Brown inspires students across Eastern North Carolina through career and leadership outreach

Lee Brown from East Carolina University’s Cunanan Center for Professional Success is making a lasting impact on students across eastern North Carolina through a series of career and leadership-focused engagements. From elementary schools to college athletics, Brown is helping students envision a brighter future by emphasizing personal growth, professionalism, and purposeful leadership.

At the Ayden Elementary School Career Fair, Brown partnered with Jaszmyn Powers from ECU Admissions to introduce 3rd through 5th grade students to career paths in business. Together, they helped students connect the value of education to real-world opportunities, planting early seeds of career exploration.

Brown’s outreach continued with ECU student-athletes during his presentation Beyond the Jersey: Succeeding as a Pirate in Life and Career. He encouraged students to build their personal brands, sharpen communication skills, and network effectively—skills that carry value long after their playing days end.

At Farmville Middle School, Brown participated in the Pitt County Chamber’s Grow Local program, where he challenged students to think intentionally about their goals and choices. He urged them to take advantage of local opportunities in Pitt County and eastern North Carolina as they consider their future paths.

Brown also led sessions for the Pitt County Chamber’s Teen Leadership Program, speaking to high school students about the importance of authentic leadership, effective communication, and using influence for positive impact.

Through each of these programs, Brown reinforces a consistent message: lead with integrity, invest in your growth, and recognize the power of your decisions—no matter your age or stage in life.