Illinois State University’s College of Business (COB) hosted its Early Career Achievement Awards ceremony during Homecoming 2022. Early Career Achievement Awards (ECAA) recognize younger graduates 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.

This year 18 recipients representing the different departments throughout the COB were in attendance to accept their awards. These recipients returned to campus to receive their awards and share advice with current students through panel discussions during Homecoming celebrations at Illinois State.

Early Career Achievement Award winners must show the following characteristics:

  • Graduate from one of the College of Business programs.
  • Exemplary professional capabilities as demonstrated through entrepreneurial success, rapid promotions, industry recognition, or innovative practices leading to measurable outcomes.
  • Demonstrated innovative and responsible professional leadership and the potential for distinction in the long term.
  • Embodies the five core principles of responsibility, honesty, respect, fairness, and trust as outlined in the College of Business Standards of Professional Behavior and Ethical Conduct.
  • Shown a substantial commitment to the service of others.
  • Continued his or her professional growth through education or professional credentials.

2022 Early Career Achievement Award Winners

  • Jhoanna Astudillo ’07, Marketing and International Business
  • Richard “RJ” Barnes ’14, Marketing
  • Jerrod Campbell ’14, M.S. ’16, Marketing—Integrated Marketing Communications
  • Erin Dullard ‘13, Insurance
  • Jon Goldsher ‘13, B.S./M.P.A.
  • Chad Halloran ‘12, B.S./M.P.A.
  • Frannie Heine ’09, Human Resources, minor in International business
  • Matthew Hornback ’05, Business Administration and Entrepreneurship
  • Tyler Kirby ’07, Marketing and Business Administration
  • Kevin Martin ’09, Business Education
  • Warren McCarty ’09, Business Administration
  • Renee Nelson ’13, Marketing—Integrated Marketing Communications
  • Ben Owen ’15, Business Education
  • Luke Peifer ’13, Accounting
  • Riley Phipps ’18, Business Information Systems
  • JD Schurter ’11, MBA ’17, Finance, Accounting, and MBA (CMBA program)
  • Jonathan Strok ’11, Finance and Financial Accounting
  • Kelly Tabor ’14, B.S./M.P.A.

Here is a brief look at the winners of the 2022 Early Career Achievement Award (ECAA).