Community Well-Being

John Afdem (MBA’27)

Jane Majkiewicz — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 23:42:50 +0000

John Afdem (MBA’27) Jane Majkiewicz Wed, 11/05/2025 - 16:42

Faces of Leeds Snapshot

Name: John Afdem
Major: Master of Business Administration
Hometown: Reno, Nevada

What was your background before coming to Leeds?
Before coming to Leeds, I spent over 12 years on active duty as an armor and reconnaissance officer in the U.S. Army. During that time, I commanded a 100-person paratrooper company and led multinational training exercises across Europe and Africa. I was awarded the Bronze Star for my service in Afghanistan and graduated from Jumpmaster and Ranger School, but what I’m most proud of is helping my soldiers grow into confident leaders themselves.

Why Leeds?
I wanted a place that combined academic rigor with a strong entrepreneurial network. Leeds has provided the ideal environment to apply my leadership experience to new ventures, learn the mechanics of investing, and prepare for a career that connects purpose with impact.

How has it been transitioning back to school?
The transition itself has been both challenging and rewarding—shifting from command structures to classrooms, from mission planning to business modeling—but the underlying principles of leadership and teamwork are the same. Leeds has given me the tools to pair that operational experience with a strategic business lens and to start building a career in venture capital that connects innovation with impact.

How has being a High Growth Venture Fellow impacted you?
Being in the HGV Fellowship is one of the highlights of my time at Leeds. The administrative support we receive from the Deming Center is incredible, and the fellowship cohort is filled with impressive, collaborative and genuinely curious people. Additionally, we help local businesses through our impact projects, solving a real operational and strategic problem for a company, and gaining hands-on experience while giving back to our local community.

What is a long-term personal or professional goal of yours?
My goal is to break into the venture capital landscape in Boulder/Denver. Through the HGV Fellowship, Deming Center Venture Fund and the Venture Capital Investment Competition, I’ve found my place in the Front Range venture and startup community. While I may not come from a traditional VC background, the combination of my operational leadership experience and the exposure from these programs has equipped me to confidently pursue this path. I am motivated by the opportunity to work with founders and investment funds to solve hard problems that have real-world implications.

Since deciding to leave the service, I knew that my time in an MBA program would be full of growth and learning. My experience at Leeds has proved that to be true. I’ve developed a deep understanding of business fundamentals but also a stronger sense of purpose in how I can apply my leadership background to entrepreneurship and venture investment.

John Afdem (MBA ’27), a High Growth Venture Fellow, returned to university after 12 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army, bringing award-winning leadership and strategic insight to the entrepreneurial ecosystem at Leeds.

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Matthew Brady

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 21:19:58 +0000

Matthew Brady Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 10/24/2025 - 15:19

Matthew Brady, assistant teaching professor in Organizational Leadership and Information Analytics, arrived at Leeds in 2020. In just five years, he’s made a remarkable impact—designing three HumanCentered Technology courses, launching the Sustainability Hackathon (now the Colorado Sustainability Challenge), and co-founding the Boulder Founder Summit. He also manages to run a startup and balances it with family life as a devoted husband and father of three.

Tech and teaching the thoughtful way

Walk into Brady’s office and it feels like an oasis—clean, organized and lined with sound panels that look like a painting evoking impressionistic skies. That blend of form and function mirrors his teaching, bringing a sense of beauty to technology—something that on the surface may seem contradictory. His courses—Customer Success with Salesforce CRM, Low-Code for Citizen Developers, and AI & Automation for Tomorrow’s Societies—are built around the concept of embedding ethics and empathy into innovation—and Brady demonstrates that it's not only a goal—it's possible.

His passion lies in using tech to address real-world challenges like healthcare access, energy overuse and even loneliness. One example: He built a custom AI chatbot trained on his course materials to serve as a teaching assistant. “Students learn how to use the tool to elevate their work, not have it do the work for them,” he said.

His innovative approach earned him the David B. Balkin and Rosalind & Chester Barnow Endowed Innovation Teaching Award—presented at Commencement as his daughter, Alexandra Brady (MBusAn’25, Ebio’24), received her diploma. It was a milestone moment he’ll never forget, especially after their extended family missed being together for her earlier graduations due to the pandemic and other obligations.

“My goal is to push students to prepare for leadership,” he said. “Tech will play a major role, but we have to train both the hands and the heart.”

In the age of AI, that means asking: “How do you empathize with people whose jobs will be replaced? How do we upscale those members of our communities to do work that matters?”

“My goal is to push students to prepare for leadership. Tech will play a major role, but we have to train both the hands and the heart.”

Matthew Brady, assistant teaching professor

He encourages students to see themselves as changemakers. “I tell them the AI headlines shouldn't instill undue fear—because they’ll be the ones driving that AI and modernization.”

Brady sees Leeds students as uniquely prepared. “They’re entering internships or full-time roles with skills they can immediately apply,” he said. “And part of that maturity is knowing what you don’t know—and how to seek guidance and direction.”

“These are elite students,” he said, saying that Leeds brings in the country’s most talented students bar none. “They genuinely want to know how business can affect real problems in our society.”

Real-world lessons from a startup veteran

Brady brings teaching passion to the classroom, inspired in part by his mother, a teacher. He also brings deep entrepreneurial experience from five successful ventures. In 2020, after selling a company to private equity, Brady chose to "bet on himself" and founded Volley Solutions, a platform that helps companies optimize performance.

“My goal with Volley is to help organizations make better decisions using data and align people around maximizing outcomes,” he said. His startup launch was followed by a call for someone to teach a course on Salesforce at Leeds, and Brady knew he could share his insights in the classroom.

At Leeds, Brady helps students marry data science—finding patterns in large datasets—with decision science, which he emphasizes goes far beyond analytics.

He stresses that good decisions also rely on the intangible: gut feelings, emotional cues and human instincts. “You only have the information you have at the time,” he said. “Later, you gain more. So, how do you prove a decision was the best—even if it didn’t work out?”

That’s the kind of thinking he instills in students, encouraging them to bet on themselves, too. One team that did—FoodWise—started at the Sustainability Hackathon, won the New Venture Challenge and became a real business.

Brady also works to dispel the myth that business students aren’t technical. “Students think if they’re not in computer science or engineering, they must not be technical. No way,” he said. “Business school doesn’t mean you’re not technical—it means you use strategic business frameworks and playbooks to accelerate the impact of technology.”

Fail faster, learn faster

Brady’s own path wasn’t linear. He began at Purdue University intending to become an engineer but struggled through two years before switching majors. That pivot, he said, shaped his future.

“What I learned was that I’d rather fail quickly and get feedback early.” It’s a philosophy he brings to teaching, mirroring the iterative pace of the software development world—what he calls “plan, do, check, act.”

“You find out how things are going and course correct. That’s the ethos of Agile software development,” he said. Conversely, “you could spend six months building something only to learn the customer didn’t like your original design.”

“We have to think through the implications of any tool—whether it’s a hammer or AI. How can it be used to advance human flourishing?”

Matthew Brady, assistant teaching professor

He also wants students to understand their value. “I want them to know their capabilities, value and earning potential—not just salary-wise, but the hourly rate they should charge for things like building a website or app or AI agent.” That awareness helps them balance paid work with pro bono efforts, he said.

Brady regularly brings guest speakers into class to expand students’ perspectives and reinforce the importance of ethical tech. “We have to think through the implications of any tool—whether it’s a hammer or AI. How can it be used to advance human flourishing?”

Despite being an AI advocate, he challenges students to question the urgency around it. “It’s been in development for decades, but there are cautionary tales. We can’t let technology displace humans in leading decisions, organizations or even mentoring or counseling.”

To Brady, the goal is clear: “Let AI do the jobs we don’t want—like a robotic vacuum—so we can focus on being the creative human beings that we are—doing the things we’re uniquely capable of.”

In just five years, Matthew Brady has become a standout at Leeds. As an award-winning assistant teaching professor, he’s not only showing students how to use tech for good—he’s also helping them turn big ideas into real, innovative ventures.

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Steffie Ungphakorn

Jane Majkiewicz — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 19:28:23 +0000

Steffie Ungphakorn Jane Majkiewicz Thu, 10/16/2025 - 13:28

Grace Garfoot

As the PhD program manager at Leeds, Steffie Ungphakorn has been a one-woman force for the past 10 years. From overseeing up to 50 students across seven program areas to working closely with the Doctoral Curriculum and Policy Committee—along with her new role as generative AI trainer—she has a lot of balls in the air. Yet, she still finds the time to support and advocate for each student.

A decade of dedication

Although Steffie Ungphakorn has been in her role as PhD program manager at Leeds for a decade, to many her job is still a mystery. “Outside of [Faculty Director] Diego García and the DCPC, I am the PhD program office. Short of curricular, research and admission decisions, I would say 95% of the program’s operations come from me,” she said. “So, that’s a lot of responsibility and weight on my shoulders—and being able to do that successfully is something that I love.”

A Colorado native who loves summer, paddleboarding and being active, Ungphakorn came to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder from the University of Denver. With a bachelor’s degree in biology from Regis University and a master’s in higher education from the University of Denver, her previous employment experience was working in student services at DU’s Center for Multicultural Excellence. Her position at Leeds was her first academic placement, and she has been committed to building relationships ever since.

Student advocacy at the core

Looking out for and taking care of students is what Ungphakorn considers one of her highest priorities. “We definitely advocate for the students. It’s expensive to live in Boulder, so we make sure that we are attracting excellent candidates by offering a competitive stipend,” she said.

“We treat our PhD students well because of the importance of the work they will do when they leave here.”

Steffie Unphakorn, PhD program manager

PhD students are in the program for five or six years, during which time their tuition is fully funded by the school, and they are given a subsidy for health insurance as a part of their funded graduate assistantship. Students also receive funding for research and travel, and they are eligible for various awards and fellowships from the university and other sources.

“Trying to make sure that students aren’t struggling financially is important, and it’s something I feel strongly about,” she said. “We treat our PhD students well because of the importance of the work they will do when they leave here.”

Throughout her tenure, Ungphakorn has advocated for many aspects of student support, such as more funding for students who require six years instead of five. Since funding for six years is not guaranteed, she worked with the DCPC to provide options for it. “While the DCPC still makes decisions on how that six-year funding gets awarded, it became more equitable for the students that really need it,” she said.

She speaks about her work achievements with the same passion and care that she talks about her 8-year-old dog, Oliver, whom she refers to as her “snuggle buddy” and “COVID foster fail.” She extends the same kind of attention to her students.

“I’m really involved in every aspect of the students’ journey here and it is hands-down the best part of my job.”

Steffie Unphakorn, PhD program manager

Collaborating with faculty

In addition to working with students, Ungphakorn also serves as a non-voting member on the Doctoral Curriculum and Policy Committee, which is a seven-member faculty committee that governs and oversees the PhD program. This rotating position is part of the service requirements for faculty on the tenure track.

The committee oversees the program’s curriculum and research, while Ungphakorn focuses on administration and operations. She credits the committee for enabling her to build close working relationships with Leeds faculty during their two-to-three-year terms.

Advancing AI at Leeds

As an early AI adopter, Ungphakorn took on the role of generative AI trainer at Leeds, educating staff and the public about how to embrace AI rather than fearing it. Her interest surfaced in 2022 with the advent of ChatGPT. She was immediately intrigued by the technology’s benefits (and it aligned with her love of sci-fi). Mostly, she wanted to equip staff to use AI proactively, gaining value from it as she learned more about how to use it responsibly.

“Once I understood how AI worked, I wanted to share that with others,” she said. “I wanted people to understand how AI could positively impact their job.”

Last spring, Ungphakorn—along with another faculty colleague and a PhD student—was invited by �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Office of Information Technology to be a part of its spring AI symposium. They gave a presentation to about 100 people, demonstrating the growing interest in AI. As Leeds’ generative AI trainer, she has already trained about 200 people (mainly staff) on using the technology.

She sees the value of AI training for the entire Leeds community. “For all our students at every level, I think there will be a new level of expectation that they know, understand and can speak the language of AI,” she said. “For PhD students, when they become faculty, they will need to understand how AI works in order to model and craft a curriculum in which AI can be an assistant and an aid.”

Here to stay

What has kept Ungphakorn coming to work for the last decade? For her, the answer is simple: the students.

“The work I do with the students is truly what has made me stay for so long,” she said.

“I have the ultimate pleasure of introducing the students during graduation and calling their names,” she said. Seeing them succeed and wishing them well is the ultimate reward. “I’m really involved in every aspect of the students’ five-to-six-year journey here and it is hands-down the best part of my job.”

Steffie Ungphakorn, Leeds’ PhD Program Manager, is a powerhouse of progress and advocacy. Over 10 years, she’s championed students, expanded the program, fostered faculty ties, and helped advance AI at Leeds.

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Kate M. Harris (Fin’16)

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 22:07:27 +0000

Kate M. Harris (Fin’16) Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 10/10/2025 - 16:07

Faces of Leeds Snapshot

Name: Kate M. Harris
Alumni Award: Harris is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Young Alumni Achievement Award.
Brief Bio: Kate M. Harris is an attorney currently clerking on the Supreme Court of the United States.

A top graduate of the Leeds School of Business, Kate M. Harris followed her undergraduate degree with law school. She went on to work for a litigation boutique and clerked on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.

Her writing has appeared in national outlets including The New York Times—one article notably led to her permanent ban from Russia.

While at Leeds, Harris was a Leeds Scholar and �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Esteemed Scholar, receiving the President James H. Baker Award. She also earned the Finance Student Investment Fund Award, the Shreve Memorial Scholarship, and was part of the winning team in the 2015 CESR Business Ethics Case Competition.

She graduated with high honors from the University of Chicago Law School, where she was a Kirkland & Ellis Scholar and received both the Ann Watson Barber Outstanding Service Award and the Edward W. Hinton Memorial Cup for Excellence in Appellate Advocacy.

The law school featured her profile in the article "Seven Clerks for Seven Justices," where she shared this advice: “Focus on being present, building intentional relationships, making the most of every opportunity, and taking the next best step forward. ... Learn from those around you so that you can become a better lawyer, leader, and person.”

Kate M. Harris is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Young Alumni Achievement Award.

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Jeremy May (Acct’92)

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 21:07:38 +0000

Jeremy May (Acct’92) Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 10/10/2025 - 15:07

Faces of Leeds Snapshot

Name: Jeremy May
Alumni Award: May is the 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Lifetime Service Award.
Brief Bio: Jeremy May is the founder and CEO of Paralel Technologies and is a member of the board of advisors for the Renée Crown Wellness Institute at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder.

What inspired your long-standing commitment to supporting Leeds and �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder over the years?
The high-quality education I received at �鶹��Ѱ��changed my life by giving me the foundation that opened the doors to follow my career. It brings me joy to play a small part in providing that opportunity for others.

How did your time at Leeds shape your approach to leadership?
Leeds exposed me to many disciplines in business education and allowed me to match my abilities and interests to get my career off the ground in public accounting. While in public accounting, this same exposure to different businesses and industries guided me to the asset management industry. I take the same approach to leadership, aiming to provide experience and support to the people I work with so they can pursue the career that is right for them.

What’s one piece of advice to students and alumni about building a career that follows one's passions and inspires achievement?
Wherever you are on your path, make the most of the opportunity that you have in that present moment. Of course, if you are not in a good situation, be courageous and make a change, but if you are doing good work with people you care about, opportunity will find you.

If you are looking back with regret or to the future with expectations, you will miss the opportunities that are right in front of you.

Jeremy May is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Distinguished Alumni Lifetime Service Award.

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Dalton Ford-McGee (CompSci’27)

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:53:46 +0000

Dalton Ford-McGee (CompSci’27) Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 10/03/2025 - 08:53

Jane Majkiewicz

Photos by Lilian Wright

Most of Dalton Ford-McGee’s classes take place in the College of Engineering, but you’re more likely to find him in the Koelbel Building or the Olson Atrium. That’s partly because he’s pursuing a business minor, but also because he’s worked for Leeds since the end of his first year.

Ford-McGee’s quiet, studious and friendly demeanor makes him a natural fit for his role as a welcome desk specialist at Leeds. The job allows him to study—something he does “24/7.”

His warm smile and easygoing nature serve him well as he rotates through various stations in the Koelbel and Rustandy buildings, greeting students, staff and visitors. It’s a skill he’s honed and one he believes will serve him well in any future workplace. Fostering a sense of community is one reason he loves spending time at Leeds—and he’s come to learn it’s something he deeply values.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder bound

For Ford-McGee, a Denver native, coming to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder made practical sense. He credits his mom, Leeds alumna Ashika Ford (Mgmt’98), for helping him understand the cost of college.

“My mom loves finance and has invested many hours in showing me how important it is to not be in debt. She had me read financial books and make a whole college plan,” he said.

That early financial literacy has already paid off—Ford-McGee is confident he’ll graduate without being buried in debt. But affordability wasn’t the only factor in his decision. �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s academic reputation and his mom’s glowing memories as a Buff sealed the deal. It helped that Ford-McGee’s impressive high school GPA helped him get in. And these days, he and his mom bond over Colorado Buffaloes football and their shared enthusiasm for Coach Prime.

A budding programmer

Ford-McGee took programming classes throughout high school and quickly developed a passion for coding. He liked designing video games when he was younger, and his mom noticed his interest early on, signing him up for classes.

He was hooked. That sense of creative freedom continues to drive his interest in software development. “It's not like something that's repetitive,” he said. “It's something unique each and every day.”

“[Software development] is not like something that's repetitive. It's something unique each and every day.”

Dalton Ford-McGee

His current software development course is a favorite, and he’s leaning toward a career in the field. “I can do web apps or phone apps,” he said. “That’s my favorite aspect of computer science."

His job at Leeds has also shaped his vision for the kind of work environment he wants. “My dream—and this has changed since my freshman year—is that I don’t want to work in a big corporate office. I don’t want to work remotely, by myself. I want to work with a smaller group of people, know them well, and build something together.”

Finding community

Ford-McGee found that sense of community in Kappa Theta Pi, a coed professional fraternity focused on information technology. He has enjoyed seeing the group grow while intentionally keeping its size manageable.

“I liked the idea of having a smaller club where I could get to know everybody on a deeper level and become friends with them.”

He saw the immediate benefits of joining the organization, gaining practical skills in writing a resume, networking and talking to recruiters. And it was a fellow KTP member and a welcome desk student assistant manager, Wesley Allen (CompSci’25, MCompSci’26), who encouraged Ford-McGee to apply for the welcome desk position.

Business minor, big impact

Ford-McGee chose the BA track for his computer science degree, requiring a minor. Business was a natural fit.

“Challenging.” “Rigorous.” “Fun.” That’s how he describes the Business Minor program at Leeds.

“It’s been a completely different experience than my computer science classes,” he said. He appreciates the exposure to the same foundational “mods” that business majors receive. “Last year, I did marketing for the first half of the semester, then management. In the spring, I did accounting and then finance.”

Next up: a class in his emphasis area—finance and data analytics—and a capstone project. The value proposition? He’s confident the minor will help him stand out to employers and better prepare him for the workplace.

“I want to work with a smaller group of people, know them well, and build something together.”

Dalton Ford-McGee

A day in the life at Leeds

When other students went to far-flung destinations over the summer, Ford-McGee was a fixture at Leeds, working full-time. “I lived in Leeds over the summer,” he joked. During the school year he scales back his hours but still appreciates his time in Koelbel. “I love being in Leeds. That’s where I spend 90 percent of my time outside of class.”

The job has its busy moments—especially at the beginning and end of each semester—but it also offers time to study. “For the most part, I get a lot of homework done. Honestly, it’s the perfect work-life balance.”

As Ford-McGee considers that work-life balance for his future—including a possible move out of state for the right career opportunity—he knows that close-knit bonds with family and friends are something he wants to maintain. And even if he lands an internship or study abroad opportunity this summer, he wants to return to Leeds.

“I would love to work at the welcome desk until I graduate. Hopefully, I’ll be there for at least another two years.”

For the Leeds community, that’s good news. Ford-McGee’s steady presence and genuine care for others have made him a familiar and valued face—one whose impact doesn’t go unnoticed.

Dalton Ford-McGee is coding his future—and building community at Leeds. As a business minor, welcome desk specialist and computer science student, he’s learning what it means to know the people around you and to build something together.

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Amanda Freeberg Donovan (Mktg’03)

Jane Majkiewicz — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 21:25:54 +0000

Amanda Freeberg Donovan (Mktg’03) Jane Majkiewicz Thu, 10/02/2025 - 15:25

Faces of Leeds Snapshot

Name: Amanda Freeberg Donovan
Alumni Award: Freeberg Donovan is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Luminary Award.
Brief Bio: Amanda Freeberg Donovan is the executive director of the Don and Lorraine Freeberg Foundation. She was a founding member and officer for the Leeds Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) Board.

What does “letting your light shine” mean to you in your personal and professional life?
'Letting your light shine' to me means being a good person, caring about others, and always doing your best. I focus on honesty and integrity. If I see something that is a problem, or some way I can help make things easier for another person, I try to help. I say "yes" to a lot of requests as long as I feel like I can add value or a good perspective. I bring my varied skillset—a result of my Leeds education—to think about the big picture.

How has your Leeds experience influenced your commitment to social responsibility and service?
I remember being in class when the Leeds’ gift to name the school was announced, and I was excited to take classes that focused on or included social responsibility and ethics. It has made me look more critically at how businesses and organizations are run.

I am proud that the foundation I run helps children get the best start, provides educational opportunities, funds research into deadly diseases, acquires critical medical equipment and assists those who serve our country.

As a dedicated alumna and member of several CU/Leeds boards, can you highlight a moment when your leadership made a meaningful impact on the Leeds community?
I was one of the founding members and officers for the Leeds Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) Board, working to define what the board would be and how it could help Leeds. I also worked with Advancement on behalf of the GOLD Board to start an undergraduate scholarship funded by the members. It has been wonderful to see the GOLD Board continue to grow over the past 13 years and to keep younger alumni involved.

From the time I was a child, I understood that if you are able to help or serve others, it is something you should do.

Amanda Freeberg Donovan is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Luminary Award.

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Chenhui Qu (PhD’30)

Jane Majkiewicz — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:46:23 +0000

Chenhui Qu (PhD’30) Jane Majkiewicz Wed, 09/24/2025 - 10:46

Georgia Horan

Faces of Leeds Snapshot

Name: Chenhui Qu
Major: PhD in Operations Management
Hometown: Yantai, Shandong, China

Chenhui Qu studied management science and engineering at Huazhong University of Science and Technology and graduated from Wuhan University of Technology with a bachelor's degree in information management and information systems.

So, what made her choose �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder? The vibrant academic culture and extremely supportive faculty at Leeds were the key factors. The high bar set by her peers in the program has pushed her to work hard and do her best consistently, inspiring her to achieve more. In just a short while after starting at Leeds, she has already made incredible friends, joining her peers in everything from hiking Chatauqua to eating at the Center for Community as a group. She also finds that the friendly competition at Leeds keeps each of them on their toes, eager for the next challenge.

Qu is currently working with Professor Rui Zhang, whose mentorship has been a defining factor in her academic journey, motivating her to produce work she is proud of. Under his guidance, she is delving into topics she is passionate about, such as transportation optimization, and has received invaluable support every step of the way.

Leeds’ strong research culture—courses, seminars and conversations with excellent scholars—has broadened my horizons and confirmed my academic path.

Chenhui Qu came from China to pursue her PhD, and from day one she has found invaluable support every step of the way to thrive in the Leeds community.

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Rebecca Slezak (MBA’27)

Jane Majkiewicz — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 17:56:01 +0000

Rebecca Slezak (MBA’27) Jane Majkiewicz Tue, 09/23/2025 - 11:56

Georgia Horan

Faces of Leeds Snapshot

Name: Rebecca Slezak
Major: Master's in Business Administration
Hometown: Mahomet, Illinois

Rebecca Slezak is excited to be back in school to get her MBA, but she’s not exactly “going back”—she was already here. As an adjunct professor teaching photography for the past nine months in the Journalism Department of the College of Communication, Media, Design, and Information, she felt that becoming a �鶹��Ѱ��student was a “natural transition,” as she already loved the campus culture and compelling opportunities within Leeds.

What excites Slezak the most? The diverse group of peers in the MBA cohort. She looks forward to learning from and learning with them.

Her goal: to become a creative director or marketing director. She has already started thinking about the type of leader she’d like to be, drawing upon her natural tendency to put herself in others’ shoes and advocate for them. Matched with her personal goals of creating a healthy work-life balance in her future career, the MBA program is making that goal feel more achievable than ever.

It really feels like we’re all in this together and that I can ask anyone within the group for help if I have questions.

Rebecca Slezak (MBA’27) was already at �鶹��Ѱ��Bolder as an adjunct professor in the journalism department, but pursuing her MBA at Leeds is bringing her closer to her dream of becoming a marketing or creative director.

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Introducing Leeds' Community Leader-in-Residence: Wendy Lea

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 22:49:47 +0000

Introducing Leeds' Community Leader-in-Residence: Wendy Lea Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 09/15/2025 - 16:49

Leeds is launching its inaugural Community Leader-in-Residence program on September 25, offering two days of events featuring exclusive access to Wendy Lea, a nationally recognized ecosystem builder and entrepreneurship innovator.

Birdie Reznicek, associate dean for culture and community and Virginia and Edward Mitchell Faculty Scholar, shared insights into the new program’s goals and what the Leeds community can expect during the two days of events with Wendy Lea.

What inspired the creation of the Community Leader-in-Residence program at Leeds?

Dean Khatri initiated this program to inspire a broader view of business leadership—one that includes civic engagement, community impact, and the interplay between public and private sectors. This initiative aligns well with Leeds’ vision to elevate business as a force for good in a rapidly changing world.

Why was Wendy Lea chosen as the inaugural Community Leader-in-Residence?

Lea’s leadership is impressively multifaceted, with a consistent theme: fostering vibrant economies in service to communities. Combine that with a powerful network, deep expertise in leveraging ecosystems, and indefatigable perseverance, and you get someone who drives big transformations to shape the future.

The more I get to know her, the more I’m struck by her visionary reach paired with practical problem-solving. She’s applied this “superpower” of unlocking capital, talent and entrepreneurial energy to initiatives ranging from quantum technology and small business growth to cultural vibrancy and national entrepreneurship policy.

How does the program reflect Leeds’ commitment to experiential learning and social impact?

Lea embodies a living case study in ecosystem-driven impact—from Boulder’s cultural scene to national entrepreneurship policy. Her work spans the Sundance Film Festival, Energize Colorado, Elevate Quantum, and national advisory boards like the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship. These efforts offer students a real-time look at business as a tool for social change.

We’re thrilled that Wendy agreed to serve in this role, especially during a season when she is sharing her expertise at Colorado Startup Week, Techstars Foundercon, and with the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT).

What kinds of experiences can the Leeds community expect during Lea's residency?

Lea will engage directly with business, law and engineering students, faculty, staff, the Dean’s Cabinet and Chancellor Schwartz. Expect hands-on, collaborative sessions—not passive lectures. For example:

Those involved with the Boulder Climate Ventures initiative will work through an ecosystem mapping tool.
Grad students will explore thought exercises on leadership styles and strategies.
The Business Research Division's Brian Lewandowski will join Lea to examine career readiness implications at Leeds in light of the Mountain West’s emergence as a quantum hub.

How do you hope this program will shape Leeds in the long term?

I’ll borrow from a very thoughtful question that MBA student leader Annette De Capite plans to discuss with Lea: “How do you build reflection into a busy leadership life?”

This is something Lea deeply values—she’s observed that self-reflection isn’t typically prioritized in business practice. Ultimately, I hope the program fosters reflection about sense of purpose and community impact in our own work, service and leadership. This taps into the unique strengths and gifts that each person in the Leeds community brings as we work together on transformative goals.

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Hear Wendy Lea’s extraordinary story at the Fireside Chat and lunch on Friday, Sept. 26, at 11 a.m., facilitated by Leeds Advisory Board member Ellen Balaguer.

Leeds is launching its inaugural Community Leader-in-Residence program on Sept. 25 and 26, featuring Wendy Lea, a nationally recognized ecosystem builder and entrepreneurship innovator.

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Introducing Leeds' Community Leader-in-Residence: Wendy Lea

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