From entrepreneurial activists to visionary venture capitalists and everything in between, alumni 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.

Now in its third year, the program recognizes recent alumni doing extraordinary things in business and connects them with the college and one another through networking. The 30 has evolved to honor accomplishments in leadership, philanthropy, professional development, and more.

Each year, a new class of The 30 will be selected by a committee that will evaluate the nominations using a holistic scoring method. Nominations for the 2021 class are open through October 23.

MEET PAST HONOREES

What makes being selected to The 30 a special honor? According to past 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.

Jessica Roerig, an account executive with Hormel Foods and 2014 Haworth College of Business graduate, was selected last year for the publication. Roerig is responsible for growing the Hormel brand and directly selling to large-scale customers in the western Rocky Mountain region. She manages a clientele that includes resorts, universities, and healthcare facilities throughout Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming.

“The biggest benefit from being in The 30 was following up with my professors and thanking them for all they have done to mold me,” Roerig says. “My network expanded through LinkedIn with fellow classmates, other members of The 30 and WMU alumni. Another positive outcome was the support and recognition I received from my Hormel family.”

Past honoree Jon Jackson is a three-time graduate from WMU, with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Haworth College of Business. Jackson now serves as a talent management leadership trainee for Republic Services Inc. As a former lineman for the Bronco football team, his natural ability to lead and collaborate with diverse groups has helped him create inclusive, supportive environments that build a culture of unity in the workplace.

Being part of The 30 has allowed Jackson to capitalize on even more of those efforts, both in his organization and in his hometown. “The 30 is an opportunity to be a role model for those in my community,” Jackson says. “It means a great deal to serve as an example for the students who reside in the city of Detroit.”

Both Jackson and Roerig add that the recognition provides WMU graduates with a competitive edge on resumes and in interviews, and also helps broaden the professional network of up and coming WMU alumni.

NOMINATE YOURSELF OR A FELLOW ALUM TO APPLY

If you know of a WMU Haworth College of Business graduate who is doing extraordinary things in the business world and would make a great candidate for The 30, or if you would like to apply, visit here.