Dr. Kelli Schutte, Chair – Department of Business and Leadership

March is one of my favorite times of the year.  There are many reasons why but the most honest one is that I am a basketball fanatic and March Madness is simply sublime.  I grew up in a home with a Dad who played semi-professional basketball so you can say it is in my blood.  One of the things I love about the madness is that there is always an unsung hero who rises to the top during the tournament play, there is always the anticipation of the Cinderella team, and the hope of the next round burns intently in each player.  Their hard work, dedication and focus become amazingly acute.  This hope is akin to what I see in our graduating seniors.  They have put in the hard work, they are hopeful for their future and they are ready to take the court.  This week I have been writing a number of letters of recommendations and this class is filled with superstars who will rise to the top as they jump into the game.  Just as I am always sad to see “bracketology” come to an end I anticipate that the close of this year will be a tough one.  As we say goodbye to some of the best and the brightest, we have the full assurance that they are prepared to take up their roles, prepared to fight for the next round and see their hard work pay off.  Congratulations to our graduating seniors!  We are proud of you and welcome you into an elite group of alumni.

Sincerely, Dr. Kelli Schutte, Chair of the Department of Business and Leadership