In business, as in life, no one can be everyone’s cup of tea. So, it’s important to remain authentic and “find your people” — those who appreciate and celebrate your uniqueness as a positive as opposed to a weakness.
This was sage advice from keynote speaker Lauren Scott, ’13, at the 12th Crocker Emerging Business Leaders event in Chicago earlier this month. The evening united more than 100 students with dozens of business alumni, allowing them to network and learn from seasoned professionals.
Scott shared her journey as a broadcast journalist and entrepreneur. She opened up about the difference between constructive criticism and personal attacks, learning to own who you are and what makes you special, and creating boundaries. Her message about trusting one’s voice and building meaningful connections throughout one’s career journey resonated with many in the room and led to a lively Q&A session.
This discussion was moderated by alumna and program sponsor, retired real estate executive Cindy Crocker, ’80, whose endowed NIU scholarships and programs have touched the lives of hundreds of students in our College of Business.
After Scott’s talk, business students benefited from the opportunity to engage directly with accomplished alumni, staff and faculty professionals and to witness firsthand the power of authentic leadership.
“I find it especially meaningful to hear from women professionals, particularly those who graduated from the same university, because it makes their success feel more relatable and realistic,” said business administration student Adriana Elizalde. “Hearing about their journeys, including the challenges they faced early in their careers, provides reassurance that setbacks are part of the process.”
The networking reception that followed allowed students to build confidence, expand their perspectives and form connections that will support their future careers.
“I’ve built my career through experience, trial and persistence. If I can shorten that journey for even one student by helping them see what’s possible or simply feel seen, it’s worth it,” said Elois Sprolls, MBA ’15, who attended the event in hopes of networking with students. “I hope the attendees left with clarity that their path can be their own, and the confidence to walk into any room knowing they belong.”
“The evening embodied our college’s commitment to empowering and uplifting women in business, bringing together students, alumni and professionals in an atmosphere of inspiration, connection and possibility,” said College of Business Dean Joan Phillips-Hernandez.
“We are especially grateful for the generous support that made this event possible. As many of you know, Cindy Crocker, ’80 believes that everyone with a dream deserves the opportunity to pursue it, and this belief continues to shape and strengthen opportunities for our students. Her commitment to education as a powerful force for personal, professional and social change is evident in her ongoing impact as both a philanthropist and mentor to our Huskies,” she said.
Learn more about our College of Business’ experiential learning opportunities.
