Marketing Student Projects

Fall 2022 was a busy semester for our marketing students.

On November 14, Scott College of Business Marketing students partnered with Camp Navigate, an after school care program, to offer elementary students a glimpse of a college campus. They worked with Executive Director of Camp Navigate, Eleanor Ramseier, to bus the elementary aged students to campus.

Peer Mentors from the Boulet Mentoring Program were chaperones for the event. Peer mentors and Camp Navigators went on a scavenger hunt to learn more about the campus sites! The University Marketing Department gifted the children sweatshirts.

The next day, on November 15, another group of students coordinated a Health and Wellness Fair on November from 5-7pm in DeDe III in the Hulman Memorial Student Union (HMSU). They worked with the massage therapy students to offer free massages. They also worked with various small businesses to have a resource fair. They invited vendors that promoted a healthy lifestyle. They wanted to let students know of the healthy opportunities in Terre Haute. They focused on mental, physical, and dietary health. Small businesses included places such as Common Ground Yoga Studio and Illumination Wellness. The students had 70 participants and 15 vendors and eight message therapy students. Donations of bananas and cutie oranges were from Baesler’s Market.

They hosted an inaugural Holiday Market at the Vigo County Courthouse on December 1st. They worked with a variety of small business owners and community leaders to make this event happen. Food trucks and a coffee truck were in attendance. Santa also made an appearance. 

Projects such as this connect the students to the community. ISU students also partnered with the other three colleges in the community to put up Christmas trees in front of the courthouse. Each college decorated a tree and this promotes unity. Lights and trees were purchased, thanks to sponsors Duke Energy, ISU Federal Credit Union, and Old National Bank. 

The same day, another group of ISU Marketing students coordinated a Terre Haute History event at the Vigo County Historical Museum. An author named Tim Crumrin has several books about Terre Haute's delinquent past. The students connected with him to be a guest speaker on December 1st. The students also contacted several small businesses to put together a gift basket of Terre Haute memorabilia to give away at the event. Donations included items from Coca Cola and Maggie and Moe’s Flower Shop. The purpose of this event was to get students connected to the community. They also received a donation of refreshments from Baesler’s.

Market Students & Camp Navigate

<< Photo Gallery >>

Visiting Scholar Works with ISU Faculty on Study

December 20, 2022

Guojing “James” Li — a visiting scholar to Indiana State University this year in the field of Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management — is working with Dr. Wei He, Associate Professor of Management, to conduct a comparative study on the career readiness competencies of Chinese and American college graduates. He is a doctoral student studying in the School of Labor and Human Resources at Renmin University of China in Beijing. 

Li decided to team up with Indiana State University because of its high standards, commitment to student success, and its world-class faculty within the Scott College of Business.

“Career Adaptability is one of my favorite research subjects, and my work aims to gauge various forms of personal competencies in the context of an individual’s career preparation,” he said. “I have collaborated with Dr. He previously on research initiatives and we are excited to explore career readiness competencies between students in China and the United States.”

“We aim to publish a paper on occupational competence review, which is a significant issue in the field of workplace research. Competencies are important for all levels of employees but especially for recent college graduates starting their careers. We will use this study as a form of reference that includes theoretical ideas and practical advice based on our research findings,”

Dr. He believes that “this work is crucial for our students, especially our seniors and new graduates. Students come to us not only for knowledge but also for career skills, or what we refer to as professional preparation. We focus on teaching these kinds of principles to our students among many others. So we strive to find out what’s actually important to them and how they can develop their job skill sets through teaching and advising our students.”

The research will be implemented in two phases. First by submitting a paper to the Academy of Management 2023 conference where they will present the Chinese perspective on career readiness competencies through a systematic review of literature and contrasting them with the commonly accepted National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) eight competencies. In the second phase, the researchers will survey recent college graduates in China and the United States for comparison.

Apart from the research, Li will also share his academic experience with colleagues and business students during his one-year stay at ISU and looks forward to meeting new people from different backgrounds and making life-long connections.

Visiting Scholar Guojing “James” Li and Dr. Wei He

Alumnae Produce "Sam Becomes a Sycamore" Book

December 16, 2022

The first day of school is an exciting time for college students, particularly first-year students. They make new friends, meet professors, and navigate around campus. They learn more about the university and find where they belong. At Indiana State, students aren’t the only ones who experience this adventure. Indiana State’s mascot, Sycamore Sam, also participates in the fun. Sam’s journey as a Sycamore has now been described in a new children’s book, Sam Becomes a Sycamore.

Written by alumna and communication graduate student Kimmie Collins, who earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing, the book describes Sycamore Sam’s first day as an Indiana State student. The book is intended to educate young readers about the University, campus life, and what it means to be a Sycamore. Readers could one day join Sycamore Sam on campus.

The book was illustrated by art alumna Katherine Bierly, ‘22, and designed by graphic design alumna Sarah Strain, ‘22. The team members collaborated on ideas to present Indiana State in a fun way for young readers. The project was supported by Indiana State’s Division of University Advancement and the McKee Fellowship – established in 2021 by the McKee family, which includes several generations of Sycamore alumni and donors. The fellowship supports the University’s President’s Scholars program.

Kimmie Collins & Katherine Bierly

<< Full Story >>

DECA 7th District Competition

December 14, 2022

The Scott College of Business and Indiana State University hosted the DECA 7th District high school competition on Tuesday, December 13. DECA is a national student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in business around the globe.

More than 200 high school students competed in career clusters involving marketing, finance, hospitality, and management through both written exams and interactive role plays with industry professionals serving as judges. District 7 represents the West Central Indiana region comprised of Greene, Clay, Owen, Parke, Putnam, Sullivan, Vermillion, and Vigo counties.

Dean Terry Daugherty also led a student experience panel discussion that included ISU students Megan Heck (accounting and finance); Jackson Krieg (finance and management); Julia Sonntag (insurance); and Jillian Turner (insurance and marketing).

“We are excited to support our local high schools and enjoy welcoming their students to campus as they compete and learn about business, " Daugherty said. “The teachers and counselors involved with DECA work very hard to create a positive learning experience for students and we are committed to supporting them.”

Daugherty was especially proud to see so many ISU staff, faculty, and alumni volunteer to serve as judges during the event. “Community support is obviously a key Sycamore trait,” he said.

John Dinkel

December 9, 2022

It is with regret that we announce the death of long-time supporter and friend of the Scott College of Business - John Dinkel. John was Chairman of the Board of Forrest Scherer and for many years a member of the Scott College of Business Dean's Executive Council.

John W. Dinkel, 80, of Terre Haute passed away Thursday evening, December 8, 2022. John was born May 5, 1942 in Terre Haute, IN to John W. Dinkel and Severne English Dinkel. On June 1, 1963 he married the love of his life, Rolanda Perdieu. He retired as Chairman of the Board of Forrest Sherer, Inc. 

John was a graduate of Glenn High School and received his Bachelor's degree in business from Indiana University. While at Indiana University he was an accomplished member of the Army ROTC and ATO Fraternity. He was a 1LT in the US Army. He was involved in numerous affiliations and associations both locally, and nationally including: Union Hospital Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, Strawberry Hill Cannoneers, Terre Haute Chamber-President, Terre Haute Economic Development, Scott College of Business-Dean's Executive Council, United Way, Gibault School, ESPFL, Board Member of Merchants National Bank, Independent Insurance Agents Association, Country Club of Terre Haute-President, St. Paul Insurance Company-Presidents Council, Terre Haute Housing Authority, Vigo County School Corporation, IIAI Harry P. Cooper Jr. Industry/Public Image Award Winner, Honorary Insurance Commissioner-The State of Indiana, Big I Board of Directors, lead Forrest Scherer to several Big I Awards including Agency of the Year, and proud member of Terre Haute Lancer's Auto Club. The development of Terre Haute and giving back to the community was exceedingly important to John.

John was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather (aka Pop-Pop) and great-grandfather. He enjoyed great trips and adventures with Rolanda to many parts of the world, making friends along the way. Family vacations were a priority - especially time spent in Minnesota on Lake Wabana. Over the years he cherished time spent with friends on multiple hunting, fishing, golf trips and the Elks bowling league. John had a love for cars, especially the classics. Upon retirement he returned to his passion of drag racing, "Dinkster Racing" became well known as they traveled the NHRA racing circuit. He liked to engage with people by sharing stories and the occasional joke. John was a family man, friend and mentor to many, and never met a stranger. 

<< John’s Obituary >>

Robert McMahan

December 2, 2022

Robert McMahan (September 15, 1950 - November 30, 2022) had a passion for teaching. From 1984, until his retirement in 2020, throughout his 36 years with the college and university, Bob was known for his dry sense of humor and a larger-than-life personality.

Bob had plenty of real-life experiences to draw on, from interning in the white-collar crime unit with the FBI to a five-star hotel manager to college professor and attorney. As Ruth Rukes said when she told us the news of his death, “Bob certainly was a beautiful soul and will be missed.”

Our condolences to his family.

<< Bob’s Obituary >>

SCOB Student Named Hines Memorial Medalist

December 1, 2022

Four graduating seniors are receiving the Hines Memorial Medal from Indiana State University for the Fall 2022 semester. The medal is awarded to students who entered Indiana State as first-time college freshmen and are completing their bachelor’s degrees with the highest cumulative grade point average. It is named after Linnaeus Hines, the university’s fourth president from 1921-1933, who served two terms as Indiana superintendent of public instruction.

The medalists will be recognized at ISU’s December Commencement ceremony. They are:

Rachel Farmer (Baccalaureate Nursing), Kailey Howell (Baccalaureate Nursing), Anna Kraushaar (Honors College & Accounting), and Mary Sebastian (Elementary Education).

<< SCOB Honors & Awards >>

Business Faculty to Speak at Indianapolis Transportation Club

November 29, 2022

The Indianapolis Transportation Club (ITC) is featuring Dr. Kuntal Bhattacharyya during its annual dinner on Tuesday, December 6 at the Primo Event Center in Indianapolis. He will discuss career development opportunities and building the next generation of supply chain leaders.

For over 100 years, the ITC has helped professionals connect and develop relationships, share ideas, and learn about new happenings within the industry. Above all, ITC events raise money for the ITC Scholarship Fund, which supports students pursuing an education in the transportation and supply chain fields.

Bhattacharyya is an associate professor of operations and supply chain management as well as Project Director of the GEODIS Logistics 4.0 Innovation Hub for the Scott College of Business at Indiana State University. Prior to academia, he worked in the strategic sourcing, financial economics, and supply chain management fields.

Student Success at RNMKRS

November 23, 2022

A huge congratulations to our Sycamores who competed in this semester’s RNMKRS Virtual Sales Competition!

Congratulations to Rachel Hildebrand for placing 4th and Nathan Nichols for placing 10th overall in the new RNMKRS Pro competition. A congratulations to Joel Bleskey for being a regional winner for top school score in the standard RNMKRS Competition. Congratulations to Ethan Fruit for being recognized as a member of the 100+ Club, and congratulations to Nathan Nichols for being a regional winner in the speed sell competition.

Additionally, Indiana State University, Scott College of Business and the Sales and Negotiations Center was recognized as the 2nd place school overall in the RNMKRS Pro competition and 10th overall in the RNMKRS Standard competition!

We are so proud of our Sycamores and Sales team work this semester and cannot wait to continue into next semester to see what they achieve!

SCOB Sales Students Among the Best

The Scott College of Business Sales and Negotiations Center student team recently placed among the best in the Rainmakers (RNMKRS) Virtual Sales Competition held November 16th and 17th, 2022. More than 1,300 students at 49 colleges and universities competed in the global virtual sales competition built using the RNMKRS A.I. technology. This unique competition allows students to interact with an intelligent animated bot using their phone and with an animated character during the sales call. The bot responds in real time to voice input. This year’s event introduced a new more challenging pro division for experienced students, which included role play and speed sell rounds, as well as a standard division for new participants. Indiana State University finished second overall in the pro category and tenth in the standard RNMKRS competition.

Congratulations to Rachel Hildebrand (senior - marketing) for placing fourth overall, Melina Tedrow (senior - marketing) fifth, Nathan Nichols (sophomore - business), tenth, and Caleb Needham (senior – engineering) thirteenth in the RNMKRS pro category. In the standard competition, Joel Bleskey (senior – finance) was selected as a regional winner and placed 46th, along with Ethan Fruit (junior – marketing) and Zhana Pickett (senior – marketing) among the top 100. 

 “Our students continually shine in their representation of the university on this global stage competing against thousands. Their dedication reflects well on the college and helps set them apart from others during the competition, “ says Dr. Ricky Fergurson, Assistant Professor of Marketing and Sales Team Coach.

Students Nathan Nichols, Zhana Pickett, Rachel Hildebrand, and Joel Bleskey

Keegan Beeler Launches Boutique

November 18, 2022

Keegan Beeler, now a first-year student studying insurance and risk management with minors in marketing and sales and negotiation, intended to find a part-time job to earn money to pay for gasoline. Her plan was always to work at a clothing store or restaurant. However, it was difficult to find a job during the pandemic, so Beeler explored another possibility: opening her own business on Instagram.

Before the Fall 2022 semester began, Beeler’s home storage space was filled up with her inventory. She needed more space, so she decided to open a storefront location at 640 Wabash Avenue in Terre Haute, within walking distance of Indiana State’s campus. She also continues to operate her Instagram business.

<< Full Story >>

Women in Business Speaker: Christi Hill

November 16, 2022

On Tuesday, November 15, 2022, Christi Hill, Associate Vice President, Global Customer Experience Strategy, Eli Lilly and Company shared her insights and experience with students as the Women in Business Featured Speaker. Christi discussed leadership and career development. She has more than 20 years of experience at Eli Lilly Company, where she focuses on customer experience strategy for the leading global pharmaceutical company. Christi joined Eli Lilly in 1994 and has worked in sales, marketing research, customer engagement, and became an Associate Vice President in 2022. She graduated from ISU with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing.

Christi was able to share her work and school experiences with attendees while creating a space of relatability. Also, Christi was able to share valuable advice to better maneuver in the real world and more specifically the workplace. Thanks to the president of Women in Business, Kelly Daugherty, and advisor, Madison Marshall, for making this wonderful event possible and easily accessible to students.

IRM Alumni Named Indiana Insurance Professional of the Year!

November 16, 2022

Riley Christy graduated from our Insurance and Risk Management program in 2013. Riley is now a field underwriter at Pekin Insurance, and was recently named the 2022 BIG I (Independent Insurance Agents) Indiana Insurance Professional of the Year! He was awarded this for showing strong leadership abilities and willingness to assist independent agents!

Riley Christy - 2022 BIG I (Independent Insurance Agents) Indiana Insurance Professional of the Year!

SNC Students Compete in Sales Competition

November 13, 2022

Three students, Rachel Hildebrand, Connor Lash, and Austin Schwartz-Thrasher competed in the recent Northeast Intercollegiate Sales Competition under the coaching of Dr. Ricky Fergurson.

Congratulations to Connor and Rachel who reached the semi-finals of the role play sales competition, competing against 27 schools and almost 200 competitors!

The competition is organized by Bryant University st Rhode Island and took place November 11 and 12, 2022.

Connor Lash, Dr. Ricky Fergurson, Rachel Hildebrand, and Austin Schwartz-Thrasher

Delta Sigma Pi Chapter Gives Outstanding Service for a Collegiate Chapter

November 7, 2022

The Delta Tau chapter of Delta Sigma Pi from Indiana State University received the Outstanding Service for a Collegiate Chapter award from their national body.

To win this award is a testament to the chapter’s overall excellence. To be recognized for an award, the chapter must submit an online application. Each application is first reviewed by a group of Fraternity volunteers within each region (groups of five to ten collegiate chapters in a geographic area). Regional winners are then progressed to a provincial award selection committee. (Provinces include: Northeastern, North Central, Southern, South Central and Western and each province has approximately 40 to 50 chapters). Deltasig’s National Scholastic Development and Awards Committee, led by an appointed individual who has shown years of dedicated service to the Fraternity, then selects a national winner from the five provincial winners.

Delta Sigma Pi is a Professional Business Fraternity.

Delta Sigma Pi - Delta Tau chapter

ISU’s MBA Ranked Among Fortune's Best

November 7, 2022

Fortune recently unveiled its second ranking of the best part-time MBA programs in the United States. This year the Scott College of Business MBA program was ranked 52nd out of more than 500 programs in the United States.

“This recognition reflects the quality of ISU’s faculty and our commitment to helping students achieve career success,” said Terry Daugherty, Dean of Scott College of Business. “We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional value and flexibility to meet the needs of business professionals within Indiana and beyond.”

<< MBA Program pages >>

IRM Grad Named as Rising Star

November 4, 2022

Congratulations to Ben Coe, a 2010 Insurance and Risk Management graduate and now partner at Shepherd Insurance who has been named as a 2022 Insurance Business America Rising Star!

Since joining Shepherd Insurance after graduating, Ben has worked faithfully for individuals and businesses all over the country. He has a passion for solving issues and coming up with creative solutions to complex problems. He believes that his approach of putting his clients first and maintaining a high level of professionalism on their behalf is what makes clients eager to refer him to their family and friends.

Executive Dining Experience

November 3, 2022

The Executive Dining Experience is an opportunity for our Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors to dine and network with top-level executives. This semester's event was held in Federal Hall on November 2, 2022.

<< Photo Gallery >>

SNC Fall 2022 Elevator Pitch Competition

October 31, 2022

The Sales and Negotiations Center's Fall 2022 Elevator Sales Pitch Competition took place on Friday, October 28, 2022.

Congratulations to winner Connor Lash and to Kate Gauer, Annika Ehrlich, and Ashlyn Halstead who all tied for second place and Julia Sonntag who came in third! We are proud of the efforts and time they put into the competition! Each of our finalists earned a scholarship for their hard work and competition.

We want to extend a special thank you to everyone that helped with this competition, especially our ten amazing judges. Thank you to our amazing friends from Enterprise, State Farm, Midwest Communications, Inc., Cintas, Harba Solutions Inc., Federated Insurance, Joink, Johnson Brothers, Stevens Enterprises, and Sherwin-Williams!!! These events wouldn't be possible without your continued support of our program and our students.

<< Photo Gallery >> << SNC pages >>

Mock IRS Arrest

October 28, 2022

Accounting students had an unusual experiential learning experience on Friday, October 28, 2022. The students were involved in a mock arrest and investigation by the Internal Revenue Service. IRS Special Agents served as coaches and role players. Students got an unusual experiential learning experience, the IRS got to recruit potential agents with an accounting background.

Indiana State University business students learned firsthand what it’s like to be an IRS Special Agent. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS CI) conducted a daylong investigation simulation on campus known as “Citizen Academy.” The program has existed for more than two decades and ISU was its first stop in Indiana this year.

The day began with students being “sworn in” as honorary agents. They were then divided into groups and given details of their cases involving financial violations. IRS Special Agents guided the students through the process of analyzing documents, interviewing suspects, and using investigative techniques.

Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jason Bushey told students that IRS CI promotes compliance and confidence in the tax system and the agents help ensure that everyone pays their lawful share of tax. “We also hope to inspire some of you to think down the road about a future career with IRS Criminal Investigation,” he said.

"The students were able to experience a day in the life of an IRS Investigations agent," ISU accounting professor Dr. Alan Czyzewski said. "They investigated fraud through forensic accounting. The students solve one of three hypothetical financial crimes. Eleven agents led the students through three separate investigations involving undercover surveillance, talking to potential witnesses, obtaining and serving search warrants, and gathering evidence, which included going through garbage. The result of this investigation was an arrest."

One of the investigators was a distance student from northern California, April Halliday, who thought the opportunity was too good to pass up. "I have PTO and I travel so I have hotel points and I'm old enough to know that an IRS pension would be very good," she said.

<< Photo Gallery >>

Power of the Purse

October 28, 2022

The United Way of the Wabash Valley held their annual Power of the Purse Fundraiser on October 27th at the Terre Haute Convention Center. The United Way raises money for the Real Men Read campaign to provide books to students and encourage them to read by having volunteers read to classes. Power of the Purse invites women in the community to bid on purses and other items in a live auction and raffle. Thanks to Jackie McDonald, VP of Operations at Joink, the Scott College of Business was able to send representatives from the Women in Business Organization. Students, Grace Buswell, Laura Funk, Reilly Morgan, and advisor Madison Marshall (standing on left) attended along with women in leadership at Joink.

All funds raised from the Power of the Purse events benefit the United Way’s Success By 6 Impact Council’s programs aiding in the mission to prepare children to enter school ready to succeed. The program, entering its 12th year, brings adult mentors into kindergartens across our 6-county service area to read to students. Each child receives a copy of each book to take home, resulting in five new books in their home library. The program encourages the student’s literacy skills and joy of reading, provides mentoring opportunities for adults with students, and gives students extra attention and positive role models who value education.

Scott College of Business Celebrates Women Business Leaders

October 24, 2022

The Scott College of Business celebrates National Women’s Small Business Month with 100.7 MIX-FM. SCOB sponsored the radio station’s Women Mean Business, a campaign recognizing female business leaders in the Wabash Valley.

“The campaign involves celebrating our many talented female faculty and staff, as well as prominent ISU leaders, that serve our students and help make the college a leading business school,” said Dean Terry Daugherty. He also said the Scott College of Business serves more female students interested in business today than ever before. “Our enrollment is 44% female at the undergraduate level with accounting, human resources, management, and marketing majors consistently attracting more women than men,” he said. “At the graduate level, 40% of our MBA students are female, which is up 75% compared to 2021.”

SCOB launched a Women in Business Student Organization last year. The initiative is part of the new mentoring program dedicated to helping students develop professionally through directed relationships that foster a sense of connection and community. Daugherty said that participation has been strong with more than 85 members and is expected to double in size this year.

The women of the Scott College of Business

<< Full Story >>

Boulet Recognition Ceremony

October 21, 2022

Larry and Elizabeth “Buffy” Boulet have long supported Indiana State University and the Scott College of Business.

Larry graduated from the then School of Business with a degree in accounting in 1974. He served on the university's Foundation Board from 1996, becoming its chairman in 2004. As chairman, made the donation that led to the creation of the Boulet President’s Scholarship in 2003 and he led the March On! Capital Campaign.

Larry retired after a 28-year career as a senior audit partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers, and became owner and president of Boulet Consulting that advised companies on strategic planning.

In 2011, Larry was named as as one of Indiana State's Distinguished Alumni.

In October 2021, Larry and Buffy donated a $250,000 gift to the college to establish the Larry and Buffy Boulet Scott College of Business Mentoring Program. In recognition of the gift, ISU trustees approved the naming of the Larry and Buffy Boulet Mentoring Room on the first floor of Federal Hall, room FD125.

On October 20, 2022, the Scott College of Business celebrated their lives, achievements, generosity, and the anniversary of the formation of the Larry and Buffy Boulet Scott College of Business Mentoring Program.

<< Photo Gallery >>

Dr. Fergurson Presents at Sales Researchers Collaboration Consortium

October 19, 2022

Dr. Ricky Fergurson, an assistant professor at the Scott College of Business, recently attended the Sales Researchers Collaboration Consortium at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The consortium is an “invitation only” event that brought 25 promising pre-tenure business faculty from across the United States together for professional development opportunities and research collaboration. During the consortium, Fergurson presented his research examining customer attributes and cultural influence involving sales interactions.

Dr. Cory Campbell Featured Speaker for Indiana CPA Society

October 18, 2022

Dr. Cory Campbell, assistant professor of accounting, was the featured speaker for an Indiana CPA Society event yesterday. The event is titled, “In the Know: Developing a Digital Mindset.” More than 325 professionals registered for the online event. He spoke on how the rapid advances in emergent technologies are confounding the skills gap, as employees must continuously learn and relearn new skills at faster rates to keep pace. Research has suggested the half-life of a skill is five years and shrinking, meaning what is learned today may be obsolete in five years. The future of accounting includes developing transferrable digital skillsets on an ongoing basis. Current Scott College of Business students were able to attend the event through our Meis Student Development Center.

Alpha Epsilon Chapter Win at Gamma Iota Sigma National Conference

October 14, 2022

Indiana State's Alpha Epsilon chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma received several International Chapter Awards in Alumni Relations, Chapter Management, Community Service, and Membership Development for the 2021-2022 academic year at the recent Gamma Iota Sigma Conference in Charlotte, NC! The chapter was also designated as an "Excellent Chapter" for 2021-2022.

(Left to right): Jayson Wagler, Jace Souders, Bryce McLeish, Kyle Koch, Jackson Siddon, Samuel Fox, Natalie Silver, Sadie Herring, Julia Sonntag, Allyson Neese, Sydney M., and Faith B.

Entrepreneurship Day

October 12, 2022

The Business Engagement Center and Scott College of Business hosted more than 75 high school students on Tuesday, October 11th, from Bloomington High School North and Terre Haute North for “Entrepreneurship Day.” The special event delivered an engaging experience for students involving business education, hands-on workshops, and entrepreneurship presentations. ISU alumni entrepreneurs participating included Larry “LT” Thompson (Wellness Box), Bo Turner (BoCo Collective Marketing), and Jessica Weesner (Power Branding).

LT Thompson, Bo Turner, and Jessica Weesner

Numerous ISU representatives from the Career Center, Enrollment Management, Indiana West Central Small Business Development Center, and Mentoring Center also participated. Jessica quoted Marie Forleo⁠, when she said "Never start a business just to 'make money'. Start a business to make a difference."

<< Photo Gallery >>

Alumna Christina Reagle Named as IDOC Commissioner

October 12, 2022

Christina Reagle, a 2021 graduate of Indiana State University’s MBA program, has been promoted to lead the Indiana Department of Correction. She will begin in the new role on October 17. Reagle has served as deputy commissioner of administration and finance since 2019 and has worked at IDOC since 2011. She oversees the finance, construction services, data analytics, and technology divisions. Reagle also worked for the Indiana Department of Child Services.

“I am committed to the responsible management of IDOC that results in a safe environment where employees are valued and incarcerated individuals are given the best opportunity to return to their communities as productive citizens,” Reagle said. “I look forward to leading a committed team.”

SMIFC Conference a Great Success

October 10, 2022

300 participants from 50 U.S. universities joined industry professionals at the Student Management Investment Fund Consortium Conference hosted by Indiana State University's Scott College of Business in Chicago on October 6-7. Held at the historic Palmer House hotel, attendees engaged in networking, panel discussions, investment competitions, and industry presentations from finance professionals. The conference is designed to deliver experiential learning, record best practices surrounding investment management, and provide professional development opportunities for business students.

Three distinguished keynote speakers took part in the conference: John Rogers, Co-CEO of Ariel Investments, Andrew Opdyke, Senior Economist at First Trust, and Matt Moran, Head of Index Insights for the CBOE Options Institute. In separate sessions, the program highlighted professionals from Charles Schwab & Company, CMT Association, Kingsview Partners, The Center for Investment Research, and UBS Global.

Students also demonstrated their investing knowledge through multiple competitions, including a poster session detailing each school’s student-managed investment fund and a firm performance analysis. Teams were judged on fund performance, visual quality, presentation of results, and overall analysis.

“This year’s SMIFC conference was a great success and I congratulate the winning schools and students, “ states Dr. Tarek Zaher, SMIFC Conference Chair and Professor of Finance at ISU. “We are proud to be able to provide our partner schools with a rich mix of experiential learning and I am grateful to our corporate sponsors who make the conference possible.”

The conference ended with students visiting the Chicago Board of Options Exchange (CBOE) for a tour, which is the largest options exchange in the United States.

The purpose of the consortium is to enhance student learning and scholarship, record best practices in investment management among SMIF partners, provide a vehicle for student networking and exchange of ideas, and provide a permanent repository of relevant literature and recorded student experiences. The SMIF Consortium builds a community of institutions with a shared vision for student success and leadership in investing. The SMIF Consortium also establishes relationships with industry partners to assist in its primary goals of student education, research, and leadership.

<< SMIFC 2022 Conference >> << Photo Gallery >>

Be So Bold and Endowed Positions

October 4, 2022

In the latest edition of State Magazine, Dean Terry Daugherty explains why endowed positions are important to student success and why they are one of the priorities of the Be So Bold campaign.

“As a university, if we’re able to retain outstanding faculty members, reward and recognize those who are contributing in a way that makes a significant impact, it’s going to to transform the lives of students for generations” Dr. Daugherty said.

Dean Terry Daugherty

<< Full Story >> << Be So Bold pages >>

College Hosts High School Student Leadership Conference

October 3, 2022

The Scott College of Business hosted the Indiana Business Professionals of America (BPA) Fall Leadership Conference on Thursday, September 29. BPA is a national organization that supports students interested in business and technology fields through co-curricular leadership and career development with close to 2,500 members in 87 chapters across the state and more than 45,000 members and 1,800 chapters throughout the U.S.

During the event, Scott College of Business (SCOB) students spoke with the 150 high school students in attendance about the business student experience, experiential learning opportunities, and professional preparation at ISU. Dean Terry Daugherty, Business Engagement Director Carrie Lutz, and Mentoring Coordinator Madison Marshall led a panel discussion. Indiana State students who participated included Sam Bowen (senior, finance), Lily Cain (senior, management information systems), Sean Garner (freshman, business administration), Jackson Krieg (senior, finance), and Keelie Osterhoudt (junior, operations & supply chain management).

“The in-person experience at Indiana State University was extremely valuable for our students and teachers," said Indiana BPA advisor Tina McCloud, a 1993 ISU graduate. "As a business educator for over 28 years, I have seen the positive impact BPA makes through competitive events, community service, and leadership activities, which is precisely what the business students shared about their experience in the Scott College.”

Delta Sigma Pi / Women in Business Round Table

September 15, 2022

On Wednesday, September 14, 2022, Delta Sigma Pi, a professional fraternity organized to foster the study of business in universities, and the Women in Business student organization held a Round Table event which discussed the importance of being engaged and participating in activities while a business student. The event brought six business professionals, most of whom are alumni, to the college and more than 50 students participated.

John Krutz (CliftonLarsonAllen), JD Pizzola (State Farm Insurance), Amanda Mast (Enterprise Rent-A-Car), Kelly Daugherty (Marketing Major, Women in Business & Delta Sigma Pi), Kate Herrick (Cummins, Inc.), Ashlynn Lasecki (First Financial Bank), Tiffany Baker (3Si Investments)

Among this group, John Krutz, JD Pizzola, Kate Herrick, Ashlynn Lasecki and Tiffany Baker are alumni.

Day of OSCM

September 14, 2022

The Day of OSCM took place on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 in the Kenneth L. Smith and Theresa Kathryn Klein Smith Magna Carta Courtroom of Federal Hall, the home of the Scott College of Business.

Events featured a panel discussion with Mark Linville, Global Defense P&C Executive, Rolls Royce; Michelle Harvey, Master Scheduler, Eli Lilly & Co.; George Ellis, Global Supply Chain Leader, Corteva Agriscience;& Kelsey Van Scyoc, Procurement Manager, Toyota Material Handling; and Fred Cartwright, CEO and President, Conexus Indiana.

Also attending were representatives of Adjutant Solutions Group (ASG), Amazon, AstraZeneca, Crown Equipment Corporation, Cummins Inc., GEODIS, Great Dane, International Paper, MasterBrand Cabinets Inc, and thyssenkrupp.

The event was a great opportunity for our Operations and Supply Chain Management students to learn more about their chosen career and network with some of the industry leaders.

<< Photo Gallery >>

Deloitte Alumni Return to Recruit

September 13, 2022

Yesterday, Monday, September 12, 2022, alumni Nick Dachota and Jessica Dachota returned to campus to recruit Scott College of Business students for Deloitte, a leading global business consulting firm. Nick is a Senior Tax Consultant at Deloitte and Jessica is the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Campus Recruiting Manager for Deloitte. While visiting they hosted a lunch and learn for accounting students, met with MBA students, and participated in a professional mentoring session.

Ribbon-cutting as "Made @ Plainfield" Launches

August 28, 2022

Indiana State University announced Friday a partnership with GEODIS, a world leader in transport and logistics, for space at “Made @ Plainfield,” a facility that brings higher education and industry together for teaching, workforce training, and research.

The purpose is to create convenient new opportunities for post-secondary education and, for people currently in the workforce, enhanced skills and credentialing.

ISU calls the space the Logistics 4.0 Innovation Hub. It will train people in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the management of logistics companies. It is expected that early next year, there will be a mini-prototype of a warehouse using robotics ready for student tours, research, and teaching.

Terry Daugherty, Dean of the Scott College of Business, and Associate Professor Dr. Kuntal Bhattacharyya led ISU’s effort for space at Made @ Plainfield. Curtis also credited Clint Weddle, Executive Director of the ISU Alumni Association, and Dr. Jason Trainer, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management.

<< Full Story >> << Photo Gallery >>

Welcome Back Picnic

August 25, 2022

The Scott College of Business Welcome Back Picnic is one of the first highlights of the fall semester. Students, faculty and staff get an opportunity to meet each other in an informal setting.

This year's picnic took place on August 24, 2022, and almost everyone from the college attended. The picnic is a chance for the college student and professional organizations to introduce themselves to new students and there's plenty for everyone to enjoy. Along with food there was a photo booth and DJ.

Students enjoying the Welcome Back Picnic

<< Photo Gallery >>

Dr. Cindy Crowder - Associate Dean

August 11, 2022

Please welcome Dr. Cindy Crowder to the Scott College of Business.

Cindy L. Crowder, Professor of Human Resource Development, earned a Ph.D. In Business Administration from the University of Tennessee. She served in several administrative positions at Indiana State, including Department Chair for seven years, Admissions, Career Counseling, and Financial Aid. Prior to academia, she worked in event planning, employee development, training, and staffing.

As a scholar-practitioner, Dr. Crowder’s publications focus on closing the loop between research and practice in the areas of work-life integration, employee discrimination, and career development. She teaches Research Methods, International and Cross-Cultural Training, Work-Life Integration, and Career Development. Her dedication to student and faculty success at Indiana State has been recognized with the Difference Maker Award and nomination for the Caleb Mills Teaching Award.

Dr. Crowder demonstrates commitment to professional service as a reviewer for numerous research publications. She chaired the Program Excellence Network for HRD programs and served on the Malcom Knowles Dissertation of Year Award Committee. She is an active member of professional organizations such as the Academy of Human Resource Development, the Society for Human Resource Management, and the Academy of Management.

Indiana State University announces the Class of 2026 Networks Scholars

August 8, 2022

Seven incoming Indiana State University Scott College of Business freshmen have been awarded the Networks Scholarship for the 2022-2023 year.

The Networks Financial Institute Scholarship provides first-year students with a $9,000 scholarship per year for four years, a $3,000 professional development account, and participation in the Networks Professional Development Program.

Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, involvement in high school, community service, leadership potential and the desire to pursue a career in business and financial services.

The incoming Networks Scholarship recipients are:

Keegan Beeler of West Terre Haute, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Insurance and Risk Management, with minors in Marketing and Sales.

Faith Bluel of Pendleton, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Marketing, with a minor in Entrepreneurship.

Evan Clark of LaGrange, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Marketing, with a minor in Sales.

Natalie Silver of Clinton, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Finance, with a minor in Economics.

Jace Souders of Pendleton, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Business.

Cassidy Trammell of Greenwood, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Accounting and Criminology, with a minor in Forensic Accounting.

Dillon White of Brazil, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Finance.

Students who have received advanced scholarships at Indiana State and are majoring in business are invited to participate in the Networks Professional Development Program. The additional incoming students who will comprise the program's Class of 2026 are:

Samuel Fox of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, is planning on majoring in Insurance and Risk Management and Finance, with a minor in Economics. He is a President's Scholar.

Josie Hapack of Highland, Illinois, is planning on majoring in Business, with a Minor in Sustainability. She is a University Honors Scholar.

Sadie Herring of West Terre Haute, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Insurance and Risk Management, with a minor in Financial Services. She is a President's Scholar.

Sydney Myers of Rosedale, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Insurance and Risk Management, with a minor in Finance. She is a Gongaware Scholar.

Hannah Natschke of Danville, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Business. She is a University Honors Scholar.

Allyson Neese of Terre Haute, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Insurance and Risk Management, with minors in Sales or Financial Services. She is a Gongaware Scholar.

Ryan Reimondo of Crawfordsville, Indiana, is planning on majoring in Business. He is a President's Scholar.

<< Full Story >>

Faculty Write Exemplar Case Study

June 30, 2022

A case study published by four Scott College of Business faculty, Dr. Chia-An Chao, Dr. Aruna Chandra, Dr. Dale Varble, and Dr. Joyce Young, has been selected as the exemplar case by the 2022 PhD Project Case Writing Workshop hosted at Providence College from June 29 – July 1. The PhD Project is a national organization founded in 1994 to increase workplace diversity by increasing the diversity of business school faculty who encourage, mentor, support, and enhance the preparation of tomorrow’s corporate leaders.

A select group of 30 doctoral students will be attending the workshop to learn about the case teaching method with our faculty’s work used as the model for teaching students how to write a great teaching case and instructor notes. Dr. Joyce Young, Professor of Marketing, participated in the workshop on June 29th to discuss the origin of the case and how the authors developed the instructor notes.

Dr. Chi-An Chao, Professor of Information Systems said that, "It is an honor for our work to be selected as the model case for this year’s PhD Project Case Workshop. When developing this case, my co-authors and I had great debates and fun discussions pertaining to protecting customers’ religious rights, public safety, and corporate interests. Our hope is that the case inspires interest in using social events for business pedagogy that is both engaging and addresses critical issues such as diversity."

The study, “Credit Union Says No to Customer’s Hijab: Public Safety or Discrimination?" was published in 2020 in the Journal of Critical Incidents.

Chao, Chia-An, Aruna Chandra, Dale Varble, & Joyce A. Young (2020). Credit Union Says No to Customer’s Hijab: Public Safety or Discrimination? Journal of Critical Incidents, 13:1, 44-46.

Dr. Chia-An Chao, Dr. Aruna Chandra, Dr. Dale Varble, and Dr. Joyce Young

In Memoriam

June 28, 2022

Three members of the college community were remembered in the recent University Memorial Service

Norman Bucher – Professor, Management and Finance. He served the college from 1982 to 1992. in 1989 he served as chairman of the Department of Management and Finance and also directed the ISU master's in business program for three years

William Moates – Associate Professor, Management Information Systems. He served the college from 1987 to 2010. He held the position of Associate Professor of MIS and taught courses in introductory business computing, systems analysis and design, operations management, statistics, and the MBA core course in management information systems.

Donna Stewart – Assistant Professor, School of Business. She served the School of Business from 1966 to 1994. She earned her BS from what was then the Commerce Department of the Indiana State Teachers College in 1955 and her MS in 1966. After earning her MS she was an Instructor of Business at what was by then the School of Business at Indiana State University. By the late 1980s she was Assistant Professor in Administrative Services/Business Education until she retired in 1994.

Norman Bucher, William Moates and Donna Stewart

Faculty and Staff Named by Students as Contributing to Success

June 20, 2022

Congratulations to the Scott College of Business faculty and staff listed below on being recognized in the Class of 2021 First Destination Survey as having contributed to student success at ISU! The Career Center collects post-graduation information from all graduating students.

Rachel Baird, Kuntal Bhattacharyya, Maureen Casile, Concetta DePaolo, Ricky Fergurson, Jeff Harper, Bahareh Javadizadeh, Ashley Layman, John Liu, Jin Park, Michelle Reeson, Joe Sanders, Paul Schikora, Milton Soto-Ferrari, Tammy Spivey, William Warfel, Sara Williams, Rebecca Wray, and Tarek Zaher.

<< View full list from across Indiana State >>

Governor Holcomb Announces Rob Lowe as Indiana State Trustee

June 15, 2022

Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb has appointed ISU alumnus Robert “Rob” Lowe of Carmel, Indiana, to Indiana State University's Board of Trustees. He will serve on the Board until June 30, 2024.

Rob earned a bachelor's degree in business management and a master's degree in human resource development from Indiana State. He is the Vice President of People and Culture for Republic Airways. In his role, he provides executive leadership for employee engagement, talent management, diversity, equity & inclusion, and culture alignment.

Rob holds both an SPHR and SHRM-SCP certification. He is also a certified Circuit Court Mediator for the Florida Supreme Court. With over 20 years of experience, Rob has held leadership roles in Human Resources for several Fortune 500 companies including, Dean Foods, The Nature’s Bounty Company, Accenture, Cummins Engine Company, and Alcoa. Presently, Rob is a board member for the Indiana State University Foundation and a member of the Human Resources Development Program Advisory Board.

Project Stepping Stone

June 14, 2022

Yesterday, June 13 the college hosted more than 30 high school students from Project Stepping Stone of Indiana. The organization is part of the Escala Foundation and helps Indiana’s Latino students prepare for college and beyond by introducing them to potential careers and providing visits to several of Indiana’s leading college campuses and businesses.

Indiana State University’s Chair of the Board of Trustees, Mrs. Kathy Cabello, is President of the organization and helped host them on campus.

During their visit, Dean Terry Daugherty, Dr. Milton Soto-Ferrari, and Ms. Madison Marshall met with the students discussing the Scott College of Business, the importance of mentor relationships, and careers in business. They also participated in an interactive new product development exercise led by Dr. Soto-Ferrari.

Project Stepping Stone students

Indiana Governor’s Office Visits College

June, 10, 2022

Yesterday, staff of Indiana’s Governor’s Office visited the college. They were here to meet with West Central Indiana Small Business Development Center Director Courtney Richey and the International Outreach Network (ION) business advisor team within the Scott College of Business at Indiana State University. The International Outreach Network is a $1 million funded program that provides business outreach services to black-owned, LBGTQIA+, rural, and veteran small business owners.

Anthony Phillips is the Deputy Chief and Executive Director of External Equity and Josie Fasoldt is the Chief Data and Strategy Officer.

Left to Right: Dr. Terry Daugherty, Dean of Scott College of Business, Indiana State University; Mrs. Josie Fasoldt, Chief Data and Strategy Officer for the Office of Equity, Inclusion & Opportunity, State of Indiana; Mr. Anthony Phillips, Deputy Chief and Executive Director of External Equity for the Office of Equity, Inclusion & Opportunity, State of Indiana; and Ms. Courtney Richey, Director of West Central Indiana Small Business Development Center, Indiana State University

SCOB Celebrates DECA Students

May 26, 2022

The Scott College of Business strongly supports the Indiana DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) both locally and at state level. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.

In recognition of this support both South and North Vigo High Schools invited Dean Terry Daugherty, the college’s mentoring coordinator, Madison Marshall, several students, and Sycamore Sam to attend both schools’ DECA banquets in celebration of the achievements of these local students.to help celebrate the success of their students at the recent state and international DECA conferences.

Madison Marshall said that “As a Terre Haute South alum and DECA participant, it is an honor to give back, through mentorship and professional development experiences, to an organization that has provided me with more than I can begin to express. I am proud to work for a college that values supporting our community and look forward to continuing this partnership with the local and statewide DECA chapters.”

Celebrating the DECA business students at SVHS and NVHS

<< Full Story >> << Scott College of Business recognizes DECA students >>

ISU Alumni Give $200,000 to Create Online MBA Scholarships

May 18, 2022

Indiana State University has received a $200,000 gift to create the Tim and Bobbie O’Neill Online MBA Scholarship. There will be 25 O’Neill Scholars each year, all of whom receive $1,000 scholarships.

Tim O’Neill served on ISU’s Board of Trustees from 1987 to 1995 and received the university’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2007. He graduated in 1969 with a business degree and was a scholarship swimmer for ISU, serving as team captain his senior year. Bobbie O’Neill graduated in 1972 with a degree in elementary education.

Tim and Bobbie O’Neill

<< Full Story >>

Faculty and Staff Receive Distinguished Service Awards

May 16, 2022

Congratulations to Associate Professor Emeritus Joe Harder; MBA Program Assistant Director Ashley Layman; and Associate Professor Jin Park for receiving Distinguished Service Awards from the Assessment Council for the university.

The Council’s charge is to shape institutional culture and the practice of assessment at Indiana State University in service of student learning, informed planning, and continuous improvement. Joe, Ashley, and Jin received this recognition for their valuable contributions involving the assurance of learning measurement process.

Students on Study Trip to Portugal

May 13, 2022

The purpose of the proposed short-term study trip to Portugal, May 10-23, 2022 is to gain conversancy with the environment for entrepreneurship in Portugal, focusing on the role played by the government, universities, and the private sector in the creation and growth of new ventures. We will also learn about the country’s unique history and culture by experiencing its food, music, and culture while learning about and visiting its rich historical sights. Students will learn about the micro and macro environments for business in Portugal through a range of visits that will provide a window into the successful Portuguese experiment for supporting and growing new ventures.

Students at the Lisbon School of Economics and Management (LSEG)

<< Read More >>

In the first days of the trip the group visited the Lisbon School of Economics and Management meeting with their director of Executive Education, Director of ISEG Executive Education, Filipa Cristovão, and young Portuguese entrepreneurs. They also visited Tec Labs - Centro de Inovação.

Alumnus Kyle Varble Named as one of Conexus Indiana's Rising 30

May 13, 2022

Kyle Varble is a 2017 graduate of Indiana State University where he studied Operations and Supply Chain Management with a minor in Marketing. After graduating Kyle started work at Rolls Royce and Kyle has enjoyed a fast ascent, becoming the youngest Global Commodity Manager across Rolls-Royce’s international operations.

<< Read More >> << Michael Fillbrunn's Nomination of Kyle Varble (video) >>

Graduate Profile: Tammie Katin

May 9, 2022

Non-traditional student Tammie Katin graduated recently with a degree in Insurance and Risk Management and is already seeing the benefits. Tammie was recently promoted to Catalina Island Company’s director of risk management, and her expanded knowledge of insurance and risk management issues has given her more credibility with administrators and office co-workers. She is implementing more risk management practices within the company.

Tammie lives in California and was a distance student but traveled by train and car to attend the Commencement Ceremony on May 7, in person.

<< Full Story >> << Spring 2022 Graduation Reception >>

Trustee & Husband Give $200,000 to Fund IRM Faculty Fellow

May 6, 2022

Indiana State University trustee Kim Smith and her husband Steve Smith have given $200,000 to establish a named faculty fellow in the Insurance and Risk Management Department at the Scott College of Business.

The fund will be used to reward high-achieving faculty that are advancing the insurance and risk management profession and creating new and innovative ways to educate students.

Kim Smith is a 1977 magna cum laude graduate of ISU. She earned her law degree from Indiana University School of Law and began her insurance career in 1980 as a claims attorney in Indianapolis.

Kim and Steve Smith

<< Read More >>

Alumni Awarded 2022 Community Impact Small Business of the Year!

May 6, 2022

3 Sisters Investments of Terre Haute, owned by ISU alums Tiffany and Mark Baker, received the 2022 Community Impact Small Business of the Year award. Founded in 2019, 3 Sisters Investments is a real estate company that creates community and family spaces in Terre Haute and named after the couple’s three young daughters. Tiffany graduated from the Scott College of Business (08) and Mark completed his degree from the College of Technology (07) at Indiana State University.

<< Read More >>

Christian Hill Named as Commencement Speaker

May 6, 2022

Graduating student Christian Hill will be one of the speakers at the undergraduate commencement ceremonies.

A first-generation college student from Gary, Hill is graduating with a degree in finance with a concentration on financial analysis and investment management from the Scott College of Business. After graduating, he plans to pursue a master's degree in Student Affairs and Higher Education or African American and African Diaspora Studies.

Christian worked as Student-Staff Supervisor and Lead Academic Retention Coordinator for the Charles E. Brown African American Cultural Center and was Director of News and Sports Operations Department for the campus radio station WZIS, 90.7FM.

<< Full Story >>

Women in Business Roundtable

April 28, 2022

The Women in Business organization held a roundtable discussion on April 27, 2022. The event brought 8 amazing professionals together with our Scott College of Business students to discuss professional experiences while offering guidance on issues women face throughout their careers. Our Women in Business student organization is an important mentoring initiative made possible by benefactors Larry and Buffy Boulet. Mentoring Coordinator, Madison Marshall and the leadership team of the student organization planned and executed this professional development opportunity.

<< Read More >> << Women in Business pages >>

Women in Business Students Attend National Association of Women Business Owners Luncheon

April 22, 2022

Scott College of Business Mentoring Coordinator, Madison Marshall, and 6 of our Women in Business student leaders attended the National Association of Women Business Owners Luncheon on April 20, in Indianapolis.

Thanks to the generous support of Kathy Cabello, President and CEO of Cabello Associates Inc., the students were given the opportunity to attend the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Luncheon, which was attended by a variety of women entrepreneurs and executives. She personally asked Women In Business, a new student organization from Scott College of Business, to be her guests and meet women business owners in the larger economic, social and political spheres as they were celebrating NAWBO’s 25th anniversary of supporting and advocating for women entrepreneurs. This event had a tremendous impact on the students' professional development. They had the opportunity to network with some of Indianapolis' most powerful women while enjoying a wonderful lunch and presentations as business leaders share their stories, challenges, and successful experiences.

As one of the students said, “It was such a wonderful and enriching experience to not only see those outstanding people but also to interact with them. I am both humbled and grateful for those moments and will make it my top priority to put into practice what I have learned on that day.”

Pictured at the event are Felicia Lawrence, Regina Warren, Tammy Butler, and Lotus Mallbris; as well as Women in Business executives.

<<NAWBO - Indianapolis Trailblazers 2022 Brochure >> << Photo Gallery >> << Women in Business pages >>

Beta Gamma Sigma Inductees

April 20, 2022

Last evening (April 19th), the Scott College of Business inducted 16 new members into its chapter of Beta Gamma Sigma, an international business honor society. Evan Lunsford, Scott College of Business alum, was keynote speaker. His message to the members was to strive to be successful while giving back to those who support your success.

Membership in Beta Gamma Sigma is the highest honor a student of business can receive. Only the top 10 percent of the undergraduate class and 20 percent of the master’s students are selected for membership.

The mission of Beta Gamma Sigma is to encourage and honor academic achievement in the study of business, to cultivate and celebrate leadership and professional excellence, to advance the values of the society and to serve its lifelong members. Worldwide, there are more than 600 chapters and networking groups to connect with other BGS members. The BGS Alumni Network provides members with professional development opportunities and networking events as well as ways to participate in the community and with local business students.

Pictured with Dean Terry Daugherty, Linda Goodwin-Ross, Beta Gamma Sigma Faculty Advisor, Gabriele Burkhart, Chapter President and Elizabeth Baer, Chapter Secretary are: MBA Candidates, Youssef El Ouazzani, Lauren Kuckewich, Ping Lin, and David Somheil; Senior, Sandra Menkhaus; Juniors, Sydney Eisenmenger, Brock Bolinger, Grace Buswell, Audra Doedtman, Danielle Henning, Dylan Maupin, Charles Moskal, Malea Ramsey, and Lindsey White; and Sophomores, Joseph Mahern, and Megan Thompson.

<< More Photos >>

Diversity in Business Symposium

April 19, 2022

The Scott College of Business Diversity in Business Symposium took place on Monday, April 18, 2022 in the Ken and Theresa Smith Magna Carta Courtroom, Federal Hall. This event brought together a diverse group of professionals to share their business experiences with our guests, including opportunities and challenges they have faced in supporting a more inclusive work environment. The event culminated with a keynote address from ISU alum Ms. Tiana Baker – Global Ecommerce Worldwide Account Manager for FedEx Corporation.

During the Symposium the West Central Indiana Small Business Development Center received the Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award. This recognized their efforts to create equity among resources for small business owners throughout the region.

Dean Terry Daugherty with the Diversity in Business Sympoium pannelists, Steve Canty, Maureen Biehl, Brian Jiminez, Candance Nortey, and Rana Johnson

<< Diversity in Business Symposium pages >>

Sycamore Leaders Recognized

April 5, 2022

Outstanding Indiana State University student leaders, student organizations, and advisors were recognized at the Sycamore Leadership Awards on Sunday, April 3. Once again the Scott College of Business was well represented by our students.
Congratulations to these outstanding students on their achievements -

Elizabeth Baer - Hines Memorial Medal
Anne Bowen - Alan C. Rankin Distinguished Senior
Sam Bowen - Richard G. Landini Outstanding Junior
Tessa Carr - Hines Memorial Medal
Kimberly Collins - Alan C. Rankin Distinguished Senior and Hines Memorial Medal
Noah Heim - Hines Memorial Medal
Jabrea Jones - Richard G. Landini Outstanding Junior and Outstanding Student Organization Leader

<< Read More >>

Give to Blue Day: $1.3 Million Raised

March 17, 2021

Indiana State University's fourth annual day of giving on Wednesday, March 16, resulted in $1,334,614 for the university, setting a single-day fundraising record.

A total of 1,845 donors from 50 U.S. states and seven countries contributed during the 24-hour fundraising event. The Scott College of Business raised $162,415 from 173 donors.

"It was an extraordinary day for Indiana State University, and we extend our sincere appreciation to all who made a gift on Give to Blue Day," said President Deborah J. Curtis. "It was gratifying to see so many Sycamores come together for events here on campus and in the local community to support ISU.”

<< Give to Blue Day page >> << Give to Blue Day news >>

Alumnus Jason Paul Hendrickson

March 14, 2022

We are very sorry to report that one of our graduates, Jason Hendrickson died last Wednesday aged just 40. After graduating in 2003 with a degree in Business Education he started teaching business at Danville Community High School and just three years after that received the Emerging Professional Award from the Indiana Business Educators Association.

Jason was a member of Indiana Business Education Association, National Business Education Association, and Indiana State Advisor to Business Professionals of America.

Our condolences to his family and friends.

<< Jason's Obituary >>

Alumnus Creates Business Scholarship

March 10, 2022

Indiana State University alumnus and Sullivan, Indiana, native James "Jim" Lear has created the James and Wanda Lear Family Business Scholarship. The scholarship will provide support to students who, much like Lear, are from Sullivan or Vigo County and are studying business at Indiana State University.

"My wife Wanda and I saw in our lifetimes how important it was to have a college education," Lear said, "Knowing how expensive a college education can be, I feel every little bit can help."
After graduating from Indiana State in 1950, Lear built a successful career in banking, creating connections across the Terre Haute and Sullivan communities for nearly 40 years.

"Jim Lear's impact on the local community has been tremendous, and it will continue to grow through this scholarship," said Terry Daugherty, Dean of the Scott College of Business. "He is not only creating positive change in the lives of current students but inspiring them to be engaged leaders within their communities as well."

"May you go on to do great things and remember those individuals and institutions that helped you along the way," said James.

Wanda and James Lear

<< Read Full Story >>

College Sponsors Indiana DECA Conference

March 7, 2022

The Scott College of Business is sponsoring the 2022 IN DECA State Career Development Conference this week in Indianapolis! Dean Terry Daugherty gave the opening address Sunday evening before a sizable audience of student competitors, coaches, judges and other participants. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. Students are competing this week to qualify for DECA's International Career Development Conference. Best of luck to all the competitors! "I have been very impressed so far with the participation of high school students, our presence and exposure from our sponsorship, and the overall quality." said Dean Terry Daugherty.

DECA Conference, Indianapolis, March 6, 2022

Marketing Professor Wins Award; Features in Video

March 7, 2022

Congratulations to Dr. Ricky Fergurson on being awarded the 2022 Lou E. Pelton Early Career Excellence Award at the Association of Collegiate Marketing Educators Conference in New Orleans. The conference took place on March 2-5, 2022.

Dr. Ricky Fergurson accepting his award

A few weeks previously, Dr. Fergurson was featured in the Understanding Customer Perceptions of Salesperson Attributes video produced by the Direct Selling Education Foundation of which Dr. Fergurson is a Fellow.

Indiana State Awarded The First-gen Forward Designation

March 4, 2022

The Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation, has recognized Indiana State University with The First-gen Forward designation.

This designation identifies ISU among the institutions of higher education that have demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students. As a result, ISU will receive professional development and community-building experiences, and access to the center's research and resources for its faculty and staff.

"One of my greatest pride points for Indiana State is the university’s love and celebration of first-generation college students. ISU embraces this designation and asks students to wear it like a badge of honor. I believe this stems from a commitment to transform the lives of all Sycamores. As a first-generation student, I am delighted by the national recognition the university received from the Center for First-generation Student Success." - Terry Daugherty, dean, Scott College of Business.

Jared Ell wrote that "As a first-gen college grad myself this is such a fantastic distinction! Being able to work with other first-gen students was one of my favorite parts of working at ISU! I'm a proud alum today seeing ISU get this well-deserved recognition!"

<< Read More >>

Victree Place in Selective Insurance College Competition

February 28, 2022

A BIG congratulations to the Indiana State University team, VicTree Insurance, for placing 2nd in the Selective Insurance College Competition on Friday, February 25, 2022.

Kudos to the team members (pictured below left to right): Bryce McLeish, Noah Heim, Anne Bowen, MaKenzie Quissell, Gabe Youngblood, and Kyle Koch for a fantastic performance and hard work during the four-week virtual competition!

A huge thank you to the team mentor and Indiana State University - Scott College of Business alumnus, Scott D. Johnson with Healy Group for providing guidance and advice throughout the competition.

Faculty Research

February 24, 2022

The Scott College of Business on Wednesday (yesterday) hosted an event to recognize its faculty members' recent intellectual contributions. Sixteen faculty members published peer-reviewed journal articles and nine of them spoke at the event to describe their research.

Special recognition went to Ricky Fergurson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Marketing and Operations, for his article, "Salesperson Attributes that Influence Consumer Perceptions of Sales Interactions" in the Journal of Consumer Marketing. This journal is among the top-tier publications in the field.

Dr. Ricky Fergurson and ISU Provost Dr. Christopher Olsen

Of NASDAQ, Buttonwoods and Limestone

February 22, 2022

On Friday, February 18, 2022 Indiana State alumnus Michael Alkire, ’85 (Computer Science), President & CEO of Premier Inc., led the ringing of the Nasdaq Stock Market opening bell at the Nasdaq headquarters in Times Square, New York.

Michael Alkire ringing the bell at NASDAQ to start the day's trading

Michael was named as an Indiana State Distinguished Alumni in September 2021.

The Buttonwood Agreement is the founding document of what is now New York Stock Exchange and is one of the most important financial documents in U.S. history. The agreement organized securities trading in New York City and was signed on May 17, 1792 between 24 stockbrokers outside of 68 Wall Street. According to legend the signing took place under a buttonwood tree where their earliest transactions had occurred. The New York Stock Exchange celebrates the signing of this agreement as its founding.

On the north side of Federal Hall, the home of the Scott College of Business, is a sculpture named Under the Buttonwood. As part of Indiana State University the sculpture was named that to celebrate the college’s links with business and because another name for the Buttonwood tree is the Sycamore!

The sculpture was placed there in September 2012, after alumna Sherry Mills Hockemeyer created the Business Permanent Art Collection Fund. An anonymous gift to that led to the commissioning of the sculpture by Tell City artist Greg Harris.

Under the Buttonwood

The sculpture is created from Indiana Limestone and comes from the same quarry that was originally used to extract the rock that covers Federal Hall. The Indiana Limestone field starts just north of Bloomington and runs southeast to just south of Bedford and contains 45 billion tons of high grade limestone.

A photograph entitled "Wall Street" by Jack Hackney taken at a Bedford quarry.

These same quarries provided the limestone used to clad the Empire State Building and the Pentagon.

<< Distinguished Alumni Award Winners >> << Sherry Mills Hockemeyer >> << Under the Buttonwood >>

Students Excel at Selling with the Bulls

February 21, 2022

Five students of the Sales and Negotiations Center Sales Team under the leadership of Professor Ricky Fergurson racked up an impressive eight awards at the University of South Florida Selling with the Bulls competition. Between them the team came away with:

Second place Team Bull award - First Flight
Second place Top Bull (individual) award - First flight - Hannah Rickett
Fourth place Top Bull (individual) award - First flight - Natalie Mauk
Winners Circle Award: Hannah Rickett and Natalie Mauk
First place -Voicemail award - Connor Lash
Second Place - Networking award - Hannah Rickett
Fifth place - LinkedIn award - Rachel Hildebrand

Dr. Fergurson said that “I could not be more excited for these students after seeing all of their hard work in preparing for “The toughest test in sales” pay off in such a big way for them. Additionally, they all had a chance to connect with some great companies during the two days competing and networking.”

All the team members, Brin Bair, Connor Lash, Rachel Hildebrand, Natalie Mauk, and Hannah Rickett found it an amazing experience and are rightly proud of their achievements.

Selling with the Bulls is an annual sales competition hosted by the University of South Florida, Tampa, and is considered the most challenging of student sales competitions. This year's competition was held on February 17/18, 2022.

<< More Photos >>

Alumni Profile: Bo Turner '17 (Marketing)

February 16, 2022

On starting at Indiana State, Bo Turner qualified as both a President’s and Networks Scholar. Upon embarking on her college career, she enrolled in the Scott College of Business and got a student job working in the University Marketing department. She helped generate social media content, making videos and monitoring analytics.

In 2020, Bo took the leap to leave Indiana State and become co-owner of a marketing service called BoCo Collective. Her company serves other small business owners in the Terre Haute area, among other locations. Bo called her departure from State ‘bittersweet.’

<< Full Story >>

Scott College Alumnus Rob Lowe to Speak at College of Technology

February 11, 2022

Indiana State alumnus and human resources executive Rob Lowe, '92, GR '97, is the speaker of the upcoming College of Technology Speaker Series event in honor of Black History Month. The event is 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. on February 18 via Zoom.

The presentation topic is the ABCs of Success: Your Ambition and Your Attitude; Your Brand and Your Benevolence; Your Circle and Your Commitment.

Rob Lowe earned a bachelor's degree in business management and a master's degree in human resource development from Indiana State. He is the Vice President of People and Culture for Republic Airways. In his role, he provides executive leadership for employee engagement, talent management, diversity, equity & inclusion, and culture alignment.

Rob holds both an SPHR and SHRM-SCP certification. He is also a certified Circuit Court Mediator for the Florida Supreme Court. With over 20 years of experience, Rob has held leadership roles in Human Resources for several Fortune 500 companies including, Dean Foods, The Nature’s Bounty Company, Accenture, Cummins Engine Company, and Alcoa. Presently, Rob is a board member for the Indiana State University Foundation and a member of the Human Resources Development Program Advisory Board.

He was the alumni speaker during the December 2019 commencement and in February 2022 was a speaker in the College of Technology Speaker Series presenting on the ABC’s of Success; Your Ambition and Your Attitude, Your Brand and Your Benevolence, and Your Circle and Your Commitment.

<< COT Speaker Flyer >> << College of Technology website >>

Women in Business: Leslie Loveless

February 5, 2022

Introducing the first Women in Business guest speaker Leslie Loveless!

Leslie Loveless, CEO and Partner at Slone Partners, and Indiana State alumna

Women in Business are holding a speaker meeting on Monday, February 21, 2022 at 4:00 - 6:00pm in the Smith Magna Carta Room of Federal Hall.

The meeting will feature:

• Networking with fellow members and Leslie Loveless
• Leadership presentation
• WiB action items

Leslie Loveless

Leslie will discuss leadership and career development with you. She brings more than 20 years of industry experience to executive search firm Slone Partners, where she focuses on cultivating new business partnerships and expanding relationships with existing clients. Leslie joined the firm in 2007, became Chief Operating Officer in 2014, and CEO in 2016. Prior to Slone Partners, she led a successful career in healthcare sales with Quest Diagnostics and AmeriPath.

Leslie graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in English from ISU and earned a master’s degree in English from Butler University.

<< Women in Business pages >>

IRM Students Win Clements Worldwide Business Plan Competition

February 4, 2022

A fantastic showing by our Insurance and Risk Management program students yesterday during the Clements Worldwide Business Plan Competition.

1st Place and a $2,500 prize went to Julia Sonntag, Jillian Turner, Grace Longyear, Hailey Tonsor for their “Breaking the Insurance Barrier: Developing the Clements Worldwide App.”

Taking second place and a $1,500 prize were Anne Bowen and Noah Heim with “Building the Insurance Talent Pipeline.”

During the last two months, teams of 2-4 students researched and developed ideas for a new product, service, or solution for the insurance and risk management industry, and on Feb. 4, presented them via Zoom to Clements Worldwide President and CEO Tarun Chopra and a team of Clements Worldwide judges.

Following the students' success, Tarun Chopra, CEO of Clements Worldwide said that "Indiana State University has a robust risk management program and the students are really exceptional. The presentations were thorough, informative and inspirational."

“The Clements Worldwide Competition was a wonderful opportunity that provided unique hands-on experience,” Sonntag said. “The competition allowed us to utilize creativity and classroom knowledge to find a solution to an ongoing problem facing the insurance industry.”

“Having a partner like Clements Worldwide, who is interested in hearing from students and promoting experiential learning opportunities, is a fantastic relationship for us to have,” Heim said. “These types of experiences have been priceless to my development as a professional and will continue to be critical in helping future Sycamores develop their skills.”

12 Under 40 Awardees Ties to Indiana State

February 3, 2022

Several of the winners of this years’ Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce and Tribune Star’s "12 Under 40" awards have ties to Indiana State University. The full list of awardees can be seen on the can be seen on the Chamber of Commerce website. Congratulations to all the awardees and we are sure we will be hearing more of you all in the future.

Those with ties to Indiana State University are:

Mark & Tiffany Baker - Mark graduated in 2007 from Indiana State and Tiffany in 2008.
Jessica Crawford - Jessica graduated in 2016 with a degree in Marketing.
Bryan Horsman - Bryan graduated in 2015 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
Dianne Powell - Dianne works at Indiana State as Associate Director of University Communications
Tyler and Tiffany Woodward - Tyler graduated in 2010 with a degree in Business Administration

<< 12 Under 30 Awardees >>

Indiana DECA Visits Indiana State

The Scott College of Business at Indiana State University is proud to support the Indiana DECA high school organization. DECA was founded in 1946 to impact the lives of students by providing curricular programs that integrate applied learning in marketing, business management, finance, and hospitality & tourism through competition and community engagement.

Indiana State recently hosted the DECA Indiana District 7 Competition, which involved students competing in written and interactive components judged by industry professionals. District 7 includes high schools from Clay, Greene, Owen Putnam, Sullivan, Vermillion and Vigo Counties.

According to Dean Terry Daugherty, “DECA is an amazing organization that significantly impacts the career readiness of students interested in business. It is always fun to host students on campus and we are grateful for District 7 Coordinator Gen Craft’s (and SCOB ISU alum – Go Sycamores!) leadership.” Ms. Craft teaches business at Terre Haute South Vigo High School.

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Madison Marshall, Scott College of Business Mentoring Coordinator, presenting to District 7 participants at Indiana State University.

Indiana State Title Sponsors for IMA Briefing

January 12, 2022

On Wednesday, January 12, Indiana State University served as the Title Sponsor for the Indiana Manufacturers Association (IMA) 2022 Legislative Briefing & Reception at the Hyatt Regency in Indianapolis. The event featured a Q&A discussion with Governor Eric Holcomb and IMA President/CEO Brian Burton – who is an alum of the Scott College of Business ('81, Business Marketing)(Pictured left). Overviews of bills being considered by the Indiana legislature this session were also covered explaining the impact they may have on the manufacturing community.

Left to Right: Clint Weddle – Corporate & Foundation Development Director; Dr. Kuntal Bhattacharyya – Executive Director of Graduate Programs; Dr. Jason Trainer – Vice Provost of Enrollment Management; Dr. Terry Daugherty – Dean of Scott College of Business; Dr. Nesli Alp – Dean of College of Technology; and Dr. Paul Schikora – Chair of Marketing & Operations Department.

Students Awarded IRM Scholarships

January 2022

Congratulations to two Indiana State IRM Program students, Anne Bowen on being named this year's Leman Family Scholarship recipient, and Fatima Sanusi Sowemimo AIC, AINS on being named this year's Gibson ISU Alumni Scholarship recipient!

Anne is an Insurance and Risk Management Major and SGA Vice President, as well as Commission Member and Secretary for Indiana Commission for Higher Education.

The Leman Family Scholarship was established in 2003 by Tim Leman, Kimra Leman, Gary Leman, and Jonathan Leman, CFP®, AIF® to provide an endowed annual scholarship to attract and assist qualified female students in their pursuit of an insurance and risk management degree at ISU.

The Leman Family Scholarship has allowed me as an IRM student to pursue countless opportunities within the classroom and industry," says Bowen. "I am thrilled to be named a Leman Family Scholar and I look forward to continuing to engage with this unique program as a student, professional, and advocate for the insurance industry."

Fatima Sanusi Sowemimo AIC, AINS received the Gibson ISU Alumni Scholarship! Fatima is a nontraditional student who currently works as a claims handler for Zurich Insurance Company Ltd in the Greater Chicago area.

The Gibson ISU Alumni Scholarship was established to provide support to minorities majoring or minoring in the insurance and risk management program in the Scott College of Business and to establish philanthropy by ISU alumni that work for Gibson.

Congratulations Anne and Fatima!

(Story and image from gibson)

Dr. Kelly Wilkinson and Dr. David Robinson

January 5, 2022

The college is losing two well-respected members of faculty this month.

Dr. David Robinson is retiring from Indiana State after 16 years. Retirement is always something that deserves to be celebrated and we hope to see David around Federal Hall in the future. While here David introduced some great innovations for our students such as the Executive Express Café and Sycamore Business Advisors.

Dr. Kelly Wilkinson is leaving Indiana State University at the end of January after 19 years of service. Kelly has been named the new Dean of the Williamson College of Business Administration at Youngstown State University. Kelly has impacted the lives of thousands of students during her career at Indiana State while helping to elevate the college to be among the best business schools worldwide. This is a tremendous opportunity for Kelly, but we are going to miss her spirit tremendously.

Dr. Kelly Wilkinson and Dr. David Robinson