Drury University Students Craft Winning Marketing Strategy for Local Non-Profit
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — May 13, 2025 — A passionate team of students from Drury University has made waves in the non-profit sector by presenting a dynamic marketing plan to the Board of Directors of Generations Village, a key player in building low-income housing in the Springfield area.
A Collaboration Rooted in Community Impact
Prior to finals week in April, the MKTG 491 Research Class from the Breech School of Business worked in tandem with Generations Village, a non-profit organization founded in 2018. This collaboration aimed to amplify the organization’s brand visibility through both traditional and digital marketing strategies.
The students immersed themselves in community research, leading to a well-rounded analysis of local needs and the crafting of actionable strategies designed to bolster Generations Village’s long-term growth. The culmination of their efforts was an engaging presentation that incorporated branding recommendations, a digital engagement plan, and paths for potential partnerships.
Turning Ideas into Action
The response from the Generations Village board was overwhelmingly positive, resulting in an exciting offer of paid internships for the students to help implement their marketing strategy.
“This strategic planning initiative is a powerful example of what can happen when education and community impact intersect,” remarked Dr. Gehan Dhameeth, Associate Dean of the Breech School of Business Administration. He highlighted how the partnership not only equips students with real-world experience in marketing strategy development but also enriches an organization crucial to the community. “It is truly a win-win—our students grow professionally, and Generations Village benefits from fresh ideas and strategic insights.”
Guiding Future Outreach Efforts
The strategies devised by the students will serve as a guiding framework for the Generations Village Board and staff as they navigate critical phases of outreach, marketing, and public relations.
The student team comprised dedicated individuals including Alea Burks (Marketing/Management, Strategic Communication), Danielle Buker (Management/Marketing, Economics, and Spanish), Layne Clubb (Finance, Management/Marketing, Personal Branding), Micah Keen (Accounting, Business, Economics), Dax Sailsbury (Finance/Marketing and Entrepreneurship/Personal Branding), and Bailey Shultz (Strategic Communication). Their collective effort underscores the power of collaboration and innovative thinking.
A Unique Vision for Impact
“Our model is so unique, and the impact Generations Village will have on people’s lives has the potential to be incredible,” stated Tom Furr, Vice President of the Generations Village Board. “The partnership with Drury University, particularly under Dr. Dhameeth’s leadership, has resulted in the presentation of a thoughtful, realistic marketing plan that we are excited to implement. We’re grateful for this group’s dedication to our cause.”
Generations Village is on track to open its doors by late 2025, promising to be a game-changer in the community. For further details about their mission and offerings, click here.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Cris Belvin
Director of University Communications & Media Relations
(417) 873-7392
[email protected]
This innovative initiative at Drury University not only enriches student learning but also provides invaluable support to organizations making a tangible difference in their communities. Engage with us! Share your thoughts on how students and local businesses can collaborate for a brighter future.
