Business Leaders Magazine 2015

Business Leaders Magazine

2015

Business Leaders Magazine

2015

Walker College of

Walker Collegeof

CREATING BUSINESS, DEVELOPING INDIVIDUALSAppalachian’s Transportation Insight Center for Entrepreneurship helps students and alumni launch successful businesses and enhance their future prospects, all while boosting the region’s economy.

An annual publication of the Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University • www.business.appstate.edu

FEATURE 14STUDENT ENTREPRENEURSThe Transportation Insight Center for Entrepreneurship is developing individuals, launching successful businesses, enhancing future prospects and boosting the region’s economy.

GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPSAn Increased Capacity for Adaptability and Cultural Understanding

FACULTY EXCELLENCEDavid Thompson: Show up early, be prepared, and have fun!

COMMUNITY ENGAGEDThe Holland International Engagement Room Dedicated

05 Business Connections 09 Global Conferences10 Sustainable Business Initiatives12 Six honored with Sywassink Awards for Excellence20 Top Business Student21 CFA Research Winners22 Boyles CEO Lectures Brings Business Leaders to Campus24 Walker College Alumni Leaders Serve and Advise 26 Peacock Hall Renovations

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FOLLOW US ONLINECONTENTS

ADMINISTRATIONDeanHeather Norris

Associate Dean, International ProgramsMarty Meznar

Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs and AdministrationTim Forsyth

Associate Dean, Graduate Programs and Research Sandy Vannoy

Director of DevelopmentWill Sears

Business Leaders EditorHaley Childers

Contributing WritersSavannah BurnsJane Nicholson

Contributing PhotographersSabrina ChevesMarie Freeman

business.appstate.edu

WALKER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS LEADERS MAGAZINEThe Business Leaders Magazine is published annually by the Office of the Dean for alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the Walker College of Business.

Appalachian State University is committed to equality of educational opportunity and does not discriminate against applicants, students or employees on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disabling condition or sexual orientation. Appalachian also actively promotes diversity among students and employees.

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When students returned to campus after the 2015 summer break, they were welcomed to

the Walker College of Business in a newly transformed learning and networking space in Kenneth E. Peacock Hall. The renovated space, made possible by our generous donors and completed in summer 2015, fosters energy and enthusiasm in the building and enhances every business student's experience. Overheard during our welcome back reception on the first day of classes: "Dude, I'm really diggin' the new space!" Peacock Hall is indeed the place where faculty, staff, students and the broader community meet and work together to reach common goals. The modernization, centrally located and convenient to the myriad resources in the college, reflects current business needs, with flexible furniture to facilitate collaboration, outlets to plug-in for access to information, and refreshments for sale by Beans 2 Brew, a student-run coffee shop. The renovation utilized the latest sustainable technologies, including LED lighting to improve energy use cost savings for the university.

Appalachian's priorities for 2015-16 include fostering a more diverse environment; advancing sustainable practices; furthering global learning; supporting faculty and student research; and promoting community and civic engagement. These are also goals of my administration. Like Appalachian, the Walker College of Business is committed to a multi-faceted plan for growth. We keep pace with our business community by continually

innovating, providing graduates with the complete package: academic preparation, leadership experience, applied work, and professional polish. Our curriculum is dynamic, with recent additions including a new sustainable business minor as well as plans for a new Master's in Applied Data Analytics. The college enrolls nearly 2,800 undergraduate and 150 graduate students.

In this issue you will read about some of the college's many activities that are creating transformational educational experiences for our students. You'll read about six student entrepreneurs and our entrepreneur-in-residence, all creating new ventures that positively impact our economy. We have highlighted only a few of our outstanding

students, faculty, staff and supporters in this issue. Please check our website (business.appstate.edu) often for the latest news, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @walkercob.

FROM THE DEANLike Appalachian, the Walker College of Business is committed to a multi-faceted plan for growth

Heather H. Norris Dean, Walker College of Business

BUSINESS ADVISORY COUNCIL

CHAIRJohn BelmanCEO, Standard Holding Corporation

VICE CHAIRDoug Johnson ‘77CEO, Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corp.

J. Cantey Alexander III ‘86President, Triad Region, BB&T

Roger L. BeahmWestRock Executive Director, Center for Retail Innovation, Wake Forest University School of Business

Ryan Bolick ‘01 Business Improvement Lead, Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.

H. Edward Boyles, Jr.Managing Director, Wells Fargo Securities

Marshall A. Croom ‘86Senior VP & Chief Risk Officer, Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

Rick FinlayPartner (ret.), Conyers, Dill & Pearman

Benjamin Hamrick ‘82CEO, Johnson Price Sprinkle, PA

Helen Hollifield ‘87Tax Partner, Deloitte & Touche

Thomas H. Hudspeth, Jr. ‘82, ‘83Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers

Roy McCrawRegional Chairman (ret.), Wachovia

Lynn MingesPresident & CEO, North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association

Beth MonaghanFounder & CEO, Monaghan Group

Phillip Ostwalt ‘83Partner, KPMG, LLP

Kim Price ‘77President & CEO (ret.), Citizens South Bank

Kenneth G. Reece ‘73Sr. Vice President - Mid-Atlantic Region, First Tennessee Bank

John Roos ‘84Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Communications, BCBS of North Carolina

Jack Sheffield, Jr.Managing Director/Client Advisor, Deutsche Bank Securities

John E. SilviaChief Economist, Wells Fargo Securities

Allan SingerManager, McNair Law Firm, PA

Gerry Smith ‘70First VP Investments (ret.), Smith Barney

Hayes Smith ‘82Managing Partner, Second Creek Devel-opment Company

Richard G. Sparks ‘76, ‘78President & CEO, Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

Jill Sparks ‘91Executive Director, Small Business Center and Business Incubation, Asheville-Bun-combe Technical Community College

Richard Stroupe ‘98Founder & Managing Principal, Crimson Holdings, LLC

David A. ThompsonCFO (ret.), WEDGE Capital Management, LLP

Joseph TowellCEO, Yadkin Bank

Brad Wall ‘99President, The Wall Foundation

Members EmeritiW. Winfield Beroth ‘65William S. Creekmuir Robert G. DarstJoseph F. Freeman, Jr.Robin H. Gagnon ‘82, ‘95 Jamie E. Harris ‘84William R. HollandScott K. Lampe ‘94Charles V. Murray ‘87Jeffrey A. Shepard Frank H. Skidmore, Jr.Michael A. SteinbackG.A. Sywassink

The college’s Business Advisory Council (BAC) is composed of

businessmen and businesswomen who meet twice a year to advise

administrators on matters relating to the needs of the business

community. Members are listed at far right, and attendees of the Spring

2015 meeting are pictured, right.

4 | WALKER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS • APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Our MISSION...is to deliver transformational educational experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative, and engaged business leaders who positively impact our community, both locally and globally.

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OUR STRATEGIC INITIATIVES1. To attract, develop and retain a diverse faculty highly qualified in teaching, research and service

2. To develop and maintain a rigorous, relevant curriculum and learning environment that support the learning goals and expectations of each degree program in the college

3. To provide students with co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and support services that foster professional development and lead to success in the achievement of collegiate and post-graduate goals

4. To support the programs and activities of the broader University community

5. To develop and sustain strategic alliances and partnerships with businesses, governments, non-profits, professional organizations and other educational institutions

2015 • BUSINESS LEADERS MAGAZINE | 5

BUSINESS CONNECTIONSMore than 1,100 business students participated in the third annual Business Connections event September 30, sponsored by the BB&T Student Leadership Center. Designed to help prepare Appalachian business students for the realities of the business world, the day consisted of practice interview sessions, track-specific workshops around current industry trends and issues and career-fair-type corporate information tables. The day concluded with an early evening networking reception. More than 80 industry professionals presented and more than 50 recruiting representatives attended the activities. New to the event this year was a track in sustainable business, which featured presentations entitled Sustainability and Delhaize, Piedmont Natural Gas’s Approach to a Sustainable Future, and 98% Reshoring Apparel in the Carolinas (TS Designs). Formal internship and employment interviews were scheduled as follow-up from the day’s activities.


The Walker College of Business encourages students to study abroad and provides a variety of short-term international programs designed to develop international business skills and intercultural knowledge. These faculty-led programs have proven to be invaluable for many students.

Each year, the college offers courses taught abroad by business faculty. These courses include a travel portion ranging from one week to one month and are designed to connect coursework with firsthand international experience. In 2014-2015 more than 150 graduate and undergraduate students participated in faculty-led study abroad courses or semester abroad programs in 20 countries on five continents, including Costa Rica, South Africa, Austria, Spain, China, Japan, Greece, Brazil, Italy, England, Russia, Thailand, Chile, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Mexico, France, Scotland, South Korea and Australia. Short-term study abroad courses covered topics in Management, Finance, Computer Information

Systems, Supply Chain Management, Hospitality and International Business.

Recently, Dr. David Marlett and Emily Marlett of Appalachian State University's Walker College of Business led a group of ten students on a study abroad trip to Bermuda. The travel was part of the FIN 4800 International Insurance Markets class. While in Bermuda, students learned about reinsurance markets, risk models and the regulatory system and participated in sustainability projects.

Study abroad participants report that not only does their learning expand, but also their capacity for adaptability and cultural understanding. "I want my future employers to know that I am definitely globally minded," said marketing major Jateria Pittman. "I am able to adapt quickly not just to the workload but also to people, and to do things under pressure and in a different environment. I want employers to see not only my work skills but also my personality, character, and the traits that I gained from studying abroad."

Walker College International Programs: Capacity for Adaptability and Cultural Understanding

Above, students use a traditional mode

of transportation to sightsee in

Cambodia. Opposite, students collaborate

as part of the Holland Fellows Program for

Business Study in Asia and professor

David Marlett stands with RMI students

and Vice President of OneBeacon Insurance Group Dennis Crosby

(center) in Bermuda (photo inset).

Global Partnerships

BUSINESS LEADERS MAGAZINE | 7

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While student travel is a significant aspect of the international programs at the Walker College of Business, faculty and staff often use international experiences to enhance and further their careers. Computer Information Systems and Supply Chain Management Professor Al Harris believes international experience is important to an individual's development and

encourages students at Appalachian to take the opportunity to travel with the Walker College of Business. "Traveling opens your eyes to the world. It takes you out of your comfort zone and teaches you to adapt," explained Harris. "An international experience can change a student's perspective of the world and their place in it." Harris is one of four Appalachian

State University professors to receive a Fulbright award for research and will be teaching in Poland spring 2016.

In addition, international students from 13 countries studied in the Walker College on Appalachian's campus during the last academic year. The college is currently hosting more than 30 international exchange students. █

The Walker College’s International Reach: In 2014-2015, students traveled to more than 20 countries on five continents.


Background photo by Darin Hodges Inset photo by Rachel Shinnar

THE WALKER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS IN CUBAFor several years, students from the Walker College of Business have traveled to Havana, Bay of Pigs, Pinar Del Rio and Matanzas to attend lectures from renowned economists at the University of Havana. The 2015 program to Cuba took place October 10-17 during the university’s fall break.

Global Conferences Highlight Business for a Better World, Business Opportunities in Cuba

Doc Hendley, Founder of Wine to Water, was the keynote speaker at the 7th annual Global Opportunities Conference "Business for a Better World" on April 10. Hannah Davis, Founder and President of BANGS Shoes also delivered comments to approximately 300 attendees at the event, held in the Plemmons Student Union on campus.

The annual Global Opportunities Conference highlights innovative and entrepreneurial ways of addressing global challenges. The goal of the conference is to inspire students, faculty and local community members to use their knowledge and skills in the business of building a better world. The 2016 Global Opportunities Conference is scheduled for Friday, April 8, 2016.

The college hosted Cuba Answers, a forum on business opportunities in Cuba on April 30 to discuss opportunities for businesses and investors as U.S./Cuba relations begin to normalize.

John Kavulich, president of the non-profit U.S.-Cuba Trade and Economic Council Inc., said that while President Obama has announced plans to re-establish diplomatic relations with the socialist country, members of Congress have introduced legislation to "derail and dismantle" actions that would increase travel, commerce, and the flow of information to and from Cuba.

The event also included comments from Saul Berenthal, COO of Cuban Heritage Experiences; Angel Ayala, Business and Financial Consultant; and Peter Thornton, Asst. Director of International Marketing, NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. █


Wine to Water Founder Doc Hendley speaks during the seventh annual Global Opportunities Conference

Bangs Shoes President Hannah Davis speaks to the crowd of 300

US-Cuba Trade and Economic Council President John Kavulich speaks about business relations in Cuba today


Advancing Sustainable Business Practices through Faculty EducationThe Walker College of Business is

committed to advancing sustainable business practices that promote responsible management of economic, social and natural resources. The theory and practice of sustainable business recognizes that the economy, environment and society (the triple bottom line) are interconnected and interdependent, and strive to enhance the business model so that it can flourish and thrive to benefit future generations.

To inform and educate faculty, staff and key community members, the Walker College hosted its Business for Good, a one-day event at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.

The event was developed by Walker College Dean Heather Norris and Director of Sustainable Business Jim Westerman, in partnership with a sustainable business faculty committee representing each business discipline at Appalachian. The late summer event hosted notable, nationally recognized sustainable business leaders who shared experiences from their work around sustainability as well as philosophies and examples from their respective

companies regarding the implementation of sustainable business practices.

Leith Sharp, director of executive education for sustainability at Harvard University's Center for Health and the Global Environment, provided insights on change leadership and organizational structure changes necessary to implement innovative ideas.

Erin Meezan, vice president of sustainability at modular carpet company Interface, told how her organization has significantly lowered its carbon footprint, energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, waste to landfill and water intake over the last decade through a dedication to sustainable business practices.

The speakers also shared how individuals and educators can make sustainability applicable in their own careers. Heather Van Dusen, senior associate at B Lab, spoke on the topic "People Using Business as a Force for Good: B Corps, the B Impact Assessment, and Bringing the Movement to Business Education."

"B Corps are leading a global movement of

Faculty Excellence

Walker College Director of

Sustainable Business Jim Westerman welcomes more

than 90 faculty, staff and key community

members to the August 21, 2015

Business for Good educational summit.

people using business as a force for good," she explained. "All companies should compete not only to be the best in the world, but also to be the best for the world."

The afternoon featured video conference sessions with John Fullerton, founder and president of Capital Institute and former managing director of J.P. Morgan, and Kim Jordan, CEO of New Belgium Brewing Co.

Each speaker touched on how his or her company has embraced sustainable business practices,

offered insights on how other businesses can join the movement and shared the positive outcomes sustainable business practices have on the world.

Leaders from locally owned businesses shared how they support the global and local community through sustainable business initiatives. Presenters included Lynn and Andy Mason, owners of Lost Province Brewing Co.; Renee Boughman, executive chief of F.A.R.M. (Feed All Regardless of Means) Cafe; David Cuthbert, CEO for the non-profit Wine to Water; and Appalachian Mountain Brewery CEO Sean Spiegelman.

"The day was a learning experience," Westerman said. "What we heard from the speakers during the Business for Good event will serve as a strong foundation as we strive to build state-of-the-art sustainable business practices into our teaching, research and service at the Walker College of Business." █

Harvard University Center for Health and the Global Environment Director Leith Sharp

Interface Vice President of Sustainability Erin Meezan

B Lab Senior Associate Heather Van Dusen

Accounting Professor Serves as ASU Sustainability Fellow

Accounting professor Tammy Kowalczyk is Appalachian's sustainability fellow for academic years 2014-16. In this role, Kowalczyk will promote academic

sustainability programs, broaden sustainability across the curriculum and support research initiatives.

According to Kowalczyk, "While it may not be possible to convince all current organizational and governmental leaders of the need for changing behavior towards a more sustainable path, there is hope in promoting this cause among future leaders, represented by current college students. Integrating sustainability into curriculum requires a change in the current paradigm, however, and it is more than just a matter of establishing more courses on sustainability in each of the different majors or colleges across campus. It requires a cohesive and unified approach to integrate the university's vision of sustainability in all curricular activities, supported by interdisciplinary research and community involvement."

For more information about the Walker College of Business commitment to sustainability visit: business.appstate.edu/sustain. █

ZERO WASTE STADIUMAppalachian and the Walker College of Business are committed to working toward a more sustainable future, and a zero-waste stadium is part of the effort. The International Business Student Association (IBSA) is working to further the initiative through a six-game stadium clean-up. For more information, viist ibsa.appstate.edu


Department of Computer Information Systems and Supply Chain Management Chair Dawn Medlin received a diversity award from Appalachian State University's Black Faculty and Staff Association (BFSA). Presented annually, the award honors faculty, staff members or admin-istrators who understand and fully support diversity and social justice on campus. "Dr. Medlin is the epitome of a servant leader, as she always gives of her time, talents and treasures," said Director of Parent and Family Services Traci Royster, who served on the selection committee. Medlin founded the Women of Walker program in the Walker College of Business to accelerate professional development, personal growth, and leadership abilities for female business majors at Appalachian. █

Department of Marketing Chair Unal Boya received one of four W.H. Plemmons Medallions from Appalachian for 2015. Boya was a leader of the Holland Fellows Program for Business Study in Asia for more than 14 years. His contributions to international education and exchanges in the business college include identifying potential international partner universities and helping build solid relationships with those institutions. He has also been instrumental in sponsoring scholars visiting the college and organizing collaborations between Appalachian and international universities, further providing rich cross-cultural experiences to students. █

Dr. Brian Whitaker, Dr. Dinesh Dave,

Ms. Chelsie Eldreth, Dr. Rich Pouder, Dr. Scott Hunsinger and

Ms. Barbara Michel have received the Walker College of

Business’s 2015 Sywassink Awards for

Excellence.

Five faculty members and one staff member have received the 2015 Sywassink Award for Excellence. The awards recognize excellence in teaching, service, research and contributions by a non-tenure track faculty member and a staff member. Presented annually, the awards are made possible by a contribution from G.A. Sywassink, owner of Standard Holding Corporation of Charlotte. Dr. Rich Pouder received the award for teaching; Dr. Brian Whitaker was honored for his research contributions; the awards for excellence in service were presented to two faculty members: Dr. Dinesh Dave and Dr. Scott Hunsinger. Barbara Michel was honored as the outstanding non-tenure track faculty member and Chelsie Eldreth was named the 2015 staff excellence awardee. █

Six honored with Sywassink awards for excellence

Adjunct Finance Professor David Thompson has gone above and beyond in his efforts to better Appalachian through teaching and advising, as well as encouraging young alumni to give back. Thompson's career background includes ac-counting, finance, banking and money management, and his professional designations include Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Financial Analyst.

Thompson and his family moved to Charlotte in 1990, where he worked at WEDGE Capital Management, an insti-tutional investment management firm, until he retired from his role as CFO and General Partner. Thompson then began serving as an adjunct professor in the Department of Finance at Appalachian, and during this time met Delbert Goff, who serves as professor and advisor to the Bowden Investment Group (BIG). The BIG, which was established in 2000 with the purpose of providing Appalachian business students hands on investment practice, has since boasted a powerful coaching team in Goff and Thompson. The two have provided BIG students with an unparalleled educational experience - an experience that goes beyond finance and investments and includes professional development and teamwork, as well as personal and professional accountability.

According to a June 2015 article in Carmel Living, Thomp-son aims to "use his work and life experiences to enrich and expand the education of students enrolled in the Business School's Bowden Investment Group." Thompson also collab-orates with the college's BB&T Student Leadership Center,

frequently speaking to students in classes and workshops about leadership. He also has served as the speaker for the Walker College's Honors Day Convocation.

Most recently, Thompson was named an honorary alumnus by the Appalachian Alumni Association. The honor recognizes individuals who have given unselfishly of themselves to Appalachian but never graduated from nor attended the university. Recipients are individuals who have a strong com-mitment to the university's mission and exemplify outstanding service to the university.

"I believe the greatest gift I offer to the students is the example of my own life. Show up early, be prepared, love what you do, give back and yes, have fun!," stated Thompson.

It appears that Thompson's guidance has made a signifi-cant impact on the students. Ninety five percent of alumni who participated in the BIG are not only successful professionals, but also active donors to the Walker College of Business.

"I gain as much from the experience as the students. Being a part of teaching...involves energy and creativity, and watching the students grow is both my motivation and reward. Dr. Goff and I are playing a role in shaping business leaders for the next generation. Teaching is part of the experience of being an artist and being an artist is part of the experience of teaching. The two feed off of each other."

Thompson is both figuratively and literally an artist; he be-gan classes in watercolor in 2004 and more recently developed an interest in contemporary and impressionistic landscape. █

Appalachian Chancellor Sheri Everts presents instructor David Thompson with an honorary alumnus award

Above, 2015 Bowden Investment Group members with David Thompson (right)

and Delbert Goff (left).

Finance Instructor David Thompson: Show up early, be prepared and have fun

BEST OF BOONE Department of Accounting Professor Pennie Bagley earned a 2015 Best of Boone “Best Professor” honor from the Appalachian Newspaper.



Creating Business, Developing Individuals

The Transportation Insight Center for Entrepreneurship (TICFE) at Appalachian State University helps students and alumni launch successful businesses and enhance their future prospects, as well as boosting the region's economy.

In doing so, the center, along with the Walker College of Business, develops student ideas that are becoming profitable companies. Housed in Peacock Hall, TICFE supports students from all majors as well as faculty and alumni.

Under the guidance of Managing Director Erich Schlenker, business students Emily Haas, Ethan Craig, Zak Ammar, Anna Bowman, and Hunter Bowen, and entrepreneur-in-residence Merrick Marquie use the center not only to come up with unique ideas, but also to inspire ideas in others.



Zak Ammar Owner Vixster

MBA student Zak Ammar is from Houston, Texas, and began his company Vixster as part of a social entrepreneurship competition. Vixster has since turned into an operational business and is constantly adapting processes to make it more efficient. "Erich Schlenker has been an incredibly important figure in my start-up process. He is a fantastic role model, mentor and life coach," explained Ammar. Vixster is a tech company that solves the problem of Trash and Recycling in the High Country. Operating in "The Sharing Economy," Vixster pairs those who have trash and recycling needs with those nearby who are willing to pick it up and take it to the

convenience center, for a fee. Vixster is a digital platform that offers peer-to-

peer, on-demand services to solve the community's trash and recycling needs. "More than 60% of our landfill is recyclable material," said Ammar. "Vixster plans to reduce that."

Hunter BowenPresident Association of Student Entrepreneurs

A senior Marketing and Entrepreneurship major and Spanish minor from Gastonia, North Carolina, Hunter Bowen serves as president for the Association of Student Entrepreneurs (ASE). "Our main goal in ASE is to promote entrepreneurship to students of all majors, while also helping them overcome the day-to-day struggles of starting their own businesses," explains Bowen. ASE also offers resources and creates a collaborative community where students can share ideas and network with fellow entrepreneurs. As Bowen's parents were both entrepreneurs, she became interested in the idea of being one herself during high-school. "Being competitive in a rapidly changing market is the biggest challenge an entrepreneur will face, but the idea that I can potentially have the option to pursue whatever I am passionate about outweighs that challenge tremendously," said Bowen.


Emily Haas CEO BootstrAPPS

Born and raised in Boone, North Carolina, Emily Haas is a senior Hospitality and Tourism Management major with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and a minor in Nutrition. A member of the Association of Student Entrepreneurs, Haas led the club project to bring a retail store to campus that sells exclusively student-made products. Run completely by students, BootstrAPPS provides student entrepreneurs experience with real-world issues in supply chain logistics, accounting and pricing, customer service and staffing, merchandising, as well as managing vendors and inventory. The store hosts 17 student vendors and continues to grow. BootStrapps plans to expand to online sales in 2015.

Merrick MarquieFounder & President Corner Tailors

A May 2015 graduate from Apex, North Carolina, Merrick Marquie majored in Marketing, Economics, and Management and minored in International Business and Mathematics as an Appalachian undergraduate.

Corner Tailors hatched from an experience Marquie had while traveling abroad when he discovered high quality custom business suits were available for a great price. After returning to campus he realized he could provide the same service to fellow business school students that needed a quality suit to look good and land that first job.

Marquie's company operates online and offers both male and female professional apparel and provides an outlet for young professionals to learn about professional dress while buying quality fabric to build their wardrobes. His employees serve as consultants who help customers understand professional apparel and provide great clothing at good prices by operating directly with factories. "I saw the strong need for this business and the opportunities available," said Marquie. "I combined that with my desire to build something and have continually moved forward."

Marquie is the entrepreneur-in-residence in the Walker College of Business, earning the office space and consulting role through demonstration of his ability and potential as a student.


Ethan CraigManager Beans 2 Brew

Ethan Craig, a senior from Roswell, Georgia, is a Management major in the Walker College of Business with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and operates Beans 2 Brew, the ASE-based, student-run coffee shop in Peacock Hall. "I think of an entrepreneur as first being a problem solver," said Craig. "The biggest challenge is maintaining a positive and productive mindset every day in order to be in the best state to run a business."

Beans 2 Brew Coffee Shop serves up the highest-quality brews Mondays through Thursdays while classes are in session. "The opportunity to be part of running a business and gaining experience before graduation is key," explained Craig. "The coffee gets us through the day and helps to build an entrepreneurial and creative atmosphere in the Walker College."

Anna BowmanOwner The Modern Drifter

Anna Bowman, a senior from Greensboro, North Carolina, is majoring in Business Management with a concentration in Entrepreneurship, and is earning a minor in Communications. Bowman's start-up business, The Modern Drifter, will sell sustainable women's clothing and accessories as an online clothing boutique.

"Both my parents have successfully started and maintained their own businesses," said Bowman. "They have shown me the value in hard work and how to constantly challenge myself to come up with better options or ideas to be most effective in any aspect of a business."

Modern Drifter aims to support a positive change through grace and style. "Being sustainable, while investing in my future as a global citizen is very important to me. I also love to travel and getting to know other artisans from different places." █



2015’s Highest Achieving Business Student

Darin Hodges has earned the honor of top business student at Appalachian for 2015. The award, presented during the Walker College honors reception, is presented to just one student per academic year. The selection is based on high academic performance, as well as engagement in academic and extracurricular activities at both the college and university levels.

A member of the Supply Chain Management Club, Executive Impact, Beta Gamma Sigma and Alpha Iota Mu, when asked about his hobbies, Hodges says "my wife and kids." His wife, Heidi, and children, Addin and Yates, are "a daily inspiration," he says.

As a first generation college student, Hodges started at ECU at age 18 in engineering and then came to Appalachian in his mid-20s, but life seemed to get in the way and he never finished college. After working years as a general contractor, Darin came back to ASU in 2013 to earn his undergraduate degree in computer information systems and supply chain management.

Next, he will complete his MBA at Appalachian. Hodges is the 34th Walker College student to receive the honor. █

At home with family: From left, Yates (3), Darin, Heidi and Addin (4) Hodges

Hodges with Walker College Dean Heather Norris, left, and BAC member Beth Monaghan, Partner, Monaghan Group, who served as event speaker.

1984 Robert N. Willis Jr.1985 Kevin P. Boudreau1986 Jill F. Lyerly1987 Ying Liu1988 Matthew V. Hollifield1989 Julie D. Arnold1990 Margrit Kuratli1991 Bruce K. Billings1992 Tracy G. Peeler1993 Steven T. DeVoe1994 Angela C. Matherly1995 Larry B. Pierce1996 William S. Dunkley1997 Patricia F. Sheridan1998 Sally E. Choate1999 Jason M. Hensley2000 Andrew H. Sain

2001 Ryan L. Bolick2002 Laura F. Dudney2003 Carmen M. Kluttz2004 Jeremiah B. Gregory2005 Katie L. Myers2006 Kelly N. Lorenz2007 Helen E. Archer2008 Lory A. Farrington2008 Sarah M. Killian2008 Giedre D. Taylor2009 Joshua A. Gates2009 Mason D. Norman2010 David M. Towarnicky2011 Peter A. Rowe2012 Daniel F. Favitta2013 Nathan J. Healy2014 Davis Roberts

Past Winners

BUSINESS LEADERS MAGAZINE | 21

Emily Haas

Hope Canipe

Bowden Investment Group Wins Again

A team of four Walker College students advanced to the semi-final round of competition at the Americas Regional of the CFA Institute Research Challenge in Atlanta, GA, April 16. It was the second time that a team from Appalachian advanced to the semi-final round.

Appalachian's team, part of the business college's Bowden Investment Group (BIG), won the N.C. CFA Institute Research Challenge in February. "Earning a spot in the semi-finals was a great accomplishment for our students," said Finance Professor Delbert Goff, who serves as a faculty advisor for BIG. "They made it to the final 20 teams out of a pool of several hundred that started the competition in North and South America. This pool included many of the top rated business schools in the world."

The team members were Finance and Banking graduate Caitlin Owings, from Huntersville; Finance and Banking and Economics double major Senior Matthew Wine also from Huntersville; Finance and Economics graduate Nathan Birmingham from Moorseville; and Finance and Banking graduate Brett Featherstone from Hickory. █

Haas, Canipe honored for out-standing leadership

Senior Management and Entrepreneurship major Emily Haas and Marketing and Entrepreneurship major Hope Canipe received 2015 Ronny L. Brooks awards, presented by Appalachian's Center for Student Involvement and Leadership. The annual award recognizes Appalachian students who have distinguished themselves through their exemplary leadership provided to Appalachian students, programs and organizations.

Chancellor Sheri N. Everts and Jamar Banks, Director of the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership, presented the awards.

In addition to serving as Walker Fellows president, Haas also manages the successful BootstrAPPs organization, has served as a Martha Guy Summer Institute leader, represents the College of Business on the Aportfolio

pilot, and is a WH Plemmons Fellow, a Student Orientation Undergraduate Leader (SOUL), an alternative spring break peer leader, a red flag educator, and a member of the academic integrity board.

Canipe is President of the Appalachian Ambassadors and a conference coordinator for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education/Affiliated Student

Advancement Programs, where she also presented in both district and national competitions in 2013 and 2014. She has served as a PanHellenic representative for Alpha Delta Pi Sorority for four years and is a founding member of the Student Philanthropy Board. █

Walker College of Business students

Caitlin Owings, left, Matthew Wine, Nathan

Birmingham and Brett Featherstone won the

N.C. CFA Institute Research Challenge.


Westglow Owner Bonnie Schaefer

Working for the family business isn't always easy, but the rewards can be great. Just ask Bonnie Schaefer, owner of Westglow Resort & Spa in Blowing Rock and former co-CEO of Claire's Stores Inc. Schaefer, who received an honorary doctorate from Appalachian State University in 2012, was the guest speaker at the Harlan E. Boyles Distinguished Lecture Series on October 13. The lecture is sponsored by Appala-chian's Walker College of Business.

"I never thought I'd end up as a CEO and never wanted to work for my family, but working within the company and being able to work my way up gave me the confidence that I lacked," Schaefer said of her career. Like many college students, Schaefer explored several majors from liberal arts to archeology and Renaissance art to nursing before working for her father. She also got

fired by her father for "a less than stellar job performance," she said of her early work for Claire's, an international costume jewelry and accessories retailer for tweens, teens and young adults. After working for a year at another company, Schae-fer's father rehired her. "I thought, now I'm going to make big money with a corner office and perks," she said. Instead, "I had to start at the very bottom and work my way up. Just because I went to work in the family business, it was not handed to me on a silver platter," she said.

The experience was invaluable. Although the company was run at the time by men, she learned from the women who were doing the hard work. "It was an interesting time working for a company devoted to selling items to girls and women that was run by men. Most of what I learned about the company I learned from these women in the field," she said. While Schaefer start-ed out working for minimum wage, she had a goal of running the com-pany. She worked hard, coming into

Westglow Resort & Spa in Blowing Rock, NC

Chancellor Sheri Everts with John Pfeifer, who spoke on the axioms of learning during the October 13 executive luncheon following the lecture.

Boyles CEO Lecture Brings Business Leaders to Campus

Westglow owner Bonnie Schaefer delivers the 56th lecture “Finding Your Path” to approximately 1,200 students, faculty and community members

the office before her father did and working after he left at the end of the day. By gaining experi-ence in each department within the company, she worked her way to the top. She was named a vice president in charge of real estate in the Southeast, later senior vice president of European operations and chair of a joint venture in Japan, and then chairwoman of Claire's. Later Schaefer and her sister were named co-CEOs of the company and co-chairs on the company's board of directors.

The experience of working in a male-dom-inated company led Schaefer to make many changes when she and her sister ran Claire's. Women were promoted to key leadership posi-tions. "We made necessary changes promoting the best of the best," she said. Shareholder value tripled and the company grew to more than 3,200 stores on four continents with 16,000 employees. In May 2007, the sisters sold the company to a private equity group.

Her time at Claire's helped Schaefer develop and market Westglow Resort & Spa into an inter-nationally renowned destination. It also fueled her passion for a variety of philanthropic causes, including women's issues, Jewish causes, animal rights, the arts and health issues.

Schaefer advised students to find something they love to do. As a result, work will never be bor-ing. "Never let anyone tell you that you can't. You are the only person holding yourself back," she said. "Aim high, and be open to the journey." █


BBDO Advertising CEO John Osborn

In a high-tech, highly connected consumer market, it's often the simple approach to advertising and marketing that garners the greatest results, according to BBDO New York advertising agency's president and chief executive officer John Osborn.

"The basic art of storytelling is the best chance we have to connect with (consumers) in powerful ways," Osborn said speaking during the spring 2015 Harlan E. Boyles Distinguished CEO Lecture. An explosion of technology and communication venues, such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube has created a perfect storm, which agencies like BBDO must steer their clients through, he said.

Osborn said people are exposed to about 5,000 different messages every day. "Each and every day there are about 492 million Tweets. Video is everywhere," he said. "Video populates Twitter, it's on YouTube and Facebook. Each and every day, there are 8,640,000 minutes of video being uploaded on to YouTube. That makes it challenging for us to engage with

consumers who are extremely distracted by looking at their cell phone, their iPad, reading a magazine or a number of different things."

To cut through the clutter, Osborn said his company relies on unforgettable characters, compelling story lines and some kind of social commentary or heart. He talked about "the amplification of simplification... a simple story well told, simple solutions well told," he said.

Georgette "Gigi" Dixon, Senior Vice President, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Wells Fargo, served as the Spring 2015 executive luncheon speaker. Both Dixon and Osborn spoke with students in Peacock Hall before the lecture. █

SECU President Jim Blaine

The problems and practices that toppled the financial sector in 2008 remain in effect today, according to Jim Blaine, president and CEO of the State Employees Credit Union. But those problems have not affected credit unions, which remain locally owned and managed. Blaine was the key speaker during the October 9, 2014 lecture, where he commented on the differences between commercial banking institutions and credit unions. █

Osborn explained that when recruiting good talent, a BBDO hiring manager looks for an individual who:1. Makes the work better2. Clients love3. Says "We," not "me"4. Is a hand raiser, not a finger pointer5. Is a radiator, not a drain6. Presents well7. Possesses a healthy paranoia8. Is a closer9. Bounces back10. Does the right thing

To hear the points in Osborn's own words, visit ceo.business.appstate.edu/speakers to watch video of his lecture.

John Osborn’s 10 points for recruiting employees

Gigi Dixon served as the April 15 executive luncheon speaker and spoke with students in Peacock Hall.

Jim Blaine delivers his lecture, Financial Stewardship for North Carolina.

BBDO CEO John Osborn, above, with students in Peacock Hall prior to the Boyles Lecture. Inset, Osborn is interviewed for a podcast in Appalachian’s studio.


Appalachian's Board of Trustees, the organization that promotes the development of the institution and guides the Board of Governors and Chancellor Sheri Everts on the management and development of Appalachian State University, has thirteen members. Several Walker College of Business alumni leaders serve the university and North Carolina through their work as members of the board, including recent appointees Lee Barnes, John Blackburn and Kenan Smith.

Lee Barnes, president of the Durham-based Family Fare convenience stores, graduated from Appalachian in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration. Barnes is a Dean's Club member who founded the Lee Barnes Scholars Program at Appalachian in 2012. He has a master's degree in business administration from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University.

John Blackburn, president and general manager of Linville Resorts Inc., has previously served on both the Board of Governors and

Board of Trustees and has been appointed for another four-year term on the board. Blackburn, who is also a Dean's Club member, has a bachelor's degree in economics and business from King College in Tennessee and an MBA from Virginia Tech.

Dean's Club member Kenan Smith of Salisbury is a managing partner of Second Creek Development Company, a venture capital firm. He graduated from Appalachian with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and has been active in the Walker College's sustainable business initiatives and recently delivered comments at the college's Scholarship Reception for Donors and Recipients.

Dean's Club and Business Advisory Council member Charles Murray; Walker College advocates Alice Roess and George Baldwin; and College of Business alumni James Barnes, Susan Branch and Robert Hatley also serve on the board. █

Walker College Alumni Leaders Serve and Advise through Board of Trustees Appointments

Engaging Community

Above, Board of Trustees member

Lee Barnes, second from right, stands

with Barnes Scholars during the Walker

College Scholarship Reception for Donors and Recipients, held on campus annually.


Although the room has long been used to conduct learning and to facilitate administration of the college of business, the fourth floor lounge space now has a new name. On September 15, 2015 the room was dedicated to William and Donna Holland and the work they've done to further international programs at Appalachian. The Hollands are the namesake

of the Holland Fellows Program for Business Study in Asia. The Hollands and members of their family joined Chancellor Sheri Everts, Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff Randy Edwards, Board of Trustee Member Alice Roess, Walker College Dean Heather Norris, former Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock and former Holland Fellow participants for the occasion. █

Room Dedicated to William and Donna HollandWilliam Holland, third

from right, and Donna Holland, center, stand

ready to cut the ribbon dedicating the William

& Donna Holland International Engagement

Room in Peacock Hall.

Dean's ClubBecome a member of the Walker College Dean's Club -- an annual giving society that benefits the students, faculty and programs in the Walker College of Business. By joining the Dean's Club, you are providing support each year for critical needs in the college such as scholarships, travel funds and seed money for new programs or opportunities. Dean's Club membership begins at an annual contribution of $1,000. Learn about membership benefits and view current members online: business.appstate.edu/give/deans-club

TAKE YOUR APPALACHIAN PRIDE TO A NEW LEVEL

Become a part of the Appalachian Family.


PEACOCK HALL RENOVATIONSSpring/summer 2015 renovations to Peacock Hall feature a redesigned lobby area that creates co-curricular and extra-curricular collaboration space for students and organizations; the Broyhill Commons, a comfortable and attractive networking space for students, faculty, staff and visitors; fifteen new offices to house essential faculty and staff; modernization of existing classrooms into more flexible learning environments, the George & Ann Beasley and Yadkin Bank Classrooms, with new “break-out” areas to facilitate group learning; and renovated career services and student advising areas for improved functionality.

WALKER COLLEGE OF BUSINESSASU Box 32037 Boone, North Carolina 28608

Save the date OCTOBER 5, 2012 50th Harlan Boyles

Distinguished CEO LectureMeet the CEOs Reception - 9:00 a.m.

Panel Discussion - 10:00 a.m. Moderated by Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock

Executive Luncheon - 11:30 a.m.All events will be held in the Holmes Convocation Center.

Invitation to Follow.

ceo.business.appstate.edu

postcard.indd 2 8/1/12 8:04 PMThinking about earning your MBA at Appalachian?

The time is now. You can earn your MBA in one year through our full-time, accelerated program or in two years through one of our part-time programs either on campus or in Hickory. The Walker College offers seven concentrations as well as dual degree and certificate options for MBA students.

Start in May, August or January. Applicants from all majors and backgrounds are welcome. Apply online or visit mba.appstate.edu for more information.

A PPA L AC H I A N S TAT E UN I V E R S I T Y

The time is now.

MBA.APPSTATE.EDUWALKER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS | (828) 262-2057 | BUSINESS.APPSTATE.EDU | [email protected]

Documents

Business Leaders Magazine 2015