Asbury’s Dayton School of Business Honors Students at Virtual Banquet
April 29, 2020
Professors in the Dayton School of Business encourage students to think critically and learn by doing. This was evident in the innovative approach to the annual Asbury University’s Dayton School of Business Banquet. During COVID-19, organizers decided to continue the annual tradition through a new channel: a video conference call.
The school of business strives to help students become the best for the world, and this unique evening was no exception. “We may be socially distant, but tonight the Dayton School of Business was together as one,” observed Dean Michael Kane.
In the spirit of former banquets, the virtual guests received on-demand delivery certificates to order meals in advance and “break bread together.” The event, hosted by Dean Kane, began with an outstanding hymn medley performed on trumpet by talented accounting major Wade Hintz ’20.
Asbury University’s 18th president and former Dayton School of Business faculty member Dr. Kevin Brown welcomed guests to the virtual banquet and opened the event with prayer. Dr. Brown said, “He looks forward, with great anticipation, to a time when seniors will walk across the stage at commencement, and he will hand them their diplomas.”
Senior Brette Elliot gave the senior reflection. She recalled some of her “early mistakes” and how fellow students and professors encouraged and challenged her during her time at Asbury.
Special guest and Dayton School of Business namesake Howard Dayton offered a charge and encouraging words to the graduating seniors. Following him, Andrew Coleman ’98, Chief Commercial Officer, GE Aviation, joined the banquet as the guest speaker. Mr. Coleman, who leads a global team of professionals, challenged students to be leaders in any situation even when they are “number two.” Coleman encouraged students to “be like Joseph, who said ‘yes’ to God and honored Him in every way. He honored God even when he was number two to the pharaoh.”
The DSB holistic approach to business education was apparent as faculty members honored graduating seniors. During the banquet, faculty highlighted DSB programs and student accomplishments for the 2019-2020 academic year. Seniors were honored for outstanding academic achievement, including:
- Evan Kelly ’20 – Student of the Year, Accounting
- Joseph Harper ’20 – Student of the Year, Business Administration
- Michael Secen ’20 – Student of the Year, Marketing
- Colton Back ’20 – Student of the Year, Sport Management
- Yun Li Tan ’20 and Joe Williams ’20 – Professors’ Choice Award
- Colin Toth ’20 – Outstanding Student of the Year
- Rachel Scherdin Lister ’21 – Coleman-Shealy Finish Strong MBA Scholarship
“We have a remarkable group of graduates this year. Not only do they excel academically but they are leaders among their peers and in our community,” said Accounting Professor Emily Walsh. “They carry themselves with integrity and humility while fervently pursuing excellence. We are so proud of them and look forward to seeing how God will use each of them in years to come.”
Please join us in congratulating and praying for the Dayton School of Business graduating seniors as they enter the new chapter of their lives. To learn more about Asbury’s Dayton School of Business, visit asbury.edu/Business.