Inspiring Insights: Industry Luminaries Prepare Converse Students for a Bright Future

Written by Amanda Mathis

It began with an idea—a great one.

The Converse School of Business and Data Science rolled out the red carpet this past spring for the highly anticipated Business Speaker Series created by the School of Business and Data Science (SBDS) Dean’s Advisory Board member Fredy Madrid of Gibbs International, Inc. The SBDS Dean’s Advisory Board, a group of ten professionals across diverse fields such as accounting, data science, and business development, play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience at Converse. Their influence and expertise were instrumental in the launch of the speaker series, which provided a platform for students to connect with industry leaders in the Business, Accounting, and Economics Senior Seminar class. 

Madrid curated a lineup of stellar industry leaders, along with co-instructors Dr. Amy Cox and Dr. Madelyn Young, and together the speakers program was launched in early March 2025. Each speaker set the tone for the subsequent sessions, where executives shared their unique perspectives and expertise, culminating in open discussions facilitated by Madrid, which allowed students to engage directly with these industry leaders.

The SBDS Dean’s Advisory Board play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience at Converse.

And they were candid.

Their first visitor speaker was Steven Mungo from Mungo Homes, who shared valuable insights into navigating current challenges in the real estate market. Next was Erin Watson, Managing Director and Head of Business Enablement and Transformation at Truist Securities.

“Her advice resonated with students looking to understand the finance industry better,” said Dean of the School of Business and Data Science Dr. Jessica Sorrells.

Then, in April, Converse welcomed Margaret Young, a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, who focused her speech on the essential skills that graduates should prioritize. Her presentation included actionable tips for students to sharpen their resumes. Kentwool’s CEO and Converse trustee Kim Kent ’97 offered guidance on maintaining a healthy work-life balance—a vital topic for balancing career ambitions with personal well-being—and encouraged students to find harmony in their professional and personal lives. 

Gibbs’s firsthand experience focused on job search strategies and what employers look for in entry-level hires.

The last speaker event, featuring Gibbs International, Inc.’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Jimmy Gibbs, wrapped up the program in early May. Gibbs’s firsthand experience focused on job search strategies and what employers look for in entry-level hires, providing invaluable insights to students preparing to embark on their professional journeys. 

“The speaker series provided great insight for senior students from business professionals in many ways,” said Spenser Kirby ‘25. “The advice on professionalism, breaking into the corporate world, and how to enjoy your work was all very valuable.”

“The speaker series provided great insight for senior students from business professionals in many ways.”

Spenser Kirby ‘25

The Business Speaker Series was not just a series of lectures – it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that empowered Converse students with knowledge, connections, and insights that will last beyond the final presentation.

“The knowledge and mentorship provided by each speaker helped to illuminate for our students potential pathways to future experiential learning and employment opportunities,” said Dr. Sorrells. “Thanks to Mr. Madrid, Dr. Cox, Dr. Young, and all our guest speakers, students left with a greater understanding of the business landscape and invaluable advice to guide their future careers.”

Converse plans to partner with the SBDS Dean’s Advisory Board Dean’s Advisory Board to create even more opportunities for student growth and development in the future.