Women in Business Leadership Named “Outstanding Student Organization of the Year”

Written by Sydney Flora, Schmidthorst College Communications Intern

Women in Business Leadership (WBL), a student organization in the Schmidthorst College of Business, received the Bowling Green State University Outstanding Student Organization of the Year award at the Gregory T. DeCrane Applauding Excellence Ceremony on April 15.

The BGSU Office of the Dean of Students recognizes exceptional student organizations for their accomplishments during the current school year. Organizations nominated for this award meet the following criteria:

1. Activities and events of the organization were consistent with the mission/purpose of the organization.
2. Goals set by the organization were accomplished or significant progress was made toward achieving those goals.
3. Opportunities were provided for members to develop and enhance leadership skills.
4. Meaningful contributions to the University community were made by the organization.

WBL was nominated for the award anonymously.

In recognizing WBL, the dean of students noted that “The Outstanding Student Organization of the Year Award recognizes an organization that not only contributes positively to the campus community, but also prioritizes the development and growth of its members. This year’s award recipient has risen to the challenge of the COVID-19 Global Pandemic to further their mission of ‘Honest Conversation, Vows of Courage to create a stronger network of women on campus to rely on one another for personal and professional growth.’”

Barbara Stahl, assistant teaching professor in the Department of Management in the Schmidthorst College of Business, is the faculty advisor for WBL. She said, “I am so proud of these students for this achievement! Our executive board, pictured, comprised of Caylee Reiman, VP of treasury; Ellie Barnett, VP of recruitment and engagement; Madi Bannister, VP of mentorship; Abby Reynolds, VP of professional development; Jessica Kuhlman, VP of marketing; Alex Falter, president; Heather Lammers, VP of community service; and Paige Redlin, chair of special events (not pictured) has done a fantastic job of leading the organization. I also want to thank our mentor network for their support of our students.”

WBL Executive Board

Alex Falter, a senior from Tiffin, Ohio, specializing in marketing, serves as president of WBL. She said, "We are honored by this special recognition! Women in Business Leadership has seen a tremendous amount of growth and impact during the last seven years. Personally, it has been a major part of my college career, and I want everyone to have the opportunity to be a part of this organization. This is only the beginning for WBL, I know we will continue achieving great things."

Madi Bannister, a sophomore from Clyde, Ohio, specializing in marketing, serves as VP of mentorship and enjoys seeing the impact of the mentorship program. She said, “WBL’s mentorship program is truly one of a kind. We have so many amazing mentors from all fields and industries in business that we get to provide a well-rounded, comprehensive experience to our members, who are equally as dedicated to the program.”

Madi’s mentor, Karen Wolkins, the commissioner of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry for the City of Toledo, has loved being part of the program. She said, “It’s such a rewarding feeling to guide students on their journey into the business world. I’ve really enjoyed working with Madi and watching her grow professionally.”

WBL Annual End of the Year Banquet