CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FALL 2023
INVESTING IN THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW New office focuses on student leadership, professional development
College of Business Administration | I
CREDITS Writers Jessica Meyers Megan Mearnic Graphic Designer, Photographer & Writer Allison Osterdale
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Photographers University Communications Kurt Baringer
1 LETTER FROM THE DEAN 2 THE HUB
New office invests in the leaders of tomorrow
RESIDENTIAL 4 BUSINESS COLLEGE Incoming students fast-track business skills
6 CURRICULUM
The skills that matter
STAY CONNECTED College of Business Administration Grawn Hall 250 Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant, MI 48859
cba.cmich.edu cbadean@cmich.edu 989-774-3337 @cmucba
9 INFORMATION SYSTEMS Preparing students for a data-driven world
14 ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Building an innovative ecosystem
18 FINANCE
From campus to Wall Street
22 FACULTY RECOGNITION Taylor receives Campbell Professorship Weirich receives national award for accounting education
CMU is an AA/EO institution, providing equal opportunity to all persons, including minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities. (see cmich.edu/ocrie).
24 STUDENT SUCCESS Professional sales fraternity excels at national convention Logistics leaders apply learnings in case competition Students explore ethics and personal values
26 SERVING THE COMMUNITY CBA students give back
27 REMEMBRANCE
Mourning the loss of two college leaders
AWARDS 28 ALUMNI & HALL OF FAME
30 ADVISORY BOARD
LETTER FROM THE DEAN Dear College of Business Administration Supporters, Over the past few years, our world has been challenged like we never could have imagined. The pandemic changed the way we learn, work and live. And while we’ve faced many challenges, we’ve learned even more valuable lessons. The pandemic pushed us to move forward — to adapt and be flexible. It sparked creativity and incredible ingenuity. We have upheld our commitment to interactive classes and experiential learning opportunities outside the classroom. Our engaged faculty have continued to find ways to educate, mentor and support our students. Because regardless of the circumstances, this is what we do at Central Michigan University. In the pages that follow, you’ll read about some of our successes over the past year. They include launching a new student engagement and professional development center, upgrading our curriculum to better prepare our students for today’s business world, and reviving signature events that were temporarily suspended or moved to an online format due to COVID-19. We also celebrated 25 years of one of our signature academic partnerships.
Most importantly, our students have continued to persevere and excel. They have toured businesses around the country, participated in and won competitions in their fields, and launched business ventures. Much of this was made possible by our engaged network of alumni and business partners who give their time, talent and resources to support our students. Thank you for your dedication to and support of the College of Business Administration and for joining me in celebrating our achievements, as well as our excitement for the future. Sincerely,
Chris Moberg Dean, College of Business Administration, Central Michigan University
College of Business Administration | 1
THE HUB
INVESTING IN THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW
New office focuses on student leadership, professional development
2 | Central Michigan University
College of Business Administration students now have access to enhanced resources designed to help them develop as leaders and professionals. The Office of Student Engagement and Professional Development — otherwise known as the HUB — helps CBA students throughout their journey at Central Michigan University. Its team helps students identify individual goals, engage in meaningful experiences, and participate in networking opportunities on campus and beyond. Launched in the fall of 2022, the HUB was born out of a need to provide CBA students with a structured system of support for professional development, leadership and experiential learning outside of the classroom. It is led by Amy McGinnis, CBA’s director of student experience and a management faculty member, as well as Lori Driessnack, associate director of student engagement and professional development and director of the Business Residential College.
“The HUB helps students articulate the value of their own investment in their co-curricular development during the job search process.” Lori Driessnack Associate Director of Student Engagement and Professional Development and Director of the Business Residential College
Top Entrance to the HUB in Grawn Hall 112. Bottom Amy McGinnis (left) coaching CMU students Kendall Wenzell (right) and Xavier Gideon (center).
In collaboration with the college’s three brand new, required professional development courses and its dedicated academic advising team, the HUB — centrally housed in Grawn Hall — supports students through:
» Student assessments and career support. » Leadership development programs. » Mapping of leadership and experiential learning journeys.
» Corporate site visits. » Mentorship with the college’s vast alumni network.
» Business Residential College programming. » Experiential learning activities such as
student competitions, conferences, and consulting projects with local businesses and community organizations.
“Through the HUB, we coordinated more than a dozen signature programs during the past academic year, in addition to supporting all CBA recruitment efforts and Business Residential College programming,” McGinnis said. The HUB also integrates into several courses throughout the CBA curriculum as students progress toward graduation. One example of this integration is the required completion of the CliftonStrengths assessment in a student’s first year and then incorporating it throughout their time in the CBA. “We believe in the holistic development of our students beyond the critical applied learning and support provided by our faculty in classes. We also want students to focus on their well-being and become lifelong learners and future leaders in their communities,” Chris Moberg, CBA dean said. College of Business Administration | 3
BUSINESS RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE
INCOMING STUDENTS FAST-TRACK BUSINESS SKILLS Celebrating 20 years of CMU’s Business Residential College As one of nine Living Learning Communities at CMU, the Business Residential College (BRC) offers an opportunity for incoming students to accelerate their transition to college by living with peers who share an interest in studying business. 4 | Central Michigan University
By living on the same residential hall floor, taking classes together, studying together, and participating in additional professional development and service activities, BRC students develop lasting friendships and business skills early on in their college journey. The BRC also cultivates a culture of service and relationship-building, quickly creating a strong foundation for students’ future career success. Through resume critiques, LinkedIn workshops, mock career fairs, and professional preparation, students gain the confidence and expertise to excel in interviews and seize opportunities. Elevator pitches become second nature, community involvement is encouraged, and connections with business professionals and alumni are fostered. “We provide opportunities for students to swiftly develop their professionalism while connecting to peers, alumni, faculty and more,” said Lori Driessnack, associate director of student engagement and professional development and BRC director. Haley Homminga, a sophomore studying human resource management, highlights the program’s invaluable support and its sense of family. “What I loved most about the BRC is that everyone treated each other like family,” she said. “If someone needed help with an assignment or needed to borrow something, there would always be someone willing to help.” Results of a recent assessment report show students’ overwhelming satisfaction with the BRC. Highlights include:
» 100% of respondents felt a sense of belonging
at CMU and developed a deeper understanding of academic programs within the College of Business Administration.
» 95% of respondents noted the program’s role
in building meaningful connections with faculty, staff, alumni and working professionals.
The development of a “sense of belonging” and culture of service is evident in the willingness of returning students and alumni to support future BRC cohorts. After their freshman year, several students are selected annually by the program director to serve in formal leadership roles and as volunteers to support the next group of incoming BRC students. Additionally, BRC alumni actively participate as mentors and speakers for the program.
SUPPORTING FIRST GENERATION STUDENTS CMU graduates Dave and Penny Queller (‘91) recently provided a gift to the College of Business Administration to support HUB programming and establish a competitive, one-year leadership development program for first generation business students. The Queller Leadership Scholars Program is designed to empower first generation business students through leadership and professional development opportunities. In addition to earning a scholarship, the inaugural cohort of Queller Scholars will participate in formal assessments and mentoring programs, learn from successful alumni and leaders, practice critical professional skills, and develop as leaders using the Franklin Covey LeaderU learning platform. “Penny and I are so proud to work with the College of Business and the HUB to support a first generation scholars program for students of promise,” Dave said. “We hope this program elevates student awareness of their potential within their area of study and leadership opportunities while creating a career framework that maximizes their professional development.” “We are so excited to see the power of partnership between the HUB and the students to create remarkable CMU alumni of the future,” Penny added.
College of Business Administration | 5
CURRICULUM
THE SKILLS THAT MATTER
New curriculum focuses on data analytics skills, professional development and student support
6 | Central Michigan University
Successful business careers begin with an academic foundation that equips students with the skills necessary to navigate today’s evolving business landscape. This is the driving force behind recent enhancements to the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration curriculum, which is the set of required classes every College of Business Administration student must take alongside their specific field of study. “During the last two decades, advances in technology have increased the need for our graduates to be adaptable, resilient, data-savvy and effective communicators,” CBA Associate Dean Misty Bennett said. “The pandemic has only accelerated this change over the past few years.” Bennett, who led the curriculum revision process, said that the updated academic core provides a comprehensive and interconnected learning experience, ensuring that every CBA student develops and acquires critical skills to prepare them for success in their future careers. “We conducted a thorough review that included critical input from our faculty, staff and alumni, as well as employers and internship supervisors, about the competencies students need to be successful in business today,” Bennett said. The revised curriculum comprises classes that build upon each other throughout a student’s time in the CBA, with an emphasis on data analysis, leadership, management, teamwork and professional development.
“Our end goal in designing and updating the quantitative and applied analytics course sequence was to ensure that students graduate with the essential blend of technical, interpersonal, and decision-making skills sought by employers” Jim Nesbitt Business Information Systems Faculty Member
DIVING INTO DATA The new BSBA degree highlights data analytics to transform students into business leaders confident at making decisions using data. “We’re exposing students to the basic concepts of Microsoft Excel through a personal finance project, and then building their analytical skills over a series of courses culminating in an advanced applied business analytics class,” Bennett said. The curriculum focuses on honing and developing skills so students can better make and communicate business decisions using data modeling and the data science lifecycle process. “The approach that the redesign team took was to focus on leveraging students’ statistics and Excel skills, as well as their business acumen, and build on that foundation,” said Business Information Systems faculty member and core revision team member Jim Nesbitt, who joined CMU after a career that included leading data analytics initiatives at Dow. The redesigned core curriculum includes a semester where students take a cluster of three courses together — applied data analytics, marketing and supply management — that are integrated and taught by a team of faculty members. Students work in teams throughout the semester on five interdisciplinary projects with real data to develop and apply their analytics, problemsolving, communication and team skills through various stages of the data management lifecycle “Our end goal in designing an updated quantitative and applied analytics course sequence was to ensure that students graduate with the essential blend of technical, interpersonal, and decision making skills sought by employers,” Nesbitt said.
College of Business Administration | 7
DEVELOPING PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL SKILLS Along with applied analytics skills, the College of Business Administration’s new curriculum is strongly rooted in developing CMU students’ professional and personal skills. New classes focus specifically on professional development, including:
» Teamwork in Business, which equips students with team best practices, conflict resolution and virtual collaboration skills. Through self-assessments like CliftonStrengths, students explore their strengths and abilities within team dynamics.
» Leading Through Change, which focuses on
leadership and change management, as well as fostering diversity, equity and inclusion.
» Career Management, which teaches networking
strategies, job search techniques, negotiation skills and insights for long-term career growth.
Recognizing the pandemic’s impact on students’ communication skills, the college has increased and enhanced presentations across the curriculum and added several formal and informal communication opportunities, including networking practice, interviewing professionals, and cultural conversations with peers from other countries.
8 | Central Michigan University
ENHANCING STUDENT SUPPORT Supporting students during their college experience is critical to their personal and academic success. The new curriculum — specifically the courses focused on professional development — prioritizes mental health and wellness and teaches coping strategies, resiliency, and work/life balance techniques beginning in a student’s first semester on campus. Peer mentorship is also integrated into classes in the updated curriculum with upper-level students acting as mentors to new students. They help with the transition to CMU, provide career management support, and encourage exploration of experiential learning opportunities within the college and across campus. The comprehensive approach of the new curriculum — together with enhanced support services within the college — is designed to equip students with valuable skills and resources for a fulfilling educational journey. “We are very proud of our revised curriculum and renewed focus on applied, relevant student learning as we develop the community and organizational leaders of tomorrow,” CBA Dean Chris Moberg said. “We are excited to see the impact of the new curriculum and our increased commitment to student support and development for years to come.”
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION FOR A
DATA-DRIVEN
WORLD
In today’s data-driven business landscape, understanding how to effectively analyze and improve processes using advanced technologies is critical to success. Central Michigan University’s College of Business Administration is a pioneer in training professionals in enterprise resource planning and continues to prepare the next generation of business leaders with classroom training and applied learning opportunities outside of the classroom to meet the needs of today’s employers. College of Business Administration | 9
TRAINING STUDENTS IN CUTTING-EDGE SOFTWARE FOR 25 YEARS Just over 25 years ago, leaders at CMU joined a select group of colleges and universities across the country dedicated to preparing their students to be hired by — and provide direct benefit to — the businesses adopting a cutting-edge software quickly making waves in the business world. This software, from SAP, connects different functional areas of businesses and is now the world’s most widely used enterprise resource planning program. “We were breaking ice into unknown disciplines,” Frank Andera, founding director of CMU’s SAP University Alliance Program, said of joining the alliance in 1997.
Top Students who just completed the SAP certification in the late 1990s. Bottom Students in the early 2000’s learning SAP software.
10 | Central Michigan University
The SAP University Alliance program is a global initiative comprised of more than 3,000 colleges and universities worldwide. Participation provides students with a unique skill set and access to the latest SAP software solutions to explore and understand business integration.
INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS Collaborations between higher education and industry enable an exchange of knowledge for students, faculty and employers. These experiences propel students to the forefront of innovation and excellence.
» The SAP Next-Gen University Alliance
Program and the SAP Student User Group come together each year to connect with industry-leading companies for immersive experiences into their diverse business processes and operations. Throughout the academic year, many students interested in information systems visited Eli Lilly, American Mitsuba Crop. and Infosys.
» The college hosted several businesses
Mentored by Molson Coors, CMU students compete in the 2023 ERPsim Competition.
over the past year — either oncampus or virtually — including Auto-Owners Insurance, Dow, Eli Lilly, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Delaware North America, Deloitte, Ford, Infosys, Microsoft, Puget Sound Energy, SAP, Sargento and TCS.
» Every semester, undergraduate and
ANSWERING INDUSTRY DEMAND SAP education has been integrated throughout the College of Business Administration curriculum, ensuring that every student — regardless of their major — is exposed to this critical tool. “As faculty, we recognize the ever-changing industry needs and strive to stay on the leading edge of technologies for all of our students,” said Stephen Tracy, director of the SAP University Alliance Program.
graduate students work on unique projects using SAP software that are assessed by a group of Dow executives and faculty members for their rigor and relevance. The top three students are each awarded a $750 scholarship from Dow and are honored at an award ceremony. Over the last 25 years, approximately $110,000 in scholarship awards have been disbursed through this program.
Companies around the world have taken notice, with many regularly recruiting and hiring CMU students. Among them are industry giants such as Dow, Deloitte, Ford, Accenture and Eli Lilly. “As the 2022-23 president of the SAP Student User Group, I worked with other student leaders to strengthen our robust network of SAP-focused companies, leading to many of our students gaining invaluable real-world experience and even receiving interview invitations and job opportunities,” said Krishna Nair, a graduate student studying information systems.
College of Business Administration | 11
STEPPING OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM CMU’s SAP University Alliance Program provides students with a range of opportunities to engage and learn beyond the classroom, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business world. In 2013, CMU was the first university in the country to adopt the real-time business simulation software ERPsim as another classroom tool that allows students to practice and develop their technical skills. The ERPsim software is also used as the foundation for an annual competition where teams of students are able to showcase their technical, communication, and teambuilding skills while being mentored by professionals in the industry. At the 10th annual competition in 2023, over 150 students competed on 35 teams that were each coached by an employer.
CMU RECOGNIZED FOR PROCESS MINING SUCCESS Business Information Systems faculty member Vishal Shah was honored by leading process mining company, Celonis, as the 2022 Celonis Educator of the Year. The honor recognizes his work in implementing process mining education at Central Michigan University. “Integrating data process mining has allowed CMU to excel to the same level as top universities across the globe,” Shah said. “This program has provided students with the resources to become top professionals in the ever-changing field of business.” CMU also has been named a Premier Process Mining University in North America by Celonis for its efforts to implement this valuable skill focusing on business acumen and technical expertise. Since 2021, the university has trained more than 1,000 CMU students via the globally accredited Process Mining Professional Certification Program.
12 | Central Michigan University
As an SAP Next-Gen Chapter and Lab — one of only 12 universities nationwide — CMU also is at the forefront of SAP’s latest technology and innovation. The SAP Next-Gen Lab serves as a hub to connect industry, academics and students. The main goal is to produce applied research meaningful to all stakeholders. Students get an enriching experience working directly with firm managers while faculty can engage in potentially publishable applied work. The work of the SAP Next-Gen Chapter and Lab focuses on Industry 4.0, UN Sustainable Development Goals, and fostering technology education.
NOT STOPPING YET As the field grows and changes, CMU is committed to adapting its research and teaching goals. Continued collaboration with the CMU College of Science and Engineering and other programs on campus is critical as the university explores the intersection of technology with areas of research and business, including the internet of things, robotic process automation, data analytics, cybersecurity, business process improvement, business integration, and sustainability. “We are optimistic that the SAP University Alliance program will grow as we adapt and deliver education in an ever-changing technology landscape,” said Vishal Shah, Business Information Systems faculty member and associate director of CMU’s SAP University NextGen Program.
“GreenToken is a blockchain solution by SAP that is designed to help companies improve visibility into carbon emissions by increasing transparency and traceability, enabling them to achieve their sustainability goals,” said Business Information Systems Professor Vishal Shah. In addition to receiving support from faculty advisors and access to test environments and training by managers at SAP, Selasky partnered with Dow in Midland, Michigan. “I am extremely grateful to leaders at Dow who helped provide a greater perspective on their sustainability goals and how they want to leverage technology to achieve those goals,” Selasky said. “I was able to examine how GreenToken could help Dow and other chemical companies meet International Sustainability and Carbon Certification standards and improve product sustainability.” Mary Selasky (Left) and Adam Stone (Right) working in the SAP NextGen Lab.
At the end of the project, Selasky presented her findings to key leaders at Dow.
DIVING INTO SUPPLY CHAIN SUSTAINABILITY Sustainability in supply chain operations has been a critical focus in business due to high carbon emissions, resource usage and costs associated with supply chains. It also is of interest to CMU Honors student Mary Selasky, a double major in logistics management and purchasing and supply management. While exploring topics for her senior capstone project, Selasky was drawn to research related to her field of study and her interest in sustainable business operations, which is why she identified GreenToken by SAP as a technology solution she wanted to study.
“We are not going to make this world better, at the rate we need to, without digital solutions or the skills today’s students will need to apply,” said Melanie Kalmar, Dow’s Chief Information Officer and Chief Digital Officer. “Collaboration is critical in assessing possible solutions. Mary’s research was instrumental in helping Dow understand how GreenToken enables circularity and provides transparent reporting, while also including the challenges we may face when implementing this solution.” Providing relevant applied learning opportunities for students through collaboration between corporations and higher education significantly increases the impact on students. “This experience had a profound impact on my education at CMU and provided me with the knowledge and experience to prepare me to make an immediate impact in my career,” Selasky said.
BY THE NUMBERS
1,700 students certified in TS410, formally TERP 10
1 of 12
universities nationwide with an SAP Next-Gen Chapter
1,400 students certified in Lean Six Sigma College of Business Administration | 13
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
BUILDING AN INNOVATIVE ECOSYSTEM Fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students and faculty from all academic backgrounds is the backbone of the Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship (IBIE) at CMU. The institute’s offerings continue to expand to bring together diverse and innovative thinkers from across the university. 14 | Central Michigan University
The Campus Innovation Showcase at the New Venture Challenge.
SHOWCASING NEW VENTURES At the 11th annual New Venture Challenge in April 2023, students showcased their innovative business ideas to a panel of judges. Students shared their unique solutions to current problems during the 2-minute pitch, 7-minute pitch, and trade-show competitions. More than 300 guests experienced an array of unique ventures, including family-owned bakeries, temperature regulating mattresses for infants, and spice jars that support the measurement of ingredients.
mini skill-builder sessions, campus hackathons, Make-a-Pitch competition, innovation boot camps, mentor meetups, and an entrepreneurship speaker series. The IBIE is also home to several unique opportunities for students such as the University Innovation Fellows program developed and hosted by Stanford University and the new Stephen Wakeling and Erin Gendron Entrepreneurial Scholars program.
This year’s event was enhanced by the introduction of the Campus Innovation Showcase, which highlighted student-led projects from a variety of disciplines across campus. From fashion and engineering to animation and broadcasting, the showcase allowed students to explore innovation and creativity outside of their typical fields and build connections with fellow entrepreneurs. By providing a platform for a diverse range of projects to be displayed, the showcase encouraged collaboration and creativity among students and guests. While the New Venture Challenge is the most wellknown program hosted by IBIE, a range of other programs are offered throughout the year to make entrepreneurship accessible for all. Programs include
CMU student Aniyla Anderson (right) pitching to a judge during the Venture Gallery and Campus Innovation Showcase. College of Business Administration | 15
IBIE Director Julie Messing (left) helps students (from left to right) Jake Kapusansky, Ashley Adams and Erin Markovicz brainstorm business ideas within the new IDEA den.
BRINGING DREAMS TO LIFE CMU students seeking to develop their business ideas have a new resource — the IDEA Den — which has quickly become the central location for entrepreneurship programs, workshops, guest speakers, one-on-one mentorship and student organization meetings. Located in Grawn Hall, the IDEA Den comprises a variety of resources, including 3D printers and a Cricut machine, enabling students to pursue their entrepreneurial passions with the guidance of IDEA Den staff.
16 | Central Michigan University
“We started the IDEA Den to create a community space for students of all disciplines to come together to ideate, test new ideas, and create new things, prototypes and ventures,” said Julie Messing, Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship director. IDEA stands for Innovate, Design, Experiment and Activate, symbolizing the phases that entrepreneurs experience as they turn their ideas into business ventures.
HACKATHON: REIMAGINE For the second year, Hackathon: Reimagine united students from across campus in tackling challenges that impact the campus and surrounding communities. Over the course of 24 hours, 90 students from 25 different majors came together in February 2023 to brainstorm creative solutions for issues that included on-campus navigation, personal information privacy and security, sports health and technology, and student debt resolution. The hackathon provides an opportunity for students to utilize their skills and knowledge while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. By leveraging technology and design thinking, students work together to create innovative solutions that benefit the campus community. Computer science student Mackenzie Pollock participated with the Women in Technology student group for a second year. Pollock shared that she “enjoyed the atmosphere of the problem-solving competition while being a part of the process to develop a unique product from idea to reality” during the 24-hour event.
CONNECTING WITH UNIVERSITIES ACROSS THE NATION The University Innovation Fellows program is a global initiative that empowers student leaders from diverse backgrounds to inspire and support each other, with the goal of increasing campus engagement in innovation, entrepreneurship, creativity and design thinking. Led by Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design, the program trains student fellows to design and implement initiatives that address the needs of their campus community, foster an entrepreneurial mindset and create a culture of innovation. CMU’s second cohort, comprising three students from different academic colleges, worked to develop a map that highlights free resources and creative spaces available to students across campus. “Together we have created an open space for collaborative creative thinking where we can share our ideas on how to improve creativity and entrepreneurship on campus,” said Rebecca Ridenour, an environmental studies student and UIF fellow.
EMPOWERING FUTURE ENTREPRENEURS Introducing the Stephen Wakeling and Erin Gendron Entrepreneurial Scholars Program With a generous gift provided by CMU alumni Stephen Wakeling (’03) and Erin Gendron (’06), the College of Business Administration is set to launch the Wakeling-Gendron Entrepreneurial Scholars Program this fall. The inaugural 2023-24 cohort of eight Wakeling-Gendron E-Scholars were competitively selected and are comprised of entrepreneurship majors and students actively involved in the New Venture Challenge or other programming offered by the Isabella Bank Institute of Entrepreneurship. Students are eligible to participate in the program between their sophomore year and graduation. In addition to a financial scholarship, travel to different regional entrepreneurial ecosystems, and participation in experiential learning, a primary focus of the program will be to support the E-Scholars as they develop mentoring and networking strategies customized to align with their entrepreneurial interests and development goals. “With our support, we intend for E-Scholar recipients to gain real experience and individualized support in innovation, collaboration, and independence, as well as access to an expanded network of potential mentors, partners, and clientele,” Wakeling and Gendron said.
College of Business Administration | 17
FINANCE
FROM CAMPUS TO WALL STREET At Central Michigan University, finance education goes beyond textbooks and lectures. Instead, students are encouraged to embrace experiential learning opportunities. Through these experiences, students are empowered to take the driver’s seat in their learning journey by managing funds, visiting successful corporations and engaging in focused study sessions. Opportunities like these equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in the world of finance.
18 | Central Michigan University
CMU finance students touring the New York Stock Exchange.
Senior Nick Bale, a current intern with PK Capital Management, said that he benefited from many of these immersive opportunities. “As a finance major at CMU, I had the privilege to invest in endowments, connect with industry professionals across the globe and compete in national competitions,” Bale said. “This hands-on learning accelerated my career growth and positioned me to compete alongside top students for coveted positions.”
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING ON CAMPUS
Student-Managed Investment Portfolios allow students to navigate the world of finance with actual money at stake. Managing assets that exceed $3 million in the Tom Celani, Bob Oros and Martha Seger investment portfolios, aspiring finance professionals make informed investment decisions, witnessing firsthand the power of their strategies in action.
The Michigan Finance Scholars Program prepares ambitious students for top careers in finance by equipping them with the hard and soft skills necessary to excel in the finance industry, preparing them to become highly qualified candidates for sought-after internships and positions.
The Wall Street Journal Club offers a unique platform for students, alumni and recruiters to come together each week during the school year and delve into the latest market trends and career experiences. Through lively discussions and insightful analysis, students refine their critical thinking and analytical skills while also receiving meaningful lessons from alumni.
Chartered Financial Analyst Study Sessions are specifically designed to prepare students for the CFA Level 1 exam. This specialized guidance ensures that students are well prepared and confident as they embark on their journey to become CFA charter holders.
Future Financial Advisors Association brings together like-minded students who share a passion for finance. Through these groups, students engage with alumni and employers, gaining invaluable insights into their respective fields.
College of Business Administration | 19
CMU students attending the Quinnipiac GAME Forum, the largest student-run financial conference in the world.
EXPANDING THE CLASSROOM THROUGHOUT THE NATION Along with hands-on opportunities on campus, CMU’s finance students learn from immersive experiences across the nation thanks to the support of devoted alumni and friends. This year alone, more than 30 finance students traveled to major cities such as New York, Minneapolis and Chicago, attending conferences, visiting industry-leading corporations and networking with accomplished alumni. These experiences included:
These experiences, which are often hosted and supported by alumni who remember first-hand the personal impact of similar opportunities as they transitioned into their careers, have left an indelible mark on current students like Lucy Forlastro. “The trips have created lifelong memories and provided invaluable exposure to the realm of finance,” said Forlastro, a junior double majoring in finance and accounting. “I’ve traveled extensively and had the opportunity to tour diverse firms and meet many alumni and recruiters.”
» The prestigious Quinnipiac GAME Forum in New York City in March that 15 CMU students attended, joining 1,300 students from 120 universities worldwide.
» Exclusive access to renowned institutions such as
Commerzbank AG, RBC Capital Markets, Garda Capital Partners, 3M, Hightower Advisors, New York Stock Exchange and the Chicago Board of Trade.
» Participation in finance competitions across
the nation, which empower students to analyze financial data, solve intricate problems, and hone crucial skills like critical thinking and teamwork.
The trips have created lifelong memories and provided invaluable exposure to the realm of finance.” Lucy Forlastro Junior double majoring in finance & accounting
20 | Central Michigan University
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a 7% growth in business and finance employment from 2021 to 2031, slightly above the average projected growth for all U.S. occupations. The College of Business Administration, and especially its finance department, are preparing its students for this growth. “The finance program’s commitment to the student experience on and off campus exemplifies the college’s commitment to providing students with the applied learning opportunities that develop the transferable skills sought by today’s employers and help launch their professional careers,” CBA Dean Chris Moberg, said.
Bob Oros (left) meeting with the President of Central Michigan University, Bob Davies (Right).
EMPOWERING STUDENT INVESTORS Bob Oros, a CMU finance and economics graduate, recently made a generous donation of $500,000 to establish the Bob Oros Multi-Asset Investment Fund within the College of Business Administration. After a distinguished career in finance and in his current role as Chairman and CEO of Hightower Advisors, Oros recognized the importance of adding a multi-asset fund to the existing equity-focused funds managed by students. “I am a big believer in practical learning. As I thought about how I could make a difference with my time and treasure, this seemed like a great way to accomplish both,” Oros said. “I wanted students to have broad latitude to set asset allocation and invest in all areas of the market. This will help students gain real-world learning, but also they will see their efforts pay off in growing this financial asset, which will benefit the university for years to come.”
Top Roundtable discussion with CMU alum and Founder of Garda Capital Partners, Tim Magnusson, at the company headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Bottom Students arrive at the Grand Central Station in New York City.
With the addition of the Oros Multi-Asset Fund, students now have the unique opportunity to gain invaluable real-world experience in asset portfolio management and familiarize themselves with Global Investment Performance Standards, preparing them to compete for, and successfully earn, internships and full-time positions with global leaders in finance and wealth management. “The student investment portfolios significantly impacted my college experience. The hands-on opportunity to work with equities, fixed income, alternative investments, and commodities provided the critical foundation and skills I needed in my education and more,” said Will Ciske, a 2023 graduate and Client Service Associate at SGH Wealth Management in Detroit. College of Business Administration | 21
FACULTY RECOGNITION
Faculty member Brad Taylor (left) talking with Lucy Forlastro (right) outside the Voigtman Financial Lab located in Grawn Hall.
TRANSFORMING STUDENT LIVES
Finance faculty member Brad Taylor receives Campbell Professorship Going above and beyond is just in Brad Taylor’s DNA. As the Magnusson Director of the Michigan Finance Scholars Program, Taylor is involved in many of the highimpact experiential learning programs and professional development activities in the Finance and Law Department. Taylor’s commitment to CMU students goes well beyond this role, which has led to his appointment as a Campbell Professor in the College of Business Administration. “While it takes the whole department to support our finance students, Brad is the heart and soul of our experiential and professional development programs,” said CBA Dean Chris Moberg. “He is passionate about supporting students and works tirelessly to prepare them for careers after graduation.” Moberg said that Taylor’s dedication includes helping students navigate their career journeys and prepare for interviews and internships, while working with employers and serving as lead advisor for all three of the student-managed portfolios. He also meets weekly on his own time to help students study for CFA certification exams. 22 | Central Michigan University
Taylor has effectively translated his more than three decades of professional experience into the classroom, which alumni and employers have noticed through the program’s graduates. Alumnus Tim Magnusson (‘94) said that Taylor is instrumental in preparing CMU students for their careers in finance and business. “Brad’s hands-on approach has led to many great outsidethe-classroom opportunities for students to round out their skills and discover their individual passions,” Magnusson said. “I have personally hired some of his students because they are not only bright, but they come with skills on day one. Most importantly they come with a positive can-do attitude and desire to do the hard work that my industry and company demand.”
WEIRICH RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD FOR ACCOUNTING EDUCATION
FACULTY RECOGNITION
Professor makes a difference in students’ lives for five decades Central Michigan University Accounting Professor Tom Weirich has been honored with the prestigious 2023 Distinguished Achievement in Accounting Award by the American Institute of CPAs and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants for his remarkable 50year career dedicated to teaching and serving the accounting profession. The award annually recognizes one accounting educator who has achieved national prominence through demonstrated excellence in teaching and a devotion to student development. “Weirich brings public accounting to life in the classroom, bridging the gap to the real world and preparing them for the future,” said Denese Ennis, Director of Member Engagement and Academics for the Michigan Association of CPAs in a release announcing the award. “Weirich not only prepares students but helps them succeed.” Weirich is passionate in his approach to mentoring students as they prepare for their future and his innovative teaching methods create a unique learning environment. His forensic accounting class, for example, exposes students to capturing errors in large quantities of data, a skill many do not have exposure to before entering their careers in accounting. Students also learn from experts in the FBI, Homeland Security and the IRS, and are selected to collaborate with law enforcement to utilize their knowledge and solve fraud investigations. To date, Weirich’s forensics accounting students, in collaboration with the Michigan State Police, have successfully resolved seven fraud investigations and two local Sheriff investigations. Because of its legacy, the class fills up within minutes of registration opening. “Tom’s lifetime contributions to the profession and the university have been extraordinary, yet he ultimately deserves this recognition because of the profound impact he has had on our students,” CBA Dean Chris Moberg said. “Dozens of accounting alumni — from 25to 75-years old — have told me about his passion for the
Tom Weirich (right) receiving his award from Mark Dawkins (left), the President of the American Accounting Association.
profession and the difference he made in their lives while they prepared for the CPA exam and secured their first internship or job.” Weirich’s impact extends beyond the classroom as he has authored several successful textbooks that have been widely used by other universities, CPA firms and corporations. “This profession needs passionate, driven and openminded individuals to forge the way for students and new professionals.” Weirich said. “Being honored for this award and recognized by my peers is a humbling experience, validating my lifelong focus on helping students with critical knowledge acquisition, personal development and career preparation.”
College of Business Administration | 23
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
PROFESSIONAL SALES FRATERNITY EXCELS AT NATIONAL CONVENTION
LOGISTICS LEADERS APPLY LEARNINGS IN CASE COMPETITION
CMU’s Pi Sigma Epsilon professional sales fraternity showcased its talent, expanded its network, learned from industry leaders, and engaged with employers in March 2023 at the annual Pi Sigma Epsilon National Convention in Norfolk, Virginia.
Students tackled hypothetical business scenarios and engaged in an SAP competition at CMU’s second annual Logistics Undergraduate Case Competition in November 2022.
The chapter’s 17 members received multiple accolades, including scholarships and victories in various competitions. Notably, CMU claimed the top spot in the Pro-Am-Sell-a-Thon Competition, a year-long challenge fostering comprehensive sales strategies. “It’s an incredible experience that not only helps us grow professionally, but also allows us to forge meaningful connections with industry experts and one another,” said junior Kayli Kalish, chapter president and marketing and professional sales student. The chapter’s outstanding performance over the past decade also was recognized with the esteemed Arno Kleimenhagen Award for Sustained Excellence, affirming their status as a high-achieving chapter.
24 | Central Michigan University
“Our goal is to provide students with opportunities that set them apart from students at other universities,” said logistics faculty member Evelyn Smith. “Employers are looking for candidates who are eager to take on challenges and learn outside of the classroom, so we are working to provide as many of those opportunities as possible.” Esteemed judges from corporate partners such as Penske, Ryder System, Fifth Wheel Freight and Gordon Food Service selected recipients for scholarships generously provided by CMU alumni Jim and Renaye Damman (’80). “The experience I gained is something that I can talk with recruiters about during interviews and helps showcase that I have experience with complex problem solving,” said Ryan Kreusch, a senior majoring in logistics management and purchasing and supply management.
OUR IMPACT
95% of students are employed, attending graduate school or serving in the military within six months of graduation
STUDENTS EXPLORE ETHICS AND PERSONAL VALUES Knowing that ethics are vital in today’s workforce, CMU’s annual Ethics Summit helps students gain a better understanding of the issues they may face in the future, a better awareness of their own value system, and an increased knowledge of industry codes/ standards of ethics. Led by faculty and industry experts — and sponsored by CBA alumnus Jay Hughes (’76) — the event provides interactive breakout sessions and a thought-provoking case-study panel discussion to take a deeper look into the importance of ethics. “This year’s Ethics Summit was intentionally built with activities to scaffold student learning. Students considered their own values and ethical lenses, worked through ethical dilemmas in peer groups, and then applied their insight to a challenging case that involved public trust, client trust, and the interests of the firm. In an interactive panel format, students examined ethical and unethical behaviors, the influence of leadership, and professional codes of conduct included in business professions,” said Amy McGinnis, CBA’s director of student experience.
$58,000 average starting salary
75% of students complete internships
College of Business Administration | 25
CMU COMMUNITY & CAREER DAY CMU and Dow partner to clean up the Mount Pleasant city parks.
BUSINESS STUDENTS GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY CMU College of Business Administration students are not only focused on their studies, but also giving back. This is proven through events such as the college’s annual Community and Career Day, where CBA students teamed up with Dow professionals to clean local parks and trails in Mount Pleasant, as well as other fundraising and volunteer efforts throughout the year.
KEEPING IT CLEAN CMU students Gabrielle McCulloch (left) and Haylei Drope, (right) picking up trash in Nelson Park.
VOLUNTEERING & NETWORKING Brian Caine ’22 from Dow (left) volunteering with CMU student Dominic Gullo (right).
GANIARD ELEMENTARY Raising money to gear up elementary children for winter.
ISABELLA COUNTY RESTORATION HOUSE Preparing the day shelter to open for the winter season.
26 | Central Michigan University
REMEMBRANCE
MOURNING THE LOSS OF TWO COLLEGE LEADERS
Jeff Thomas, a professor and chair in Central Michigan University’s Entrepreneurship Department, passed away on Oct. 12, 2021, at the age of 52, following a battle with cancer. Thomas was instrumental in coordinating the design, staffing, and launch of CMU’s entrepreneurship program, and revised the entrepreneurship minor to be accessible to all students. He also launched an entrepreneurship certificate program for students in other disciplines and implemented CMU’s highly ranked Master of Entrepreneurial Ventures degree. Thomas played a key role in building departmentlevel support for the New Venture Challenge and related programming. He is remembered as a visionary leader who inspired countless students and colleagues throughout his career.
John “Holt” Wilson, a professor emeritus in the Marketing, Hospitality, and Logistics Department, passed away on May 17, 2022, at the age of 80. Wilson was highly regarded for his dedication to teaching, his inquisitive nature, and his achievements as a researcher. He authored a widely used textbook on business forecasting and collaborated with colleagues from various disciplines on research projects. Wilson was known for his infectious personality and mentorship to students and professionals. He was an avid golfer and tennis player who enjoyed traveling and spending time with loved ones. His contributions to academia and his impact on students and colleagues will be deeply missed.
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS The friends and family of Jeff and Holt have established scholarships in their memory. Please consider a donation in their honor to enhance student lives. To donate, scan the code or visit: give.cmich.edu
» Jeff Thomas Entrepreneurship Scholarship » Holt Wilson Memorial Scholarship
HALL OF FAME & ALUMNI AWARDS
HONORING & CELEBRATING CMU ALUMNI Central Michigan University alumni span the globe, leading within their organizations and in their communities. The College of Business Administration annually recognizes some of these successful professionals — who proudly showcase their maroon and gold pride in everything that they do — through induction into the CBA Hall of Fame and the CBA Alumni Awards. Meet the 2022 inductees, who were honored at a celebration on campus in April 2023.
Before his tenure at Cisco, Goodwin spent 21 years at Hewlett-Packard. In his last role with HP, he served as vice president and general manager of the Worldwide Enterprise Accounts organization. He led a team of 8,000 people in direct and channel sales, technical support, and partner relationships for HP’s computer systems business. Goodwin was recognized by his peers with several industry awards, including one of the “Top 12 Channel Execs” by eWeek Channel Insider in 2008 and the “Channel Executive of the Year” in 2009 by Everything Channel. He also was named “Technology Executive of the Year” in 2005 by the Latin Trade business publication. The impact and importance of Goodwin’s service to his community and alma mater is as impressive as his professional achievements. He is currently serving in his sixth year as Chairman of the Board of Advisors for the Salvation Army of Silicon Valley as the organization primarily focuses on supporting the homeless population in the region. He also served on the Board of Directors for Presidio Inc. for three years beginning in 2012.
KEITH GOODWIN ’74 Hall of Fame Inductee
The CBA Hall of Fame is the highest honor awarded by the college to its exemplary alumni. Inductees have distinguished themselves as transformational leaders in their organizations and in their communities.
A proud graduate of CMU’s College of Business Administration, Goodwin served as the college’s first visiting Executive-in-Residence, delivered the university’s commencement address, and has consistently participated in Dialogue Days and the New Venture Challenge. He also served on the college’s Executive Roundtable for a decade, including five years as chair. Goodwin also earned an MBA from Wayne State and completed the University of Michigan’s Executive Leadership Program.
Inductee Keith Goodwin retired from Cisco Systems in 2013 as senior vice president of the firm’s Worldwide Partner Organization. In this role he led a team responsible for supporting Cisco’s global business with more than 60,000 partners, representing the company’s primary route to market. This global community included systems integrators, value-added resellers, distributors, and technology partners, accounting for more than 80% of Cisco’s revenue. Goodwin joined Cisco in 1999 as vice president of operations for the Worldwide Field Group before becoming president of Cisco’s Americas International Theater, encompassing Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central and South America. Under his leadership, revenues increased more than 50% during his last two years in these regions.
Keith Goodwin serving as the 2013 Executive-in-Residence for the College of Business Administration.
College of Business Administration | 29
DAVE & PENNY QUELLER ’91 Alumni Commitment Award
Dave and Penny Queller graduated from Central Michigan University in 1991 and both embarked on remarkable business careers. Dave earned a degree in finance and political science while Penny majored in marketing and management. While at CMU, Dave and Penny were actively involved in Alpha Kappa Psi, a professional business fraternity, and are still passionate about supporting the college’s chapter.
DAVE & PENNY QUELLER ’91
Penny recently served as the chief customer officer for Impellam Group and as an advisor to the CEO of the Mom Project. Early in her career, Penny became an area vice president for Adecco Staffing in less than seven years before moving on to Spherion, eventually earning the role of vice president-group executive in business development in 2008. Prior to her current role at Impellam, Penny was senior vice president Americas at Alexander Mann Solutions and executive vice president with Randstad. Early in his career, Dave worked as sales director for Prudential Healthcare before moving on to Aetna in 1999. In over a decade with Aetna, he served in several leadership roles, culminating in the role of president of national accounts in 2013. In his most recent role, Dave served as president of Express Scripts. When Cigna acquired Express Scripts in 2018, Dave’s responsibilities grew to include oversight of pharmacy benefit of manager services for over 3,000 clients and 75 million customer relationships.
LESLIE VICKREY ’94
Dave and Penny have spent considerable time actively supporting the College of Business Administration and CMU. Penny currently serves as chair of the college’s Executive Roundtable and Dave has spent more than a year co-leading the Fired Up Task Force alongside faculty member Nick Hussein. The task force is comprised of students that have been working with CMU Admissions to experiment with targeted and customized recruiting and yield activities. Dave and Penny also have served as trusted advisors during the development and launch of the HUB in 2022, the college’s Office of Student Engagement and Professional Development. With their time, financial support, and passion for student development, the college was able to recently establish the Dave and Penny Queller Scholars Program, a one-year leadership and professional development program for First Generation students majoring in business.
SAM BODMAN ’19
30 | Central Michigan University
LESLIE VICKREY ’94
SAM BODMAN ’19
Leslie Vickrey graduated from CMU in 1994 with a journalism major. She began her career with McDonald’s Corporation before eventually finding a niche in technology and talent in 1998 as the head of marketing for Spherion’s technology division.
Sam Bodman is an Investor Relations Associate at Garda Capital Partners, a global hedge fund specializing in fixed income relative value strategies headquartered in Wayzata, Minnesota. Prior to his current role, Sam was a trading assistant at Garda, and spent last summer in Geneva, Switzerland, training his colleagues on portfolio management systems. He also interned as a summer analyst for Garda in 2019.
Distinguished Alumni Award
Seeing a need for business-minded marketing solutions that were as agile as the industries they served, Vickrey founded ClearEdge Marketing in 2006. ClearEdge has helped technology software, professional services and staffing clients differentiate themselves from competitors through services like branding, messaging, PR and digital marketing. As the CEO and founder, Vickrey leads a team of over 50 marketing professionals who have worked with hundreds of firms in the U.S. and Europe — from startups to Fortune 500. ClearEdge has been recognized five times as a BMA Tower Award Winner. Vickrey is a co-founder of ARA — Attracting, Retaining, and Advancing Women in Technology — a national organization that has connected with over 6,000 professionals. Vickrey also hosts TheEdge podcast, shining light on remarkable women leaders (and their allies) transforming the makeup and momentum of the talent and technology industries. She recently published the book “Together We Rise,” a compilation of personal stories that exemplify the power of women empowering each other. Vickrey has served for over seven years on the Board of Advisors for Chicago Innovation and participates as a judge for the Chicago Innovation Awards. She also serves as the senior executive subcommittee chair for the American Staffing Association’s Women in Leadership Council and as a member of the Executive Roundtable in CMU’s College of Business Administration. In 2015, Vickrey was inducted into the UIC Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame and in 2016 was named to the Enterprising Women of the Year list by Enterprise Women Magazine. In 2022, she was named one of the inaugural Innovating Women in Chicago honorees.
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Bodman graduated magna cum laude from CMU in December 2019 with majors in finance and mathematics. During his time at CMU, he was investment chair of the Central Finance Club, founded the Wall Street Journal Club, and led a 20-hour investment challenge in the Voigtman Financial Lab. He was also a mock interviewer for the Career Development Center and played intramural soccer. Bodman continues to support the college as a speaker at the Wall Street Journal Club and as a mentor and resource to current finance students.
ADVISORY BOARD
CBA EXECUTIVE ROUNDTABLE ADVISORY BOARD The Executive Roundtable Advisory Board is a responsive, experienced team of successful leaders who individually and collectively provide the dean, faculty and staff with strategic input and counseling to ensure the College of Business Administration successfully executes key strategic initiatives and fulfills its mission to prepare students to lead in their organizations and communities.
PENNY QUELLER ’91
BOB OROS ’90
MELANIE KALMAR ’87
TIM MAGNUSSON ’94
BOARD CHAIRPERSON
BOARD VICE CHAIRPERSON CEO, Hightower Advisors
MEMBER BOARD EXECUTIVE STEERING COMMITTEE
FORMER BOARD CHAIRPERSON
Board Director & Advisor
32 | Central Michigan University
Vice President, Chief Information Officer & Chief Digital Officer, Dow Chemical Company
Founding Partner & Chief Investment Officer, Garda Capital Partners
JEFF BENNETT ’03
LEE CURTIS ’90
ENRICO DIGIROLAMO ’76
MICHELLE HALL ’06
Chairman & Co-Founder, Otterbase Technical Services
CEO & Founding Partner, RESIDE Worldwide and 3Sixty
International Executive & Board Director, Coherent Corporation
Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resource Officer, Meijer
KRISTEN HOLT ’94
MIKE JAKOLAT ’83
BOB LARSON ’88
PAUL MACARTHUR ’86
President & CEO, GreenPath Financial Wellness
CEO, BeaconView Group
Founding Partner & President, Sharp Entertainment
Senior Director, Major Accounts, CrowdStrike
KRISTIE NYSTEDT ’90
SARAH POBOCIK ’04
ROBB PORTER ’94
LESLIE VICKREY ’94
President & CEO, ABS Commercial, Atlantic Brew Supply, Raleigh Brewing & Atlantic Process Solutions
Senior Vice President, PNC Bank
Executive Vice President, Loadsmart
Founder & CEO, ClearEdge Marketing
STEPHEN WAKELING ’03
DAN WARD ’07
Founder & CEO, Phobio
Co-Founder & President, Detroit Labs
College of Business Administration | 33
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION GRAWN HALL 250 CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY MOUNT PLEASANT, MI 48859
STAY CONNECTED Join us on social media to stay in the loop with the exciting happenings at the CBA!
cba.cmich.edu | cbadean@cmich.edu | 989-774-3337
Central Michigan University’s College of Business Administration is an accredited member of AACSB International—The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business CMU is an AA/EO institution, strongly and actively strives to increase diversity and provide equal opportunities to all individuals, irrespective of gender or sexual orientation and including but not limited to minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities. (see cmich.edu/ocrie).
