Wes Saunders Email and Phone Number

I was recruited into a 52-member cohort representing the top students of the incoming class. I completed professional and leadership development training each semester through program outreach opportunities, and completed academically challenging Sapphire courses replacing general business course curriculum.

As a member of THON's entertainment committee, I worked with other committee members and THON captains to brainstorm, plan, and execute activities for spectators, families, and dancers throughout the 46-hour live stream. Even in a virtual environment due to Covid-19, the Entertainment's Committee was able to facilitate and assist with virtual events that continued to engage the THON community, driving THON's mission forward.

I served as a committee member dedicated to spreading THON’s mission and ensuring THON’s success.As a Rules & Regulations committee member, I was responsible for maintaining a safe environment in the Bryce Jordan Center for THON families, spectators, performers, and other committee members. Beyond being a committee member, I operated as a portal closure specialist trained in regulating attendance capacity in sections of the Bryce Jordan Center. Throughout this experience, I prepared by attending weekly meetings and driving the mission of the world’s largest student-run philanthropy.

I managed all potential risks and liabilities to our members and our organization. As a member of the upper executive board, I advised the organization regarding practices to ensure that our members and new members always felt welcomed and safe at all organization events and that we remained a good relationship with Penn State University.

I was responsible for all merchandise relating to the Delta Theta Chapter of PGN and was able to design, sell, and distribute over $5,000 worth of merchandise.

I supervised 25 thirteen-year-old boys at Camp Harlam, providing me with a difficult, yet rewarding experience. Being responsible for their safety, growth, and fun, I traveled with the bunk from activity to activity and was there to encourage both personal growth and bunk bonding. During the evening, we would lead an evening program before our nighttime rituals, giving us all time to reflect on the day.

I served as general council to all departments to provide my thoughts and insights from experiences I can reflect on.

I managed communications within the organization and oversaw both the merchandise chair and social media chair.

I designed merchandise and communicated with vendors to ensure product quality as well as profitable margins. As well as designing and ordering merchandise, I marketed all merchandise to increase product visibility as well as to expand the market to potential customers. I also collaborated with other positions in order to gain experience as well as ensure Smeal Student Council’s greater success.

I have had the pleasure to mentor nine incoming freshmen at the Penn State University Park canvas as they transitioned from high school into their first year of college. I was able to help them acclimate to their new environment and assist in their first year successes.

I conducted several interviews with individuals and families that were impacted by the Jared Box Project's work, which I then used to curate social media content. I also produced an educational video about the Jared Box Project to use during outreach missions and fundraising. Lastly, I acted as a liaison between the Jared Box Project and Up and Up Music Festival to coordinate fundraising activities.