The NSHSS Scholars Connect

In a world defined by rapid change, the ability to pivot has become one of the most valuable leadership skills. In this live episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, recorded at Scholar's Day 2026, Sunny Nastase, a seasoned corporate leader and executive coach, shares insights from her journey navigating high-level leadership, transformation, and resilience.

From leading within global organizations to coaching executives wor...

In part two, the conversation continues by looking ahead to the skills students will need in an AI-driven world. Fabian explains why human capabilities, judgment, emotional intelligence, storytelling, creativity, and adaptability are becoming more important, not less, as technology transforms the future of work. While AI can help identify patterns and process information, it cannot replace human context...

In part one of this two-part episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Fabian DeRozario, Executive Director of the NSHSS Foundation and global leadership facilitator, to explore the foundational skills that shape long-term success. Drawing from his experience working with nearly 220 organizations worldwide, Fabian challenges the traditional focus on GPA and accolades, highlighting the importance of communicati...

To kick off Mental Health Awareness Month, we sit down with Tanya M. Odom, an internationally recognized educator, thought leader, and coach, to explore one of the biggest challenges students face during college applications and early career steps: self-doubt. Drawing on her global work in mindfulness, inclusive leadership, and personal development, Tanya shares practical tools to help students recognize their strengths, manage com...

In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we spotlight Mahdi Rahimi and Nahid Karimi, the founders of EmpowerHer, an initiative aimed at empowering Afghan women through education and mentorship. Both Nahid and Mahdi recount their personal experiences growing up in Afghanistan, facing the challenges posed by the Taliban regime, and their eventual escape to the United States. They discuss how their individual initiatives...

In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Latoya Henry and Becca Bullen from the Captain Planet Foundation to explore how students can make a real impact on the environment, starting with simple, everyday actions. 

The conversation breaks down approachable ways students can begin living more sustainably, even if they feel overwhelmed by the scale of environmental challenges. From debunk...

In this episode of NSHSS Scholars Connect, we sit down with Senior Administrator of Scholarships Alexis Anderson to offer students a clear and supportive guide to strengthening their scholarship applications. Alexis begins by giving a quick overview of the variety of scholarships available through NSHSS, designed to support scholars with interests in leadership, service, academics, the arts, STEM, and more. Alexis shares which...

In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Ludvig Nobel to explore the enduring legacy of the Nobel family and what it means for today’s students. While the Nobel name is often associated with extraordinary achievements, this conversation goes beyond prizes and prestige to focus on the values at the heart of the legacy: curiosity, courage, integrity, and contribution. 

Ludvig shares personal ...

In the first episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with James (Jim) Lewis, co-founder of NSHSS, to explore the story, vision, and purpose behind one of the world’s most global and inclusive academic honor societies. From its beginnings 20 years ago to the thriving international network it is today, Jim shares what inspired the creation of NSHSS, what continues to drive its mission, and why community is es...