Future leaders took the stage in Columbus
This September, student leaders from 29 universities across 7 countries gathered in Columbus, Ohio, for the President’s Council of Student Advisors (PCSA) Annual Business Meeting (ABM). Held September 26–28 at the Hyatt Regency Columbus, the meeting brought together 46 delegates for three days of connection, collaboration, and leadership development.
2025-26 PCSA Delegation: The outgoing and incoming council chair, Nathan McIlwaine and Randi Swanson respectively, stand at the front of the delegation
For many students, the ABM was more than just a meeting. It marked the moment they stepped into leadership within the ceramics and glass community, finding their voices alongside peers and mentors in a professional setting. Supported by the Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation (CGIF), the event was designed to maximize idea-sharing and collaboration. Delegates worked in committees to set achievable, high-impact goals for the year ahead while also building networks that will strengthen the future of the field.
Building connections and confidence
The ABM opened on Friday with introductions and an interactive icebreaker led by PCSA Mentor-at-Large, Professor Scott McCormack of UC Davis. Students quickly found common ground, sharing both personal interests and professional goals. The evening continued with committee rotations, where delegates explored opportunities to contribute in areas such as educational outreach, communications, recruitment and retention, professional development, and conference programming.
UC Davis Professor and PCSA Mentor-at-Large Scott McCormack (right) leads the group in an icebreaker activity
Leadership in action
Saturday was a full day of leadership and strategy. Delegates finalized committee placements, elected committee chairs, and began developing SMART goals for the year ahead. A highlight of the day was the lunch with the ACerS Board of Directors, where students engaged with professionals from industry, academia, and national labs. The conversations provided valuable insights into leadership and career pathways while helping students build connections that will support their futures.
Delegates networking on the first day icebreaker, from left to right: Matthew Thompson (Purdue), Abraham Ebunu (Alfred), Anna Asghar (NUST, Pakistan), Elizabeth Aichele (Penn State), Owusu Berko (Univ. Nottingham, UK)
On Sunday, the focus shifted to communication and long-term planning. During the research pitch session, students sharpened their science communication skills while presenting on topics ranging from high-temperature ceramics to energy storage and battery materials. The day also included a hands-on outreach activity with the Education Committee, where students worked with CGIF’s popular materials science kits. The meeting concluded with reflections from outgoing officers and vision statements from the incoming leadership team for the 2025–26 year.
A lasting impact
Toward the end of the ABM, fourth-year PCSA delegate and out-going vice council chair Pattiya Pibulchinda reflected on her time with the organization: “The PCSA is the platform for ceramics (and glass) focused students to connect and strengthen their professional network, not just within the PCSA, but (also) through the activities the PCSA organizes.”
As the meeting closed, students left Columbus energized, connected, and ready to lead. Throughout the year, they will continue collaborating online, at their universities, and at scientific conferences, advancing the goals and programs established at the in-person meeting. With the continued support of CGIF, the PCSA will carry forward its mission of developing student leaders who will shape the future of ceramics and glass.
Help us continue to empower the next generation of ceramic and glass professionals.
Give now at https://foundation.ceramics.org/get-involved/donate/
To become involved in the PCSA, visit: https://ceramics.org/membership/councils-classes/presidents-council-of-student-advisors-pcsa/
Learn more about the PCSA: https://foundation.ceramics.org/news/pcsa-engaging-the-next-generation/
By Nathan McIlwaine and Melissa Ludington
