Unlike the formality often associated with honor societies, this celebration embraced a relaxed, family-centered atmosphere.

For Vilas Jadhav, joining Governors State University’s (GovState) Business Analytics program was the beginning of his journey of stepping out of his comfort zone—starting with navigating a new country.

While daunting, Vilas feels that his choice allowed him to grow in ways he didn’t expect. With Commencement fast approaching, he’s looking back on his time at GovState with gratitude and looking forward to what’s next.

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?

Vilas: I chose Governors State University because its Business Analytics program stood out for its unique balance of technical and management-focused courses. I was looking for a curriculum that would not only build my analytical and data-driven skills, but also help me understand how to apply them in real-world business environments—and this program offered exactly that. 

On top of that, GovState made pursuing graduate education more accessible with its affordability, supportive faculty, and opportunities for hands-on learning, leadership, and community involvement. 

When I first arrived at Governors State University, I was stepping into the unknown—new country, new people, new systems. I still remember those first few weeks. I was excited, but at the same time, everything felt a bit overwhelming. I kept asking myself, how will I adapt? Where do I start?

Coming from a small village in India where opportunities like international education are rare, this new beginning carried even more meaning for me. It was more than just starting grad school—it was about pushing past limits I once thought couldn’t be broken.

But one thing I knew for sure—I wanted to make the most of this journey. So I started saying “yes” to opportunities, even the ones that scared me. That one decision changed everything.

Over time, I not only found my place—I created it.

GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them?

Vilas: One of the things I’m most proud of is founding the GovState Gavel Club, a public speaking and leadership organization affiliated with Toastmasters. It started as an idea to help students grow their confidence and communication skills, but it turned into something much bigger. We built a supportive space where students could step out of their comfort zones and grow into leaders—and that growth included me, too.

I also had the honor of serving as the College of Business student representative in the Student Senate, where I worked to ensure that student voices were heard. 

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?

Vilas: My time as a Graduate Research Assistant in the College of Business gave me hands-on experience in the analytical field, helping me better understand how data and insights can drive meaningful decisions. That’s the career path I want to pursue—solving problems, improving systems, and making a difference through analytics.

GovState Newsroom: What’s the silliest or most memorable thing that happened to you during your GovState experience?

Vilas: One of the most rewarding moments of my journey was winning the Pitch Party—a campus-wide competition hosted by the College of Business and the Library. I pitched an idea to increase student engagement, and it was selected as the winner with $3,000 awarded to bring it to life. That moment reminded me that our ideas are powerful, and that with the right platform, we can create real impact.

Another unforgettable experience was joining the Alternative Spring Break in New Orleans, where I spent a week doing community service—helping restore homes, cleaning up neighborhoods, and connecting with people who shared their stories of resilience. That trip reminded me why service matters and how small actions can mean the world to someone else.

Looking back, I started my journey here with a mix of nerves and hope. And now, as I prepare to graduate, I feel nothing but gratitude—for the challenges that shaped me, the people who supported me, and the opportunities that helped me grow.

GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?

Vilas: To future GovState students, my message is simple: Take initiative. Don’t wait for someone else to start something—if you see a need, step up. Whether it's joining a club or starting one, raising your voice or listening to others, every action counts. GovState gives you the space to grow, but it’s up to you to take that first step.

I came here hoping to build a future in analytics—but I’m leaving with much more: a sense of purpose, lifelong connections, and the confidence to lead wherever I go next.

Click here to read more 2025 grad profiles.

Accounting major Anthony Strickland recalls meeting staff members from Governors State University (GovState) for the first time at a college fair and receiving a warm introduction—something he experienced across the University as a student.

While not his original major, Accounting offered Anthony more options post-graduation. He’s looking forward to dedicating his time to completing his barber’s license and channeling his energy into the profession.

GovState Newsroom: What’s your degree and why did you choose it?

Anthony: The degree I will be completing is the B.S in Accounting with a minor in Psychology. I used to be an entrepreneurship major, then I changed it to Accounting because it is more versatile. When talking with advisors about which major to choose, I think the best advice I got was “entrepreneurs usually build their companies, companies don’t generally hire them.” This really shaped how I was looking at the entire degree because it made me choose a degree where I could be more marketable and learn some of those book lessons about business that being an entrepreneur doesn’t necessarily show you. 

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?

Anthony: The Dual Degree Program (DDP) honestly attracted me to Governors State. I appreciated them coming to a college fair at my alma mater Harold Washington College and how the DDP transfer specialist was down to earth from the initial conversation. Being at Harold Washington was impactful because everything about my experience there moved fast, but it felt like the DDP transfer specialist took the time to discuss what programs were offered and answer every single question I asked. That hospitality is something I can say has been consistent throughout my college career at Governors State University. 

GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them?

Anthony: I distinctly remember an activity from my dorm days at Governors State. There was a hot day around this time, maybe about a year ago, when me and some friends asked for permission to barbecue just to enjoy the weather. I guess we were reading everyone’s minds because after a couple hours of just grilling some food with my friends, it felt like the whole student population in the dorms was also grilling and playing football and dancing. This wasn’t anything that went on Jaguar Connection, but it definitely is a core memory for me because it reminded me of those hot summer days where you could go to a family member’s house and just have fun and enjoy the weather.

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?

Anthony: My dreams for my degree would be ultimately completing my MBA (Master of Business Administration) and teaching young kids that it is possible. I want to be able to retire in auditing ultimately, but beyond that I want to inspire young men and women with similar upbringings as me that they can do it as well. I want to make financial literacy cool and be able to connect them with business so they understand how important it is and be well versed in it. 

GovState Newsroom: What project or passions are you excited to explore post-graduation?

Anthony: I will be completing my barber’s license in May and gearing up to complete my licensure exam sometime in June. This is something I started during Covid when it felt like I had a lot of time on my hands, and I discovered my passion for it. 

GovState Newsroom: What album, movie, or TV show was on repeat during your time at GovState?

Anthony: A TV show I can’t stop watching right now is Abbott Elementary. Every character seems so connected to the actors that are playing them and it sometimes feels like you are just watching reality TV. I also think they find a way to bring attention to real life issues that teachers are forced to deal with that other shows tend to shy away from.

Click here to read more 2025 grad profiles.

Solving puzzles of data is where Sama Parimala shines and at Governors State University (GovState) she was able to polish her skills in the Business Analytics program. Diving into student life on campus, Sama tried various clubs and volunteered for more.

Throughout her GovState journey, Sama found a community who had her back and motivated her to keep chasing her goals. She hopes to one day pay back the support she received. With graduation fast approaching, Sama looks forward to using her degree to build upon her experience with data and help people along the way.

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?

Sama: GovState sits on 750 acres of natural beauty, with tons of trees, grassy fields, and wide-open spaces that make it a peaceful spot. The air’s fresh, and the skies are bright and clear, giving it a refreshing vibe every day. What makes it even better is the people—everyone from the administration and staff to the faculty and students works together like a tight-knit crew. Transportation keeps things running smoothly with shuttles, while DPS (Department of Public Safety) makes sure the campus stays safe. The facilities team keeps everything clean and comfy, and all the departments pitch in to support each other. It’s a huge, welcoming place where you feel right at home. It’s more than a school—it’s a family. the Dean’s office, CSEIP (Center for Student Engagement and Intercultural Programs), and Wellness Center who truly changed my life. They didn’t just help—they went above and beyond, lifting me up when I needed it most. I owe them a lot, and one day, I’ll come back as an alumna to return my own “thank you” and give back to this amazing community.

GovState Newsroom: What's your degree and why did you choose it?

Sama: I’m earning a Master’s in Business Analytics because data is my magic—it turns questions into answers and dreams into plans. I chose this degree to grow my skills and make a difference. In India, I worked with data, building chatbots and dashboards. It felt like solving puzzles, and I loved it. This degree is my chance to do bigger things and help people in new ways.

GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them?

Sama: I jumped into everything! I was a grad assistant, international student representative from Student Senate, Vice President, event planner, member of more than 20+ clubs, and a volunteer for so many clubs and organizations. My favorite memory is Homecoming—the campus was alive with music, lights, and laughter. I felt so happy, thinking, “This is our moment, our joy.” It was like a big celebration with my favorite people.

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?

Sama: I dream of using data to build something amazing—like developing my dad’s business back in South India, where I come from a Telugu-speaking family. I want to take his hard work and turn it into something bigger, showing the world what a Telugu girl can do. This degree is my power to make him proud, break barriers, and prove that with determination, a Telugu girl can achieve anything.

GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?

Sama: Jump in and don’t hold back! Join clubs, meet people, and take up the tough days—they make you stronger. GovState is a family—if you stumble, someone will catch you. So, laugh, learn, and let this place shape you. You’re never alone here.

GovState Newsroom: How are you celebrating your graduation?

Sama: I’ll celebrate with my Govstate friends, staff, faculty, and mentors (ALL)—the people who made this journey unforgettable. We’ll eat, laugh, and maybe dance in Grad week celebrations. It’s not just a party; it’s a “thank you” to everyone who believed in me. This day belongs to all of us.

GovState Newsroom: What’s the silliest or most memorable thing that happened to you during your GovState experience?

Sama: One winter day, I—a girl from a small village, saw snow for the first time and slipped on ice while running for the shuttle. I fell hard but laughed harder! It was messy and funny, but it taught me something big: GovState showed me how to stand up, smile, and keep going, no matter what.

This is my story—simple, real, and full of gratitude. GovState didn’t just teach me; it lifted me. And now, I’m ready to lift others, too.

Click here to read more 2025 grad profiles.

Looking for a supportive academic community, Bryana Warner transferred to Governors State University (GovState) to pursue a degree in Business Administration. Drawn to the field of marketing, Bryana became a student worker in GovState’s Marketing and Communications Department (MarComm), where she brought her passion to the social media team.

As Commencement draws closer, Bryana looks forward to earning her degree and using it to continue to grow in the marketing and management fields.

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?

Bryana: One of the main reasons I chose GovState was its proximity to home, which made the transition much easier when transferring here. Unfortunately, my experience at my previous university wasn’t the best, so finding a university that offered a welcoming and supportive environment was important to me. GovState provided that sense of community, making it a great fit.

GovState Newsroom: What’s your degree and why did you choose it?

Bryana: I'm majoring in Business Administration, kind of following my older brother's lead—but I've made it my own. I've always been more drawn to the marketing and management side of things, mostly because that's where I feel the most confident. With my experience working as a server and managing a restaurant, plus my background in art, I've found that coming up with creative ideas and actually making them happen just comes naturally. It's something I really enjoy, and it feels good to bring those ideas to life.

GovState Newsroom:  What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them?

Bryana: I was involved with Black Student Union (BSU) and it was enlightening. I am also involved with the Reading Jaguars (a club for casual readers or deep analyzers). The events are great and inviting. The community is welcoming.

I took an internship with MarComm and the experience has been great! I have done work with Jax on Valentine's Day creating a fun video letting our crushes at GovState know how much we appreciate them. I also assisted in getting footage of our Homecoming. I had to get in the crowd and not just get pictures of people posing, but to get action shots to capture the moment. I learned new people skills and how to operate a real camera. I went from just watching social media to knowing how to engage as a content creator. Learning my audience and what people want to see and will engage with the most to boost our school's social media presence.

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?

Bryana: My dreams for my degree are to pursue the marketing and managing field of business. I will also use my degree to assist my mother with marketing her baby carrier business, GoGoVie. I want to make a name for myself in the business world.

GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?

Bryana: My advice would be to treat your grades like your bank account. Don’t allow your grades to go in the negatives! Stay focused and always strive for 100% on every assignment. Do all extra credit work because you never know how one point can change your outcome. And lastly, keep a balance between life, school, and work.

GovState Newsroom: How are you celebrating your graduation?

Bryana: I am celebrating my graduation with my family and friends. Normally, we will have a grad party at my house and my parents will cook and we will have outside games and activities.

GovState Newsroom: What’s the silliest or most memorable thing that happened to you during your GovState experience?

Bryana: My most memorable moment at GovState was my best friend's 21st birthday. We went out to eat and then came back to the dorms to party the night away.

Click here to read more 2025 grad profiles.

Without realizing it, when Daysia Williamson arrived at Governors State University (GovState), she was already on her way towards a marketing degree. She decided to pursue a Business Administration degree to expand her existing marketing experience. Plus, she could stay close to home.

On campus, Daysia interned in the University's Office of Marketing and Communications and the Digital Learning and Media Design (DLMD) team for the weekly news show, This Week at GovState (TWAG). 

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState? 

Daysia: Governors State was a school with a great reputation for academics. It was close to home and offered me an opportunity to pursue a personal goal of moving away. 

During my time at GovState, I had the privilege of meeting individuals who consistently showed up as the best versions of themselves—serving the campus community with dedication and heart. I witnessed the labor of love they poured into every interaction, leaving a lasting impact on those around them. 

I especially want to highlight Zion Banks, Kylie Ziemenski, Praggyan "Pam" Mohanty, and Heather Penn—four incredible women from diverse backgrounds who each wear many hats. Despite the challenges they may face, they continue to thrive in spaces they’ve uniquely crafted for themselves, and their strength and authenticity deeply inspired me.

GovState Newsroom: What’s your degree and why did you choose it? 

Daysia: My degree is in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. I chose my degree while re-doing my resume after graduating from an associate program. I realized I had four years' worth of experience in marketing from personal projects.

GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them? 

Daysia: I entered into GovState as part of the Dual Degree program, where I received my first work study job from there. I then went on to become the field reporter for the second season of GovState's news show TWAG on campus. During this time, I also managed their social media and helped executively produce the Let’s Talk Segment for the show, while holding the position of Senior Intern in the Marketing and Communications office on campus. 

When I began my internship at GovState, I brought a wealth of experience—but lacked the confidence to match it. My three previous marketing internships hadn’t offered much room for growth or meaningful contribution. That changed when I joined the MarComm team. This was the most hands-on experience I’ve ever had in an internship. The team not only trusted me with real projects but also supported me whenever I needed guidance. I collaborated closely with every member of the team and worked alongside professionals from departments across campus. 

Because the MarComm office supports the entire university, the workload was intense—I was thrown straight into the fire. But that fire didn’t burn me out; it refined me. It reminded me of skills I had forgotten, reignited my drive, and helped me rediscover the confidence I’d been missing. This internship didn’t just enhance my resume—it reshaped how I see my potential.

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree? 

Daysia: I would like to work as a Social Media and Digital Marketing Specialist for a company of my choosing. 

GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students? 

Daysia: You are worthy. No matter your skillset or what individuals may negate, you have your blessings and opportunities for a reason. 

GovState Newsroom: How are you celebrating your graduation? 

Daysia: I am celebrating my graduation with the people who were my village throughout my tears, fears, and stressing about my career: My family.

Click here to read more 2025 grad profiles.

Since taking some accounting classes in high school, Brock Krska has been drawn to the field, choosing to pursue it further at Governors State University (GovState). As an Accounting student, Brock dedicated himself to completing his degree in three years. 

He’s achieved that goal and more, being an active member of the Honors College and other clubs on campus, and landing a summer internship. Yet, Brock isn’t stopping there and plans to return to GovState for his master’s degree. For now, he’s celebrating his accomplishments and looking forward to Commencement this spring.

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?

Brock: What initially attracted me to Governors State University was the opportunity to receive a quality education at an affordable price. Receiving the Presidential Scholarship was a huge blessing, as it gave me the freedom to pursue my academic and career goals without constantly worrying about finances. Another big factor was the university’s location. Being close to home meant I could easily stay connected to my family while still gaining the independence and college experience I was looking for. Plus, both of my older brothers attended GovState and seeing the positive experiences they had made me feel confident that I could thrive here too!

GovState Newsroom: What’s your degree and why did you choose it?

Brock: I am graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, a path that really began for me in high school when I took a few accounting classes and enjoyed the subject due to how engaging and supportive my teacher was. Since then, I’ve deepened my understanding of the field and built strong connections with my professors at GovState. What I find especially appealing about accounting is the stability and variety of job opportunities that come with an accounting degree. Ultimately, I want to use my skills to help individuals and businesses make better financial decisions and help them tackle real-world challenges. 

GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them?

Brock: I’ve been an active member of the Honors College, where I served on the Honors College Student Council Board. In addition to that role, I work as a student ambassador for Admissions and serve as a Peer Mentor with New Student Programs. I’m also a proud member of the Accounting, Finance, and Economics Club, and I currently serve as the Chapter President for GovState’s Beta Gamma Sigma honor society. My favorite memory comes from a recent experience through the Honors College. I had the chance to present at a research conference in Pittsburgh, where I met brilliant, like-minded students from across the country. It was even more special to share that experience with fellow GovState Honors College students.

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?

Brock: With this degree, I plan on returning to GovState to complete my Master of Science in Accounting. While completing my graduate degree, I will also be preparing for and taking the required exams to obtain my Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure. My goal is to have completed the 150 credit hours and passed all four sections of the CPA exam by next summer. Once I earn my CPA, I hope to begin working at one of the Big 4 accounting firms with the long-term goal of ultimately reaching a partner position at a Big 4 firm. I know the path won’t be easy, but I’m committed to putting in the hard work, discipline, and dedication required to achieve these dreams.

GovState Newsroom: What goal have you achieved that felt really far away your first semester at GovState?

Brock: I’m proud to say that I’ve been offered a tax internship for this upcoming summer at Deloitte, the No. 1 accounting firm in the world. From the beginning, I understood that entering public accounting was one of the most sought-after paths in the field and landing an internship with a Big 4 firm became my biggest goal. Throughout my freshman and sophomore years, I committed myself to earning strong grades, getting involved, and intentionally building a resume that would make me stand out.

GovState Newsroom: What’s the silliest or most memorable thing that happened to you during your GovState experience?

Brock: One of the most memorable traditions I’ve looked forward to every semester at GovState is the Late Night Breakfast event during finals week. I would literally not eat all day just to make sure I had enough room for eggs, bacon, you name it. You could also hang out with your friends, meet new people, and just enjoy yourself during a stressful finals week. They’d always have a mechanical bull and some merch giveaways that made the night even more exciting. Ultimately, it reminded me to find balance and joy, even during the most stressful parts of the semester.

Click here to read more 2025 grad profiles.

For students who want to engage their peers, Governors State University’s (GovState) College of Business (COB) has the perfect platform. Pitch Party is one of several events slotted for Business Week 2025.

Grace Ahouissoussi, Jaylon Garner, and Chance Young join the ranks of 387 alumni to complete the highly competitive program, which saw growth once again this year, making the 13^th cohort its largest to date with 49 scholars.

Governors State University’s (GovState) College of Business (COB) recently released its Annual Report, highlighting the college’s achievements during the 2023-24 academic year.

The report features accomplishments of COB’s faculty, students, and alumni, showcasing the college’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.

Together, the college has made progress toward its Strategy 2025 goals, strengthened partnerships with the business community, and finalized its Societal Impact Plan that seeks to address economic and social inequalities in the Chicago Southland.

From published academic articles and curriculum refreshes to community involvement and internships, the COB community’s efforts have positioned the college as a respected leader in business education.

Click here to read COB’s Annual Report.

Following a presentation to the Illinois Board of Examiners (ILBOE), Governors State University (GovState) Accounting professors Chevonne Alston (left) and Anton Lewis (right) are taking their message on the road in the Southland.

"The accounting profession should be introduced to students long before college along with discussions of financial literacy and wellness for students,” said Dr. Chevonne Alston, who presented earlier this year with Dr. Anton Lewis to the ILBOE, a state-wide agency whose mission is to protect interests by examining and certifying candidates who meet requirements for licensure in Illinois.

Alston and Lewis, along with Lauren Rukasuwan from Butler University presented, "What Can the Profession Do?" which explores changes needed in messaging, the classroom, and institutional practices to answer their question about racial equity. The paper was published in the CPA Journal in 2023.

Alston said the presentation to ILBOE opened the door for more presentations.

“The Executive Director, Carla Ratchford, contacted us for an opportunity to collaborate in bringing financial literacy components to students in the Chicagoland suburbs,” said Alston, who counts financial literacy as a passion project.

The group is considering other endeavors, too.

“Our next academic research paper will look at the Black neurodiverse accounting experience in the U.S. using the theoretical lens of Disability Critical Race Theory,” said Lewis.

Meanwhile, Alston will speak on a faculty panel at the IMA Student Leadership Conference this month. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity to work with faculty from other universities along with the IMA staff to present information to faculty regarding the accounting pipeline, engagement strategies, and integration of analytics,” said Alston.

“A $231,000 grant from the state's Department of Education will help develop an international program, as well as promote workforce development,” said Dr. Olumide Ijose, Associate Provost at GovState, who developed the grant alongside Dr. Wonsuk Cha, Associate Professor of Management in the College of Business and Dr. Akiko Ota, Director of English Language Learning and Educational Partnerships in the School of Extended Learning.

“This will enable GovState to become a center for Mandarin language training in the Chicagoland, which is a key global business center. Offering Mandarin courses will help Illinois strengthen its competitive edge in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from China," said Dr. Ijose.

The Southland has already seen a rise in Chinese investment, including a significant investment from Gotion, a global leader in electric battery manufacturing, which is building a major plant in Manteno.

These developments have prompted GovState to expand its offerings to meet the needs of local businesses, students, and professionals by providing Mandarin language courses. This initiative will create pathways to new employment and business opportunities.

“As students graduate and enter an increasingly diverse workforce, mainly in the Chicago metropolitan area, it is imperative that they be prepared with the cultural and linguistic proficiency to be competitive now and in the future through globally focused learning experiences,” said Dr. Cha.

This initiative not only equips GovState graduates to excel in the global marketplace but also positions the university as a key player in promoting international business competence and language proficiency.

Dr. Alice Keane is serving as the Chair of the Accounting, Finance, MIS and Economics Division. Her comprehensive academic background, extensive professional experience, prolific scholarly contributions, dedicated service and unwavering commitment to the advancement of GovState's mission promise a future of successful leadership within the COB.

Dr. Keane holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) magna cum laude from the University of Illinois College of Law and a Master of Laws (LL.M Taxation) with distinction from Georgetown University Law Center. Her rigorous legal education equips her with a strong foundation for teaching and research in accounting, business law, and related fields.

Dr. Stephen Wagner is serving in the role of Chair of the Management, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship (MME) Division. Dr. Wagner has been a dedicated member of the GovState community since 2011. He holds a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Northern Illinois University and has a career spanning both academic and professional environments, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Dedicating himself to GovState's mission, Dr. Wagner has been involved in various University committees, including serving as President of the GovState Faculty Senate and chairing the Digital Learning Master Planning Task Force.

Affectionately known as Professor Fraud at Governors State University (GovState), William Kresse recently received the inaugural Unsung Heroes of Democracy Award from the American Bar Association (ABA) for significantly advancing the cause of protecting American democracy nationwide.

A highly sought subject matter expert, Dr. Kresse is often featured in the media as a fraud and identity theft expert whose Professor Fraud persona is dedicated to educating the public on how scams are perpetuated, as well as how to protect against them.

Kresse also has examined voter fraud, and in a nationwide survey found that more than 67% of voters said they would have greater confidence in U.S. elections if they were audited. As a Commissioner of Elections for Chicago, a CPA and a certified fraud examiner, Dr. Kresse is uniquely qualified to help reverse the trend of historically low voter confidence with certified audits.

Following his study, Kresse founded the nonprofit Institute of Election Auditors  to restore voter confidence by training Certified Public Accountants as independent election experts – Certified Election Auditors. Visit InstituteofElectionAuditors.org to learn more.

Kresse said the ABA recognition is humbling.

"I am honored that the world's foremost association of attorneys would recognize me for my work to enhance democracy by applying the disciplines of auditing and fraud examination into the election space,’’ Kresse said. “And I am humbled to be included in the ranks of the other heroes who are likewise dedicated to ensuring that democracy continues to thrive and grow in the United States."

As one of the 22 recipients to receive this award from the ABA’s Task Force for American Democracy, Kresse joins the ranks of individuals and organizations recognized for the work they do to ensure that the country’s elections are secure and the democratic ideals in the U.S. Constitution are upheld.

In a press release, the ABA said, “Kresse has provided remarkable leadership as one of three members of the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners, valuable teaching and research on fraud examination, auditing and accounting, and innovative guidance in founding the Institute of Election Auditors.”

Governors State University's (GovState) College of Business (COB) recently celebrated a successful Business Week event, captivating students and alumni with an inspiring keynote address by Dorri McWhorter, President and CEO of YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. McWhorter's journey, from childhood dreams of writing a letter to Santa requesting to be an accountant for her parents to leading the YMCA resonated with the audience.

Fostering meaningful connections between students and alumni remains a core tenet of COB's Business Week. This year, McWhorter emphasized the importance of community and understanding by inviting attendees to stand and pledge their commitment to engage, embrace, and understand one another, mirroring COB's own values. 

Dr. Sonia Dalmia, Dean of the College of Business, remarked, “Business Week is a wonderful event. It provides a platform for students to learn from inspiring speakers, build their professional network, and gain valuable insights into the business world. This commitment to connection empowers students to thrive in their chosen fields.”

A highlight of Business Week is the opportunity for students to hear firsthand stories and life lessons from accomplished professionals. These narratives provide invaluable insights into the industry, aligning with COB's mission to bridge the gap between students, alumni, and business leaders. The event facilitates student connections and access to valuable resources and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

GovState President, Dr. Cheryl Green, remarked, “Through our rigorous academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, and partnerships with industry leaders like Dorri McWhorter, we aim to empower the next generation of innovators and changemakers.”

On his way to becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Liam Kirschbaum feels confident Governors State University (GovState) prepared him to meet that goal.

As an Accounting student, Liam found no shortage of support at GovState and believes that regardless of program, students will find someone more than willing to stand in their corner and back them up throughout their journey. Now a GovState Honors College graduate with his bachelor's degree, Liam is looking forward to the next step beyond Commencement.

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to Governors State University?

Liam: Governors State University had everything I was looking for in a University: small, personal class sizes, fantastic faculty, a campus close to home, and an AACSB accreditation for its College of Business. GovState offered excellence with affordability, and it has never failed to deliver on that promise.

GovState Newsroom: What clubs/activities were you involved with?

Liam: I have been involved in club leadership for a number of clubs but have taken the most care with my role in AFE Club, our university's accounting, finance, and economics club. I have been co-president of the club since fall 2022. I have also been treasurer of the GovState Honors College E-Board, treasurer of Reconstructed and president of Beta Gamma Sigma.

GovState Newsroom: What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

Liam: The music of alt-J will always be connected to this time of my life. When I was little, I took my first college level course at JJC through a program called "Kids College". Despite being in a class of adults, I sat right at the front of the class, just ecstatic to be one of the "grownups". My favorite band at the time was alt-J and the first album I played driving to GovState was "An Awesome Wave". It has always felt as though alt-J has grown up with me.

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?

Liam: I dream of achieving stability and success for me and the family I hope to have in my future. I believe that a degree in accounting is an extremely strong step towards realizing that dream, granting me not only access to a diverse job market that is always in need of workers, but also helping me build an invaluable basis of knowledge in the language of business and finance.

GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?

Liam: GovState gives back what you put into it. Spend time on campus, get involved in clubs and club leadership, attend networking events, and push yourself to sell yourself. If you are engaged and dedicated to achieving your dreams, GovState, its administration and faculty, will be right there with you helping you get there.

Click here to read more 2024 grad profiles.

For Ashley Jack, pursuing a bachelor's degree was not a decision to be taken lightly, yet Governors State University (GovState) presented the ideal opportunity for her.

An alum of Prairie State College (PSC), Ashley chose to further her educational journey by pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Human Resources Management. The journey may not have been easy, but Ashley found the strength to see it through.

With graduation in sight, Ashley took some time to share her GovState journey.

GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to Governors State University?

Ashley: As a proud alum of the Prairie State College, I took a few years off before deciding to pursue my bachelor's degree at Governors State. I saw it only fit to transfer into the sister college of PSC. The accessibility of online classes combined with the proximity of the campus made GovState an ideal choice for me.

GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with?

Ashley: I served as the Social Media Manager for the Black Student Union for one year, where I developed and implemented strategies to enhance online engagement and community outreach. Additionally, I gained valuable experience working as a student worker in the COB Dean's office for one year, where I supported various administrative tasks and contributed to the online presences for the College of Business.

GovState Newsroom: What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

Ashley: The song that will forever evoke memories of this time is Cleo Sol's "There Will Be No Crying." As I near the completion of my degree after a prolonged journey, graduation feels within reach. However, the path hasn't been easy, and life has presented its share of challenges along the way. Despite facing obstacles that nearly overwhelmed me, I've persevered and pushed through.

GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?

Ashley: In the long term, my aspirations include working as a hiring recruiter for leading tech companies like Google or Amazon.

GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?

Ashley: For future Govstate students, remember that college marks the start of an ongoing journey of learning and growth. Approach your studies with curiosity, welcome new challenges, and always strive to expand your knowledge and develop personally, both inside and outside the classroom.

Click here to read more 2024 grad profiles.

These words were particularly impactful for Atanda Williams (pictured left), one of two GovState students in the program’s 12^th and largest cohort of 41 scholars, who now join the ranks of 338 alumni to complete the highly competitive program.

“I took those words to heart and will continue not only my educational journey to the furthest of my abilities, but also in my career to accomplish any and every certification I can,” said Atanda.

Named for a trailblazing South Side Chicagoan who became the first Black female CPA in the United States in 1943, the Mary T. Washington Wylie Internship Preparation Program seeks to prepare promising Illinois-based racial and ethnic minority college students with the skills needed to earn their first accounting positions and pursue the certified public accountant (CPA) credential.

The three-day, virtual program featured motivational speeches and insightful panel discussions, resume and LinkedIn profile advice, interview coaching, and opportunities to network with other accounting students and professionals.

“It was inspiring to speak with accomplished people within the accounting community!” said Gregory Collins (pictured right), another GovState student who completed the program this year. “I am so much more focused on my career goals and have made so many connections. I even received a few internship offers because of the mock interviews and conversations,” he said.

Atanda was similarly in awe of the people she got to meet.

“It was a complete honor to meet Lester McKeever who worked alongside Mary T. Washington,” said Atanda. “To hear him tell his story of how his career seemed over before it even started and the obstacles he went through to get where he is today was very inspirational.”

Not only did the scholars get a chance to engage with accounting professionals, they also each received a $500 scholarship to help with their educational expenses.

Thinking back on this experience, Atanda is grateful to Professor Michael Trendell for pushing her to apply and honored to have been selected to join the program out of thousands of applicants. “This accomplishment means a lot to me, I’m still over the moon and must pinch myself sometimes to make sure I wasn’t dreaming,” she said.

“I have to say that I’m proud of myself for never giving up no matter what life threw at me!” said Atanda.

Gregory shares these sentiments, feeling honored to be selected and now a proud alumnus of the program. “It means the world to me. I sincerely want to thank my professor, Michael Trendell, for encouraging me to apply for the program,” he said.

From student to advisory board vice chair and now trustee, Stacy Crook (’07) has proven her commitment to Governors State University (GovState) many times over.

Crook, a proud alumna of the College of Business’ (COB) Master of Science Accounting program, is a Principal and Director of Investment Accounting at Asset Allocation and Management with more than two decades of financial and investment experience. 

Amongst her accomplishments is peer recognition as Diversity MBA’s 2018 Top 100 Under 50 Executive Leaders, an award that recognizes professionals with outstanding achievement in community, leadership, and education who possess an advanced degree or certification.

Actively involved in her community, Crook currently serves as the Chicago Chapter President for the National Black MBA Association and Vice Chair on the COB Advisory Board, which provides guidance, advice and support to the COB Dean and helps the college achieve its mission. 

Most recently, Crook became a member of GovState’s Board of Trustees, appointed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, making her the fourth alum to join the board. Board Chair Angela Sebastian is excited to welcome Crook to the board and looks forward to the expertise she will bring with her background in process optimization, change management and corporate governance.

To read GovState’s announcement for Crook’s appointment to the board, click here.

Grounding lessons on ethics in real-life cases is of utmost importance according to Governors State University (GovState) Accounting Professor Dr. Chevonne Alston, as it can help students connect what they’re learning and discussing in class to real-world applications.

In a recently published article, Alston and her research partner, Dr. Di Wu of California State University-Bakersfield, explored the concept of exposing students to accounting ethics more regularly early-on and the challenges that may come with fostering ethical reasoning skills.

Alston said this research was prompted by the widespread ethical issues cropping up in business, government, and non-profits amongst other organizations. “It is important to discuss these topics in the classroom through the use of case studies as our students are future business leaders with the ability to both question and inform the business world’s ethical compass.”

She added that “ethical behavior is always paramount especially as it relates to managing money and other resources.” 

This is particularly true for the accounting profession, Alston said, which operates with a code of ethics and professional conduct. “Accounting is the language of business, and everyone should embrace the information to manage their financial health and lives.”

Reflecting on her published research, Alston noted its importance to GovState.

“Governors State University is an exceptional institution of higher learning. Our research being published in Strategic Finance, the award-winning flagship publication of IMA (Institute of Management Accountants), only helps to heighten the awareness of the university and the great work we’re doing here,” said Alston.

To read Alston and Wu’s article on ethics education, click here.

In a previous visit in August, Dr. Carlos Ferran represented GovState at Universidad de Panama (University of Panama), where he delivered a lecture on Practical Elements for the Development of High-Quality Online Education. E-learning is an important form of education, especially in the past few years, and GovState has been at the forefront of innovative education delivery methods.

Dr. Carlos Ferran (center) with  University of Panama leadership,  faculty, and students

Dr. Ferran has played a crucial role in helping GovState with its online education as he introduced Quality Matters (QM), a program for ensuring quality in online education, first to the College of Business (COB) and later university wide. His commitment to high-quality online education - and exploring new and innovative methods of delivering it - has shown through his efforts on and off campus.

Now, GovState is heading back to Panama. Reggie Greenwood, Director of the Supply Chain Innovation Center and Business Incubator (SCICBI), has been invited by Mi-Jack, an industry leader and innovator in crane manufacturing, sales, service and support, to attend the TOC Americas Conference for the Port & Container Supply Chain Community in October.

“As the world's supply chains are readjusting, Panama has a key role in worldwide logistics. Attending the renowned conference will enable us to connect to key partners in this changing logistics environment,” said Greenwood.

Reggie Greenwood

While in Panama, Greenwood has plans to visit a research center, where he will meet with their team to explore the possibility of their organization and GovState’s SCICBI fostering a relationship built on sharing ideas and logistics projects. 

Greenwood's trip to Panama follows GovState's COB receiving one of the first ever National Science Foundation's Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) awards to lead the Advancing Smart Logistics (ASL) team in an effort to lay the foundation to make Illinois one of the nation's most advanced transportation and logistics hubs.

With the support of the grant, GovState's SCICBI is working to develop technologies that would be used by professions in inland ports and distribution centers. The TOC Americas Conference presents a valuable opportunity for the SCICBI to learn about subjects relevant to their current project.

Sonia Dalmia is the new dean of Governors State University’s (GovState) College of Business (COB).

Dr. Dalmia comes to GovState from Grand Valley State University where she served as the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs, New Initiatives and Outreach, in the Seidman College of Business. She holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Iowa and has extensive experience in AACSB accreditation and Higher Learning Commission (HLC) development activities. HLC is one of seven regional accreditors in the United States and as an insitutional accreditor, accredits an institution as a whole.

“I am honored to join the College of Business at Governors State University as its next Dean. The university is well positioned to be a model of academic excellence and innovation under the vision and leadership of President Cheryl Green and Provost Beverly Schneller,”  Dalmia wrote in a letter to the GovState community.

Dr. Dalmia is taking over as dean of COB following Dr. Jun Zhao's retirement this year. 

Zhao started her career at GSU in 1999 as an Assistant Professor of Management in the College of Business and Public Administration (CBPA), after completing a Doctor of Business Administration in 1998 at Southern Illinois University. She was appointed to her first leadership role in 2012, as Chair of the Division of Management, Marketing, and Public Administration. She became Dean of the College of Business in 2017, after serving as interim dean in 2016. Zhao is especially proud of attaining initial Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation for the College of Business in 2016 and the re-accreditation in 2022.

To read more of Dr. Dalmia’s letter to the GovState community, click here. 

Governors State University (GSU) welcomed U.S. Representative Robin Kelly along with other vital public and private stakeholders for the Reimagining the Electric Vehicle Industry (REV) event on May 26. The event, hosted by the College of Business (COB) and Supply Chain Innovation Center and Business Incubator (SCICBI), brought together about 175 attendees, including policy makers and industry leaders, to explore innovation in the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry in three panel discussions, Building Illinois as the Silicon Valley of EV;  Manufacturing in the EV Industry; and Workforce Development for the EV Industry. 

In her remarks, Congresswoman Kelly read a letter she received from three University Park 5^th graders, Alex, Ryan, and Ethan, who were working on a project about the evolution of the automobile. In their letter, they asked the congresswoman to support clean energy for the future. Commenting that even elementary school students understand the value of electric vehicles for our future, Kelly said, “We have an obligation to leave this world healthy for the next generation to thrive. Our state cannot afford to be left behind by this technological revolution. We need to make investments now to prepare for future generations.”

Kelly also commended GSU for playing a leading role in this effort, and for always being on the forefront of research for Illinois’ clean energy future, fostering innovation, research, and collaboration with industry leaders, and for equipping GSU students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this rapidly evolving field.

President Cheryl Green called the event, “an opportunity to work together to effect positive change, share progress, discuss opportunities and challenges faced, as we galvanize towards this bold vision for the state of Illinois.” She also recognized both Dr. Jun Zhao, Dean of the COB, and Reggie Greenwood, Director of SCICBI, as major driving forces behind the event.

Also present for day’s event were Donna Miller, Cook County Board Commissioner, 6th District; Monica Gordon, Cook County Board Commissioner, 5th District; Joseph Roudez III, Mayor, Village of University Park; Vernard L. Alsberry Jr., Mayor, Village of Hazel Crest; Peter March, President, Village of Peotone; Michael O'Brien, 2nd Ward Alderman, City of Kankakee; and Theresa Settles, Trustee Village of Park Forest.

Special thanks to Sutton Ford of Matteson, IL for providing the electric vehicles for the event. 

Dr. Jun Zhao, Dean of the College of Business at Governors State University (GSU), is retiring from her role as Dean at GSU. She was recognized at Commencement 2023, Sunday, May 13, with a resolution that highlighted her many contributions to GSU, gifts, and many thanks for her service.

The resolution read in part: “Whereas, her passion for teaching and learning, continued scholarship, commitment to excellence, and genuine care and support for students, faculty, and staff have made her a beloved and respected leader who will be deeply missed by the College of Business community.” 

Little did she know that her family was present to witness this, her last commencement ceremony as Dean. Her parents and two sons had come for a Mother’s Day celebration and were able to be present for the occasion. The family’s attendance was orchestrated by her husband Hanping Xiao and Dr. Janelle Crowley, Chief of Staff at GSU.

“Dr. Crowley went out of her way to reach my husband and they started conspiring this whole thing!” said Zhao. “I was surprised to see my family in the audience. It was very nice for them to be there and witness that moment of pride.”

Zhao started her career at GSU in 1999 as an Assistant Professor of Management in the College of Business and Public Administration (CBPA), after completing a Doctor of Business Administration in 1998 at Southern Illinois University. She was appointed to her first leadership role in 2012, as Chair of the Division of Management, Marketing, and Public Administration. She became Dean of the College of Business in 2017, after serving as interim dean in 2016. Zhao is especially proud of attaining initial Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation for the College of Business in 2016 and the re-accreditation in 2022.

“COB faculty, staff, and students work hard to maintain this high-quality standard, and we are very proud of this achievement,” Zhao said.

 She grew up in a family of educators--her grandparents and her parents were all teachers--and the love of education was ingrained into her genes. “Nothing makes me happier than to see the impact of education on someone’s life,” Zhao continued. “My favorite aspect of my career was the opportunity to work with my colleagues to help our students achieve their academic goals and change their lives. And that is what I will miss after retiring--our students, colleagues, and the GSU family.”

Zhao plans to stay connected after retirement and collaborated with Institutional Advancement to set up the Dr. Jun Zhao Business Faculty Recognition Fund. “I would like to invite the GSU community to join me in the effort to raise funds to support our wonderful business faculty!”

She has a long list of new pursuits she’s excited about, like learning to play the piano. But first, she and her husband, who is also retiring from a CPA firm, will embark on a trip to Iceland.  “My husband is an amateur wildlife and landscape photographer, and we will be visiting Iceland with a few photographer friends for two weeks this summer. I am looking forward to that adventure!”

Click here to watch the 10 a.m. Commencement ceremony.

Resilience and determination played key roles in Philip Newman’s journey at Governors State University (GSU), where he enrolled decades after graduating high school. Now that he's earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Newman recalls how daunting it felt to consider attending college after so many years.

After finishing high school, Newman was encouraged by his parents to go straight into the workforce like they did. So he started working at a processing plant. He held a job within the same company up until 2018, when the company relocated to Mexico and severed his position.

“I was 58 and without a job, money, and career, because similar positions now required a bachelor’s degree, which I did not possess. I was encouraged by my wife to go to college. I hadn’t been in school in 40 years. I was afraid and had anxiety,” said Newman. 

It was difficult to start over after losing the only job he ever had, yet he found that he had an incredible support system in his wife and family, and a new support system waiting for him at GSU in his classmates and professors. 

“I was blessed with scholarships to help pay for my education. I learned that resilience and seeking help when needed are vital to success and will help you get over any obstacle to reaching your goals and aspirations,” said Newman.

The support Newman had helped him get through the challenges he faced during his journey at GSU, including an urgent quintuple heart bypass surgery that made it necessary to  postpone graduation by a semester. Yet, he did not let that deter him and instead came back stronger, ready to take on the next challenge.

As for what’s next after graduation, Newman looks forward to using his degree to advance his family’s business and earning his real estate appraisal license. 

Juan Manuel Rodriguez, a native of Colombia, pursued his dreams of studying in the United States and playing soccer at Governors State University (GSU). His time at GSU allowed him to pursue an enriching collegiate experience that included a degree in Business Administration Management, success as a student-athlete, and building community through service work. 

GSU Newsroom: What attracted you to Governors State? 

Rodriguez: I am from Colombia, from a small town called Tabio. Three years ago, I received an athletics scholarship to play soccer at GSU. When they told me that there was a possibility of coming here to study business administration management, I never doubted it. GSU is a great university, surrounded by great people and very nice facilities.

GSU Newsroom: Top two GSU experiences? 

Rodriguez: My best memories at GSU involve playing soccer. In my first season, I remember a game against Lincoln College. It was a semifinal and we were tied with 4 seconds left. I scored the game-winner and the team advanced to the conference finals for the first time in the history of the program. 

Another very nice memory is from the recent athletics banquet, when I received the All-Around Student-Athlete award. I was very happy to see the years of effort reflected in that award.

GSU Newsroom: What campus activities did you participate in? 

Rodriguez: I played football (soccer) with the GSU varsity team, worked as an assistant in the athletic department, and was involved in social service at a church near GSU, delivering food to people in need. 

GSU Newsroom: What was GSU’s role in making your dreams come true? 

Rodriguez: GSU played a huge role in my dreams of being a business administration professional. I want to thank (men’s soccer) coach Matt Eggert. He believed in me and gave me this wonderful opportunity to play soccer in the United States and earn a higher education degree. I believe that GSU opened the doors for me to have a better future and grow as a person.

GSU Newsroom: What advice would you give current and/or future GSU students?

Rodriguez: Enjoy the university because I think it is the best time in life, and that beyond grades, you learn to face life in the best way and how to be a good person.

GSU Newsroom: What’s next after graduation?

Rodriguez: My dream is to continue studying. I want to pursue a specialization in public administration. I believe that all people must contribute something to society in some way and little by little, it will be better.

Lluvia Hernandez Aguirre may have found the start to college a little jarring as a first-generation college student during the pandemic, but with hard work, she adapted and thrived amidst the challenges. Now she's set to graduate this spring with a Business Administration major and Psychology minor from Governors State University (GSU).

While Lluvia's start to college may not have been typical, she soon found her footing as classes returned to on-campus learning in her second year. She discovered Association for Latin American Students (ALAS), where she felt a sense of belonging. With new connections, Lluvia branched out, joining the Student Senate, the Board of Trustees as the student representative, and New Student Programs (NSP) in the Academic Resource Center as an NSP Leader. 

With such an active presence on campus, Lluvia has undoubtedly left her mark on GSU and anticipates her upcoming graduation knowing she will leave her mark wherever she lands.

GSU Newsroom: How did you choose GSU?

Hernandez Aguirre: Choosing GSU was pretty easy. I graduated from a high school in the next town over which is how I learned about GSU. What attracted me, however, was the prestige of the business and psychology programs and the relatively affordable price tag. My decision to continue my education here was even easier because as someone who is pretty active on campus, I have come to be familiar with many of the professors, deans, and students here, and because of that I knew that I would be receiving a valuable education here. 

GSU Newsroom: What are your dreams or plans for your degree and life beyond GSU?

Hernandez Aguirre: Some of my post-graduation plans include pursuing my MBA here at GSU as well immediately after graduation. After completing that, I would like to go into Human Resources and build my skills and knowledge until I reach the title of President of HR. At the same time, I also want to get the ball rolling towards building my own nonprofit organization - an orphanage to be exact. 

GSU Newsroom: How did GSU help you achieve your dream?

Hernandez Aguirre: GSU has provided me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence that I need to be successful in my chosen field. And I am confident that as I continue through the Masters program, these will only be enhanced through my courses and experiences. As a first-generation Mexican-American student, it has been my dream to graduate college with all the confidence in the world that I can and will make my mark on the world the way my parents and I have always wanted. GSU has given me the resources needed to do that. 

U.S. Representative Robin Kelly will join policy makers and industry leaders at Governors State University (GSU) on May 26 to discuss the state's goal to become the “Silicon Valley” of the electric vehicle (EV) industry.

The discussion is part of the College of Business (COB) and Supply Chain Innovation Center and Business Incubator (SCICBI) EV event that will feature panels and speakers that touch on issues ranging from federal and state investment programs in the EV industry, manufacturing EV related products and the challenges associated with those processes, workforce companies and their challenges with training people in high voltage environments, and advanced air mobility. 

“We [GSU] want to become a place where people and the industry can meet each other. To combine public, private, and educational institutions in discussions around the growth industry of electric vehicles,” said Reggie Greenwood, SCICBI Director.

“We want GSU to be a significant player in key industries in the state, which the electric vehicle industry is one,” continued Greenwood.

The EV event will feature a host of speakers including:

Lisa Clemmons Stott, Electric Mobility and Innovation Director at Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Stott markets Illinois’ many advantages for EV manufacturers and directs policy development required to meet industry needs to get the state to 100% clean energy by 2050 in partnership with other state agencies.

Robin Kelly, Congresswoman in 2^nd Congressional District. Congresswoman Kelly works towards expanding economic opportunity, community wellness, and public safety across the state, while also advocating for numerous initiatives to generate job growth, reduce health disparities, and end gun violence. 

There will also be speakers from Lion Electric, Siemens, SkyWay Electric, Hanson Professional Services, and Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.

For more information about the event and to register, please visit: https://www.govst.edu/cob-thought-leadership-series/

When Governors State University Alumnus Jeremy Joyce (’15) reflects on his career journey from a corporate climber to entrepreneur, he thinks of people he met on campus.

Joyce, owner of Black People Eats, LLC., a highly successful digital marketing and advertising company, will be the featured Keynote Speaker during College of Business (COB) Week 2023 on April 27, 2023.

The theme “Creating Your Own Career Path" invokes references to food for Joyce, whose passion for cuisine has attracted more than 200,000 Instagram (IG)  followers on his branded account where he posts videos of himself consuming and celebrating food in Black-owned restaurants.

“Being around students, faculty, and staff plus mentors gave me the ingredients that I needed that allowed me to pave the path for my own success,’’ said Joyce. “GSU gave me a blueprint --  framework to start building the path that was suitable for my life,’’ said Joyce, named in 2021 to  “Fortune” magazine’s 40 Under 40 list. While the honor recognizes Joyce’s popularity among social media audiences, it also spotlights his commitment to growing the Black economy. In June 2020, Joyce raised $100,000 to buoy 54 restaurants struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Joyce plans to share lessons he learned at GSU during his talk next month at the annual Business Week presentation.

The event offers engaging professional networking and learning opportunities to COB’s key stakeholders - businesses, students, alumni and the community.

Joyce’s presentation will be followed by the annual COB Alumni Hall of Achievement Ceremony.

Tickets may be purchased here.

The Governors State University (GSU) College of Business (COB) has launched a seven-video series to showcase faculty discussing impactful and timely topics from artificial intelligence to workplace culture. Each one to three-minute video promotes subject matter experts (SME’s) who are members of the COB faculty. 

The series begins with Dr. Praggyan (Pam) Mohanty a consumer behavior expert who teaches marketing courses at GSU. Mohanty's research explains the marketing significance of using logos that are closely associated with the product image (e.g., Apple logo vs. Ferrari’s horse), so mature customers can easily make the association. This discovery helps marketing experts increase their consumer base. Her research is published in the Journal of Memory and Language and Psychology and Aging (APA Publishing) 

“…one factor that causes memory errors in older adults is their inability to associate new information... I found that meaningful and related information can boost memory performance in older adults,” said Mohanty.

Each month, one video in the seven-video series will be released until May and then begin again in the fall. To view the first video in the series, please visit the COB LinkedIn Page.

“Digital communication is a powerful transactional tool to connect and deliver messages to a diverse audience.  The College of Business is excited to share the creative research being conducted by its faculty.”  Karen Williams Blackman, Content Creator and Manager of Recruitment, Marketing and External Relations, COB.

Undergraduate Accounting Program Coordinator, Alice Keane found her long term research interest in an area she least expected, tax law. A topic that she was hesitant to explore has become a subject that she finds fascinating, one that she continues to research since she was first introduced to it during law school years ago.

Keane received tenure last summer alongside five more professors, which led to her promotion to Associate Professor of Accounting. She teaches a variety of classes in Governor State University's (GSU) College of Business Accounting program, both for undergraduate and graduate students.

GSU Newsroom: What drew you to your field of study?

Keane: I teach tax, business law, and related courses. I have known I wanted to be a lawyer since I was very small. When I was in law school at U. of I., however, I resisted taking a tax class. I thought it was boring and stressful. My advisor pushed me into taking Income Taxation with Professor John D. Colombo. He was a gifted teacher, and I was shocked to discover that I loved tax! After I graduated from law school and practiced law for a while, I decided to go back to school to earn my LLM in tax. Since then, I have written, researched, edited, and practiced tax law in many different roles. I have never stopped enjoying it!

Because of this experience I recommend that my students take courses that they are not sure they will enjoy. I tell them, “Try something new. It may surprise you.”

GSU Newsroom: Can you tell us a little about your current research interests?

Keane: Generally, my research involves tax law and other laws that affect businesses. Over the past few years, I have been researching, presenting, and writing on the federal taxation of cannabis businesses that are licensed by states. Cannabis remains a “Schedule I” controlled substance under federal law, which means that it is highly illegal to sell or possess it in any quantity. However, over the past 30 years or so, states have legalized cannabis for medical use, and more recently for adult recreational use. In Illinois, for instance, there are cannabis businesses regulated by the state that grow, produce, and sell cannabis products for both medical and recreational uses. Because of a section in the U.S. Tax Code that was enacted in the 1980s, taxpayers that sell or distribute cannabis are not entitled to take any tax deductions or credits. The practical effect of this law is that cannabis businesses that are licensed and regulated by states must pay much higher taxes than other types of businesses. There have been several bills proposed in Congress to change the treatment of cannabis by the federal government that may also change the way cannabis businesses are being taxed; however, none of them has passed at this time. 

Once I finish my current research project, I am planning to branch out into international taxation. I wrote my graduate thesis on an international tax issue, and I look forward to conducting more research in this area.

GSU Newsroom: How did you choose teaching over practicing law?

Keane: I have had many opportunities in my career to practice law in many different settings and roles. I have worked in a large downtown law firm, as a judicial law clerk for an appellate court judge, as an editor for a legal publication, and as a government attorney. I enjoyed all these positions. However, in 2014, I was asked to teach an evening class as an adjunct professor in the College of Business at GSU. I have a hard time describing just how engaging and rewarding I found teaching GSU’s amazing students! It changed the trajectory of my career completely. When I got the opportunity to interview for a full-time faculty position at GSU in 2016, I leapt at the chance. Becoming a full-time member of the faculty was a dream come true. I love my job. Teaching and interacting with our students, researching and writing on tax and other areas of the law, and working in service roles with other GSU faculty, staff, and administrators – who could ask for more?

GSU Newsroom: For students who have enjoyed a course subject you’ve taught, what other subjects or courses would you recommend?

Keane: There’s so much to choose from in the College of Business and in the accounting curriculum. This academic year, I am teaching Tax I, Business Law I and II, and a newly cross-listed course for both graduate and undergraduate accounting students, Employee Benefits and Retirement Planning. In addition, my accounting faculty colleagues are all excellent and engaging teachers. I don’t think accounting students can go wrong with any classes they choose!

If a student has the time to take an elective course outside of their major, I think they should jump at the chance to try something completely different. It is good to stretch one’s intellectual muscles, so to speak. For instance, accounting students could take a language or a course in history, art, literature, marketing, science, creative writing, music. There are lots of options available!

GSU Newsroom: What is your favorite space on GSU's campus?

Keane: I love the outdoor space, the lovely seating area outside of the Hall of Governors, the pond, and the sculpture garden. I also enjoy walking through the E building and looking at the art objects – sculpture and paintings – by GSU students. The Center for Performing Arts is amazing. I don’t get to go to as many performances and events there as I would like, but whenever I do get the chance it’s a treat. As a general rule, though, my favorite space at GSU is anywhere that I can talk and interact with students and other faculty and staff. 

Dr. Carlos Ferran, a Professor in Accounting and Management Information Systems at the College of Business and Director of Accreditation and Assessment, received an Excellence Award at Convocation 2022 along with two fellow professors. This award recognizes excellence in teaching, research, and creative activity. 

Dr. Ferran received recognition for his more than exemplary assistance with the transition to online courses during the pandemic and his December 2021 denomination of Association for Information Systems (AIS) Distinguished Member, which very few faculty have received. AIS Distinguished Members are recognized for their impact on the association, which serves society through knowledge advancement and promotion of excellence in the practice and study of information systems.

GSU Newsroom: What is your favorite thing about teaching at Governors State University (GSU)?

Ferran: We have very special students at GSU. While I believe that everyone should have the right to education, our students understand that in the United States education is a privilege and not a right (which is very unfortunate) and our students are grateful to have the opportunity to obtain a great education which is what we provide at GSU. I am willing to bend over backward to help anyone who wants to learn. And most of our students want to learn. I love that.

GSU Newsroom: What do you uniquely bring to students at GSU?

Ferran: I am not unique. I am not special. I am simply one more hard-working individual who is part of this great community of faculty who is lucky to belong to GSU.

GSU Newsroom: As you helped GSU move to fully online courses during the pandemic, how did technology make teaching more simple or difficult?

Ferran: Technology is a great tool, but it is not for everyone. Lucky for me, I am in love with technology. My doctoral dissertation 22 years ago was related to the acceptance of information through videoconference. I brought Quality Matters to GSU. I have been pushing for online education at GSU. I am a proponent for online education at GSU and higher education. I believe in high-quality online education. But I also believe that the easiest online education is not quality online education and unfortunately that is the most common online education we find everywhere. High-quality online education is difficult and expensive, and we are a long way from accomplishing it. However, the College of Business is on a journey to high-quality online education. We have some examples of high-quality online education, but we need to invest much more.  Our current online programs are good, but they can be better. They are better than most online programs, but with real investments, they could be much better than what they are today.

GSU Newsroom: You have published pieces of work. Can you share some advice for people hoping to publish research some day?

Ferran: My advice is to start looking at middle-of-the-road outlets and first get tenure. Then, go for the premium outlets. Premium outlets take too much time, and the tenure clock is too short. The gamble of waiting for the premium outlets is too high and not worth it. Get tenure first, and then go for the premium outlets.

GSU Newsroom: Can you share any topics of research that you hope to explore next?

Ferran:

·       Aligning the type of knowledge with the type of technology used in online education.

·       Infoenergy: Adding Information into the Energy Mass equation.

·       Looking into the alignment of leadership expectations between the University President and Provost.

·       A manual for Assurance of Learning in the Ivory Tower. (Book)

GSU Newsroom: Is there anything that you would like to share or to promote awareness of that was not mentioned?

Ferran: The College of Business of Governors State University is truly ahead of the curve in Chicagoland. It offers great education (Face-to-face and online) at the best price possible. It has a highly dedicated and diverse faculty that divides its time between teaching and research, placing students first without forgetting its commitment to the local community. It is also very innovative in its teaching methods and in what it teaches, but it’s limited by the budget that it gets.

I also believe that is very important and useful for all our students to do at least one travel abroad experience during their tenure at GSU. I have taken students to Poland and South Africa. And I hope to take some more to Greece this summer. Going abroad is not just a pleasure and an adventure but a fantastic learning experience that lasts a lifetime.

Dr. Robert Garcia, former activist, who grew up in South Chicago, charged his  Master of Science Business Analytics students to come up with solutions that cater to residents of his hometown with a groundbreaking capstone project.

South Chicago, a once thriving area that was home to the steel industry turned into a shell of what it once was when the mills left and the jobs went with them. This and other factors sent the neighborhood down a spiral of changes, including issues with poverty and economic disinvestment. It’s a familiar story for many cities and areas throughout Chicagoland. Now this predominantly Black and Brown area is changing again and some activists are concerned it isn’t for the benefit of current residents. They fear that the types of businesses being proposed for the area don’t fit the needs of those who live there and could force them out of the neighborhood. 

To help prevent that, students worked with two community activists to conduct a preliminary analysis of South Chicago and businesses that may cater to the area demographics. The students then developed their own datasets of area businesses around the commercial corridor and a statistical model to predict the types of businesses that may be appropriate for the area. Some of their recommendations included businesses that currently exist in the area including fashion shops, rehab services, digital marketing offices, food trucks, a real estate office, home repair, hair services and more. 

Garcia said the kind of experience students got from the project is “gold.”

“You get the challenge of doing something no one has done before and are playing with real data to address real issues as opposed to what people do in a textbook. Nowadays you can google textbook answers, but they had to go out there to find the data,” he said. “And for them to work in teams and in a setting with real world problems gives them the experience of navigating different personalities and trying to manage their time to be productive.”

As a South Chicago native and researcher, one of the most powerful things the project did was dispel myths and help change the narrative about the area. For him, some of those myths include claims that the area doesn’t have any businesses, which justifies new development from those not familiar with the community.

“There actually are businesses and there are businesses that are trying to cater to existing residents,” he said. “What happens to them when we start bringing in businesses that cater to more affluent people? Unless something is done to help them become more successful, they will be displaced.”

Peggy Salazar, a 70-year-old lifelong resident of South Chicago who sat-in during the capstone presentations at GSU said it was a joy to hear the student’s ideas and to learn stats about her community that she didn’t know. While she feels data doesn’t always tell the whole story for what’s needed in a community, she believes the project was important for the students. 

“I’m glad they worked on the project because the students became aware of communities like ours that they might not know about without it,” she said.

Garcia hopes to continue challenging his students with projects that have an impact on communities in Chicago and throughout the Southland. 

With its Lean Six Sigma program, the Supply Chain Innovation Center and Business Incubator (SCICBI) is helping several industries in the Chicago region improve conditions for their employees and the people they serve. 

The program gives professionals from industries like healthcare and manufacturing an opportunity to examine the ways they use their resources to improve performance. That means reworking a company's processes and creating new ones that are more efficient. In one case, that exercise saved a company working with Governors State University (GSU) half a million dollars, said Dr. Tricia Kerns, who teaches in the program.  

“Lean Six Sigma teaches proven methods to uncover waste and eliminate “non-value added” activities that companies tend to spend a significant amount of time on,” Kerns said. “There’s a "positive" connection to the company’s employees as they are part of the solution. Employees, therefore, are engaged and empowered." 

The success of the program has to do with it's focus on "learning and doing" that translates to immediate results, Kerns said

"Ultimately this approach changes the organization's culture, encouraging employees to be a part of the solution," Kerns said. “This is especially important today as labor constraints have negatively influenced every industry. Having engaged employees helps with this.”

The program focuses on both Advanced Lean Techniques and Six Sigma "Green Belt" methodologies. The Advanced Lean Techniques teaches professionals tools like value stream mapping and root-cause analysis, which gives them the ability to look for continuous areas of improvement at their organization.  Six Sigma is more project based with understanding the foundation of Define, Measure, Improve and Control (DMAIC).

“Oftentimes, opportunities to improve a process are hidden and it’s not always easy to discern what a problem is and where an opportunity to improve is,” said Reggie Greenwood, Director of SCICBI. “A green belt enables a person to create a fundamental skill applicable to any type of operation.” 

After receiving a “Lean Six Sigma Green Belt,” professionals then work with Dr. Kerns on implementing what they’ve learned in their organization.  

Right now, 10 large manufacturing and logistics companies are enrolled in the program.  

Greenwood said he’s looking forward to working with more companies in the region and expanding on the great work that’s already been done.   

“This program gives us the opportunity to have working relationships with companies throughout the Chicago region and it's a technique companies can use to be more creative and innovative in their operations,” Greenwood said. 

The College of Business (COB) is proud to announce the extension of its esteemed Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation, an achievement earned by less than 5% of business schools around the world. 

Dr. Jun Zhao, Dean of the College of Business, called earning the AACSB accreditation “a remarkable achievement, a reflection of the academic excellence and our commitment to continuous improvement.”

"As an AACSB accredited business school, the COB at GSU strives to continuously improve its programs and curriculum, and providing the knowledge, skills, and competencies our students need to succeed in the ever-changing global market. I thank our faculty, staff and students for their dedications to our mission, and their contributions to this wonderful achievement”, Zhao said. 

Founded in 1916, AACSB is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools, and the largest business education network advancing students, educators, and business worldwide.  AACSB accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education worldwide.  

Today, a total of 954 institutions across 59 countries and territories have earned AACSB accreditation in business. Also, 193 institutions maintain supplemental AACSB accreditation for their accounting programs. COB has held accreditation since 2016.

It isn’t easy to land an internship at one of the Big Four accounting firms. But thanks to the College of Business (COB) and their efforts in creating pathways to success, seven of its students managed to intern at each of the prestigious firms in the same academic year, a first in the college's history.  

The students include Ibrahim Ahmad, Omar Hernadez and John Morrissey, who interned at KPMG in Spring 2022; Gail O’Banner and Colton Krska who both interned at Deloitte in Summer 2022; Lonzo Lynn who interned at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Spring 2022; and Arameli Banuelos who interned at Ernst and Young in Summer 2022. 

Dr. David Green, Chair of COB’s Division of Accounting, Economics, Finance and Management Information Systems, said the accomplishment should turn heads because the firms only recruit students from a very small number of schools. In part, it was made possible by the past successes of students who’ve interned at the firms, which helped to put GSU on the map. 

“When we’ve had students who’ve landed those internships and are successful, that opens doors to other GSU students because the firms say ‘Oh, GSU students are great students,’” Dr. Green said.  

The accomplishment also came as a result of the college’s efforts to help students be more prepared for career opportunities through key initiatives. 

In February 2022, the college hired its first Internship and Employer Relations Coordinator, Peter Judge, who is instrumental in helping students find and prepare for internships. 

Additional forms of support have been added in the classroom as well. In partnership with Career Services, the college implemented the Career Ready Program in the Intermediate Accounting I course. The course requires students to do career assignments in addition to their usual course work. That includes working closely with Career Services, attending workshops and seminars on resumes, searching for internships and preparing Linkedin profiles. 

Dr. Green said the college is planning to implement the Career Ready Program in all undergraduate business majors sometime soon.

COB will be hosting a career and internship fair on Nov. 10 from 1 p.m to 3 p.m. in the Hall of Governors. Click here to register. 

For Governors State University’s College of Business, the academic year 2021-2022 was filled with new programming, accolades and strides in thought-leadership, according to the recently released annual report.

The report dives into student, faculty and staff accomplishments in the academic year, during when the college held its first Continuous Improvement Review visit to maintain its esteemed Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation. Additionally, the report covers the college’s steady enrollment trends, increased alumni and business engagement, and financial growth, especially in grant activities.

Read the full report here.

On Friday, June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade, striking down the constitutional right to abortion.

The decision was met by many Americans taking to the streets, some to protest—some to celebrate. With emotions running high over this very critical issue, the GSU Newsroom took a moment with Dr. Stephen Wagner, Professor of Management in GSU’s College of Business who is Program Coordinator for Human Resource Management concentration, to explore the impact of this and other Supreme Court rulings.

Dr. Wagner discussed the significance of corporations agreeing to pay transportation costs for employees to have access to reproductive care, as well as what the historic decision could signal.

GSU Newsroom: Following the decision to reverse Roe v. Wade, some corporations are offering to provide transportation benefits for employees who will need to travel to receive reproductive care. Why do you think corporations might make this decision?

Dr. Wagner: If you look at polls, nearly two-thirds of Americans supported Roe v. Wade. This change in the law does not seem to reflect what most Americans want.

In terms of companies who are offering travel benefits, the benefits are meant to serve as a signal to potential employees about whether they will fit within that company. These companies are filled with very bright people who also can observe that nearly two-thirds of Americans supported Roe v. Wade, so while it may seem like a political  statement, they are somewhat safe in making this change. Employers have also had travel benefits for other medical procedures because of the distribution of availability of healthcare in our country.

GSU Newsroom: Is it important to a corporations’ bottom line to offer these benefits?

Dr. Wagner: Perhaps. It could be that this is not just a signal to potential employees, but also to potential customers. When you can make a statement that you know that nearly two-thirds of the American populous agrees with, it may be something that could be important for their bottom line.

GSU Newsroom: We’re seeing some states passing harsh laws to enforce the abortion ban. Could this backfire for companies agreeing to pay for employees to travel for abortions?

Dr. Wagner: I think there’s a lot to be played out here, because the laws in many of the states prohibiting abortion are taking a different form. For instance, the Texas Heartbeat Act in particular uses an enforcement mechanism that authorizes members of the public to sue those who perform or facilitate what would be an illegal abortion. In a way this is incentivizing members of the public to be bounty hunters for those seeking abortion, where they can sue for a minimum of $10,000 including and in addition to legal fees.

We also see that there are some conservative members of congress, including the senior senator from Florida, who is proposing the law that would prohibit the business expensing-- the tax deduction of these travel expenditures-- for abortion. So if a law like that passed and if cases were brought under the Texas Heartbeat Act that were costly to these companies, you might see them change their policies down the line.

GSU Newsroom: The Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade one day after the Court expanded gun rights. These two rulings seem at odds with one another —the Court intends to protect lives with the abolition of Roe v. Wade, yet chose to expand gun rights following the massacre at Uvalde. What are your thoughts?

Dr. Stephen Wagner: We are going to see a lot more rulings like the rulings on gun control and abortion rights. We are already seeing it in terms of environmental protection and many other things. I think this is an ongoing shift in our laws, and that this change that we’ve seen is not likely to be reversed very quickly. Hopefully, it can motivate people to vote. Regardless of what political side they are on, elections have consequences, and that includes who sits on the Supreme Court.

Governors State University (GSU) College of Business students were awarded $10,000 in scholarship monies from Traffic Club of Chicago, which will help them advance their education and careers in supply chain management. 

The awardees include: 

• Marc Brajkovich, who was awarded the George Baima Award of $5,000 (the highest honor of all scholarships given); 
• Anthony Campabello, who was awarded the Dan Wallace Award of $2,500; and
• Kenya Jenkins and Michaela Derrick, who were both awarded the General Sponsorship Award of $1,250 each. 

The scholarship recipients will be able to use the funds to pay for educational expenses like tuition and school supplies, as well as for networking opportunities. The scholarship “will encourage the students to continue their college education as the need for more supply chain professionals is growing," said Dr. Tricia Kerns, Senior Lecturer from the College of Business, who is also Associate Director at GSU's Supply Chain Innovation Center and Business Incubator(SCICBI). It's  one of 15 Illinois Innovation Network hubs, a state-wide network led by the University of Illinois system.

“TCC has really stepped up to invest in GSU’s students and specifically the GSU supply chain students,” she said of TCC, which represents businesses and individuals in transportation, distribution and logistics. The organization fosters networking opportunities for businesses and individuals, while also providing relevant information about transportation markets. “Because TCC knows there is a future and they know that investment will pay dividends for the industry years from now. Supply chain management has really picked up as a career that's going to be around for a long time, and TCC recognizes that all students need an opportunity to excel in the field. So we are super excited about this.” 

Next, the students will attend TCC's July Executive Series Luncheon & Scholarship Awards Presentation on July 14 at 11:30 a.m. at Ditka's Oakbrook  Terrace. 

Congratulations to all!