News /business/ en Affordable Housing Demystified: Insights from Rodger Hara /business/news/2025/11/21/affordable-housing-demystified-with-rodger-hara <span>Affordable Housing Demystified: Insights from Rodger Hara</span> <span><span>Jane Majkiewicz</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-21T11:03:40-07:00" title="Friday, November 21, 2025 - 11:03">Fri, 11/21/2025 - 11:03</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/Rodger-Hara-and-Julie-Gibson.png?h=bc13de15&amp;itok=pCYxZcF3" width="1200" height="800" alt="Rodger Hara and Julie Gibson"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/1983" hreflang="en">Klump</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/1642" hreflang="en">Real Estate</a> </div> <a href="/business/leeds-directory/jane-majkiewicz">Jane Majkiewicz</a> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p class="hero"><em>Rodger Hara, an authority on affordable housing, came to Leeds as part of the Etkin Symposium speaker series to explain the inner workings of the affordable housing market, reveal how projects get funded, and look toward the future.</em></p><hr> <div class="align-left image_style-medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/medium_750px_50_display_size_/public/2025-11/Rodger-Hara-and-Julie-Gibson.png?itok=bsKV2tyq" width="750" height="670" alt="Rodger Hara and Julie Gibson"> </div> </div> <p>Picture an upside-down, multitiered wedding cake. That’s the image <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodger-hara-6a06b69/" rel="nofollow">Rodger Hara</a> used to illustrate the “capital stack” behind financing affordable housing projects. Each layer represents a different stakeholder—from lenders and investors to property managers and everyone in between (each with their own lawyers, which adds to the complexity). The challenge? “The cake isn’t done until the smallest layer is baked."</p><p>And there’s another caveat: “Things are changing very rapidly”—a reality Hara has witnessed repeatedly, especially in the past year.</p><h3>How affordable housing works</h3><p>Hara is the consummate authority on affordable housing, consulting in the field since 2008. Julie Gibson, the executive director of the Klump Center for Real Estate at Leeds, introduced him at the latest Etkin Symposium with this endorsement: “In Colorado, Rodger IS affordable housing.”</p><p>With decades of experience at local, state and federal levels, Hara delivered a presentation that walked symposium attendees through the evolution of affordable housing—from the milestone 1934 National Housing Act to the HUD Act of 1965 and beyond. Notably, one of the country’s first affordable housing projects happened in Colorado: Lincoln Park in Denver. Today, the story continues to unfold, influenced by modern legislation such as H.R. 1, the so-called <span>“One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”</span></p><p>The hourlong session was a crash course on the challenges, obstacles and opportunities shaping the affordable housing market. Both undergraduate and graduate real estate students attended—some with aspirations to serve communities in need.</p><p>Hara introduced key concepts such as the “missing middle”—those earning too much for low-income housing but not enough for median-priced homes—and “redlining,” the discriminatory practice of denying credit based on where people lived, symbolized by development maps with red lines drawn around certain neighborhoods. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 aimed to end such practices.</p><h3>Financing and a look ahead</h3><p>Hara shared a data-packed presentation highlighting details such as income levels, market dynamics, tax credit funding, and the growing demand for affordable housing. A diagram illustrated the financing flow: state agencies like the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) receive federal funds and allocate tax credits to developers, who sell them to investors. Investors buy the credits for various reasons, including economic yield, tax shelter and social impact.</p><p>He closed with both caution and optimism. While the ripple effects of H.R. 1 remain uncertain, he believes that cuts to HUD voucher funding, immigration-related labor shortages, tariffs and other changes could pose serious threats to the industry.</p> <div class="align-center image_style-original_image_size"> <div class="imageMediaStyle original_image_size"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/original_image_size/public/2024-11/gold-bar-news-at-leeds-boulder_0.png?itok=QaJxJ3LC" width="178" height="11" alt="golden bar"> </div> </div> <p class="text-align-center lead"><strong>&nbsp;"You're going to have to figure out how to get things done after those of us who started this are gone. It’s a challenge that can be met, but it won’t be easy."</strong></p><p class="text-align-center"><em>Rodger Hara, affordable housing consultant</em></p><p>Yet, while the funds for affordable housing are decreasing just as the need is increasing, Hara said creative solutions persist. As one example, he cited Veterans Village in Denver, funded by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation without relying on tax credits.</p><p>Other strategies include modular construction, adaptive reuse of former offices, schools or churches, preservation projects, higher-density development and leveraging public land.</p><p>In addition to the challenges, affordable housing projects can take a long time, Hara explained. "You're going to have to figure out how to get things done," he said, "after those of us who started this are gone. It’s a challenge that can be met, but it won’t be easy."</p><p>Finally, Hara reminded students of their own influence. His advice: keep learning, think creatively—and most importantly, be sure to vote.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Rodger Hara, an authority on affordable housing, came to Leeds to explain the inner workings of the market, reveal how projects get funded, and look toward the future.</div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:03:40 +0000 Jane Majkiewicz 19205 at /business The Way You Say ‘Thanks’ Matters at Work /business/news/2025/11/21/way-you-say-thanks-matters-wo <span>The Way You Say ‘Thanks’ Matters at Work</span> <span><span>Kelsey Cipolla</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-21T08:38:58-07:00" title="Friday, November 21, 2025 - 08:38">Fri, 11/21/2025 - 08:38</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/Screenshot%202025-11-21%20at%208.39.43%E2%80%AFAM.png?h=2e4af638&amp;itok=vFKpvYul" width="1200" height="800" alt="A person handwrites &quot;thanks&quot; on a tag"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/2544" hreflang="en">Academic Reputation</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Not all thank-yous land the same. Leeds research shows the right kind of appreciation can boost morale and encourage open communication.<br> </div> <script> window.location.href = `/today/2025/11/21/way-you-say-thanks-matters-work`; </script> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:38:58 +0000 Kelsey Cipolla 19204 at /business Advice in the Age of AI at NextGen Finance Symposium /business/news/2025/11/17/next-gen-finance-symposium <span>Advice in the Age of AI at NextGen Finance Symposium </span> <span><span>Jane Majkiewicz</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-17T15:53:12-07:00" title="Monday, November 17, 2025 - 15:53">Mon, 11/17/2025 - 15:53</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/DSC_3091.jpg?h=eb54b106&amp;itok=ZudcAjOB" width="1200" height="800" alt="Attendees at NextGen Finance Symposium"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/1913" hreflang="en">Burridge news</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <span>Grace Garfoot</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p class="hero"><em>On Nov. 12, the Burridge Center for Finance hosted NextGen Finance: Tech Innovation in Financial Services, bringing together industry leaders to share insights on launching startups in the era of artificial intelligence.&nbsp;</em></p><hr> <div class="align-center image_style-large_image_style"> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-11/DSC_3091.jpg?itok=aCrn38j8" width="1500" height="1001" alt="Attendees at NextGen Finance Symposium"> </div> </div> <p><br>The future of finance is being rewritten by technology—and students got a front-row seat to the conversation at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7395146355725275136/" data-entity-type="external" rel="nofollow">NextGen Finance: Tech Innovation in Financial Services</a>, a panel discussion about what it takes to build startups in an AI-driven world. The event also offered accounting and finance students a valuable opportunity to network and explore emerging trends shaping the future of financial services.&nbsp;</p><h3>AI and entrepreneurial advice</h3><p>Patrick Harrington, head of AI and machine learning at MetaRouter, kicked off the symposium by underscoring that almost 92 million jobs will be replaced by AI—which is 8%&nbsp;of jobs globally. Leeds is preparing students to consider AI’s impact on the workforce and their potential professions. The symposium gave students a unique chance to learn directly from entrepreneurs who have successfully launched startups in an AI-driven era—and to build connections that could shape their own careers.</p><p>"This is a profound point in our journey as a society, and it’s a point of leverage that no other human being has had today,” Harrington said. “Five years out with this knowledge base that can support and augment your thought processes, your critical thinking skills are going to become even more important.”</p><p>Panelists discussed careers in the age of AI, sharing tips for success and essential skills required to meet evolving demands. They displayed live demos of their platforms, giving the audience a clear picture of how their startups work and the technology’s real-world applications. Through the stories of their own ventures, the speakers illustrated how finance and accounting firms are already embracing AI to transform the industry.</p><p>Innovative products that move our industry forward emerge when they address a pain point and deliver a real solution that impacts the people, services and industries facing those challenges, noted Sarah Angello, co-founder of Daffodil.</p><h3>Networking toward the future</h3> <div class="align-right image_style-small_500px_25_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle small_500px_25_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/small_500px_25_display_size_/public/2025-11/DSC_3142.jpg?itok=sBEGvK_k" width="375" height="250" alt="Book signing of Capital Evolution"> </div> </div> <p>A key highlight of the event was helping students build confidence in networking. Dressed in professional attire, they were encouraged to introduce themselves and engage in meaningful conversations with the entrepreneurs in the room.</p><p>Elizabeth MacBride and Seth Levine, authors of <a href="https://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/books/capital-evolution?srsltid=AfmBOoq2kroagYBrqcQC7hWDl1GIHqNvOCSImzGRLLe2q6RCKDkHC11Q" data-entity-type="external" rel="nofollow"><em>Capital Evolution: The New American Economy</em></a>, joined the event and invited students to ask questions, share ideas and connect with them about the book’s themes—many of which echoed the symposium’s topics.</p><p><em>Capital Evolution</em> is a compelling look at the changes taking hold in America’s political system, information environment and society, according to MacBride. The book asks tough questions about the rising power of business in our economic system. Students left not only with fresh perspectives but also with a signed first edition—a tangible springboard for deeper exploration.</p><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><h3 class="text-align-center">Advice from the Experts</h3><div><ul><li>Remember the importance of the human element when considering AI systems. There will always need to be a human in the loop.</li><li>Be curious about AI tools and proactively experiment with them. That is how you will learn to use them and be prepared when you enter the workforce.</li><li>Do not lose your creativity.</li><li>Prioritize building relationships.</li><li>Be humble and optimistic, no matter what the circumstances are.</li><li>Network! Start conversations and put yourself out there. You never know who you will meet.</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>On Nov. 12, the Burridge Center for Finance hosted NextGen Finance: Tech Innovation in Financial Services. The event brought together entrepreneurs and industry leaders to share insights on business in the era of AI. </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Mon, 17 Nov 2025 22:53:12 +0000 Jane Majkiewicz 19197 at /business Labubu 'Blind box' Trend Reveals Why Surprise and Scarcity Keep Us Shopping /business/news/2025/11/17/labubu-blind-box-trend-reveals-why-surprise-and-scarcity-keep-us-shopping <span>Labubu 'Blind box' Trend Reveals Why Surprise and Scarcity Keep Us Shopping</span> <span><span>Kelsey Cipolla</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-17T10:39:52-07:00" title="Monday, November 17, 2025 - 10:39">Mon, 11/17/2025 - 10:39</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/Screenshot%202025-11-17%20at%2010.41.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?h=9ace4ca6&amp;itok=1_mlz54k" width="1200" height="800" alt="A child holds a Labubu in front of her"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/2544" hreflang="en">Academic Reputation</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Marketing professor Ying Zeng explains the psychology behind blind-box toys and how they engage our curiosity, identity and social instincts.</div> <script> window.location.href = `/today/2025/11/17/labubu-blind-box-trend-reveals-why-surprise-and-scarcity-keep-us-shopping`; </script> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:39:52 +0000 Kelsey Cipolla 19194 at /business Government Reopens But Economic Uncertainty Lingers: What Consumers Should Know /business/news/2025/11/13/government-reopens-economic-uncertainty-lingers-what-consumers-should-know <span>Government Reopens But Economic Uncertainty Lingers: What Consumers Should Know</span> <span><span>Kelsey Cipolla</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-13T09:07:19-07:00" title="Thursday, November 13, 2025 - 09:07">Thu, 11/13/2025 - 09:07</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/Screenshot%202025-11-13%20at%209.05.37%E2%80%AFAM.png?h=f734827d&amp;itok=4fhgDZiu" width="1200" height="800" alt="U.S. Capitol Building"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/2544" hreflang="en">Academic Reputation</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Even as the shutdown ends, shoppers and businesses face a murky economic picture heading into the holidays.</div> <script> window.location.href = `/today/2025/11/13/government-reopens-economic-uncertainty-lingers-what-consumers-should-know`; </script> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:07:19 +0000 Kelsey Cipolla 19189 at /business 10 Things to Know Leeds’ New Master’s in Sustainable Business /business/news/2025/11/12/10-things-know-about-new-masters-sustainable-business <span>10 Things to Know Leeds’ New Master’s in Sustainable Business </span> <span><span>Jane Majkiewicz</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-12T13:21:15-07:00" title="Wednesday, November 12, 2025 - 13:21">Wed, 11/12/2025 - 13:21</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/03.13.25%20CESR%20SRE%20Photo%20Shoot-13.jpg?h=4555d7d8&amp;itok=opnxoiVv" width="1200" height="800" alt="An instructor interacts with students in a classroom"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <a href="/business/leeds-directory/jane-majkiewicz">Jane Majkiewicz</a> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p class="hero"><em>Leeds is now accepting applications for its first cohort in the new </em><a href="/business/ms-programs/masters-sustainable-business" rel="nofollow"><em>Master’s in Sustainable Business</em></a><em> program, starting in fall 2026. </em><a href="/today/2025/09/22/cu-boulder-launches-new-masters-degrees-sustainable-business-engineering" rel="nofollow"><em>Approved</em></a><em> by the University of Colorado Board of Regents in June 2025, the new degree program is designed to meet the growing demand for sustainability expertise.</em></p><hr> <div class="align-center image_style-default"> <div class="field_media_oembed_video"><iframe src="/business/media/oembed?url=https%3A//vimeo.com/1136246164/7db5723b5c%3Fshare%3Dcopy%26fl%3Dsv%26fe%3Dci&amp;max_width=516&amp;max_height=350&amp;hash=FLweyzdBi_6T9eBZ65BF1fIk07GNc5TRnm-ZHBeizBg" width="516" height="290" class="media-oembed-content" loading="eager" title="MS in Sustainable Business"></iframe> </div> </div> <p><span>Drawing on faculty and resources across Boulder, the new sustainability degree program offers an interdisciplinary experience that prepares graduates to lead on climate-related challenges. "</span>What sets this program apart is the way it brings together expertise across campus to prepare graduates to embed sustainability into business strategy,” said Tandean Rustandy Endowed Dean Vijay Khatri. In addition to Leeds' Master's in Sustainable Business, the College of Engineering and Applied Science is offering a <a href="/engineering/academics/graduate-programs/sustainable-engineering-masters-program?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=inquire26&amp;utm_term=google-sustainable%20engineering%20masters&amp;utm_content=sustainable-eng&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23201805308&amp;gbraid=0AAAABB1caQD7SfItJepZSECZBZNDp2ViB&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMIj43tz4bokAMVBSytBh0EgzFREAAYASAAEgL5z_D_BwE" data-entity-type="external" rel="nofollow">Master's in Sustainable Engineering</a>.</p><p>Wondering if it's the right fit for you? Here are 10 reasons why graduating seniors, graduate students, early career professionals and those looking to upskill or reskill should consider building their sustainability skillset.<span>&nbsp;</span></p><p><strong>1. It’s a fast track.</strong><br>Complete the degree in just nine months and enter a growing field. LinkedIn’s Global Green Skills Report 2024 warns that the global workforce is falling short of sustainability targets and calls for doubling the green talent pool.</p><p><strong>2. seniors are eligible for automatic admission.</strong><br>Current seniors with a Leeds major or minor and a 3.0 GPA or higher are guaranteed admission. GMAT/GRE test scores are optional.</p><p><strong>3. It’s interdisciplinary.</strong><br><span>Students tackle sustainability challenges through scientific, technical and strategic lenses, with coursework spanning the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Engineering and Applied Science, and Leeds.</span></p><p><strong>4. It’s immersive.</strong><br>Hands-on learning includes a real-world capstone project and access to case competitions, networking events and workshops through the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility (CESR).&nbsp;</p><p><strong>5. Sustainability is in Boulder’s DNA.</strong><br> Boulder consistently ranks among the nation’s most environmentally responsible universities, earning a 98/99 Green Rating from <a href="/today/2025/10/27/cu-boulder-earns-top-tier-green-rating-princeton-reviews-guide-green-colleges?cm_ven=ExactTarget&amp;cm_cat=25.1027%20FS%20BT&amp;cm_pla=VPL%2025430%20for%20List%20142&amp;cm_ite=https%3A//www.colorado.edu/today/2025/10/27/cu-boulder-earns-top-tier-green-rating-princeton-reviews-guide-green-colleges&amp;cm_lm=karen.reid%40colorado.edu&amp;cm_ainfo=&amp;%25%25__AdditionalEmailAttribute1%25%25=&amp;%25%25__AdditionalEmailAttribute2%25%25=&amp;%25%25__AdditionalEmailAttribute3%25%25=&amp;%25%25__AdditionalEmailAttribute4%25%25=&amp;%25%25__AdditionalEmailAttribute5%25%25=" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">The Princeton Review’s Guide to Green Colleges</span></a>. Initiatives like <a href="/business/news/2025/10/16/boulder-climate-ventures-ignites-climate-tech-momentum-fall-series" rel="nofollow">Boulder Climate Ventures</a> reflect the university's commitment to sustainability.</p><p><strong>6. Learn from trailblazing faculty.</strong><br><a href="/business/ms-programs/masters-sustainable-business/masters-sustainable-business-faculty" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Faculty</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> in the program are leaders in sustainability strategy, climate finance, ethical leadership and corporate responsibility.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><p><strong>7. From the classroom to the boardroom.</strong><br>Courses like Measurement and Accounting for Sustainable Systems and Social Entrepreneurship in the US and Global Economies blend business, policy, science and engineering. Bootcamps in statistics, Excel/Python and communication equip students with skills employers demand.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>8. Career-ready connections.</strong><br>Leeds’ strong corporate partnerships and alumni network open doors to roles across industries, such as <a href="/business/2025/09/09/shaping-energy-transition-lessons-cu-boulder-alum" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">renewable energy</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> and </span><a href="/business/faces/2025/02/28/jake-davis" rel="nofollow">impact investing</a>. The Leeds Career Development Office is partnering with the Master’s of the Environment program to create key networking events.</p><p><strong>9. Be Boulder.</strong><br>Live and learn in a city known for its climate tech innovation, access to startups and outdoor inspiration—all in a community committed to environmental leadership.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>10. A degree designed for impact.</strong><br>This program isn’t just about career advancement—it’s about shaping a future where business drives positive change. <a href="https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/about/press-room/executives-say-sustainability-investments-are-up-new-deloitte-research-reveals.html" rel="nofollow">Deloitte</a> reports that 85% of companies increased sustainability investments last year, and green roles are projected to grow 260% by 2030.</p><hr><p class="lead"><strong>Ready to lead? Applications are open. </strong><a href="/business/ms-programs/masters-sustainable-business" data-entity-type="external" rel="nofollow"><strong>Learn more &gt;&gt;</strong></a></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Leeds is accepting applications for its first cohort in the new Master’s in Sustainable Business program, starting in fall 2026.</div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Wed, 12 Nov 2025 20:21:15 +0000 Jane Majkiewicz 19178 at /business Use AI to Shop Smarter—Not Spend More—This Holiday Season /business/news/2025/11/11/use-ai-shop-smarter-not-spend-more-holiday-season <span>Use AI to Shop Smarter—Not Spend More—This Holiday Season</span> <span><span>Kelsey Cipolla</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-11T09:46:44-07:00" title="Tuesday, November 11, 2025 - 09:46">Tue, 11/11/2025 - 09:46</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/Screenshot%202025-11-11%20at%209.48.14%E2%80%AFAM.png?h=1dd0a451&amp;itok=Qk1Dr7P2" width="1200" height="800" alt="Hands hold a wrapped gift"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/2544" hreflang="en">Academic Reputation</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Ying Zeng, assistant professor of marketing at the Leeds School of Business, shares how to make the most of AI and shopping platforms this holiday season by turning digital tools into an advantage.</div> <script> window.location.href = `/today/2025/11/11/use-ai-shop-smarter-not-spend-more-holiday-season`; </script> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:46:44 +0000 Kelsey Cipolla 19184 at /business Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability /business/news/2025/11/10/mark-kroese-climbing-toward-sustainability <span>Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability </span> <span><span>Jane Majkiewicz</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-10T12:58:02-07:00" title="Monday, November 10, 2025 - 12:58">Mon, 11/10/2025 - 12:58</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/DSC_2696.jpg?h=f5776d7c&amp;itok=oyiVbTlu" width="1200" height="800" alt="Mark Kroese speaking at Sustainability Bootcamp 2025"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-categories" itemprop="about"> <span class="visually-hidden">Categories:</span> <div class="ucb-article-category-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-folder-open"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/1324"> CESR Impact Stories </a> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/747" hreflang="en">CESR Impact Stories</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <a href="/business/leeds-directory/jane-majkiewicz">Jane Majkiewicz</a> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><div><p class="hero"><em>Former Microsoft sustainability leader Mark Kroese shared practical insights on innovation, skills and market-driven solutions for climate progress at CESR’s Sustainability Bootcamp.</em></p><hr> <div class="align-center image_style-large_image_style"> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-11/DSC_2696.jpg?itok=on1YcfKy" width="1500" height="1001" alt="Mark Kroese speaking at Sustainability Bootcamp 2025"> </div> </div> <p><br>At the Sustainability Bootcamp on November 7, hosted by the <a href="/business/CESR" data-entity-type="external" rel="nofollow">Center for Ethics and Sustainability</a>, keynote speaker Mark Kroese (pictured above), former general manager of sustainability solutions at Microsoft, shared practical insights drawn from a career at the intersection of technology, leadership and environmental advocacy. Mark spoke to a packed room of over 180 Leeds students. He believes that we are “at a unique point in history, with unprecedented tools to develop creative and innovative solutions to the world’s biggest problems.” His talk blended actionable advice and optimism rooted in innovation.</p><p><strong>Skills over process.</strong><br>Complying with process is important, but igniting people with ideas and skills is how you go big, he believes. As an avid mountain climber, Kroese drew a parallel to elite climber Alex Honnold—famous for his free solo ascents: “Does he follow process? No. Is he crazy skilled? Absolutely.” His takeaway: Invest in skills. They’re what drive bold, transformative action.</p><p><strong>Federal climate subsidies are a must-have to meet sustainability goals.</strong><br>There’s no way sustainability progress can happen without federal support, believes Kroese. “The might of the federal government is massive. It’s a really big hole when they pull out, and it’s a really big accelerant when they are in.”</p><p><strong>Invigorating the blue collar workforce.</strong><br>Kroese voiced strong support for the blue-collar workforce. “I’ve long thought the trades are undervalued,” he said. “Welders, electricians—these jobs are essential. Data centers aren’t building themselves.” He believes market forces will help reinvigorate interest in these careers.</p><p><strong>Career strategy: passion or paycheck?</strong><br>On the perennial question of following one's passion or pursuing financial stability, Kroese offered pragmatic advice: “Work your tail off in your 20s and 30s. Accumulate assets early. That gives you options later.”</p><p><strong>Climate progress and political setbacks.</strong><br>Asked how to fix climate change progress that has been undone by the current administration, Kroese said what gives him hope is innovation. “It is sad that there is a lot getting undone—it’s shocking, it’s demoralizing,” he admitted. “But market solutions with low-grade premiums will carry the day. If someone builds a cheap, carbon-free fusion reactor, it’ll take off—regardless of who’s in the White House.”</p><p>He urged students to keep innovating, even if policy support lags. “Some ideas may sit dormant for a few years. But our time will come. We have to innovate our way out of this problem.”</p><p><strong>AI: bubble or breakthrough?</strong><br>While not an AI expert, Kroese shared a candid view: “AI is an amazing tool—for both good and bad. I hope the good wins, and I hope we have some guardrails.” He emphasized the need for industry-led ethics and regulation, even if the path forward remains unclear.</p> <div class="align-center image_style-original_image_size"> <div class="imageMediaStyle original_image_size"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/original_image_size/public/2024-11/gold-bar-news-at-leeds-boulder_0.png?itok=QaJxJ3LC" width="178" height="11" alt="golden bar"> </div> </div> <p class="text-align-center lead"><i class="fa-solid fa-quote-left ucb-icon-color-gold">&nbsp;</i><strong>I can assure you that, in the long run, the thing that will set you apart is your personal brand of human traits and values.</strong><i class="fa-solid fa-quote-right ucb-icon-color-gold">&nbsp;</i></p><p class="text-align-center"><em>Mark Kroese, former general manager of sustainability solutions at Microsoft</em></p><p>“I can assure you that, in the long run, the thing that will set you apart is your personal brand of human traits and values. We are, after all, called human beings—not human doings,” Kroese emphasized.</p><p>The imperative to invest in AI skills is most associated with productivity and GDP growth, he explained. “Certainly, these are important things, but I want to encourage you to also invest in something far less measurable: your humanity.”</p><p>It is unique human characteristics—”the nonalgorithmic miracle that is your whole, human self”—that build integrity, trust, empathy and principles, he advised.</p><p>“So go out into the workforce and be an AI-informed, but uniquely human, values-based leader.”</p><hr><h3 class="text-align-center">A Sustainability Focused Day</h3> <div class="align-center image_style-large_image_style"> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-11/Sustainability%20Bootcamp.png?itok=kbrDmVAI" width="1500" height="660" alt="Trent Yang, Kyri Baker and attendees at fall 2025 Sustainability Bootcamp"> </div> <span class="media-image-caption"> <p class="small-text"><em>At the fall 2025 Sustainability Bootcamp, hosted by the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility, Trent Yang (pictured left)—Boulder Climate Ventures team member and Leeds entrepreneur-in-residence—spoke to attendees about climate tech investing. Kyri Baker (center), Boulder assistant professor of civil systems and architectural engineering, addressed climate-related challenges posed by AI. Branding leader Brenda Tuohig (not pictured), explored the future of media and advertising in an AI-driven world. Following the plenary session, students (right) gathered into collaborative working groups.</em></p> </span> </div> </div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Former Microsoft sustainability leader Mark Kroese shared practical insights on innovation, skills and market-driven solutions for climate progress at CESR’s Sustainability Bootcamp.</div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:58:02 +0000 Jane Majkiewicz 19183 at /business Leeds Partners with CEAS to Launch Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering Program /business/news/2025/11/06/new-IBE-degree-program <span>Leeds Partners with CEAS to Launch Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering Program </span> <span><span>Jane Majkiewicz</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-06T16:00:26-07:00" title="Thursday, November 6, 2025 - 16:00">Thu, 11/06/2025 - 16:00</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/2Y8A7793.jpg?h=80cfe642&amp;itok=npb-EdUn" width="1200" height="800" alt="Two students working on an engineering project"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <a href="/business/leeds-directory/claire-stewart">Claire Stewart</a> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p class="hero"><em>The new IBE undergraduate degree program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles at the intersection of business strategy and technological innovation.&nbsp;</em></p><hr> <div class="align-center image_style-large_image_style"> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-11/2Y8A7793.jpg?itok=UDHzzoeO" width="1500" height="1000" alt="Two students working on an engineering project"> </div> </div> <p><br>On November 6, the University of Colorado Board of Regents voted to approve the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) degree program jointly developed by the Leeds School of Business and the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) at the University of Colorado Boulder.</p><p>Blending engineering’s analytical power with business’ strategic insight, this program will produce graduates equipped to lead, innovate and thrive in a rapidly changing, technology-driven world.</p><p>“This program is a bold step forward in interdisciplinary education,” said Jennifer Bone, associate dean of undergraduate programs at Leeds. “Our goal is to cultivate leaders who can think strategically, solve complex problems and drive innovation across industries. The IBE degree equips students with the tools to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen—skills that are increasingly in demand.”</p> <div class="align-center image_style-original_image_size"> <div class="imageMediaStyle original_image_size"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/original_image_size/public/2024-11/gold-bar-news-at-leeds-boulder_0.png?itok=QaJxJ3LC" width="178" height="11" alt="golden bar"> </div> </div> <p class="text-align-center lead"><strong>"The IBE degree equips students with the tools to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen—skills that are increasingly in demand.”</strong></p><p class="text-align-center"><em>Jennifer Bone, associate dean of undergraduate programs</em></p><p>The inaugural cohort of students will begin the IBE program in fall 2026, gaining access to a distinctive curriculum that integrates the nationally recognized strengths of Boulder’s business and engineering programs. Students will build a foundation of core business principles and engineering knowledge, with the opportunity to specialize in either Entrepreneurship or Sustainability.&nbsp;<br><br><span>"Employers consistently tell us they need engineers who can think beyond technical solutions to understand business strategy and market impact," said Kurt Maute, associate dean for undergraduate education at the College of Engineering and Applied Science. "This program gives our students that business literacy alongside their rigorous mathematical and engineering training, preparing them for the collaborative, cross-functional teams they'll join after graduation. This degree will provide an excellent launch pad for future entrepreneurs and leaders of tech companies.”</span></p><p>Leeds brings a strong foundation of thought leadership in both sustainability and entrepreneurship, making it the ideal home for the new IBE program. Students will benefit from access to the <a href="/business/CESR" data-entity-type="external" rel="nofollow">Center for Ethics and Social Responsibi</a><a href="/business/CESR" rel="nofollow">lity</a>, which champions values-driven leadership and sustainable business practices, and the <a href="/business/deming" rel="nofollow">Deming Center for Entrepreneurship</a>, a nationally recognized hub for innovation and startup development. These centers, along with Boulder’s broader commitment to sustainability—including the recent launch of two <a href="/today/2025/09/22/cu-boulder-launches-new-masters-degrees-sustainable-business-engineering" rel="nofollow">sustainability-focused master’s degrees</a>—underscore the university’s dedication to preparing students for purpose-driven careers. Boulder’s designation as an Ignition School for the second year in a row by Inc. and Fast Company further highlights its role as an advocate for entrepreneurial education, community impact and a strong innovative spirit.</p><p>The new IBE degree program emphasizes project-based learning, systems thinking and data-informed decision-making, ensuring students graduate with practical experience and a strong professional skill set. Students will progress through the program in cohorts, fostering collaboration and peer support throughout their academic journey.</p><hr><p class="lead"><strong>To learn more about the IBE program, email&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:leedsibe@colorado.edu" rel="nofollow"><strong>LeedsIBE@colorado.edu</strong></a></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Leeds’ new Integrated Business and Engineering Program undergraduate degree is designed to prepare students for leadership roles at the intersection of business strategy and technological innovation.<br> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 06 Nov 2025 23:00:26 +0000 Jane Majkiewicz 19175 at /business Career Paths: Shannon Porter’s Unconventional Journey to Finding Her Passion /business/news/2025/11/06/career-paths-shannon-porter <span>Career Paths: Shannon Porter’s Unconventional Journey to Finding Her Passion</span> <span><span>Jane Majkiewicz</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-11-06T13:27:11-07:00" title="Thursday, November 6, 2025 - 13:27">Thu, 11/06/2025 - 13:27</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-11/Shannon%20Porter%20thumbnail.jpeg?h=cf6f469b&amp;itok=v_jlClRG" width="1200" height="800" alt="Shannon Porter"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/2543" hreflang="en">Business Acumen &amp; Career Outcomes</a> <a href="/business/taxonomy/term/733" hreflang="en">News</a> </div> <a href="/business/leeds-directory/jane-majkiewicz">Jane Majkiewicz</a> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><em><strong>Content notice:</strong><span> This story includes brief mentions of sexual assault and trauma recovery.</span></em></p><hr> <div class="align-left image_style-medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/medium_750px_50_display_size_/public/2025-11/Shannon%20Porter.jpeg?itok=O4DuAZB6" width="750" height="1125" alt="Shannon Porter"> </div> </div> <p>Life rarely unfolds the way we imagine. That’s one of the key messages alumna <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonaporter" rel="nofollow">Shannon Porter</a> (Mktg’23) shared with students in Bonnie Auslander’s Written Communication for Business Leaders course. In a candid and vulnerable presentation titled “What They Don’t Say ‘The Job’ After College,” Porter outlined a personal journey that took her from trauma to podcast success—navigating rejection, resilience and discovery along the way.</p><p>Her visit to Leeds came with inspiration for fellow young job seekers: It’s OK not to have it all figured out. You can learn as you go and piece things together.</p><h3>What do you wear in court?</h3><p>Porter's college experience was overshadowed when she was raped by a close family friend her freshman year (not on the campus). She quietly struggled to keep studying, apply for internships, and maintain a meaningful college life while handling something far from typical—pursuing a two-year legal process against her perpetrator, whom she later discovered had also assaulted her cousin and three other women.</p><p>During finals the first semester of her junior year, Porter wasn’t just preparing for exams; she was preparing for court. There weren’t too many people she could turn to with questions like, “What’s the right thing to wear in court?”</p><p>“Life turned out to look very different than what I had thought,” she said. “I was really struggling. At school, I felt like I was living a double life, dying on the inside as I tried to recover.”</p><h3>The job search that didn’t go as planned</h3><p>One of Porter’s biggest surprises after graduation was watching her peers fulfill Leeds’ 90% placement rate—securing jobs within six months—while she waited for her big break.</p><p>“I did <em>mostly</em> everything right,” she said, describing her efforts to study hard, engage in class and go the extra mile. She struggled with accounting and nearly failed, but overall, she was “doing the grind.” In her sophomore year, she won the Communication Strategy Case Competition at Leeds, which she now credits with helping her build a foundation in presentation and storytelling skills.</p><p>Yet despite her persistence, she still found herself among the 10% of recent graduates without a job. She had envisioned a traditional corporate path and 9-to-5 lifestyle. But after receiving 1,300 rejections—one within minutes—she stopped tracking applications in her Excel spreadsheet.</p><h3>Finding her voice</h3><p>Through it all, Porter was discovering her voice. Her presentation at Leeds was a great example. She was warm and confident, demonstrating skills honed through crafting dozens of episodes of <a href="https://www.whattheydontsay.com/" rel="nofollow">"What They Don’t Say: Sexual Assault and Everything in Between." </a>Co-created in 2023 with her cousin Lauren King, the podcast was born from a burning desire to open up dialogue around sexual assault—topics they wished they could discuss with supportive friends.</p><p>The podcast tackles raw, unfiltered subjects like “Terrible Pillow Talk: Crying During Sex,” aiming to create space for honest conversations about trauma and healing.</p> <div class="align-center image_style-original_image_size"> <div class="imageMediaStyle original_image_size"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/original_image_size/public/2024-11/gold-bar-news-at-leeds-boulder_0.png?itok=QaJxJ3LC" width="178" height="11" alt="golden bar"> </div> </div> <p class="text-align-center lead"><i class="fa-solid fa-quote-left ucb-icon-color-gold">&nbsp;</i><span><strong>There are many ways to build a meaningful career—even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s version of success.</strong></span><i class="fa-solid fa-quote-right ucb-icon-color-gold">&nbsp;</i></p><p class="text-align-center"><em>Shannon Porter (Mktg’23)</em></p><p>And their message has resonated: To date, they have amassed 18,000 social media followers, 1 million TikTok likes, 80,000 streams and downloads, and more than 800 messages from listeners—and counting.</p> <div class="align-right image_style-medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/business/sites/default/files/styles/medium_750px_50_display_size_/public/2025-11/Shannon%20Porter%27s%20branded%20slogan.jpg?itok=SJPgZvrl" width="750" height="338" alt="&quot;Consent is hot&quot; stickers"> </div> </div> <h3>“Consent is hot”—and so is being scrappy and creative</h3><p>Since launching the podcast, Porter has done whatever it takes to stay financially afloat while advancing its mission. From selling items on Etsy and eBay to working with nonprofits and creating branded merchandise with the slogan “consent is hot,” she’s been resourceful and determined.</p><p>Recognition has followed. She secured an interview with Jess Michaels, a Jeffrey Epstein survivor, for the podcast. That led to Porter’s current role as a part-time social media manager for Michaels’ startup, which focuses on sexual assault first aid. Another milestone was interviewing Susan Bratton, a high-profile relationship and intimacy expert featured on <em>The Diary of a CEO.</em></p><p>Producing the podcast is demanding work. “Every week it can feel like dragging myself behind a vehicle,” Porter admitted, describing both the intensity of the editing process and the emotional vulnerability of releasing each episode. She often wrestles with self-doubt, questioning whether an episode is truly ready. Yet the podcast has become a powerful springboard for broader conversations—fueling consent and sexual assault workshops that Porter is developing and plans to bring to college campuses, including Boulder.</p><p>“I have pieced together a messy, low-income life in service to keeping this podcast going,” she said. “While there are bad moments, days and weeks, this is an example of a path. The 9-5 job on a corporate ladder is not the only way.”</p><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-left ucb-box-alignment-left ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title"><strong>Three Principles for Staying Grounded</strong></div><div class="ucb-box-content"><p>Since graduation, Porter has leaned on a few principles to navigate personal and professional growth.</p><ul><li><strong>Show up curious. </strong>“There’s something to learn from everyone. If you’re bored, show up more.”</li><li><strong>Set boundaries.</strong> “Say ‘yes’ first and then learn to say ‘no.’ If you say yes to everything, you’ll deprive the world of what you’re meant to build.”</li><li><strong>Use AI wisely.</strong> AI tools can be helpful in research and editing, but you never want to lose your unique voice. “I never want to use AI in a way that will outpace the integrity of my brand. Once you lose your brand, it’s hard to get it back.”</li></ul></div></div></div><h3>Looking Ahead</h3><p>At the heart of Porter’s work is a commitment to education and open dialogue—especially around topics that are difficult to discuss. She began her Leeds presentation with the concept of a “trust tree,” a framework for engaging in honest conversations about issues like sexual assault. Her approach encourages curiosity, respect and wonder, rather than judgment.</p><p>Her message to students was simple yet powerful: “The important thing is to find and do something that will build you up.”</p><p>After her presentation, Porter reflected on LinkedIn: “Three years ago, I was sitting in those same chairs applying for jobs and hoping for something great. I didn’t know I’d end up on a completely different path than any I thought were options.”</p><p>She continued, “It was a full-circle moment to talk with students about the realities of life after college, and to remind them that there are many ways to build a meaningful career—even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s version of success.”</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Shannon Porter (Mktg’23) turned trauma and job rejections into resilience, building a powerful podcast and an unexpected career path.</div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 06 Nov 2025 20:27:11 +0000 Jane Majkiewicz 19180 at /business