College News and Announcements
Fall 2024
Sales School Celebrates 100% Career Placement for 2023-24
Dec. 6, 2024 | Congratulations to the Edward H. Schmidt School of Professional Sales for a 100% career placement rate for the 2023-24 academic year!
Management Professor Publishes Research on Leading Through Crises
Dec. 4, 2024 | Dr. Jenell Wittmer, professor of management in the Neff College of Business and Innovation, co-authored an influential study with Dr. Clinton Longenecker, titled "CEO Reflections on Leadership Lessons from the Global Pandemic: Back to Basics During Crisis," published in the Leadership & Organization Development Journal. The research, based on insights from 30 CEOs across various industries, highlights enduring leadership principles such as clear communication, team empowerment, and prioritizing safety and engagement, which proved vital during the COVID-19 pandemic. These "back to basics" strategies—emphasizing alignment with mission, collaboration, empathy, and transparency—offer valuable guidance not only for navigating crises but also for fostering resilience and adaptability in any challenging environment. Dr. Wittmer’s work reinforces the timeless importance of leadership fundamentals in building organizational strength and preparedness for the future.
Senior Rocket Runner Finds Success in Business
Nov. 26, 2024 | Geoffrey Howles Jr., a senior in the Neff College, is set to graduate on December 14 with a bachelor's degree in business administration. A dedicated member of the men's cross country team since 2020, Geoff contributed to the team's recent victory at the 2024 Mid-American Conference championship.
Initially undecided on his major, Geoff discovered a passion for operations and supply chain management, appreciating the blend of analytical and interpersonal skills the field offers. Post-graduation, he will join Owens Corning's Supply Chain & Sourcing Leadership Development Program.
Faculty Member Co-Authors Groundbreaking Business Textbook for the Next Generation
Nov. 23, 2024 | The Neff College proudly celebrates Professor Daniel Pfaltzgraf, lead author of Contemporary Business, 20E, published by Wiley. This widely adopted textbook prepares thousands of students annually to navigate the fast-changing business world with engaging content and actionable career tools. The latest edition explores critical global trends such as generative AI, remote work, and sustainability, alongside compelling case studies on events like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and the GameStop stock saga. Packed with relatable examples from brands like Spotify, Apple, and Hilton, the book resonates with Gen Z learners while equipping them with the skills to succeed in modern business environments.
Nominations Open for Family Business Center's 'Doing Right Spotlight'
Nov. 19, 2024 | Individuals can nominate family-owned businesses for their contributions to their communities and their commitment to doing what’s right now through Nov. 29.
Klar Leadership Academy Embodies Servant Leadership at the Cherry Street Mission
Nov. 16, 2024 | On Saturday, Nov. 16, Klar Leadership Academy students embraced servant leadership at the Cherry Street Mission in downtown Toledo, OH. Participants helped clear out the Mission’s facilities to make room for future projects and initiatives, embodying the impact of service-driven leadership. Guided by Cherry Street Mission team members, the students reflected on empathy, community impact and the significance of applying servant leadership in their lives. Thank you to Cherry Street Mission for inspiring our future leaders!
Neff Research Seminar Series: Exploring Conflict, Business and Peacebuilding
Nov. 15, 2024 | On Friday, November 18, 2024, the Neff College of Business and Innovation Research Seminar Series showcased two thought-provoking presentations. Dr. Marcelo J. Alvarado-Vargas (UToledo) explored the strategic decisions of U.S. firms during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, analyzing the market and non-market factors influencing whether companies exited, reduced operations, or maintained business in the aggressor country. Dr. Santiago Sosa-Noreña (EAFIT-Colombia) examined how entrepreneurship fosters peacebuilding in post-conflict regions of Colombia, highlighting the role of government policies in enabling economic growth and societal reintegration. Together, these studies underscored the critical intersection of business strategy, conflict, and global peace efforts.
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Ph.D. Student Defends Dissertation
Nov. 12, 2024 | Congratulations to Mehrdad Jalali Sepehr (second from right) for successfully defending his Ph.D. dissertation proposal!
"This journey has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding, and I’m so grateful for
the guidance and support that helped me reach this milestone," said Sepehr.
Neff College Attends Leadership Conference
Nov. 8, 2024 | The University of Toledo and the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation were proud to represent at the 2024 EPIC Toledo Leadership Summit. As event sponsors, the Neff College was thrilled to support this incredible conference that brought together inspiring leaders across industries to connect, learn and fuel the future of leadership in our region.
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Two Neff College Alums Receive '20 Under 40' Recognition
Nov. 1, 2024 | Two distinguished alumni from the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation have been named to the esteemed “20 Under 40” list, which honors influential young leaders in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. Adam Motycka (right), assistant general counsel at The University of Toledo, and Lance Self (not pictured), an award-winning sales professional at Taylor Automotive Family, have each demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership in their respective fields.
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Finance Networking Event Inspires and Educates Future Leaders
Oct. 31, 2024 | The Neff College’s Department of Finance recently hosted a dynamic networking event in the Neff Trading Room, bringing students together with industry leaders to explore the keys to a successful career in corporate finance. The evening featured two distinguished speakers: Dave Haddix, former CFO of Therma-Tru and Larry Jones, CFO of Arrow Tru-Line, both of whom shared valuable insights on the blend of hard and soft skills necessary for advancement in finance.
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Business Student Organization Cleans Up the Metroparks
Oct. 28, 2024 | In a recent community effort, student volunteers from the UToledo chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi joined forces with Marathon to help clean up Toledo Metroparks, contributing to the ongoing preservation of one of the city’s cherished green spaces. The group spent the day collecting litter scattered around the park grounds, working to maintain the area's natural beauty and welcoming environment.
Klar Leadership Academy Explores 'Leadership DNA' at Second Event of 2024-2025 Program
Oct. 26, 2024 | On Saturday, October 26, the Klar Leadership Academy hosted its second event of the 2024-2025 program, “Personal Assessment & Your Leadership DNA,” providing UToledo students with an engaging day of self-discovery and team-building in the Savage Business Complex. Led by Hannah Best from Real Good Ventures, the session began with the Predictive Index (PI) Behavioral Assessment, helping participants uncover key insights into their leadership traits and motivations. Through group discussions and collaborative exercises, students explored both their own and their peers’ behavioral profiles, enhancing their self-awareness and team dynamics.
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Neff College Takes on Preview UToledo
Oct. 25, 2024 | On Friday, October 25, members of the Neff College took part in Preview UToledo. Dr. Terribeth Gordon-Moore, Craig Turner and John Anderson III represented the college, connecting with prospective students and their families to share insights about UToledo’s business programs, extracurricular opportunities and the diverse career paths open to Neff College students.
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Transfer Student Realizes Lifelong Goal of Becoming Rocket
Oct. 25, 2024 | Madison Jacob strategically began her college journey at Monroe County Community College (MCCC) to lower costs and experience a smaller school environment. With guidance from UToledo’s transfer advisor, Hala Abou-Dahech, Jacob successfully planned her coursework for a smooth transfer into The University of Toledo’s marketing program. Now a junior, she thrives in UToledo’s business program, where she values the creativity in marketing and enjoys learning from supportive professors. Inspired by her transfer experience, Jacob also contributes as an admissions ambassador, helping to recruit future transfer students.
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Undergraduate Student Awarded Christian Sales Scholarship
Oct. 22, 2024 | Ella Moscinski, a business student at the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation, has been awarded the prestigious Christian Sales Scholarship. This scholarship, presented by Kahle Way® Sales Systems, recognizes Christian college students who are pursuing a career in professional sales.
Now in its seventh year, the award has previously been granted to students from renowned universities such as Baylor University, Texas A&M and Oklahoma Christian University. Ella joins an elite group of recipients who are committed to excellence in sales and faith-driven leadership in the business world.
M.B.A. Student Gains Life, Career Experience Through Philadelphia Summer Internship
Oct. 22, 2024 | Ysabel Duran, a UToledo M.B.A. candidate, spent the summer of 2024 interning with Anthropologie in Philadelphia as an Influencer Brand Marketing Intern. The experience pushed her out of her comfort zone, allowing her to embrace a new city and gain hands-on skills in influencer marketing, from creator outreach to campaign management. Her internship prepared her for her current role as a Campaign Associate in influencer marketing.
2024 Internal Sales Competition
Oct. 21, 2024 | The University of Toledo's 2024 Internal Sales Competition (ISC) took place on Friday, October 18, bringing together business students for a day of professional development and competition. The event began with corporate coaching Development Blocks, where students engaged with industry professionals and partners of the Edward H. Schmidt School of Professional Sales.
- Room A (Freshmen): Lauren Dempsey
- Room B (Sophomores): Maxwell Shelton
- Room C (Juniors): Megan Rupp
- Room D (Seniors): Rachel Stapleton
- Room E (Sales Adjacent & Juniors): Payton Ihrig
Marketing Student Makes Most of Full-Time Summer Internship with The Andersons
Oct. 15, 2024 | Samantha Turner, a marketing student, spent her summer as a full-time intern with The Andersons in Maumee, OH.
She credits her UToledo coursework for giving her the skills to succeed, saying, "Classes on branding and design helped me when developing promotional materials and the critical thinking skills I learned gave me the confidence to tackle complex tasks." Samantha’s experience not only sharpened her technical skills but also prepared her to manage large-scale projects and thrive in a fast-paced corporate environment.
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Finance and OSCM M.B.A. Now Designated STEM Programs
Oct. 14, 2024 | The UToledo M.B.A. in Finance and in Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM) are officially STEM designated programs. All new and continuing students who graduate with an M.B.A. in Finance or OSCM beginning in Fall 2024 are eligible for the STEM related Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension for up to three years.
Neff College Jumps 28 Spots in U.S. News & World Report Rankings
Oct. 11, 2024 | Several UToledo undergraduate academic programs were nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report, and the Neff College is proud to announce that it jumped 28 spots over the 2024 ranking.
Beta Alpha Psi Welcomes Accounting Firms to Campus
Oct. 10, 2024 | The UToledo Beta Alpha Psi chapter recently hosted a professional development event featuring speakers from prominent accounting firms CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) and Plante Moran. The speakers offered valuable insights into the accounting field and led an interactive game aimed at helping students develop practical skills for real-world scenarios.
The event also highlighted mentorship opportunities through the Accounting Advisory Council, in collaboration with the Accounting Department at the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation. These mentorships provide students with guidance and support as they transition from the classroom to their careers.
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Happy Homecoming!
Oct. 5, 2024 | What an amazing 2024 Homecoming weekend for the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation!
We started with the Dean's Homecoming Lunch at the Toledo Club, featuring a welcome from interim president Matt Schroeder, an update from Dean Anne L. Balazs and a speech by our 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient, Amy Kellogg '83.
At Friday's Homecoming Gala, we celebrated Jeffrey Traudt '79, who received the Gold T Award. And during halftime of the game on Saturday, business student, Mai Mang, was crowed the 2024 Homecoming Queen.
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Port Strike Panic Buying
Oct. 4, 2024 | Dr. Paul Hong, Distinguished University Professor and chair of the Department of Information Systems and Supply Chain Management, explains why the port strike is not likely to cause the same shortages as the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This is a much smaller scale, so we need to keep that in mind," said Dr. Hong.
"A lot of companies have been warned in advance so it's weeks and even months to start inventories. The right way to deal with it is be mindful of your need. Purchase a little bit more, but at the same time, consider others."
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Business Sophomore Balances Lessons, Lemons as Food Truck Entrepreneur
Sept. 30, 2024 | Anthony Rammuny, a sophomore in the Neff College, balances his academic pursuits with entrepreneurship
through his lemonade food truck, the Squeeze, which he launched in July 2023.
With the support of his family, Rammuny transformed a high school business plan into
a successful venture, serving customers at community events and UToledo football games.
He credits his business coursework for enhancing his entrepreneurial skills, streamlining
operations and helping him grow the Squeeze. UToledo's resources, including the Business
Incubator and Family Business Center, further support his ambitions as both a student
and business owner.
Young Executive Scholars Kick Off 2024-25 Program
Sept. 29, 2024 | The UToledo Young Executive Scholars (Y.E.S.) Program, in partnership with Toledo Public Schools' Jones Leadership Academy, kicked off its 2024-25 academic year of programming on Friday, Sept. 13.
Dean Anne L. Balazs, Ph.D., as well as Valerie Simmons-Walston, UToledo special advisor to the president for community engagement and strategic partnerships, and Craig Turner, director of the Y.E.S. Program, greeted the incoming class of student participants.
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Rocket Recruitment: Fall Job Fair a Great Success
Sept. 27, 2024 | What a successful Neff College Fall Job Fair! More than 550 UToledo business students attended, and the feedback from employers was incredible. Recruiters praised the students for their professionalism, strong communication skills and ability to hold conversations with confidence and great eye contact—qualities that really stood out.
Less than a day later, interviews are already happening in the Neff College's Business Career Programs Office, with even more opportunities on the horizon.
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UToledo Family Business Center Hosts its Annual Golf Outing
Sept. 25, 2024 | The UToledo Family Business Center's annual Golf Outing was a fantastic success! Participants enjoyed a fun-filled day at Stone Oak Country Club, all while raising funds for student scholarships and travel opportunities. A big thank you to everyone who helped us with our fundraising goal and support the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators!
Professional Sales Junior Appointed to UToledo Board of Trustees
Sept. 25, 2024 | Nate Boley, a junior studying professional sales in the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College
of Business and Innovation, has been appointed to serve as a student representative
on the University's Board of Trustees.
Appointed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Boley will serve from August 2024 until July
2026, alongside fellow Neff College student, Kevin Bishop.
Boley, who has held numerous leadership positions and internships with UnitedHealth
Group and Toledo Athletics, expressed his commitment to representing students and
ensuring the University's mission and values are prioritized. As the 11th member of
his family to attend UToledo, Boley describes the institution as a second home, citing
its positive influence on his academic and professional development.
Industry Leaders Share Tips and Tricks for Business Students to Make Lasting Impressions
Sept. 24, 2024 | A huge thank you to Owens Corning and Marathon Petroleum Corporation for sharing valuable
insights with over 60 students during the UToledo American Marketing Association Chapter's
event on how to prepare for the upcoming John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business
and Innovation Job Fair on Thursday, Sept. 26!
Special thanks to Joseph Brown, Tenley Hartford and Lance Price Jr. for offering tips
on how students can stand out and make lasting impressions with recruiters.
100 National, Local Businesses to Recruit Students at Sept. 26 Job Fair
Sept. 23, 2024 | Nearly 500 business students are expected to attend the Neff College Job Fair, which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Savage Arena main concourse.
UToledo's Beta Alpha Psi Chapter Welcomes Plante Moran to Campus
Sept. 17, 2024 | We’re proud to highlight a recent event hosted by our UToledo Beta Alpha Psi chapter, featuring an incredible presentation from Plante Moran professionals Claire Mohler, CPA, Nick Skiba, CPA and Jameson Errington, MSA. The session, held on Thursday, September 12, focused on essential interviewing strategies and career insights, providing our students with valuable preparation for their future careers. Attendees had the opportunity to network with the presenters afterward, further enhancing the experience.
Student Feature: Kivinie Johnson, M.B.A. '25
Sept. 17, 2024 | Kivinie Johnson, currently part of Owens Corning’s Sales Development Program and pursuing his M.B.A. at UToledo's John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation, shares his insight into graduate school for prospective students: “If it supports your objectives, such as advancing in your current role or transitioning to a new field, it is likely a worthwhile investment.”
As he balances work and graduate studies, Kivinie highlights the importance of aligning education with your long-term career goals.
Klar Leadership Academy Kicks Off its 2024-25 Program
Sept. 13, 2024 | The Klar Leadership Academy kicked off on Saturday, Sept. 7 with an unforgettable day of team-building at Camp Miakonda! This select group of 50 student leaders from around The University of Toledo, specifically nominated by the UToledo community, dove into outdoor activities designed to foster trust, cooperation and communication. From problem-solving challenges to team exercises, participants strengthened bonds and built the foundation for an exciting year of growth and leadership development.
This exclusive program is just getting started, and we can’t wait to see what these future leaders accomplish next!
Ice Cream Social Lets Business Students 'Warm Up' Before Job Fair
Sept. 12, 2024 | "Chillin' With the Firms" is an event that provides a casual networking opportunity where UToledo students have the chance to meet with local accounting firms and other companies in search of talented business students. Attendees enjoyed ice cream while engaging in conversations with potential employers who were eager to connect and discuss internship opportunities. The event served as a relaxed environment for students to shake off the rust and prepare for the upcoming job fair on September 26.
UToledo Sales Professor Awarded Fulbright to Finland
Sept. 11, 2024 | Congratulations to Dr. Ellen Pullins, the Schmidt Research Professor of Sales and Sales Management and a professor of
marketing, for receiving a Fulbright Specialist award to complete a project at the
University of Eastern Finland (UEF) during the fall semester.
The Fulbright program is devoted to increasing mutual understanding between the people
of the United States and the people of other countries through international educational
exchanges.
Amy E. Kellogg ’83 Honored with Neff College's Distinguished Alumni Award
Sept. 11, 2024 | Partner at Cleveland law firm, BakerHostetler, Amy Kellogg '83 has been honored with the 2024 John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation Distinguished Alumni Award.
UToledo Career Services Take on the Toledo Mud Hens' University Night
Sept. 10, 2024 | Craig Turner, Career Advisor & Employer Relations from the Neff College's Business Career Programs (BCP) Office, poses with Interim UToledo President, Matt Schroeder, and other members of the UToledo Careers team at the Toledo Mud Hens University Night.
The event provided students with a valuable opportunity to focus on career advancement, while also mixing and mingling with alumni. Current students took full advantage of the job fair hosted by the Mud Hens, connecting with potential employers and exploring exciting career opportunities.
Neff College welcomes its newest international graduate students
Sept. 6, 2024 | On the morning of Friday, Sept. 6, faculty and staff from the Neff College of Business and Innovation greeted our incoming international grad students, offering valuable guidance, resources and tips for thriving at both The University of Toledo and in the U.S. The event also featured a lunch and a special visit from Rocky and Rocksy!
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Finance Professor Gains Publication in International Journal
Sept. 5, 2024 | Congratulations to Dr. Kainan Wang, Department Chair and Professor of Finance, for his recent publication in International Review Of Financial Analysis.
Neff College Professor Named 'Top Scholar'
Sept. 5, 2024 | ScholarGPS has recognized Dr. Paul Hong, Distinguished University Professor of Operations Management and Asian Studies, as a 'Top Scholar' for his outstanding performance in various Fields, Disciplines, and Specialties. Dr. Hong's strong publication record, the impact of his work and the notable quality of his scholarly contributions have placed him in the top 0.5% of all scholars worldwide.
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Management Faculty Appointed to Prestigious Journal Board
Sept. 4, 2024 | Congratulations to Neff College's Dr. Marcelo Alvarado-Vargas, who has been appointed to the editorial board for the Long Range Planning Journal, a high-quality journal in strategic management.
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Get to Know Interim UToledo President, Matt Schroeder, Alumnus of the Neff College
Sept. 3, 2024 | Did you know that interim UToledo president, Matt Schroeder, was a 1998 graduate of the Neff College of Business and Innovation?
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UToledo Launches Two Cutting-Edge Information Systems Programs
Sept. 2, 2024 | The Neff College of Business and Innovation has introduced two new tracks within its Information Systems major, focusing on Enterprise Business Systems and Business Analytics, to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in project management and data-driven decision-making.
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Neff College Supports Annual Business vs. Engineering Alumni Golf Outing
Aug. 30, 2024 | Neff College Dean Anne L. Balazs, Ph.D. and marketing specialist, John Anderson III, proudly represented the Neff College of Business and Innovation at the 26th Annual Business vs. Engineering Alumni Golf Outing on Aug. 19.
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Neff College Pickleball Outing
Aug. 29, 2024 | On Friday, August 23, ten Neff College faculty members gathered at the Sylvania Country Club to kick off the new semester with an afternoon of fun, fitness and friendly competition at Pickleball Day.
Campus Involvement Fair Enables Students to Explore Extracurricular Options
Aug. 28, 2024 | The Office of Student Engagement hosted the annual Campus Involvement Fair, the first opportunity for students to explore all that the University and the city of Toledo have to offer, on Wednesday, Aug. 28. Neff College professional student organizations set up tables to share information with prospective new members.
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UToledo Cannabis Management Classes Take off
Aug. 28, 2024 | Brandon Cohen, a senior lecturer in the Neff College's Department of Management, and Bailey Mitchell, a senior pursuing an undergraduate certificate in cannabis management, discuss interest in the certificate program following the recent legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio.
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Neff College Celebrates Student Career Success with Brand New Job Placement Wall
Aug. 26, 2024 | The John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation at The University of Toledo has introduced a Job Placement Wall in the Savage Business Complex, celebrating student and alumni achievements. Showcasing the college’s strong career readiness and 90%+ placement rate, the wall reflects the support from the Business Career Programs Office and the college’s deep ties with industry partners, all aimed at fostering future business leaders.
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Business Professor Honored for Advancing Women in Leadership
Aug. 26, 2024 | Dr. Margaret Hopkins, a recently retired professor of management in the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation, was honored earlier this month with the 2024 Academy of Management Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division Award for Advancing Women in Leadership.
Hopkins was honored for her lifetime achievement at the 84th Annual Meeting of the Academy of Management from Aug. 9-13 in Chicago.
Neff College Welcomes New Management Faculty Member
Aug. 26, 2024 | The Neff College of Business and Innovation is excited to welcome René Downour. With 16 years of experience in career services, academic advising and management, René is joining our management department this fall. She'll be leading courses on career development and executive communications, bringing her wealth of knowledge to our students.
Neff College's JumpStart Program a Smashing Success
Aug. 26, 2024 | The JumpStart Program, sponsored by the Neff College, equipped incoming business students with the tools and confidence to excel from day one. Running from August 18-21, this free program offered a range of activities to boost academic and social skills, including networking with faculty, leadership development and field trips to First Solar, Dana Inc. and Rocket Central. It set the stage for a successful semester for our new Business Rockets.
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Neff College Visits the American Marketing Association Conference
Aug. 26, 2024 | Members of the Neff College attended the New Horizons Faculty Consortium on Sales and Sales Management in Boston, MA.
Welcome!
Aug. 26, 2024 | Welcome to the new semester at Neff College! We're excited to have you with us. This semester offers numerous opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation. Get involved, connect with others, and take advantage of our resources and events. Our faculty and staff are here to support you every step of the way. Let's make this semester unforgettable!
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