Georgia Southern University’s Parker College of Business is redefining the future of aspiring business leaders through its flagship Parker Business Scholars program. This innovative initiative provides students with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth, empowering them to develop the skills necessary to excel in today’s competitive landscape. Notably, Carly Gagne, Luke Powell, and Sean Robertson are carving their path as the first students from Southeast Bulloch High School to join this prestigious program.
The Vision Behind the Parker Business Scholars Program
Launched in 2019, the Parker Business Scholars program aims to equip high-achieving students with the tools they need to thrive both professionally and personally. By nurturing curiosity, creativity, and leadership skills, the program lays a vital foundation for its participants to significantly impact both their careers and their communities.
According to Danielle Smith, director of experiential learning & corporate relationships at the Parker College of Business, “We want to invest in students who have demonstrated early leadership potential, who are curious and motivated. Being a Parker Business Scholar isn’t about being the perfect student; it’s about acting on a drive to learn, be creative, and engage in big-picture thinking.” This philosophy emphasizes that true leadership involves not only self-advancement but also a commitment to giving back.
The Journey to Becoming a Parker Business Scholar
Securing a spot in the Parker Business Scholars Program is no small feat; candidates navigate a rigorous application process that includes a written submission and interviews with business leaders, faculty, and current scholars. Many students begin this journey as early as their freshman year, actively honing their resumes and leadership skills to stand out in this competitive selection process.
Educational Experiences That Elevate Learning
Each year, Parker Business Scholars seniors embark on a transformative trip to San Francisco as a capstone to their Strategic Management course. This journey provides invaluable insight into innovation, exposing students to the latest business trends and strategic thinking at the heart of Silicon Valley.
Through **company visits** and **hands-on experiences**, students gain a unique perspective on how to construct competitive business plans and effectively engage with investors, employees, and customers. This final experience cultivates a broader vision, preparing scholars to tackle complex challenges as they transition into their professional lives.
Celebrating Excellence: The First Graduates from Southeast Bulloch High School
Carly Gagne, Luke Powell, and Sean Robertson are not only making history as the first scholars from Southeast Bulloch High School but are also poised to graduate one year early, thanks to their dedication and hard work. They will be joined by 79 other high-achieving students at the graduation ceremony held at Paulson Stadium on May 14, where they will take the next steps into a promising future.
Continued Investment in Future Leaders
The Parker Business Scholars program is committed to nurturing each student’s growth every semester, providing a robust foundation for success in any career path they choose to pursue.
A Heartfelt Congratulations to the Current and Graduating Parker Business Scholars
- Carter Allen, Senior, Logistics & Supply Chain
- Brianna Daniel, Senior, Accounting
- Carly Gagne, Senior, Hospitality Management
- Hannah Gainous, Senior, Accounting
- Andrei Gubenko, Senior, Finance
- Alynah Jonas, Senior, Accounting
- Jacob Lord, Senior, Finance
- Christopher Lyons, Senior, Economics
- Jennifer Obiri-Yeboah, Senior, Accounting
- Luke Powell, Senior, Finance
- Sean Robertson, Senior, Economics
- Holley Chapman, Junior, Economics
- Montse R. Ejarque, Junior, Marketing
- Herbert Hall, Junior, Economics
- Jonathan Hallenbeck, Junior, Logistics & Supply Chain
- Colby Pritchett, Junior, Finance
- Jessie Schroeder, Junior, Marketing
- Charlotte Snyder, Junior, Finance
- Braxton Wiley, Junior, Finance
Through its forward-thinking initiatives, the Parker Business Scholars program continues to cultivate the business leaders of tomorrow.
