From philanthropic entrepreneurs to software engineers, to winemakers and everything in between, alumni and students from Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business are shaking up some of the world’s most important industries. To highlight these movers and shakers, the college features The 30, a digital publication that recognizes emerging business leaders who are providing thought leadership and innovative perspectives in the business world.
INTRODUCING THIS YEAR’S CLASS OF THE 30
This annual program was initiated as a means to recognize recent alumni doing extraordinary things in business. The 2020 edition also includes students and honors their accomplishments in leadership, professional development and more.
Selected by a committee composed of faculty, staff and Young Alumni Advisory Board members, these honorees represent the work ethic, innovation, and passion that are synonymous with the Haworth College of Business.
POSITIVE IMPACT
What makes being selected to The 30 a special honor? According to honorees, the recognition helps fuel the Bronco spirit to succeed in one’s career, to make a significant mark in business, and to leave a positive impact on others.
“Being a part of The 30 means a great deal to me,” says Jon Jackson, talent management leadership trainee for Republic Services Inc. and a three-time graduate of WMU. “It has allowed me to continue to be a role model for those in my community.”
In his career, Jackson is a catalyst for diversity and inclusion, organizational development, learning solutions, and employee relations, and hopes to one day lead his own human resource talent team. He says that being named to The 30 has helped him develop new relationships and broaden his vision for long-term success.
“I hope to serve as a mentor to aspiring business professionals,” Jackson says. “As I expand my network, I will continue leveraging this opportunity to connect with other professional leaders and share guidance on strategies, initiatives and best practices for organizational culture.”
Jackson adds that being selected to The 30 for his professional accomplishments is reflective of the educational experience he had at WMU. “Receiving this honor is not just an accomplishment for myself; it illustrates the foundation I had at Western, and recognizes the faculty, staff, and peers who supported me,” he says. “This honor is possible for me because of them.”
NOMINATE AN INDIVIDUAL FOR THE 30
If you know of a WMU Haworth College of Business alum who is doing extraordinary things in the business world and would make a great candidate for The 30, you can nominate them for the 2021 class by visiting wmich.edu/business/the30nominations.
