Meet our 2022 K-State Alumni Fellows (2 of 3)
Although they’ve since gone on to distinguished careers in fields like education, engineering and entrepreneurship, the 2022 K-State Alumni Fellows started their journey just like all other students
at Kansas State University: in the classroom.
They sat behind desks, studied, took notes, and gained the skills they’d later use
to build successful careers. On April 20-22, they’ll return to campus – this time
at the front of the classroom – to mentor current students and share what they’ve
learned on their journey as K-State alumni.
Since 1983, the K-State Alumni Fellows program has brought successful alumni back to campus to meet with students and faculty
and to recognize their accomplishments. The program is sponsored by the K-State Alumni
Association, the President's Office and the Deans' Council.
We’re excited to introduce you to this year’s group of Fellows, and share more about
their K-State experience, as well as their advice for new graduates:
College of Business Administration
Greg Case '85
CEO
Aon
Chicago, Illinois
How has K-State prepared you for your career?
My time at K-State was invaluable in shaping my career. From both an educational and
social perspective, the experience was important in countless ways. In particular,
K-State reinforced and instilled the importance of delivering meaningful impact in
whatever you chose to pursue and doing so in a manner grounded in values. The environment
also instilled the critical need to understand the community around you and to accept
the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals you encounter. Life
is a team game.
What advice would you offer current students as they graduate and begin pursuing their
careers?
Two thoughts:
1) Keep investing in yourself. It may be enticing to believe that graduation marks
the opportunity to reap the benefits of your hard work. In reality, graduation should
mark the beginning of a personal quest to invest in yourself that will endure the
rest of your life.
2) Make it a priority and commitment to pursue high aspirations of your choosing.
Resist the urge from many to be limited by anyone; and remember the words of Margaret
Mead when she said, “Never underestimate the power of a small group of people to change
the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.” Best of luck on your journey…
College of Education
G.A. Buie '96
Executive director
United School Administrators of Kansas
Topeka, Kansas
How has K-State prepared you for your career?
I believe educational leadership is about building relationships and learning alongside
others. Each course I took at Kansas State demonstrated those traits. It was never
about the professor but what we could learn together and from each other. From my
first class, to my interaction with staff today, the value of listening, learning
and building relationships continues to be an important trait for leaders.
What advice would you offer current students as they graduate and begin pursuing their
careers?
I see graduates rushing to find the perfect job – don't rush the process. Think about
starting small or finding an assistant position with a strong mentor. Take the appropriate
time to learn more about educational leadership and your desired role. I watch young
leaders jump into high-profile positions while many of their mistakes become public.
Leadership mistakes can be challenging to recover from, so don't be afraid to slow
down, understand the landscape, and grow into your perfect role. There is a leadership
role for everyone.
Carl R. Ice College of Engineering
Mark Nyquist '80
CEO - retired
DynaTen Corporation
Fort Worth, Texas
How has K-State prepared you for your career?
It prepared me to approach problems and find solutions. My education gave me confidence
that I was prepared for my career.
What advice would you offer current students as they graduate and begin pursuing their
careers?
Consider the elements you will need in your career to help you beyond your own abilities
to achieve success: a mentor or coach, developmental skills training. Consider the
market, city or location that will provide the best opportunities for your career.
Guard your "personal brand." From the moment you begin an interview or begin your
new job, you establish your "personal brand." Consider what you want your "personal
brand" to be and reflect that with your words and actions. It is slow to change your
"brand" once it's established.
Global Campus
Jennifer McDonald '16
Founder and CEO
Jenny Dawn Cellars
Wichita, Kansas
How has K-State prepared you for your career?
I attended K-State as an adult learner enrolled in the Master of Agribusiness program
through Global Campus. While enrolled at K-State, I was in the process of transitioning
my career from corporate human resources to owning a winery in Wichita. As part of
the graduation requirements, I had the opportunity to write a thesis on consumer wine
preferences. My thesis ended up turning into my business plan which allowed me to
launch my Jenny Dawn Cellars winery.
What advice would you offer current students as they graduate and begin pursuing their
careers?
My advice for K-State students would be to make the most of your time while on-campus.
I would encourage students to network with faculty and staff, get involved and build
relationships. I am still in contact with several of my former professors and professional
contacts that I met while attending K-State. Their friendship and mentorship have
played an important role in my success.