Regional Economic Leaders Form Campus-Community Connection to Shape Workforce of Tomorrow
The School of Business and Economics (SBE) at UW-Stevens Point (UWSP) understands the vital roles the local economy and a strong employment pool have on each other. Having direct connections to economic needs allows the school to shape the curriculum for students and adjust community educational opportunities.
SBE cultivates this vital connection through its Business Advisory Council (BAC). The BAC’s effectiveness stems in part from its diverse membership. From large enterprise organizations like Skyward and Greenheck to locally owned small businesses; across Marshfield, Wausau, Wisconsin Rapids, Stevens Point, and the surrounding communities, the council brings a broad range of perspectives to the table.
“The BAC provides a voice to the local community,” shared Andrew Shallow, board member and regional president of Associated Bank. “The group represents more than the businesses of advisory board members. It represents all the businesses in our area. We are speaking and advocating on behalf of the entire business community to ensure that the School of Business and Economics is aware of and meeting our needs.”
By relentlessly advocating for the business community’s needs, the BAC is advancing the region’s prosperity and ensuring a pipeline of quality graduates is ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. “The unique talents of the School of Business and Economics graduates directly benefit all area businesses who need a high-quality workforce,” stated Ray Ackerlund, president of Skyward.
When SBE’s accreditation with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) was renewed in 2022, placing it among the top 20 percent of business schools, the evaluation team specifically mentioned the integral role the BAC had with the school. “The AACSB applauded several areas where we stood out in comparison to other schools, one of them being how well we listen to the needs of local employers,” said Kevin Neuman, head of the School of Business and Economics.
“We work hard to support our local economy, and our local leaders work hard to stay connected to our programming. In return, we have created a unique relationship that sets us apart from other schools in the state and across the nation.”
Local business leaders agree with the accreditation board. “The BAC has made a tremendous impact in helping to identify the needs of area employers so that SBE graduates can contribute to the community immediately,” shared Ackerlund.
Are you looking to get more involved with regional economic initiatives? Do you have some fresh new ideas for advancing the local economy? To learn how to get involved with business collaborations at SBE contact Carie Winn at cwinn@uwsp.edu. To learn more about the BAC visit uwsp.edu/business.