Early Career Achievement Awards (ECAA) recognize younger graduates from the College of Business who have demonstrated innovative and responsible professional leadership, the potential for future distinction, and a commitment to serving others. One honoree is selected from each degree program.
These award recipients return to campus to receive their award and share advice with current students through panel discussions during Homecoming. This year’s ceremony is set for Friday, October 4.
Panel discussions—3–4 p.m. Learn from the award winners in a Q-and-A session.
- 139 State Farm Hall of Business: Finance, Insurance, and Accounting
- 357 State Farm Hall of Business: Marketing
- 366 State Farm Hall of Business: Management and Quantitative Methods
Awards ceremony—4:15–5 p.m. Mingle with the awards winners during a short reception immediately following a brief presentation celebrating their early career success.
Please join us in congratulating this year’s Early Career Achievement Award recipients:
- Oscar Baeza ’96, organizational leadership
- Paris Blalock ’99, entrepreneurship
- Dominick Bruno ’02, insurance
- Martin Franchi ’01, finance
- Amanda Giles ’02, business administration
- Audrey Hahn, Bachelor of Science/Master of Professional Accountancy ’08, M.B.A. ’09
- John Hill ’11, marketing
- Kristen Knake ’10, business information systems
- Amanda Luebchow ’08, marketing
- Sarah Otey ’97, international business
- Kevin Vlk ’07, business teacher education
Nomination guidelines to be an Early Career Achievement Award recipient are as follows:
1. Qualification
- Graduate from one of the programs in the Illinois State College of Business
2. Career accomplishments
- Exemplary professional capabilities as demonstrated through entrepreneurial success, rapid promotions, industry recognitions, or innovative practices leading to measurable outcomes.
- Demonstrated innovative and responsible professional leadership and the potential for distinction in the long term.
3. Personal characteristics
- Embodies the five core principals outlined in the College of Business Standards of Professional Behavior and Ethical Conduct: responsibility, honesty, respect, fairness, and trust.
- Shown a substantial commitment to the service of others.
- Continued his or her professional growth through education or professional credentials.
