Distinguished Alumni Dennis Brockman

Without the slightest hint of ego, Dennis Brockman (BSB 87 – Business Administration) recalls how a former supervisor once told him something remarkable: “He said, ‘Dennis, I've never met someone who has the ability to hold people accountable, but yet inspire them to do more than they ever thought they could do.’”

Brockman, Starbucks Corporation’s senior vice president for U.S. Retail Operations, has built his substantial corporate career as much on leadership skills as he has on the technical intricacies of selling cups of Pike Place Roast. That focus is by design, he says, given the inspiration he still gets from his late mother, Judy Brockman, and his personal desire to constantly present the best version of himself.

An example appears in his rock-solid belief in being on time. It’s a commitment to punctuality and respect for other people’s time that came from his mom. His chief of staff at Starbucks often explains that if you're in a meeting with Brockman, don’t be late.

“When you go to work, when you go to church, whatever it is, when you make a commitment, fulfill that commitment,” Brockman said. “That's a leadership quality. When you say what you're going to do, do it. If you're not going to do it, don't say it.”

A native of Kansas City, Kansas, Brockman participated in ESU’s Associated Student Government and was a resident advisor on campus. Since earning his degree and embarking on a career that has included management roles at Josten’s, Wendy’s and Aramark, he’s remained an unabashed supporter of ESU and champion of the quality of education Hornet graduates receive. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the ESU Foundation. His wife, Evonna Brockman, is also an ESU graduate.

“In light of his outstanding achievements, leadership and service, Mr. Brockman stands as an exemplary candidate for the Distinguished Alumni Award,” Bethany Tegtmeier, vice president of Development for the ESU Foundation, wrote in her nomination letter for Brockman. “Recognizing Dennis with this prestigious honor not only celebrates his individual accomplishments but also serves as an inspiration for current and future students to emulate his commitment to excellence and community engagement.”

Though it’s been nearly four decades since he completed his degree, Brockman remains as steadfastly appreciative of his time in Emporia as ever. Time hasn’t diminished his support for his alma mater.

“ESU has prepared me to compete, not only at Starbucks, but also at every company I've been with,” he said. “I go into every company, every position, with the confidence that I can do this job just as well as anyone else. I take pride in telling people that I'm a graduate of ESU.”