Shelda Owens (BSFR ’98, MS ’01)
Cushman and Wakefield
Director of Timberland and Natural Resource Investments
1. Comment on your years spent at Warnell – any memories or experiences that you cherish to this day?
The warm support of faculty and staff. My first introduction to this was when I made an unscheduled visit to Warnell during general orientation at the university, and a staff member took the time to invite me in their office to speak with me about the forestry program. I experienced the same support throughout my coursework and with my major professor and graduate committee.
2. What has a degree from the Langdale Center for Forest Business meant to your career as well as your personal development?
A degree from the Harley Langdale Jr. Center for Forest Business has been instrumental in giving me the skills needed to succeed in timberland investments with a perfect blend of forestry science, finance and business management. The center also connected me to a network of professionals that have been invaluable throughout my career.
3. What one piece of advice do you have for students as they navigate graduate school and look for employment in the forestry industry?
Stay open to unexpected opportunities, read widely, and seek internships. Take advantage of these experiences to broaden your perspective, be proactive in seeking opportunities and a diverse skill set will serve you well.
Learn more about Shelda and her career at Cushman and Wakefield (formerly Bank of America)!
