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The Walter Center for Strategic Leadership and Emerging Leaders (EL) program hosted a memorable celebration at the Ohio University Inn and Conference Center Ballroom on Sept. 27, marking an incredible 10 years of the EL program.
The event provided a fantastic opportunity for networking, allowing current students to connect with the donors and alumni who have been instrumental in the program's success and growth. Notable attendees included Ron Calhoun, former CEO of Palmer-Donovan, and Hugh Sherman, former president of Ohio University.
The celebration featured inspiring speeches from EL Co-Directors Tom Marchese and Bob Paxton, along with Jen Traxler, executive director of the Walter Center. Marchese and Paxton expressed their heartfelt appreciation for everyone involved in the program, while Traxler recognized both past and current directors, celebrating their collective accomplishments.
Following these introductions, Calhoun and Tammy Reynolds, the founder of EL, shared insights into the program's history and vision over the past decade. Although Reynolds could not attend in person, she delivered a heartfelt video message detailing her inspiration for starting EL. She noted the lack of opportunities for rising juniors in the business realm, which prompted her to collaborate with former Walter Center Executive Director Tim Reynolds to create EL.
“There were many talented students missing out on opportunities for professional growth,” said Sadie Rudduck, Walter Center event coordinator and member of the EL9 cohort.
Tammy Reynolds acknowledged the vital support she received from Sherman, who previously served as the dean of the College of Business, as well as from Tim Reynolds and others within the College of Business.
“We also recognized our peer mentors, who play a crucial role in our program,” Rudduck added. “Connecting with other students helps me learn about myself, and supporting them enriches my own experience.”
You can watch a short video about the program here.
After the formal program, alumni from as far back as EL4 shared their post-graduation experiences, discussing how their degrees have shaped their careers and reminiscing about their favorite memories from EL and Ohio University.
Collin Streuer, president of EL10, highlighted the value of networking with past members:
“As a senior, it’s rewarding to reflect on the positive experiences I’ve had in the program,” Streuer said. “Sharing these moments with others who have similar stories is truly special.”
He also expressed gratitude to Calhoun for his generous donations and scholarships, which have significantly advanced the EL program.
“It was great to finally put faces to the names of those who fund our networking trips, assessments, and weekly meetings,” Streuer noted.
Ruby Britt, a member of the EL9 cohort who interned at Palmer-Donovan last summer, shared her appreciation for the opportunity to meet Calhoun.
“I thanked him for his contributions to Emerging Leaders and expressed how much I enjoyed my sales internship,” she said.
The Walter Center and Emerging Leaders extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the celebration, recognizing the journey of EL and its impact on the careers of business Bobcats post-graduation.