A cut above

As Tim Reynolds was completing his Ohio University business degree in 1987, he never dreamed he would return to Athens 26 years later to share his private sector industry experience with OHIO students studying any discipline. Reynolds, executive director of the College of Business’ Robert D. Walter Center for Strategic Leadership and its programs, says the center teaches, mentors, and challenges students who seek a robust and global leadership learning experience.

“We’ve modeled our experiences after those used by the top 25 companies recognized for developing young leaders,” says Reynolds. “Our students accelerate their leadership potential and are better prepared for leadership development programs after graduation.”

Kevin Warner, BBA ’16, says the center’s Select Leaders program opened a world of opportunities.

“I was a first-generation college student…and didn’t realize my potential,” he said. “We met [College of Business] alumni who showed us what’s possible, and proved that we could do it, too.”

Now part of a human resources rotation at Visa Inc.’s San Francisco campus, Warner says the center, named after Robert D. Walter, BSME ’67, taught him about himself and planted the seed for the leader he would become.

“Having these mentors took my leadership skills to the next level.”

Feature photo by Jessica Lifland, BSVC ’04