by Neely Borger | Nov 21, 2013 | Current Students
Earlier this month, students from Assistant Professor Jennifer Golden’s Principles of Marketing honors class filled up gas tanks for customers at three different locations around Abilene. The purpose of the project was to research the question of whether service makes a difference in a commodity driven marketplace, specifically the gas industry. The students collected the research and interacted with consumers at the gas station, focusing on selling techniques and customer service. Using the Texaco Five-Star Service model which includes checking tire pressure, pumping gasoline, washing windows, and friendly service, students conducted a survey to analyze whether or not genuine customer service affects consumer attitudes. After conducting the experiment, Mandy Stratton, a sophomore marketing major, says, “We learned that many people are so focused on quickly getting things done that they have lost interest in the face-to-face interactions and service.” Many customers seemed to be confused by others wanting to offer them full customer service when they are so used to filling up their own tanks. Overall, the marketing survey allowed students to see how customer service goes hand in hand with selling a product or service.
“In this project, I learned how crucial it is to be kind and respectful to everyone you meet, because you never know who you could run into. Our group ended up running into First Financial Bank’s CEO, president, and chairman,” states Tracy Richardson.
by Neely Borger | Nov 19, 2013 | Careers In..., Current Students, Placement stories
Allie Rostron, a senior marketing major from Llano, had the opportunity to intern with Dell last summer in Austin. She worked as an undergrad senior analyst within the finance department but mainly worked on projects heavily rooted in marketing and communications. One of her projects included working with people from around the globe, including Ireland, Malaysia, China, and Brazil. The aim of the project was to completely revamp all of the recruiting for the CFO’s development programs, ranging from the Finance Internship Program, the Finance and Accounting Development Programs, and the Finance Rotation Program. She also worked with a team to produce a video that would be cued by Michael Dell at his global All Hands on Deck Meeting. This project included interviewing 40 plus employees asking questions regarding Dell’s future, Dell’s innovation, and how going private would affect Dell’s interaction with customers. Allie also worked with Dell’s internal blog, One Dell Way. She performed research on Big Data, Big Analytics, the evolving workforce, and virtual desktop infrastructure.
Allie landed the internship by researching and emailing contacts in the professional marketplace. She asked for advice and feedback about her resume and the interviewing process and recommendations regarding fields and companies to look for. Her resume was forwarded to various employees within Dell and eventually to the hiring team. She advises students seeking internships to start early! If students are wanting to work in a larger company, she suggests that they start doing research now and contacting people to gain knowledge through the entire process. Secondly, she highly believes in the power of networking and that by using contacts made through networking, students are using a tool that is at everyone’s disposal.
Allie will begin working for Dell after she graduates in May. Allie is a great example of someone who used the power of networking and seeking advice from other professionals to land an incredible internship opportunity. If you are searching for an internship or job, schedule an appointment with Samantha Matta in the COBA Connections office. Congratulations Allie and good luck with your new position at Dell!
“Never underestimate the power of networking. Networking is not working the system but is utilizing a tool that is open to your disposal. You never know what can come from emailing someone and asking them advice.”
by Neely Borger | Nov 12, 2013 | COBA Events, Current Students, Executives In Residence, Faith Infusion
This Fall Break, a group of 23 students along with professors Dr. Jonathan Stewart, Dr. Joyce Haley, COBA Executive in Residence David Swearingen, and ACU Chief Marketing Officer Jason Groves headed north to the single most competitive work environment in the country-New York City. While in New York, the group was able to visit Wall Street and meet with executives from companies like Johnson & Johnson, Magnet Media, Dentsu American, CNN and the NBA. Brandon Baker, a ’98 ACU graduate, hosted the group as they toured the New York Stock Exchange. Brandon now serves as the organization’s vice president of information technology. Seeing ACU alumni like Brandon succeed in such a competitive business environment shows how competitive ACU students are against graduates from larger elite schools, such as Harvard and Yale. ACU students are able to infuse faith into their work, offering a set of ethics and values to the marketplace. Swearingen states, “If there’s anything business needs more of, it is Christians who bring their ethics and values into the marketplace. That’s what ACU students and grads do.”
“Being in NYC was so empowering! There are opportunities everywhere you look. We have discussed businesses in a classroom setting, but actually meeting business CEOs and leaders gave us a whole new perspective of how companies operate,” states Gentry McMath, junior accounting major.
Amanda Clary, Shannon Ball, Sarah Hailey, Whitney Stevens, Jaci Isham, Gentry McMath, Natalie Goin, Allie Rostron, Savannah Smith, Amy Sloan and Meghan Eager on the NYC fall break trip.
by Neely Borger | Oct 25, 2013 | Careers In..., Current Students
On October 15, the STAR program had the opportunity to meet with two First Financial Bank investment officers, one of which was a former member of STAR. The Trust department at First Financial manages over $3 billion and organizes numerous investment portfolios. Meeting with the investment officers gave STAR members the opportunity to shadow professionals in the field and see what they do on a day-to-day basis, the portfolios they manage, and the forms of technology they use to manage those portfolios. This opportunity also allowed STAR members to connect and form relationships for networking in the field. We are excited to see what the future holds for our STAR members and the impact they will be making in the marketplace!
by Neely Borger | Oct 22, 2013 | Academics, Current Students
It is that time of year again! Pull out your wallets because Intro to Business’ Venture Out groups are ready to start selling! The 32 teams met with a panel of six judges recently to present ideas and business plans, hoping to come away with a loan agreement.
In the long review with the judges, groups lay out their entire business plan including suppliers, plans for profit, and marketing strategies to be used in promotion of the product. The panel of judges included CEOs and small business owners from the Abilene area. Up to $500 loans could be given to each individual team. Teams are able to pick an organization to give their profits to once the project is completed. Some of the charitable organizations include Habitat for Humanity, St. Jude’s Hospital, the Red Thread Movement, Locks of Love, Southern Hills Church of Christ, and Younglife.Profits range from group to group, but in the past, a group was able to donate $2,000 to an organization. Venture Out is a project that has been used for over a decade, with over $60,000 of donations given to various groups and causes. The project even contrinutes to some scholarships, including the A. Don Drennan Scholarship for students who are struggling financially. From shirts, socks, and sweatpants to hairbows, stickers, and koozies, Venture Out teams are ready to get out and start selling their products! Look for teams selling around campus and remember the good causes the proceeds will be going towards.
Dr. Monty Lynn says, “I love this project because of the hands-on nature. Students are able to see the process of a business start-up to harvest.”
by Neely Borger | Oct 10, 2013 | Careers In..., COBA Events, Current Students, Faith Infusion, Special Speakers
Earl Young
COBA was proud to host the legendary world class Olympic Gold medalist Earl Young. Mr. Young spoke to COBA students at a COBA Career Connect session on October 9. Earl’s list of accomplishments and accolades is quite remarkable on the track field and in the business field. Earl was brought to ACU by track coach Oliver Jackson from the orange trees of the San Fernando Valley in California. At the age of 19, he was a member of the 1960 United States Olympic Track and Field Team, winning a Gold Medal in the 1600 meter relay while also setting a new World and Olympic record. He is an All-American in Track and Field and participated on numerous international teams establishing four World records and four American records. Earl Young attended ACU and graduated with an undergraduate degree in Business along with History and Religion and graduate studies in Business Management.
Earl also shines in the field of business. Mr. Young has served in the role of Advisor, Corporate Officer and Director of companies in the United States and abroad. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies and Investment Banking firms in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Vancouver, and London. He has also worked with the World Bank and U.S. senators and congressmen. One of the organizations he has worked with is the Madagascar World Voice, a philanthropic organization partnering with World Christian Broadcasting to broadcast news, education, and entertainment with the fundamental message of hope and freedom to over 2 billion listeners throughout the world. Earl’s connections in Madagascar started the process of a scholarship funded by the World Bank for ACU students who are from the Republic of Madagascar.
Mr. Young’s resume also includes work with the Diamond Fields International Ltd., Earl Young and Associates, Renaissance Capital Group, AMI Investment Corporation, and Chafin and Young. Mr. Young is a member of the Abilene Christian University Council and a Director of the American Studies Institute Advisory Board of Harding University.
Earl is truly the definition of an exceptional performer in all aspects of life. Earl told students how he used to doubt all of the talk about God’s direct provision and intervention in people’s lives. Looking back on his life, he now sees how God was the sole reason for all of his opportunities and achievements. His gold medal in the 1960 Olympics has opened many doors for him throughout his life time. Earl encouraged students to think about their own gold medal and what achievements and blessings in their lives they have that will open the numerous doors for them. ACU and COBA are proud to recognize Mr. Young as an ambassador for God through his actions and achievements throughout the world. Earl currently lives in Dallas and continues to exemplify the faith-based truth that with God, all things are possible.
“Once the door of opportunity has been opened for you, you have to have value to offer before the door closes. Embrace every opportunity or that door will close too quickly.”
Earl Young addresses students at COBA’s Career Connect
“The workforce is looking for hard working Christians with integrity. With all of the high pressures in business, honesty is such a valuable characteristic for businesses today.”
by Neely Borger | Sep 26, 2013 | Academics, COBA Faculty, Research
Beginning September 1, 2013, Dr. Monty Lynn will begin his appointment as the W.W. Caruth Chair of Owner and Managed Business in the College of Business Administration. The appointment is a three year assignment and will include an annual stipend along with a research and travel budget to be managed by Dr. Lynn for the benefit of Abilene Christian University, COBA, and his own professional areas of interest. Dr. Lynn was also appointed to the chair from 2006-2009.
During the last appointment, Dr. Lynn used some of the endowment to prepare for the course, International Poverty and Development, and to attend a conference at Yale University and participate in microfinance training. For the current appointment, Dr. Lynn is planning on using the funds to invest more into COBA faculty and services.
“It is an honor to receive this title from COBA. I am excited to continue serving students and faculty through research, teaching, and service,” says Dr. Monty Lynn, recipient of the 2013-2016 W.W. Caruth Chair of Owner and Managed Business.
Dr. Rick Lytle praised Dr. Lynn on his esteemed work in the field of research and leadership. “Dr. Monty Lynn clearly exemplifies great leadership in COBA, the ACU community, and beyond. This honor could not be given to anyone more deserving.”
Dr. Lynn is a well-known professor in COBA, exemplifying honor, character, and diligence to his students and colleagues. His exceptional expertise in teaching, research, and service show his influential role in COBA, on the ACU campus and around the world. Congratulations to Dr. Lynn on his well-deserved appointment!
by Neely Borger | Sep 24, 2013 | Current Students
The Crossing Cafe – now open!
Students, faculty, and all of the ACU community, our wait is over. After pushing through long and dreadful coffeeless mornings, sitting through classes with no breakfast burritos to satisfy our grumbling stomachs, and sitting uncomfortably on the hard floors in the hallways trying to cram before those killer tests, the time has come. COBA is proud to announce the new and improved Crossing Cafe! The cafe opened this past Monday and offers an assortment of yummy snacks and breakfast items, including kolaches, donuts, breakfst burritos, coffee, tea, and a variety of other treats. The Crossing Cafe is a completely student-operated business run by Wildcat Venture students Allie Rostron, Casey Duncum, and Brandon Avedikian.
Allie Rostron, CEO of the cafe, says, “I am extremely happy with the renovations. Menus can always be changed, but our goal was to create a unique and inviting environment for the students.”
Casey Duncum, senior management major, is also pleased with the new cafe. Casey has an innovative vision for the cafe, seeking ways to truly add to the unique COBA experience. The cafe also features student artwork from the student-founded organization Emineo. This adds a different touch to the cafe, creating a modern and trendy environment. In addition to the new atmosphere inside the cafe, Casey is hoping to eventually add furniture and live events on the back patio.
Casey says,”This summer was hard trying to make everything come together, but after seeing the cafe open, it was worth the hours of work and preparation.”
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead. Indulge in that hot, mouth-watering breakfast burrito and reward your taste buds for those treacherous mornings you had to function without coffee. Stop by the new and improved Crossings Cafe located on the first floor of COBA!
by Neely Borger | Sep 17, 2013 | COBA Faculty
On October 12, 2012, one of COBA’s most esteemed professors, Dr. Daryl Jinkerson, passed away. This past summer, Dr. Vardiman along with Dr. Jinkerson’s family, including his wife Cindy, daughter Amanda, and mother Lavern, went to Honduras to work with the organization Casa de Esperanza , or House of Hope. The Jinkerson family and Dr. Vardiman worked with Perry Jinkerson, Dr. Jinkerson’s brother, and a church group from Starkville, Mississippi. The team engaged in various forms of mission work, including working in the school of the blind, visiting a local prison and hospital, and going to an extremely impoverished area called the “dump”.
The mission team also built a house in memory of Dr. Jinkerson. After five hours of strenuous work, the house was complete and ready for a Honduran family to move in. The money to build the house was collected in donations and cost less than $2,000 to construct. This was the second house Dr. Jinkerson’s mother, Lavern, had built in honor of a family member. Dr. Vardiman stated, “Building this house truly was a healing experience for all who were involved.” Dr. Jinkerson will always be remembered as a revered son, father, teacher, and friend. He has left an incredible legacy in COBA and the entire ACU community through the way he served others and walked with Christ. The Honduran home built in honor of Dr. Jinkerson reflects the diligence, the hard work, the commitment, the hope, and the strong foundation Dr. Jinkerson personified to everyone whose lives he touched.
by Neely Borger | Sep 13, 2013 | Academics, Careers In..., Current Students
COBA is proud to recognize Kayli Huddleston, senior management major, as the recipient of the 2013 Excellence in Education Scholarship which will be given at the HR Southwest Conference.
Kayli Huddleston
The HR Southwest Conference is the largest regional human resources conference in the country. Out of nominees from over 30 SHRM Student Chapters, Kayli was selected to attend the Southwest Regional HR Conference which will be held October 20-23 in Fort Worth, Texas. Participating in this conference will allow her to meet and connect with over 2,000 professional HR representatives. In addition to being publicly recognized during the event, Kayli will receive a $1,000 award plus the net proceeds from the Silent Auction to be held at the conference.
Kayli is very excited about the unique opportunities to learn and network with HR professionals. She says, “I am eager to learn all that I can about the HR field. I have had great classroom preparation, but the conference will give me a more real world concept of the inner workings of HR.”
Kayli is hoping to pursue an entry level career in human resource management in either the Fort Worth or Austin area. She sees a career in the HR field as the perfect opportunity to minister and help people in ways that other areas of a company cannot. Congratulations to Kayli Huddleston who is a great example of how COBA seeks to educate students for Christian service and leadership in the global market.
