Illinois State University’s College of Business (COB) is gearing up to host its prestigious Early Career Achievement Awards ceremony during Homecoming 2024. This event recognizes and celebrates the outstanding achievements of younger graduates who have demonstrated exceptional professional leadership, potential for future distinction, and a strong commitment to serving others. The Early Career Achievement Awards (ECAA) highlight the success and impact of alumni from various degree programs within the College of Business.
This year, 14 exceptional recipients representing different departments throughout the COB will be honored at the ceremony. These recipients have excelled in their respective fields and embody the core principles of responsibility, honesty, respect, fairness, and trust as outlined in the College of Business Standards of Professional Behavior and Ethical Conduct. The winners have shown exemplary professional capabilities through entrepreneurial success, rapid promotions, industry recognition, and innovative practices leading to measurable outcomes.
The Early Career Achievement Award winners for 2024 include a diverse group of individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. From sales directors to finance managers, HR directors to marketing specialists, these alumni have continued to grow professionally and make a positive impact on their communities. Each honoree has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a dedication to serving others, making them role models for current students at Illinois State University.
Among the distinguished recipients is Connor Achim, a Professional Sales graduate who currently serves as the Sales Director at Crexi, Inc. Ashley Carboni, a Financial Accounting alumna, is the Manager of Accounting Advisory Services at KPMG. Renee Haning, who graduated from the CMBA program, is the HR Director at Country Financial. Ellen Janssen, a Marketing and Organizational Leadership graduate, is the Specialized Recruiter Lead at TEKsystems. Nicole Jones, who completed the BS/MBA Accounting program, is a Senior Manager at the Chicago Cubs.
Other notable winners include Ellen Marr, Filip Miljevic, Dakota Neisen, Nicole Poggensee, Matthew Riley, Penney Rodd, Megan Smalter, Brendan Surmeier, and Nathan Willard. These accomplished individuals have shown a dedication to professional growth, ethical conduct, and community service, making them exemplary representatives of the College of Business at Illinois State University.
The Early Career Achievement Awards ceremony provides a platform for these outstanding alumni to share their experiences and insights with current students. Through panel discussions and networking opportunities during Homecoming celebrations, the award recipients inspire and motivate the next generation of business leaders. Their success stories serve as a testament to the quality education and mentorship provided by the College of Business at Illinois State University.
Overall, the Early Career Achievement Awards at Illinois State University’s College of Business recognize and celebrate the achievements of young graduates who have excelled in their careers and made a positive impact on their communities. These alumni serve as shining examples of the values and principles instilled by the COB, inspiring others to strive for excellence and make a difference in the world of business.
