Navigating the Unknown by: Lexie Vincenty
This semester, on October 25, The Raymond A. Lancaster Executive Leadership Speaker Series returned to Ohio University for its third consecutive year. The Dean of the College of Business, Jackie Rees Ulmer, opened the event with a statement that encapsulates the importance of this event: "The Lancaster Executive Leadership Series brings in noted leadership speakers and executives to inform and guide our students on their professional, personal, and academic journey." The event had a lineup of esteemed speakers, including Tim Reynolds, the former Executive Director of the Walter Center, and Greg Moran, who is the Raymond A. Lancaster Executive Fellow. The keynote speaker for the event was Matthew R. Kutz, Ph.D., a renowned professor and author who spoke about "Navigating the Unknown." Tim Reynolds, the former Executive Director of the Walter Center, recollected a story written by Steven Covey Jr. He used an analogy to describe students and young professionals as the flowers that spontaneously sprouted in Death Valley, CA, in 2005. Reynolds emphasized the importance of experiential education and learning from leaders and role models. "We come to understand the significance of exposure through firsthand experience and observation," he added.
After Moran finished his speech, he was recognized with the Legacy Leadership Award. This award was created a few years ago by Tim and Tammy Reynolds. Dr. Jen Traxler clarified that the award has only been given to a select few individuals who have significantly impacted the College of Business and the Walter Center.
“You see what graduates of these programs are accomplishing in the world - that’s the real legacy, and that’s what brings me joy.” - Greg Moran
Greg Moran, Raymond A. Lancaster Executive Fellow, addressed the groups of students directly, emphasizing that the students already significantly influence those around them. He also mentioned, "The role of myself and other executive mentors is to help students realize their potential as a leader and how to put that leadership to work in a meaningful way."
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Taylor Reigle received the prestigious Walter Center Student of the Year award during the event. She has devoted three years to working with the Walter Center office team, is a member of the Wandell Fellows program, serves as a College of Business Student Ambassador, and holds the position of President of the Fixed Income Group. Taylor's hard work and dedication have significantly impacted the Walter Center and the College of Business. You can find out more about Taylor's journey and her plans after graduation on page 18.
