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Staff Spotlight: David Hawley

David Hawley is the manager of global programming the Office of Global Engagement, a position in which he works with partners across NC State to bring international experiences to students on campus.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in a small, rural farming community in eastern North Carolina. I was fortunate enough to attend NC State as a first-generation college student studying Spanish language and literature and international studies. I was also one of the first students to complete the Global Perspectives Certificate. I eventually returned to campus to complete the Master in International Studies program.

How long have you been with NC State and the Office of Global Engagement?

I have been in the Office of Global Engagement for the past two years and in the global division for five years. Prior to joining the Office of Global Engagement, I worked in the Study Abroad Office as the general advisor and office manager.

Tell us what you do in a few sentences.

I coordinate on-campus globally-focused programming and partnership efforts aimed at helping students gain a global perspective locally here in Raleigh. I also assist with hosting international delegations to campus and the coordinate the technology needs of our unit.

What’s your favorite thing about your work?

The people. I love the collaborative nature of our campus. While there are many different units on campus – we all have the same goal of preparing our students to be successful in the future. And I think we have the best students in the world.

Tell us one thing we might be surprised to learn about you.

When I arrived on campus as a freshman, I had never stepped foot on a plane and had only left eastern NC a couple of times. Ten plus years later I have been fortunate enough to visit nearly a dozen countries, including an extended period of time living in northern Mexico. Also, I consider myself an amateur NC State historian – my love for NC State runs deep.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Watching sports, specifically NC State. I also enjoy the outdoors and try to spend as much time as I can hiking, fishing, hunting, or anything else that gets me out into nature. Recently I have started woodworking, thanks to the helpful instructors at the NC State Crafts Center.

What’s one thing on your desk you brought from home?

My “World’s Greatest Boss” mug

What’s your favorite travel destination?

Old Providence Island, Colombia. It’s my secret Caribbean paradise. Oh wait, maybe I shouldn’t have told you that…