Students now have a dedicated space to participate in interviews with potential employers from across the country or even internationally using the resources provided by the Phillips 66 Professional Development Suite in the School of Business at Emporia State University.
A ribbon cutting was held Sept. 23 to dedicate this space at Emporia State. Students, faculty and staff, along with university supporters and Phillips 66 representatives, gathered in the School of Business to celebrate.
Housed on the first floor of Cremer Hall, the Phillips 66 Professional Development Suite will serve over 900 business students who, with faculty and employers, can use the space to conduct interviews and other professional development activities both face to face and via video capabilities.
Juli Osborn, director of finance process and controls for Phillips 66 and 1980 School of Business alum, commented on the inspiration behind the donation that made this space possible.
“Phillips 66 is looking for the right talent to help us provide energy and improve lives,” said Osborn. “Emporia State is recognized as a top regional school, and its students have a strong cultural and motivational fit for our company.”
Last year, Phillips 66 committed to heightening the company’s engagement with Emporia State, looking for innovative ways to provide support which directly benefit students in the business school.
“Our donation to Emporia State will help prepare students for the transition from academics to successful careers,” added Osborn. “The new career services suite will give students a place to further their professional development, while improving their access to employment opportunities.”
Students are excited to have a dedicated space within the school to meet with future employers.
“I think this is a great resource for our student body,” said Moira Pyle, sophomore marketing major. “Having this space will give us the chance to interact with future employers in a professional setting.”
In addition to establishing the Phillips 66 Professional Development Suite, Phillips 66 is an active recruiter of Emporia State graduates, participates in the Corporate Connections program with the School of Business and provides significant scholarship dollars for accounting majors.
“This gift by Phillips 66 brings new opportunities to our students,” said Dr. John Rich, interim dean and professor of accounting in the School of Business. “This space will support our focus on preparing students for a career post-graduation.”
For Jennifer Denton, associate vice president for University Advancement, the recent room dedication exemplifies the impact that Now & Forever: The Campaign for Emporia State University has on our students.
“In April when we received word that Phillips 66 would double its total annual support of Emporia State, I was thrilled,” Denton said. “Vibrant, growing partnerships like these make a profound difference in our students’ ability to reach their potential. We are so grateful for our relationship with Phillips 66.”