ACCELERATING CAREER DEVELOPMENT
HPU STUDENTS HAVE ACCESS TO AN UNPRECEDENTED NETWORK OF GLOBAL LEADERS AND CHANGE AGENTS.
Dear HPU Friend,
“If you want to be great, walk side by side and hand in hand with great people.”
I received this advice from my mother as a child, and it transformed my life. I’ve never forgotten it.
That’s why, at HPU, you’ll find industry leaders regularly engaging with and mentoring students on campus as part of our Access to Innovators Program.
HPU’s Access to Innovators Program includes tech titans and entrepreneurs like Apple Co-Founder Steve Wozniak, HPU’s Innovator in Residence, and Netflix Co-Founder and first CEO Marc Randolph, HPU’s Entrepreneur in Residence.
Then, there are top tier executives like Dallas Mavericks Former CEO Cynt Marshall, HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence, and industry leaders like ABC “Nightline” Anchor Byron Pitts, HPU’s Journalist in Residence.
Access to these people develops what High Point University has come to be known for: Life Skills.
Companies invest millions of dollars each year to provide employees with the opportunity to attend conferences and engage in professional development. HPU has built this into our four-year academic journey, compressing time for graduates and helping them stand out from the competition in job and graduate school interviews. Where else are students building technology alongside the co-founder of Apple or growing their business with the guidance of a former Netflix executive?
Our impressive list of innovators is extensive, and I’m inviting you to learn about each one of our in-residence leaders. Explore these pages and get to know the global change agents who touch the transformational journey of each High Point University student.
Afterall, High Point University is the only place where students are mentored by such a distinguished and expansive group of Global Leaders.
Sincerely,
Nido R. Qubein HPU President nqubein@highpoint.edu
P.S.Checkoutpage40-41forinformationonhowHPUstandsoutfromaseaof commonalitywithLifeSkillsMicro-Credentialsemployerslove.
NETFLIX CO-FOUNDER MARC RANDOLPH, HPU’S ENTREPRENEUR IN RESIDENCE, IS PICTURED ALONGSIDE PRESIDENT NIDO QUBEIN ON HPU’S CAMPUS DURING AN INNOVATION AND LIFE SKILLS EVENT.
INNOVATOR IN RESIDENCE
Steve Wozniak
Apple Computer Co-Founder
EXECUTIVE COACH IN RESIDENCE
Dr. John C. Maxwell
Bestselling Author and Internationally Renowned Leadership Expert
HEALTH CARE EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Sue Downes
CEO and Co-Founder of MyEye Dr
HAVE YOU MET THESE GLOBAL LEADERS?
HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY STUDENTS HAVE.
The industry titans HPU attracts to campus to mentor students are featured below and throughout these pages, but the list is always growing. To see the full ever-evolving list of innovators, scan the QR code here or visit: www.highpoint.edu/innovators
SPORTS EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE
Cynt Marshall
Former CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and Former Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at AT&T
TECHNOLOGY EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE
Sean Suggs
President of Toyota Battery Manufacturing
CORPORATE EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE
Russell Weiner
Domino’s CEO
ENTREPRENEUR IN RESIDENCE
JOURNALIST IN RESIDENCE
Marc Randolph
Netflix Co-Founder and First CEO
TALENT ACQUISITION EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Dee Ann Turner
Former Vice President for Talent at Chick-fil-A
BROADCASTER IN RESIDENCE
Joe Michaels
HEALTH CARE EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE
Dr. Ellen Zane
22-year former Director of the NBC “TODAY” show
CEO Emeritus of Tufts Medical Center
GLOBAL LEADER IN RESIDENCE
William “Bill”
E. Kennard
Current Chairman of AT&T’s Board of Directors, Former U.S. Ambassador and Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
SPORTS REPORTER IN RESIDENCE
Bob Ryan
Famed Sportswriter for The Boston Globe; known as “the Quintessential American Sportswriter”
Byron Pitts Co-Anchor of ABC’s “Nightline”
DISTINCTION & RELEVANCE EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Scott McKain
Bestselling Author, Business Consultant and Trainer
LEADERSHIP EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Mark Sanborn
Leadership Speaker and Bestselling Author, President of Sanborn & Associates, a leadership and development idea lab
“The main forces that drove me to HPU were the intangibles that other schools could not offer such as the opportunities with industry professionals offered through the Access to Innovators Program, and the countless connections available with extraordinary faculty, staff and leaders.”
– Josh Topper, ʼ23, Audit & Assurance Assistant at Deloitte
SPORTS EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE
Charlie Freeman
President of Business Operations for Orlando Magic
STEM EDUCATOR IN RESIDENCE
Steve Spangler
STEM Educator, Bestselling Author, Television Personality and Business Leader
DESIGNER IN RESIDENCE
Gary Inman
President of Gary Inman Interior Design
HUMAN CAPITAL EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Johnny Taylor
President and CEO of SHRM
DATA EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Teena Piccione
Former Global Transformation and Operations Executive at Google
SALES PROFESSIONAL IN RESIDENCE
Larry Quinn
Chair of the Department of Marketing and Sales
ACTOR IN RESIDENCE
Dean Cain
Famed Actor, Producer, Television Presenter and Former Football Player
CLERGY IN RESIDENCE
Rev. Dr. J. Alexander “Al” Ward
Former Senior Pastor of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church
PERSUASION EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Phil M. Jones
Business Communication Expert, Bestselling Author and Hall of Fame Speaker
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Dr. Willie Jolley Hall of Fame Speaker and Bestselling Author
STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Christopher Ullman Founder and President of Ullman Communications LLC
BUSINESS GROWTH AND LEADERSHIP EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Meridith Powell Award-Winning Business Expert, Professional Keynote Speaker and Bestselling Author
DENTAL INNOVATOR IN RESIDENCE
Dr. Rick Workman
Founder of Heartland Dental
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
Marilyn Sherman Hall of Fame Speaker
NETWORK TELEVISION PRODUCER IN RESIDENCE
Sellers Shy
Lead Golf Producer for CBS Sports
GLOBAL LEADERS
LOVE HPU’S FOCUS
APPLE’S CO-FOUNDER ON HPU’S ABILITY TO TRANSFORM:
“As the co-founder of Apple Computer, I travel the world and meet incredible, intelligent people. That’s why I love my role at High Point University, where I serve as Innovator in Residence. The more time I spend with HPU students and HPU President Nido R. Qubein, the more I appreciate the focus on
developing Life Skills in their students. Transformation at HPU is second nature. That also makes the Webb School of Engineering a great addition to HPU’s excellent academic programs.”
—Apple Co-Founder Steve Wozniak, HPU’s Innovator in Residence
DALLAS MAVERICKS CEO ON HPU’S VALUES:
“My son, Kenneth, graduated from HPU in 2015, and I continue to appreciate the way HPU fostered the same values that my family holds dear. Kenny blossomed at HPU, and today, he enjoys a successful career as a media entrepreneur in Los Angeles. If you want a university that celebrates the values your family cherishes and that prepares students to create impact in this world, then you’ll appreciate High Point University.”
—Former Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall, HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence
ON LIFE SKILLS AND VALUES
CO-FOUNDER AND FIRST CEO OF NETFLIX ON HPU’S LIFE SKILLS EDUCATION:
“One of the things I love about High Point University is their focus on Life Skills. You need to have skills that can cover you in any circumstance, like being able to speak articulately, to make and defend an argument, to write persuasively, to be comfortable on your feet. You need those skills that are going to work for you regardless of what direction your business takes you or what direction your life takes you.”
—Netflix Co-Founder Marc Randolph, HPU’s Entrepreneur in Residence
ABC “NIGHTLINE” ANCHOR BYRON PITTS ON HOW HPU’S ENVIRONMENT INSPIRES:
“I love coming to High Point University. For me, it’s like going to church because it lifts my spirits. The students and the faculty are good, intentional people, which is part of the culture. I get far more out of coming to HPU than I give.”
—ABC News’ “Nightline” Co-Anchor Byron Pitts, HPU’s Journalist in Residence
How HPU Students Become Industry Insiders
Caitie Gehlhausen is a hard worker, there’s no doubt. But it doesn’t hurt that the young entrepreneur has also been mentored by leaders like Netflix Co-Founder Marc Randolph, HPU’s Entrepreneur in Residence.
When students hear from and work alongside such leaders, they begin to unlock their own potential. Gehlhausen’s story is a shining example of this.
As a freshman, Gehlhausen observed a common dilemma among her peers: the inability to use both a phone grip and a cardholder simultaneously on their smartphones. Motivated by this gap in the market, Gehlhausen crafted a solution. She designed a unique phone accessory that seamlessly integrates a cardholder with a phone grip, allowing users to enjoy the convenience of both. Because she attended HPU, she had the chance to pitch the Netflix co-founder her idea and receive feedback on numerous occasions as she developed her product.
His advice helped Gehlhausen take her product, “Socket Lock-It,” from idea to reality. Major retailers, including Walmart, have stocked her product, and today, the 2020 graduate is a serial entrepreneur who continues to operate her business, Lock-It, on a full-time basis.
While Gehlhausen’s story is unique, Randolph has founded or co-founded several successful startups and mentored many early-stage entrepreneurs, including HPU students, over the years. And, he is just one of dozens of industry titans attracted to HPU’s campus to mentor students. Learn more about his impact and the impact of other global leaders on the following pages.
CAITIE GEHLHAUSEN, ‘20 ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND FINANCE MAJOR FOUNDER AND CEO OF:
“HPU will go that extra mile if you’re willing to put in the work. Think of the connections you can make. You have networking opportunities at your fingertips.”
NETFLIX CO-FOUNDER MARC RANDOLPH AND HPU STUDENT CAITIE GEHLHAUSEN WITH HER INITIAL PRODUCT SOCKET LOCK-IT.
HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S
INNOVATOR IN RESIDENCE
“I HAVE VISITED SO MANY COLLEGES THROUGHOUT MY LIFE AND HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY IS THE ONLY ONE I WILL RECOMMEND.”
STEVE WOZNIAK
Co-Founder of Apple
Apple Computer
Wozniak is the electronic engineer who changed the course of history with the creation of Apple’s first personal computer. Now, he works closely with HPU students in a variety of majors to discuss obstacles they face in their field and encourages them to dive in and put their innovative minds to work on solving problems. Wozniak, known affectionately to students as “Woz,” has also mentored HPU engineering students in their quest to build a self-driving golf cart.
A GROUP OF ENGINEERING STUDENTS KNOWN AS HPUMINDS WORKED CLOSELY WITH WOZNIAK FOR THREE YEARS TO TRANSFORM A GOLF CART INTO AN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE (THE WOZ PROJECT). WITH EACH OF HIS RETURNS TO CAMPUS, STUDENTS WOULD PRESENT UPDATES AND WOZNIAK WOULD PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON THEIR PROGRESS.
APPLE CO-FOUNDER ON ATTITUDE:
“My number one piece of advice is to be someone people like. The more people like you, the further you’re going to go in business. Whether your goal is to just go up the organizational chart, or really enjoy what you’re doing in work, the goal is to have people really like and respect you where you are. You have to respect them, too. Don’t treat them like they’re nothing. I have one rule in life that I developed from my early college days: If somebody is bad to you, you’re still good to them.”
DURING ONE OF RANDOLPH'S RETURNS TO CAMPUS, HE POSES FOR A PHOTO WITH AN HPU STUDENT AFTER WORKING ONE-ON-ONE TOGETHER AND DISCUSSING THE ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET.
“Having the ability to communicate effectively, being good at learning, trusting people and giving clear direction were all key to my success as an entrepreneur. Here at HPU, the Premier Life Skills University, students are learning these valuable skills. Life Skills are going to work for you regardless of what way your business and life take you.”
NETFLIX CEO ON LIFE SKILLS:
HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S
ENTREPRENEUR IN RESIDENCE
“LIFE SKILLS ARE GOING TO WORK FOR YOU REGARDLESS OF
WHAT WAY YOUR BUSINESS AND LIFE TAKE YOU. HERE AT HPU, THE PREMIER LIFE SKILLS UNIVERSITY, STUDENTS ARE LEARNING THESE VALUABLE SKILLS.”
MARC RANDOLPH
Co-Founder and First CEO of Netflix
Randolph is a Silicon Valley icon who has changed the way the entire world consumes media. When working with students of all backgrounds, he frequently reminds them to put their ideas into action and offers tailored feedback on their business or product ideas. He works very closely with HPU entrepreneurship majors. Each year, entrepreneurship students who plan to compete in HPU’s annual Business Plan Competition first pitch their business outline to Randolph, who offers unfiltered feedback to help their business succeed and grow
The Anatomy of Connection
HPU’S ACCESS TO INNOVATORS PROGRAM IS A CATALYST FOR MENTORSHIP.
When High Point University officially launched the Access to Innovators mentorship program in 2016 with the welcome of Apple Co-Founder Steve Wozniak as HPU’s Innovator in Residence, the goal was to give students access to global thought leaders and industry experts who would teach them to believe in the art of the possible.
Flash forward just a few short, successful years later, and you’ll see how the program has expanded to include more than 20 influential leaders who regularly spend time on the HPU campus working closely with students.
MARC RANDOLPH
And while the lineup is impressive, a phenomenon that reaches beyond the direct impact of these innovators has started to occur with regularity.
The power of possibility has increased exponentially as the students who call these innovators mentors have taken on the role of a mentor themselves.
It starts with the in-residence leader. They help an HPU student land a job, secure an internship or launch a company. Soon, that student, recognizing the effects of powerful mentorship, pays it forward and helps raise up a classmate or younger HPU student.
Marc Randolph is a Silicon Valley icon who changed the way the entire world consumes media when he cofounded Netflix. When working with students of all backgrounds, he frequently reminds them to put their ideas into action and offers tailored feedback on their business or product ideas. Each year, entrepreneurship students who plan to compete in HPU’s Annual Business Plan
Competition first pitch their business outline to Randolph, who offers unfiltered feedback to help their business succeed and grow.
Jenna Tarantino is one such student. She connected with Randolph after pitching her business plan to him as an HPU undergraduate.
Netflix Co-Founder and HPU’s Entrepreneur in Residence
After receiving live feedback from Randolph on her invention and business plan during her junior year, Tarantino emailed the Entrepreneur in Residence with updates on her progress. She’d light up when she received a response. Each time Randolph would return to campus, he and Tarantino would find the time to catch up one-on-one. Randolph saw an entrepreneurial spirit and determination in Tarantino that he wanted as part of his team.
After graduating from HPU in 2018, Randolph asked Tarantino to come work for him as the start-up founder and community manager for his podcast, “That Will Never Work.”
Today, she balances working for Randolph, running her own company and returning to HPU to work with current students on their pitches ahead of meeting with Randolph.
JENNA TARANTINO, ’18
Start-Up Founder and Community Manager for Marc Randolph’s podcast “That Will Never Work”
In his most recent visit to campus, Randolph had Tarantino by his side. She helped organize the recording of several episodes of Randolph’s podcast, “That Will Never Work,” featuring HPU student entrepreneurs. Tarantino met with those students ahead of the podcast recordings and talked about life as an entrepreneur. Students like Addison Antico, pictured on the right, got feedback from Tarantino on their companies before meeting Randolph. Because of those tips and tricks, Antico felt confident sitting down with the Netflix co-founder.
Throughout the following pages, look for glimpses at mentorship moments with HPU Innovators who keep on giving.
SPORTS EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE
“KNOWING THE HISTORY OF THIS PLACE, KNOWING WHAT THE VALUES ARE… MY SON WENT TO SCHOOL AT HPU AND SO I AM VERY FAMILIAR WITH THIS EXTRAORDINARY UNIVERSITY.”
CYNT MARSHALL
Cynthia “Cynt” Marshall is former CEO of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. When she was asked to lead the team in 2018, she became the first Black female CEO in the history of the NBA. Her career is a true picture of success and significance. She began at AT&T in 1981 and held a variety of positions in network engineering, operations, and external and legislative affairs. Always striving to build collaborative work environments, Marshall was tapped as the president of AT&T North Carolina before completing a 36-year career as a senior vice president for AT&T nationally. Marshall is a values-based leader who regularly visits campus to mentor students and also welcomes HPU students to the Dallas Mavericks headquarters for a special externship program each year. HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S
Former CEO of the Dallas Mavericks
“WHEN YOU HAVE SOMEONE SUCH AS CYNT MARSHALL AND HER STATUS IN THE SPORTS INDUSTRY COME SPEAK WITH YOU, YOU GET A CLEAR IDEA OF THE SKILLS YOU NEED AND THE THINGS YOU NEED TO IMPROVE ON TO ASSESS YOURSELF AND BECOME A BETTER PERSON IN THAT INDUSTRY.”
— CASSANDRA DIAZ, '19, REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF SALES AT LIVE NATION
FORMER DALLAS MAVERICKS CEO ON GROWTH MINDSET:
“Take the limits off. Don’t think you have to be 50 or 60 years old until you achieve your goals. You can do it by the time you’re younger. It happens all the time. Mark Cuban (Dallas Mavericks owner) has done that.”
The Anatomy of Connection
HPU’S ACCESS TO INNOVATORS PROGRAM IS A CATALYST FOR MENTORSHIP.
CYNT MARSHALL
Former Dallas Mavericks CEO and HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence
Cynt Marshall is former CEO of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. When she was asked by Mark Cuban to lead the team in 2018, she became the first Black female CEO in the history of the NBA. Marshall’s values-based leadership made her a standout candidate for not only the Mavericks, but also HPU’s Access to Innovators Program. She’s since served as a positive influence and motivational mentor for HPU students.
During her on-campus meetings, she shares her personal email address and encourages students to stay connected.
Students like Jake Wilkins, ’20, have taken her up on the offer.
Wilkins, along with Marshall and other members of the Dallas Mavericks executive leadership team, hosted HPU sport management students for a unique externship at the team’s headquarters. They provided students the opportunity to connect with and learn from NBA leaders during the hustle and bustle of game day. Students enjoyed working sessions and shadowing opportunities with a variety of departments, making valuable connections to further their own career aspirations.
JAKE WILKINS, ’20
Former Dallas Mavericks Intern Now, Digital Marketing Manager for All Racquet Sports USA
Wilkins met Marshall as a student and maintained their connection as he began his internship search after junior year. The result? An internship with the Dallas Mavericks the summer before his senior year.
“That internship was amazing and a great way to truly learn how the business world works,” says Wilkins. “I had my own responsibilities rather than getting coffee for someone or helping others with their projects. Everyone was treated like a family, and a huge part of that stemmed from our CEO Cynt Marshall.”
Wilkins ultimately turned that internship into a full-time role at the organization’s headquarters, and later helped host a group of HPU students who made the journey to Dallas, Texas, for a multi-day externship experience with the Mavericks leadership team. Today, Wilkins is the digital marketing manager for All Racquet Sports USA, the leading expert on paddle and racquet sports in North America.
Angle-up
HPU Students at Mavericks HQ
RUSSELL WEINER MEETS ONE-ON-ONE WITH LAUREN STRICKLER, '23, A JUMPSTART ASSOCIATE AT GEORGIA-PACIFIC, AFTER HE SPOKE TO STUDENTS FROM ALL MAJORS DURING HIS LIFE SKILLS SEMINAR.
“BEING ABLE TO CONTINUALLY LEARN FROM SUCH AN IMPRESSIVE LEADER IS SOMETHING I TREASURE HERE AT HPU. KNOWING THAT I HAVE A MENTOR IN HIM, EVEN AFTER I GRADUATE AND MOVE INTO THE REAL WORLD, IS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY, AND IT IS ONE OF THE GREATEST WAYS THAT HPU IS ABLE TO DIFFERENTIATE THEMSELVES AND THEIR STUDENTS.“
DOMINO’S CEO ON EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING:
“Pursue what you’re passionate about, not what you think you’re ‘supposed’ to do. It’s okay to try things and then check them off your list if you don’t like them. You don’t have to commit to something because you’ve already invested time. That time is valuable because it helped you decide what you don’t like.”
CORPORATE EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE
"IF I WERE DESIGNING A SCHOOL, KNOWING WHAT I KNOW TODAY ABOUT WHAT ONE NEEDS TO KNOW TO SUCCEED IN THE BUSINESS WORLD — THAT COMBINATION OF BOOK SMARTS AND BUSINESS SAVVY — THIS WOULD BE THE PLACE. I DON'T KNOW ANY OTHER COLLEGES THAT TAKE THIS APPROACH."
RUSSELL WEINER CEO of Domino’s Pizza
Weiner is the chief executive officer of Domino’s U.S., the world’s largest pizza brand. In his role, Weiner oversees the global centers of excellence teams responsible for marketing, operations, store growth and development, franchise relations, analytics and insights, and e-commerce in the U.S. His impact on the true reshaping of the Domino’s brand during the past decade has been tremendous. Named Brandweek’s 2010 Marketer of the Year in the restaurant category, Weiner was responsible for the reinvention of Domino’s menu and advertising. Prior to joining Domino’s in 2008, Weiner led the marketing for Pepsi’s North American cola business, and he currently serves on the board of directors of The Clorox Co.
PROUD
PARENT HPU
HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S
JOURNALIST IN RESIDENCE
“THERE’S NO PLACE IN AMERICA LIKE HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY. THERE ARE ALWAYS ‘WOW’ MOMENTS WHEN YOU COME HERE. WHEN YOU WALK ONTO CAMPUS, YOU SENSE EXCELLENCE, YOU SENSE SERVICE, AND YOU
SENSE HUMILITY. THIS IS A SPECIAL PLACE.”
BYRON PITTS
Co-Anchor of ABC’s “Nightline”
Pitts, co-anchor of ABC’s “Nightline,” is widely known for his thoughtful storytelling, on-the-ground reporting and in-depth interviews. He has covered national news stories and in-depth features for ABC, reporting across the news division on programs such as “Good Morning America,” “World News Tonight with David Muir,” “This Week” and “20/20.” The winner of multiple Emmys and a news reporter with more than 20 years of experience, Pitts now works with HPU students across all majors on the art of storytelling and emphasizes the importance of clear communication. He can regularly be found inside HPU’s state-of-the-art television studio and has formed lasting relationships with students.
PITTS INSIDE HPU’S STATE-OF-THE-ART STUDIO.
HPU IN THE CITY PROGRAM: PITTS GAVE HPU STUDENTS A TOUR OF THE STUDIOS FOR “GOOD MORNING AMERICA” AND ABC NEWS DURING FALL BREAK. THE STUDENTS RECEIVED CAREER ADVICE FROM PITTS AND ONE OF GMA’S EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS.
NATIONAL NEWS ANCHOR ON HPU’S ENVIRONMENT:
“You’re in an incredibly nurturing environment, you’re getting an incredible education and you’re getting prepared for the world. Know that you will be better equipped than other students, but I would still encourage you to read as much as possible, write as often as you can and know that you are enough.”
MAXWELL MET ONE-ON-ONE WITH STUDENTS AFTER HIS LEADERSHIP SEMINAR ON CAMPUS TO SNAP PICTURES, GIVE ADVICE AND SHARE HIS EXPERIENCES.
RENOWNED LEADERSHIP EXPERT JOHN C. MAXWELL ON BEING A LEADER:
“Everyone asks me, ‘Are people born to be leaders, or can they learn to become one?’ That’s the wrong question. Everyone is a leader. The question should be, ‘What kind of a leader am I, and am I continuing to develop as that leader?’”
EXECUTIVE COACH IN RESIDENCE
“I ADMIRE HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY'S TRANSFORMATION UNDER THE INCREDIBLE LEADERSHIP OF DR. NIDO QUBEIN AND ITS COMMITMENT TO VALUES-BASED LIVING AND LEARNING. HAVING WORKED WITH HPU STUDENTS, I KNOW THIS IS AN ENVIRONMENT THAT FOSTERS EXCELLENCE.”
DR. JOHN C. MAXWELL
Internationally Renowned Leadership Expert and Bestselling Author
Maxwell is a No. 1 New York Times bestselling author, coach, speaker and pastor who has sold more than 31 million books in 50 languages. Maxwell has trained more than five million leaders globally. He speaks each year to Fortune 500 companies, presidents of nations and many of the world’s top business leaders. In 2015, he reached the milestone of having trained leaders from every nation in the world. Now, he meets with and mentors HPU students, sharing his life experience and leadership tactics.
TALENT ACQUISITION EXPERT IN RESIDENCE
“I ADMIRE HPU’S COMMITMENT TO STUDENT SUCCESS AND AM PROUD TO HELP STUDENTS FURTHER DEVELOP THE LIFE SKILLS THAT HPU IS COMMITTED TO INSTILLING. I KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE THAT THESE ARE THE SKILLS EMPLOYERS ARE LOOKING FOR IN NEW TEAM MEMBERS.”
DEE ANN TURNER
Former Vice President for Talent at Chick-fil-A
Turner, who is the CEO of Dee Ann Turner & Associates, LLC, is a two-time bestselling author and acclaimed keynote speaker. Chick-fil-A Inc. selected Turner as their first female officer in 2001. She served as Vice President of Talent and Vice President of Sustainability for Chick-fil-A prior to her retirement in 2018 and worked for the company for a total of 33 years. She was instrumental in building and growing Chick-fil-A’s well-known culture and talent systems. During her long career, she worked closely with Chick-fil-A’s founder, S. Truett Cathy, and other key leaders as an architect of their organizational culture. Turner brings expert knowledge of what employers are looking for in new hires and mentors students one-onone and through professional development workshops.
PROUD
DURING ONE OF TURNER’S RECENT CAMPUS VISITS, SHE TAUGHT FINANCE AND EVENT MANAGEMENT STUDENTS, LED TWO LEADERSHIP CLASSES AND SHARED LUNCH WITH HPU STUDENTS, MENTORING A FEW STUDENTS ONE-ON-ONE.
V.P. OF TALENT FOR CHICK-FIL-A ON LIFE SKILLS:
“The skills you’re learning at HPU are the ones employers are looking for. Pay attention and grow those Life Skills HPU emphasizes. It will take you far.”
SEATS WERE FILLED IN HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S PODELL EXTRAORDINAIRE CINEMA FOR ACTOR DEAN CAIN’S MOVIE PREMIERE, HOSTED FOR THE HPU FAMILY AND INVITED GUESTS. THE SPECIAL EVENT ALSO INCLUDED A Q&A WITH CAIN, MODERATED BY HPU STUDENT LENA CORRADO, '22.
“IT’S CRUCIAL WE CONTINUE TO UNDERSTAND AND EXPLORE OUR MEDIA WORLD AROUND US. GIVEN DEAN CAIN’S BODY OF WORK, I WAS EXCITED TO DISCUSS CURRENT POPULAR CULTURE AND RELEVANT THEMES HE FINDS PREVALENT IN HIS FILM AND HOW THAT HAS SHIFTED OVER TIME.”
ACTOR DEAN CAIN ON PERSISTENCE:
“The best advice I ever got — and it’s the best advice I’d give anybody — is just don’t believe the word ‘no.’ Be persistent. Persevere. Keep going. Never, ever, ever give up.”
HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S
ACTOR IN RESIDENCE
“HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY HAS A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART.”
DEAN CAIN
Actor, Producer, Television Presenter and Former Football Player
Cain, who is known for playing the role of Clark Kent/Superman in the TV series “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” as well as for many other movie and television roles, is a well-established, multi-faceted talent. A football star at Princeton University, he transitioned to film when an injury ended his NFL career with the Buffalo Bills. He brings incredible experiences and knowledge in the entertainment business to help students across all majors grow not only their skill set but also stay grounded in their values.
PROUD
PARENT HPU
HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S
SPORTS REPORTER IN RESIDENCE
“WHAT’S HAPPENING AT HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY IS UNIQUE. IT’S REALLY A SPECIAL PLACE.”
BOB RYAN
Famed Boston Globe Sportswriter
Ryan began writing for the Boston Globe in 1968, covering all of Boston’s sports teams, and still appears regularly. He is a regular panelist on ESPN’s Sunday morning roundtable, “The Sports Reporters,” and has been described as the “quintessential American sportswriter” and a basketball guru. Ryan is well-known for his coverage of basketball and for his stories covering the Boston Celtics in the 1970s. Through the years, Ryan has received many awards and honors. Most recently, in 2015, he received the PEN/ESPN Lifetime Achievement Award for Literary Sports Writing. Ryan works closely with students on the art of communicating and storytelling, a key skill regardless of career path.
RYAN PARTICIPATED IN A STUDENT-LED LIVE SPORTS BROADCASTING PANEL, PICTURED HERE ALONGSIDE HPU STUDENTS MEGAN HOVEY, '24, AND JOSH NOEL, '23. MEGAN HOVEY, '24, ON THIS EXPERIENCE:
“HPU GIVES US SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO INTERACT WITH THESE INNOVATORS, AND IT’S SO IMPORTANT TO MAKE AN INVESTMENT IN YOURSELF BY SPEAKING WITH THEM. BEING IN THE SAME ENVIRONMENT AS THEM AND HEARING THEIR EXPERIENCES AND WISDOM COULD BE INFLUENTIAL. YOU COULD LEARN SOMETHING THAT COULD REALLY IMPACT YOUR CAREER.”
BOSTON GLOBE REPORTER BOB RYAN ON COMMUNICATION:
“No matter how the message is disseminated, everything still starts with proper speaking, writing, communication and a respect for the language. Essentially, the people who succeed the best are the people who know how to communicate.”
HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S
BROADCASTER IN RESIDENCE
“IN MY OWN CAREER, I HAVE ALWAYS REACHED OUT FOR TOTAL EXCELLENCE, AND HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY IS AN INSTITUTION DEVOTED TO BEING EXTRAORDINARY.”
JOE MICHAELS
Former 22-year director of NBC’s “TODAY” Show
Michaels has been a close mentor to HPU students since joining HPU in 2015. He brings more than 30 years of experience to HPU, including 22 of those years as director of NBC’s “TODAY.” He began his career in television as an associate director and director for NBC Sports. His work includes The World Series, The Super Bowl, Wimbledon Tennis, the Olympics, NBC Game of the Week, the Orange Bowl, the Hula Bowl and NBC SportsWorld. He has also directed commercials, stage productions and special events. Michaels mentors HPU students every day in both the classroom and HPU’s state-of-the-art television studio.
MICHAELS MENTORS STUDENTS IN THE NIDO R. QUBEIN SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION BOTH IN THE CLASSROOM AND DURING STUDENTS' FREE TIME TO HELP PLAN SPORTS BROADCAST SHOWS.
LOGAN CARTER, '20, ON HIS EXPERIENCE:
“HE LEAVES THE STORIES AND ALL OF THE LEGWORK UP TO THE STUDENTS. HE’S ALL ABOUT MAKING SURE IT’S OUR SHOW FROM START TO FINISH. BUT HE’S ALWAYS THERE TO GIVE ADVICE AND GUIDANCE WHEN WE ASK.“
“TODAY” DIRECTOR ON EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING:
“Some things can’t be taught in a classroom; some things you’ll need to grow into. Learning on the job is important to your career education. If you really love something and you show genuine interest in it, it won’t be difficult for you to soak up information about that industry.
The people I’ve worked with in television were successful because they knew what they were talking about and really worked hard to build that expertise. There are so many avenues today for young professionals to get in there and learn, whether it be all the networks there are now like ESPN, NBC, social media or more. Start where you have the most interest and work your way up.”
The Anatomy of Connection
“Joe Michaels not only inspired my career path but was a source of constant support and a catalyst for consistent growth. His open-door policy allowed me to learn so much about the media production industry, and he was one of my biggest advocates for my personal and professional development.”
EMMY BECK-ADEN, ‘22 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR AT CNBC
JOE MICHAELS
22-year former Director of the NBC “TODAY” show and HPU’s Broadcaster in Residence
Joe Michaels is HPU’s Broadcaster in Residence and former Director of the NBC “TODAY” show. He arrived to High Point University from New York City in 2015. As a veteran television director and producer whose work has been watched by millions of viewers, Michaels teaches production courses and mentors communication students on HPU’s campus. Students like Emmy Beck-Aden, ‘22, values the mentorship connection she made with Michaels during her time at HPU. Through Michael’s constant support and knowledge of the media production world, Beck-Aden had the opportunity to follow in his footsteps and begin her career at NBCUniversal with the same first job Michaels had.
HPU’S ACCESS TO INNOVATORS PROGRAM IS A CATALYST FOR MENTORSHIP.
EMMY BECK-ADEN, ‘22
Production Coordinator for CNBC
Upon graduating in May 2022, Beck-Aden joined the NBCUniversal Page Program in New York City. The historic program is a year-long rotation designed for cohorts of early-career professionals in both New York City and Los Angeles. Beck-Aden served in a diverse array of assignments with departments throughout the company, including production, business development, public relations and digital. Michaels helped Beck-Aden instrumentally with her senior capstone project and throughout her two independent studies during her time at HPU, preparing her for success in the page program with NBCUniversal and for the role she holds in the company now.
Having completed the NBCUniversal Page Program in June 2023, Beck-Aden now serves as a production coordinator for CNBC’s Mad Money with Jim Cramer. She often returns to HPU’s campus to participate in internship panels and all-star alumni networking events, mentoring current HPU students. BeckAden now reflects on the the importance of mentorship, collaboration and service. Knowing these values played a significant role in her career success, she now implements them into her daily life and continues the cycle of mentorship by giving back to HPU students through personal connection.
MORE INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
All-Star Alumni Mentor Students
HPU frequently invites young alumni back to campus to network with students, provide career advice and even directly connect them with opportunities at their top-tier organizations. Naming only a few, these alumni include:
“Listening to innovators like Marc Randolph and panels of successful alumni from the Phillips School of Business encouraged me to pursue my goals. HPU provides the resources to prepare for a career.”
CONSTANCE MARINO, ‘23
ASSURANCE STAFF, FORENSIC & INTEGRITY
SERVICES AT ERNST AND YOUNG
Mikaela Campbell, ’18 U.S. Soccer Federation Manager, Partnership Marketing
Jack LaSalla, ’24 BNY Mellon Finance Program Analyst
HPU ALUMNI FREQUENTLY RETURN TO CAMPUS TO MENTOR CURRENT STUDENTS DURING PANEL SESSIONS, SHARING THEIR CAREER STORIES AND WISDOM. MENTORSHIP MICRO-SESSIONS ALSO TAKE PLACE, PROVIDING THE OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS TO MEET ALUMNI AND MAKE THOSE CAREER-CHANGING CONNECTIONS.
Nikki Sanford, ’13
BakerHostetler
Patent Attorney
Marco Sebastian, ’18
Bloomberg LP Hedge Funds Account Manager
Michaela Mucha, ’18, Disney+
Design Manager, Creative Marketing
Cameron Scott, ‘17
Major League Baseball Senior Coordinator, Baseball Development
Emmy Beck-Aden, ‘22
CNBC’s Mad Money with Jim Cramer Production Coordinator
Alumni like Michaela have even worked directly with the Office of Career and Professional Development to set up walk-in events, where students looking to learn about launching their careers and climbing the ladder can get advice from Mucha. It’s one more way HPU paves the way for student success.
DEFINING MOMENTS WITH INDUSTRY TITANS
Connect with industrythroughleaders an externship!
HEROES, MODELS AND MENTORS ABOUND AT HPU.
Here are merely a few examples of the ways innovators connect with HPU students that are unheard of on other college campuses.
“I recognize that working with Marc Randolph is a unique and extraordinary opportunity. His mentorship has proven that he’s not only a visionary person, but one with strong values. Working with Marc Randolph has inspired me to stay grounded in my morals, to never doubt my dreams and be confident in myself.”
—Tyler Thomas, ’22, Marketing Major Corporate Analyst at JPMorgan Chase & Co.
“Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall invited me and a few other students to her Dallas office for a day. It was a whirlwind! She let us sit in on all of her meetings. It enabled me to see various aspects of the sports industry. I connected with her general counsel, and that experience convinced me that I wanted to be lawyer. I wouldn’t have had that opportunity at any other university.”
—Grace George ’21, Sport Management and Political Science Major Attorney
“I pitched my idea to Marc Randolph. He’s a great guy who gave me great feedback. He gave me his email address, and he said, ‘Don’t give up on your idea. Things may not go the way you want, but you must never give up. Keep innovating!’ That message has stuck with me.”
—Vinny Scavo, ’22, Entrepreneurship Major Insurance Marketing Analyst at One Resource Group and Founder of Goliath, a luxury outdoor chair for the big-and-tall men’s market
“Growing up, I would come home from school and immediately turn the TV to ESPN at 5 p.m. for ‘Around the Horn with Bob Ryan.’ I idolized Ryan’s work. As a sportswriter and editor for HPU’s student newspaper, the Campus Chronicle, having Ryan as a mentor and working with him directly during my time as a student was eyeopening and only furthered my passion for a career in the sports industry.”
—Collin Giuliani, ’19, Communication Major Attorney, and YouTube Sports Entrepreneur
INNOVATORS IN ACTION
How to Land That Job: Thriving in the Workplace with Dee Ann Turner
Hear from Former Chick-Fil-A Vice President for Talent and HPU’s Talent Acquisition Expert in Residence, Dee Ann Turner in this Life Skills Seminar.
HPU News: Steve Wozniak Visits HPU
HPU welcomed Apple Co-Founder Steve Wozniak, HPU’s Innovator in Residence, back to campus to mentor students. Wozniak participated in a variety of events, including a Q&A at HPU’s Innovation Summit, a meet-and-greet with students, and an interactive Q&A session with engineering and robotics students.
HPU News: Four Innovators Visit Campus
Four global leaders made visits to HPU’s campus to mentor students, all in one week! They each led Q&A sessions, recorded podcasts with students and hosted power lunches with HPU fellow students.
We know you DREAM of meeting these global leaders in person on HPU’s campus. In the meantime, you can STREAM lessons from our innovators!
How to Land That Job: Selling Yourself with Larry Quinn
Learn from Former National Sales Training Manager at Xerox and HPU’s Sales Professional in Residence, Larry Quinn in this Life Skills Seminar.
How to Land That Job: Building Trust with David Horsager
View this Life Skills Seminar from the CEO of Trust Edge Leadership Institute and HPU’s Trust Expert in Residence, David Horsager.
HPU News: Marc Randolph Mentors Students
Marc Randolph, HPU’s Entrepreneur in Residence and Netflix Co-Founder, visited campus during an Innovation Summit event. Randolph participated in a Q&A session led by Dr. Angela Bauer, senior vice president of academic affairs, and he also spoke with business students during another Q&A session on business strategies.
HPU’S LIFE SKILLS CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
ACHIEVE YOUR CAREER GOALS BY TRANSFORMING YOUR LIFE SKILLS EDUCATION INTO SOUGHT-AFTER CERTIFICATIONS THAT EMPLOYERS VALUE MOST .
EARN MICRO-CREDENTIALS TO BOOST YOUR RESUME
Did you know most companies rely on AI and applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes?
This means AI often determines which resumes make it to the top —and which don’t get seen at all.
Stand out in a competitive job market by adding certifications with powerful keyword descriptions to your resume. These credentials can make all the difference in securing an interview for the job you’ve always dreamed of.
At High Point University, we’re here to help you leverage your Life Skills education and turn it into valuable certifications that employers notice.
STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD
you’ll be coached by leaders from these top-tier organizations
CREDENTIALS GET YOU HIRED*
80% 100% 72%
of employers believe Certificates will strengthen a resume
Tuition-Free Certifications available to HPU students of employers more likely to hire a person with a Certification
CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED AT HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY:
•Certification in Coachability
•Certification in Event Operations & Guest Relations
•Certification in Networking & Workplace Etiquette
•Certification in Customer Experience
•Certification in Merchandising
*Coursera Survey 2022, Rising Significance of Microcredentials
Learn more about the Life Skills Credentials offered at HPU by visiting: www.highpoint.edu/credentials or by scanning the QR code.
HPU students listening in on seminar from Byron Pitts, HPU’s Journalist in Residence and Co-Anchor of ABC’s “Nightline.” He discussed resilience and how to turn setbacks and challenges into learning opportunities.
DR. JOHN C. MAXWELL AND PRESIDENT NIDO QUBEIN LEAD A Q&A DURING HIS LIFE SKILLS
CREDENTIALING IN ACTION
Cynt Marshall, HPU’s Sports Executive in Residence and Former Dallas Mavericks CEO, taught a credentialing session and seminar on the importance of coachability.
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