To be the best, it helps to hear from the best. At this year’s Carlson Leadership Academies, SigEp’s chapter leaders heard from some of the best in the business world in exclusive presentations from five successful senior business executives and SigEp alumni.

Held each year in cities across the country, Carlson offers training in leadership techniques, problem-solving as a team, goal-setting and execution. For the executive officers and aspiring leaders in attendance, the unique chance to hear from some of America’s brightest leaders personified a clear example to follow during the weekend of learning and discussion.

The inaugural Shawn McKenna Presidents Academy at Carlson welcomed these outstanding SigEp alumni to speak during a lunch presentation to attendees as well as a special session for chapter presidents. The McKenna Presidents Academy is named for successful business executive and beloved SigEp brother Shawn McKenna, Maine ’77, whose philosophy on leadership serves as the inspiration for the academy.  

Each of them used stories from their own successful careers to help the young leaders in the room realize the real and full impact that being a leader in SigEp can, and should, have on the rest of their lives.

These five senior business leaders addressed and interacted with SigEp’s undergraduates at SigEp’s Carlson programs this year. 

Keith Bruce, Illinois ’87
President at QuintEvents International and former CEO of Super Bowl 50

“There has to be purpose behind every transformational leadership act. It requires commitment,  bravery, dedication and not being afraid to make a mistake.”

Jay Hurt, Davidson ’88
President & CEO at The Hurt Company, Inc.

“If you’re not having fun as a leader you know what it’s time to hand the baton or hand that role to somebody else. Because it should be fun.”

Eric Lauterbach, California-Santa Barbara ’89
President, Consumer Division, Peet’s Coffee & Tea

“A real critical part of being a leader is the ability to fail. The ability to seek failure, deal with it, learn from it, (and) move on.”

Pat Lawler, Memphis ’77
CEO at Youth Villages

“Every leader I talk to the successful says the number one reason they’re successful because they’re doing something they love every day.”

Matt Rodrigue, Maine ’04
Managing Director at Miller Buckfire

“Looking back at my SigEp experience as an undergraduate, I’m in awe at how well it prepared me for leadership in corporate finance.”