Thriving business students gain valuable insights over break
During winter break, 24 students participated in the annual Ivy Seminar Series for Emerging Leaders. This four-part webinar series connects highly motivated students with current and former C-suite executives.
The program was led by Bobbi Sullivan, director of undergraduate business career services; Colby Clark, employer engagement specialist; Wei Zhang, Kingland Systems Business Analytics Faculty Fellow; and Tabatha Carney, director of graduate business career services.
“I so enjoyed being part of the fifth year of the Ivy Seminar Series for Emerging Leaders,” said Sullivan. “Our cohort was comprised of dedicated students who demonstrated curiosity, professionalism, and gratitude.”
For the select group of students, four hour-long virtual sessions were held over the course of two weeks hosting current or retired business executives as speakers. The executives shared their insights on particular aspects of leadership and led personal discussions with the students to answer questions and further discuss topics of interest.
“As the legendary coach Vince Lombardi once said, ‘leaders are not born, they are made’,” said Zhang. “The real value of these leaders’ lectures is not only what they are doing after they become leaders, it is also the story of what they have done to make them leaders.”
Admission to the seminar series was offered to the students who best demonstrated their passion for academic and professional growth. The small size of just 24 students allowed for a more personal setting, hosting students with a genuine interest in the program.
“I applied to the Ivy Emerging Leaders Seminar Series because I didn’t want to miss out on the opportunity to learn from such accomplished individuals,” said Sadie Leinen, a junior from Altoona, Iowa, studying marketing and management information systems. “I wanted to learn how professionals navigate challenges, set ambitious goals, and lead with integrity.”
The wisdom and knowledge that these speakers shared not only deepened my understanding of leadership but also grew my desire to grow and be successful both professionally and personally.
Sadie Leinen, marketing and management information systems, Ivy College of Business
The welcoming atmosphere of each session was further enhanced by the speakers all being alumni of the Ivy College of Business and members of the Dean’s Advisory Council. This connection helped foster stronger connections between the speakers and students.
- Kurt Tjaden – retired, president-international of HNI Corporation
- Miriam De Dios Woodward – president and CEO, De Dios Consulting
- Mark Rupprecht – president, R&R Realty Group
- Christi Shaw – life sciences leader, board member, advisor, and environmental conservationist
The eagerness and excitement of the executives and faculty involved helped create engaging learning environments, leaving a lasting impact on the students.
After the series concluded, students submitted written reflections on their experiences and key takeaways before receiving their certificates of completion.
“By the end of the session, I was left with an immense feeling of purpose and inspiration,” said Leinen. “The wisdom and knowledge that these speakers shared not only deepened my understanding of leadership but also grew my desire to grow and be successful both professionally and personally. Their stories were a powerful reminder of how crucial authenticity, resilience, and kindness are in leadership. This seminar will stay with me, guiding me as I work towards becoming a more professional and purpose-driven individual.”
February 4, 2025
