Zane Hensal '26 got his first taste of politics in ninth grade when he job-shadowed a Pennsylvania State House representative in Harrisburg — an experience that ignited his interest in public service.

When it came time to choose a college, Hensal knew he wanted a place where he could pursue political science and public policy while staying connected to community engagement. Coming from a small, rural high school in Houtzdale, Pa., he was drawn to Bucknell's close-knit academic environment and the opportunity to take on challenging, thought-provoking coursework.

Once on campus, he hit the ground running.

As a first-year student, Hensal launched a grassroots campaign for a seat on his hometown school board. "After the pandemic, I could see that teachers were really burned out and weren't feeling supported by administrators," he says. "I saw an opportunity and thought, 'What's the worst that could happen? If I lose, I'll just try again after I graduate.' "

But Hensal didn't take the campaign lightly. For 10 straight weekends, he traveled home to knock on doors, meet voters face-to-face and assure them he was ready to lead despite his young age. His efforts paid off: He ultimately unseated a 20-year incumbent. Today, as a Moshannon Valley High School board member, he plays a role in shaping the educational policies that affect students and teachers in his community.

That's just one piece of Hensal's commitment to civic life. He also serves as a board member for Central PA Community Action, a nonprofit organization serving Centre and Clearfield Counties that provides weatherization programs, food banks and affordable housing initiatives. "This nonprofit is often the first stop for those in need," he says. "It's been a key part of poverty reduction in the region."

For an independent studies project, he has partnered with the Bucknell Center for Sustainability & the Environment to create a community resilience plan for Kulpmont Borough — an initiative that will enable the town to apply for grants related to energy efficiency, waste management and transportation.

And as a research associate with Bucknell's Center for Community Engaged Leadership, Learning & Research, Hensal supports local nonprofits by conducting research that strengthens volunteer engagement and promotes equity in underserved communities.

Hensal finds that his coursework enhances these experiences. His political science and public policy classes give him the theoretical frameworks he applies in real-time as a school board member and civic leader. "It's a constant back-and-forth between what I learn in class and what I do outside it," he says. "One gives deeper meaning to the other."

Balancing his academic and civic responsibilities has taught him adaptability and time management. For example, he carefully structured his fall 2025 course schedule to allow for weekly travel to Harrisburg, where he'll intern with the Pennsylvania State Senate. "It just takes planning," he says. "Reading the syllabus, knowing your calendar — it's doable, and the professors here are so supportive."

Looking ahead, Hensel hopes to build a career in state government and, eventually, run for higher office. But no matter where his path leads, he's determined to stay connected to the communities that shaped him.

"I'd love to run for office again," he says. "What I really love is the community connection — just hearing what people are going through. There are so many everyday issues that most of us don't even realize exist until we start listening. That's what drives me: being able to help people who feel frustrated and helping them find a path forward. That means the world to me."