Online Master’s in Strategic Management & Leadership Ambassadors

Alumni Ambassador: George W. Markert V

U.S. Military Affiliated Student

Location: Broomfield, CO
Employment: Colonel, US Marine Corps (Retired)
Undergraduate Degree: Political Science, Virginia Tech
Hobbies: Triathlon, traveling, hiking, reading
Program: Master’s in Management, Strategic Management and Executive Leadership
Status in Program: Graduated December 2022

Favorite Graduate Course: MGMT 565: Power and Influence

Why I Chose Penn State: While serving in the Marine Corps nearly 20 years ago, our Service had a professional relationship with Smeal and I attended a two-week seminar at PSU, where I was exposed to numerous industry leaders and business models. I was able to think differently about how we performed logistics functions in the Marine Corps in a wide variety of environments. I was also impressed with the Smeal faculty and when I was considering getting another master’s degree and found out PSU offered SMExL, I was sold immediately.

What Makes this Program Valuable to You: While earning this degree I filled a Chief of Staff role in two different organization where I was the number two person overseeing 8000 people. I was able to use the tools to be more strategic. I chose Innovation and Entrepreneurship as my core competency, and used the material to which I was exposed to develop the Marine Corps’ first ever innovation campus and duplicated the effort later by establishing eight sites nationwide designed to leverage talents of our people in pursuit of the Marine Corps’ overall innovation efforts.

What Advice Would You Offer To New or Prospective Students: Maintain an open mind and enjoy the experience. Ask a lot of questions and engage your fellow students often. They represent diversity of thought, background, and occupation, and can give you perspectives you won’t find anywhere else. The material presented in Smeal will be readily used in the real world, so take the time to do the reading and watch all the videos. Think conceptually and theoretically in addition to learning the fundamentals. Adapting your mind in such a way will prepare you for roles of increased responsibility.

Alumni Ambassador: Lauri Accardi

Location: Yardley, PA
Employment: Program Manager, Major Projects–US at Aggreko; Founder of CataPoint Consulting, LLC
Undergraduate degree: Photography, French, and Art History, New York University.
Hobbies: Most of my free time is spent with my kids, but when I can carve out time for myself, I enjoy photography, writing, focusing on my health and well-being, and a good audiobook—especially anything related to leadership, psychology, or human behavior. I also genuinely enjoy organizing things and building systems. Give me a messy process and a spreadsheet, and I am probably happier than I should be.
Penn State programs: Master of Business Administration (MBA); Graduate Certificate in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Master of Management, Strategic Management and Executive Leadership.
Status in program: MBA, Fall Class of 2024; Master of Management in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership, Summer Class of 2026

Favorite graduate courses: MBADM 816: Managing and Leading People in Organizations and BA 865: Strategic Leadership.

Why I chose Penn State: I initially came to Penn State looking for a graduate program that would allow me to continue building my career while still being present for my family. As a mother of four, I needed flexibility, but I wasn’t willing to sacrifice the quality of my education to get it. Penn State World Campus gave me both. The strength of the university, the flexibility of the online environment, and the depth of the alumni network made it stand out from the beginning. What I couldn’t have known then was how much Penn State would become part of my life. What started as a decision to pursue one graduate degree ultimately became an MBA, a graduate certificate, and a Master of Management. Penn State gave me the ability to keep growing as my career and goals evolved, and I have never regretted choosing it.

What makes these programs valuable to you? The greatest value has been how directly I have been able to connect what I learn to the work I am doing. My MBA, with a focus in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, strengthened how I think about innovation and how organizations can create meaningful change from within. My Master’s in Management in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership built on that foundation, challenging me to think more intentionally about leadership, organizational dynamics, strategy, and the way people experience change. Throughout my Penn State education, I have been able to take something from the classroom and apply it almost immediately—sometimes the very next day. Just as importantly, my professional experiences have given me a different perspective to bring back into the classroom. That connection between learning and doing is what has made the experience so valuable to me.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Don’t wait until you feel completely ready. There probably won’t be a perfect time, especially if you’re balancing school with a career, family, or both. Use the resources Penn State gives you, get to know your professors, and connect with your classmates. Some of my most valuable experiences came from the relationships I built along the way, not just the material I learned in class. Most importantly, allow your goals to evolve. I didn’t begin my Penn State journey knowing exactly where it would take me. One opportunity led to another, and I kept saying yes to the things that challenged me and helped me grow. You don’t need to have the entire path mapped out before you take the first step.

Alumni Ambassador: Brad Smith

Location: Minneapolis, MN
Employment: Vice President & Head of Global Brands, CJ Schwan’s
Undergraduate degree: Communication Studies / History, Virginia Tech
Hobbies: Exercise, Food and Wine, Sports Enthusiast (especially college football, go Nittany Lions and Hokies!)
Program: Strategic Management & Executive Leadership
Status in program: Graduated Spring 2022

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 565: Power & Influence (This is a difficult choice, I loved EVERY course)

Why I chose Penn State: I evaluated more than two dozen programs and applied to four. The Smeal program was the clear choice for me based on several factors. First, and most importantly, I felt a true sense of community during the process. I did not want a distance-based program where I was a number. I felt a genuine connection and personal touch with the entire Smeal community through the process. The professors are willing to spend real time with you. I built lasting relationships with several of my professors who mentored me on real-life job issues I was experiencing, in addition to deeper discussions on coursework, etc. The program curriculum also fit exactly what I was looking. It offered the perfect balance of executive-level leadership material and deep focus on strategy and execution. It is highly practical to the real world and applicable in a range of everyday career situations.

What makes this program valuable to you: This program elevated my leadership profile and established the foundation I need to advance to the C-Suite. I apply lessons from my course work every day. I have used material to shape my own team and org design, bring new capabilities to the company, leverage frameworks and models, and navigate day-to-day issues. I refer back to the readings, specific assignments and other materials regularly. And – though I didn’t expect this from a distance-based program – the quality of relationships with other students is exceptional. It is clear the program is highly selective and the quality of my peer group was absolutely outstanding.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students:

1. Maniacal Organization. Juggling work and a graduate program will be demanding. Put in the time to plan in advance, laying out our work plan on a weekly or semester basis, and stick to it. Put assignment work time, classes and team meetings on your calendar and treat them as seriously as you would any meeting at work.

2. Support System. Ensure you have a great system around you. From family and co-workers to your employer, set clear expectations and let them know you need them. Your family will sacrifice for this goal, so make sure they know how much you appreciate their support. It is equally important for your employer to know what you are doing and how it benefits the company.

3. Build Your Network. Take advantage of the student community. Some of my best friends were made in the program. Take advantage of the opportunity to get to know people beyond your assignments together and make the extra effort for 1:1s and virtual coffees outside the demands of the classroom.

4. Put in the Effort. You get out as much as you put in. While it is challenging, it is much more rewarding to make the extra effort to truly learn the concepts and the material. Don’t just do the work. We are in the program to learn. Make sure that’s the first priority.

Alumni Ambassador: Armando Montes

Location: Collierville, TN
Employment: Sr. Director, Manufacturing and Engineering, Hyve Solutions
Undergraduate degree: Engineering degree in communications and electronics, University of Guadalajara
Hobbies: Family, jogging, and walking (outdoors), reading, bike riding, and sports
Programs: Master’s in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership, Engineering Leadership and Innovation Management
Status in program: Graduated December 2022

Favorite graduate course: MBADM571: Global Strategic Management

Why I chose Penn State: There are many options when it comes to online education, but for learning and interacting with top-notch college professors—both one-on-one and in group settings—Penn State was the best option for me. Additionally, Penn State is an early adopter of the online degree modality, with nearly 25 years of experience, making it a preferred destination for students across the globe.

What makes this program valuable to you: The direct interaction with professors and students from around the world, along with the insights gained from each session and project, were the most valuable aspects of this program for me. Numerous examples in leadership, strategic management, negotiation, and business relationships made the program truly worthwhile—and shortly afterward, it helped me pursue and achieve career growth within and outside of my organization.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students: It’s never too late to start or continue your professional development. Study at your own pace—even if it takes longer than you expected, keep going. Attend all the sessions and take part in the extracurricular activities offered. Make the most of the extraordinary networking opportunities at your fingertips. You won’t be disappointed—you’ll have the chance to meet and collaborate with talented professionals from across the country and around the globe. You won’t regret it!

Alumni Ambassador: Sheng-Chieh Lin (Jay)

Location: Cary, NC
Employment: MKS Inc / Director, Digital Supply Chain Transformation
Undergraduate degree: Industrial Management, National Central University
Hobbies: Running, Cycling, and Traveling
Program(s): Master’s in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership
Status in program: Graduated in Fall 2025

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 821: Complex Negotiations

Why I chose Penn State: Alumni network, online course design, and many colleagues graduated from PSU with great experience.

What makes this program valuable to you: Practicality to my work experience has been amazing.

Alumni Ambassador: JB Bowers

Location: King of Prussia, PA
Employment: Lockheed Martin, Quality Senior Manager
Undergraduate degree: FACS, Shepherd College
Hobbies: Building connection and community, mentoring and coaching, travel, puppy time
Program(s): Master’s in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership
Status in program: Graduating in 2027

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 565: Power and Influence

Why I chose Penn State: Business networking and my grandfather attended in the 1920’s!

What makes this program valuable to you: Immediately applicable to my role.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Jump in and get rolling! You will never be less busy.

Alumni Ambassador: Logan Kennedy

Location: Saratoga Springs, UT
Employment: Sr. Vice President of Marketing, Ultradent Products, Inc.
Undergraduate degree: Dual Major B.S. Marketing and Business; MBA, University of Phoenix
Hobbies: Devoted F1 fan, building Lego cars, I have 3 adult kids and a wife that keep me busy!
Program: Master’s in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership
Status in program: Graduated Spring 2026

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 831: Strategy Implementation and Organizational Change or MBADM 571: Global Strategic Management

Why I chose Penn State: I had completed a year of post-graduate work at Northwestern and decided I wanted another Master’s degree. PSU offered an executive master’s degree in leadership, which was unique. Most universities only offer an executive MBA, but I had an MBA already. I looked at multiple universities and ultimately decided on PSU over Bocconi or NYU because the program seemed the most appropriate for my current position as an executive and member of upper management. The flexibility of choosing how fast I wanted to go through the program was also a big selling point. And to be honest, the reputation of Penn State made me excited to join the program and be proud of saying I am an alumni.

What makes this program valuable to you: As an executive I have to make a lot of difficult decisions and leading people is challenging. There isn’t a lot of on-the-job training for leadership, you mostly learn as you go. I wanted to have more formal processes and education around how to better lead people. Implementing strategy in my organization is also critical and I believe I have gained those skills from this program.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? It’s easy to talk yourself out of going back to school. I decided to jump in after my post-graduate work because I was already in the school mode and I know how hard it is to get back in the mode. Yes, it’s challenging and time-consuming, but it’s worth it. You will look back in two years and regret that you could have a master’s degree now if you don’t just do it.

Alumni Ambassador: Gregg Shaw

Location: Red Bank, NJ
Employment: Founder and CEO, H&S Tax and Wealth Advisors
Undergraduate degree: Business Administration, Seton Hall University
Hobbies: Golf, swim/bike/run and most of all spending time with my family
Program: Master’s in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership
Status in programs: Graduating May 2027

Favorite graduate course: BA 805: Negotiation and Theory and MGMT 821: Complex Negotiation

Why I chose Penn State: My daughter attends Penn State and is currently in her senior year, graduating in May 2026. I first learned about the graduate program last December while paying her tuition. At the time, I was considering enrolling in a certificate program, however, I discovered that by completing six additional courses, I could instead earn a full graduate degree. Several years ago, I had an interest in teaching at a local community college, but was not eligible due to not holding a graduate degree –that will change upon my expected graduation in May 2027.

What makes this program valuable to you? It affords me the opportunity to potentially teach about financial planning and teaching young people what it takes to make good financial decisions.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Take full advantage of the flexibility and practical relevance this degree offers. The program is designed in a way that allows you to integrate your studies with your professional and personal life, which is key if you’re balancing work or family commitments. I’d also encourage intentionality regarding course selections –think about how each class connects to your broader goals, whether that’s advancing your current career, pivoting into a new role, or, like me, creating opportunities such as teaching at the college level. Finally, don’t underestimate the value of engagement. The relationships you build with classmates and faculty can be just as impactful as the coursework itself. Participate, share your professional experiences, and be open to learning from others, the program’s collaborative environment is one of its greatest strengths.

Alumni Ambassador: Daniel Delepiani

Location: North Fort Myers, Florida
Employment: Global Sales Director for Latin American Countries
Undergraduate degree: Computer Science, International University at Caracas Venezuela (Universidad Nueva Esparta)
Hobbies: I am a triathlete; Ironman certified
Programs: Master’s in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership, Strategic Leadership graduate certificate
Status in program: Graduating Fall 2026

Favorite graduate course: BA 804: Ethical Leadership

Why I chose Penn State: Penn State has a distinguished reputation for academic excellence, globally respected faculty, and strong emphasis on developing strategic, forward-thinking leaders. As I continue to advance my career, I am sought a program that not only deepened my understanding of strategic management and leadership, but also equipped me with the analytical, decision-making, and organizational skills needed to navigate increasingly complex business environments.

What makes this program valuable to you? Keeps me growing as professional and moving up on my career experience path.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Look for programs which will improve not only your experience and professional skills, but also studies which are aligned with your career path and organization’s growth opportunities.

Alumni Ambassador: Josh Chapman

Location: Annapolis, MD
Employment: Head of Oncology Leadership Development: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals
Undergraduate degree: History, Hampden Sydney College
Hobbies: Music, kids, sports, boating
Program: Master’s in Strategic Management and Executive Leadership
Status in programs: Graduated Spring 2026

Favorite graduate course: BA 888: Executive Leadership

Why I chose Penn State: Interest in specific leadership and management classes.

What makes this program valuable to you? Very relevant to my career.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Don’t be scared. With good time management, it’s possible.

Alumni Ambassador: Bess Larrowe

Location: New Jersey
Employment: Program Management
Undergraduate degree: Business Administration, Adelphi University
Hobbies: Cooking, painting, reading and watching thriller/horror movies and I also love to dance.
Program: Strategic Management and Executive Leadership
Status in program: Graduated Spring 2026

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 845: Leading Diverse Organizations

Why I chose Penn State: My former boss, who is now a close friend, was pursuing her MBA at Penn State and she encouraged me to explore the program so we could go through the experience together. I began researching all the master’s programs at PSU that aligned with both my professional goals and the areas where I wanted to grow. I ultimately chose the SMEAL program because the coursework directly reflected the skills I wanted to refine.

What makes this program valuable to you: This program was valuable not only for the framework and tools, but also for the self-examination it has required of me as a leader. Through reflective exercises and applied leadership challenges, I have gained a clearer understanding of how my assumptions, communication style, and even unconscious biases shape the way I interpret information and make decisions. I’ve come to recognize that even my strengths can also create blind spots, if left unchecked. I am learning to lead better by inviting diverse viewpoints, and aligning my behaviors with the kind of inclusive, growth-oriented leader I aspire to become.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Be open to change, especially when it challenges perspectives you’ve held for years. Lean into discomfort; that’s usually where the real development is happening. At the same time, invest in the relationships around you. The network you build and the friendships you form with your classmates are just as valuable as the curriculum. Everyone brings different experiences, industries, and viewpoints to the table, and there is so much to learn from each other if you’re willing to listen.