BUIES CREEK – Fifteen Campbell Business Fellows and two faculty members travelled to Washington, D.C., Oct. 19-21, to learn about successful entrepreneurial ventures, tour landmarks, and attend a reception with area alumni hosted by Campbell University President J. Bradley Creed.
“The objective of this very successful trip was to introduce these students to entrepreneurial endeavors, cultural events, and our political system, as well as network with alumni in the D.C. area,” said Campbell Business Fellows program director Dr. Mark A. Steckbeck.
On Thursday, the group left Buies Creek and drove to D.C. After visiting the U.S. Department of State diplomatic reception rooms, the students and faculty attended a reception for D.C.-based Campbell alumni at the University Club. President Creed spoke at the event, the first of his speaking tour events to be held in the area, and the students enjoyed meeting and talking with alumni. Aaron Schnoor, a Campbell Business Fellow, spoke to the crowd about the importance of scholarships and the Business Fellows program. Later that evening, the group went to the U.S. Senate and watched a late-night session and vote on the 2018 federal budget from the visitor’s gallery.
On Friday, the group toured 1776, a business incubator focused on helping startups in education, energy, health, transportation and cities, and Union Kitchen, a food business accelerator, to learn how these ventures encourage and grow new businesses. Following dinner at a downtown D.C. restaurant, they attended a performance of the Arthur Miller play, “Death of a Salesman,” at the historic Ford’s Theater.
“This trip was not only a fun and informational, it also opened my eyes to the real life benefits of networking and generating innovative ideas,” said Campbell Business student and nearby Clayton native Amelia Durham.
“The trip to Washington, D.C. was a lot of fun,” said Campbell Business student Jared Taylor, who is from LaGrange. “I had many experiences that were informative and will help me develop professionally.”
The Business Fellows program, inaugurated this year, provides a select group of incoming freshmen with a four-year enhanced education experience that includes opportunities like the D.C. trip.
“I am proud of our Campbell Business Fellows for their enthusiasm and professional demeanor throughout the trip,” said Steckbeck. “Real-world experiences like this one will assist these students while at Campbell and in their future job searches.”
“The Campbell Business Fellows were outstanding ambassadors for Campbell University on this adventure, and made the most of the experiences that D.C. provided,” said Campbell Business Dean Dr. Kevin O’Mara. “Thought-provoking, enriching activities like this are key to the success of our Business Fellows program and will produce well-rounded students who will be empowered to achieve their career goals. Dr. Steckbeck and Professor Kelly should be commended for designing this DC experience.”