graduation, Mary is set to join Advance Auto Parts in a role that will combine her skills and interests in data analytics and supply chain management.

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Joseph Pinkney, MBA

Joseph Pinkney is an Online MBA student at NC State’s Poole College of Management, earning a certificate in operations and supply chain management. Originally from Washington, D.C., Joseph completed his undergraduate studies at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, double majoring in civil engineering and engineering physics.

In his time at Poole College, Joseph has appreciated the quality of instruction and the support of the faculty and staff, who he feels are deeply committed to the advancement of STEM education. He is actively involved in campus life, serving as a Jenkins Graduate Delegate for the 2023-24 academic year — a role in which he helped organize events, build morale and facilitate communication between students and leadership. His leadership and dedication to his peers will culminate in his role as the commencement speaker for graduate students.

Professionally, Joseph works at Walmart Inc. within the supply chain management sector, where he is a Senior Project Manager II. He is responsible for launching new automated grocery distribution centers across the U.S. Additionally, he serves in the United States Air Force Reserves as a Civil Engineering Officer.

Post-graduation, Joseph plans to leverage the skills and knowledge he has gained during his MBA program to advance further in his field.

Kayla Corona, Master of Accounting (MAC)

Kayla Corona is an ambitious career-changer enrolled in the Online Master of Accounting (MAC) program at Poole College, having begun her studies in the fall of 2023. Originally from New Bern, North Carolina, Kayla began her undergraduate studies at a local community college before transferring to UNC Chapel Hill to earn her bachelor’s degree.

Before starting the MAC program, Kayla was an elementary school teacher, but she later put this on pause to commit fully to her studies. Mid-program, Kayla was able to start applying what she was learning in the classroom to help support her family business.

Kayla’s favorite aspect of the MAC program has been the accessibility and support provided by the faculty, as well as the connections she’s made with her peers. Despite being an online student, she’s felt a strong sense of belonging and involvement on campus and has greatly appreciated the community her cohort established.

Post-graduation, Kayla plans to continue providing accounting services for her family business and intends to expand her offerings to other small businesses in her community, focusing on supporting Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs and organizations. 

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Arianne Brown, Master of Accounting (MAC)

Arianne Brown is a focused and driven student in the On-Campus Master of Accounting (MAC) program at Poole College, which she joined in August 2023. Coming from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Arianne completed her undergraduate degree at North Carolina Central University. 

Arianne’s favorite aspect of her MAC student experience has been the college’s unlimited opportunities for growth and professional development. As part of her academic journey, Arianne secured a full-time position with FORVIS LLP during the fall recruitment process and is set to start there in the upcoming fall. Additionally, she served as an Academic Fellow, which included responsibilities as a teaching assistant (TA) for an undergraduate accounting course. 

Post-graduation, Arianne plans to take a well-deserved vacation before she dives into preparing for her CPA exams. Her goal is to complete the majority of the CPA exam before beginning her professional career in October.

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Alex Naylor, Master of Management, Marketing Analytics (MMA)

Alex Naylor began his studies in the Master of Management, Marketing Analytics (MMA) program in August 2022 after completing his undergraduate degree at Poole. Initially interested in pursuing engineering, Alex shifted to marketing his sophomore year, inspired by his high school experience in sports marketing.

After first considering full-time employment out of undergrad, Alex enrolled in the MMA program and has since started working for The Hershey Company where he now works as a territory sales lead.

Alex’s favorite thing about Poole has been the supportive and resourceful staff, noting Donnie Hale and Patrice Nealon as examples of his professors who not only provide academic support but also help build essential real-world connections that enhance career readiness. 

Post-graduation, Alex aims to transition into a marketing role within The Hershey Company. He also aspires to continue his education by pursuing a doctoral degree and eventually hopes to teach part-time at the college level. 

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Learn more about Jenkins Graduate Programs.