Decision Making as a Leadership Behavior: Lessons from Karrie Claybrook’s Journey at Walmart
Decision making is a core leadership behavior that directly shapes strategy, collaboration, and organizational impact.
09/13/2025 | By Matt Waller
Latest Posts
Leading with Values and Purpose: Lessons from Doug McMillon
During the second week of classes, Matt Waller interviewed Doug McMillon, the president and chief executive officer of the world’s largest retailer, about leadership.
09/11/2025 | By Lori McLemore
Week 4 in the Walton MBA: Mastering Decision-Making
This week, our focus is on effective decision-making. Experienced leaders sometimes make poor choices, often due to four common cognitive biases: Confirmation Bias, Anchoring Bias, Availability Bias or Sunk Cost Bias.
09/08/2025 | By Matt Waller
Leadership Behaviors: Unleashing Purposeful Action
Leadership behaviors are the visible actions leaders use to influence, guide and support others. Behaviors can be developed and improved.
09/05/2025 | By Matt Waller
Doug McMillon’s Leadership: 5 Principles
In my opinion five themes stood out in my mind that align with established leadership research and frameworks.
08/31/2025 | By Matt Waller
Nokes Family Supports Land of Opportunity Scholarship for Arkansas StudentsPage Title
U of A alumni Jim Nokes and his wife, Glennis, established the Jim and Glennis Nokes Land of Opportunity Scholarship Endowment with a $100,000 gift.
08/27/2025 | By Mark Camarigg
Leadership vs. Management: Unlocking the Power of Both in a Changing World
Leadership and management -- these terms get tossed around like they’re synonyms, but they’re not.
08/22/2025 | By Matt Waller
Why Walmart? A Living Leadership Laboratory
Adam Stoverink and Matt Waller designed their Walton MBA's Leadership and Organizational Behavior course using Walmart as a case study in leadership.
08/19/2025 | By Matt Waller
Walton M.B.A. Unveils Accelerated One-Year Program to Meet Modern Workforce Demands
The Sam M. Walton College of Business has announced a redesign of its full-time M.B.A. program, fast-tracking the traditional 21-month format into an accelerated one-year curriculum.
07/14/2025 | By Adam Stoverink and Jerra Toms
Walton College Ranked 24th Among Top Public Graduate Business Schools
In its 2025 ranking, U.S. News & World Report listed the Master of Business Administration program from the University of Arkansas' Sam M. Walton College of Business as the 24th Best Business School among public business colleges in the nation.
04/08/2025 | By Lori McLemore
Adam Stoverink Recognized With February TFSC Cordes Chair
The Wally Cordes Teaching and Faculty Support Center recognized Adam Stoverink as the February 2025 Wally Cordes Chair.
02/20/2025 | By Lori Libbert
World-Renowned Business Leaders Speak at Walton MBA Leadership Summit
The Walton MBA program hosted the Walton MBA Leadership Summit exclusively for students and alumni of the program on Nov. 14 in Bentonville.
11/25/2024 | By Lori McLemore
U of A Entrepreneurship Grad Program Ranked Top 25 by Princeton Review
The Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas has been ranked No. 22 by the Princeton Review's 2025 Top 50 Entrepreneurship Graduate Programs.
11/14/2024 | By Meghan Perry
How an EMBA Transformed Will Welch’s Career: From Golf Courses to Global Retail
Welch chose the hybrid Executive Master of Business Administration program at Walton because it allowed him the ability to work while going to school. By leveraging the skills gained from his EMBA, he was able to secure a position in the associate merchant development program at Walmart.
07/12/2024
A Quick Walk with Hamish Cameron
In this episode of A Quick Walk with Brent Williams, Brent meets Hamish Cameron, Senior Manager, Pickup & Delivery Acceleration for Walmart, at the new Walton Family Whole Health and Fitness center. Hamish is a recent graduate (as of May 2024) of the Executive MBA program at Walton College! During their walk, Brent and Hamish discuss the ways in which the Executive MBA program have improved his career and expanded his network. He also touched on how he has taken the innovations learned in the classroom directly into the workplace.
07/03/2024
Invaluable Connections and Global Opportunity with Hattie Shelton
Hattie studied abroad to Japan in her Executive Master of Business Administration Program offered in a hybrid format by Walton College at the University of Arkansas.
03/25/2024
Bridging Theory and Practice: The Impact of the Walton MBA Do Good Project
The Walton MBA Do Good Project offers immersive, experiential learning that bridges the gap between academic theory and practical application.
01/31/2024 | By Cindy Moehring, Adam Stoverink
Lunch and Learn with Lynn Wong and Stephanie Magnuson
This past weekend our EMBA Professional Development Committee hosted a lunch and learn during the EMBA Saturday with Lynn Wong and Stephanie Magnuson
11/08/2023
Exclusive Speed Networking Event for Walton MBA Students
Did you know that the Walton MBA program offers an exclusive speed networking event for Walton MBA students?
10/05/2023
The Razorbug Diploma Tour with Katie Bailey, West Memphis
Katie Bailey gained more than knowledge of accounting processes when she earned an online degree in accounting from the U of A.
09/14/2023
Stacy Tan Named to the 2023 Northwest Arkansas Business Journal’s Forty Under 40
Congratulations to Stacy Tan (Walton Executive MBA ‘22) for being named to the 2023 Northwest Arkansas Business Journal’s Forty Under 40!
09/12/2023
Student Spotlight: Sydney Combs
Sydney Combs (Walton MBA ’24) has a professional background in consulting and is completing a custom track in management, financial markets and data analytics.
08/17/2023
Student Spotlight: Laura Jo Randall
Laura Jo Randall, MBA, district manager for ALDI USA and recent Walton MBA graduate completed the accelerated Walton MBA program with a concentration in supply chain.
08/09/2023
Complex Problems at Work? The Walton Executive MBA Class of 2025 has Solutions
Walton Executive MBA students participated in an experiential design thinking workshop.
08/09/2023
Student Spotlight: Adam Grant
Adam Grant is a sales account manager at Butterball, LLC and a member of the 2024 Walton Executive MBA cohort.
08/03/2023
Student Spotlight: Will Smith
Will Smith is an operator at the Benton Washington Regional Public Water Authority and a member of the 2023 Walton Executive MBA cohort.
07/19/2023
Student Spotlight: Manuel Tejada
Manuel Tejada is a member of the 2023 Walton Executive MBA cohort and a Project Manager for the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.
07/06/2023
Meet the Walton Executive MBA Career Coaches
We are proud to offer personalized career coaching as part of the Executive MBA program.
07/05/2023
Student Spotlight: Megan Nichols
Megan Nichols is Vice President, Commercial Relationship Manager at Regions Bank in Dallas, TX and is currently pursuing her Walton Executive MBA at the University of Arkansas.
06/29/2023
Dr. Analiz Rodriguez MD, PhD, FAANS Wins the 2023 UAMS Chancellor’s Award of Excellence in Clinical Innovation!
Congratulations to Walton Executive MBA student Dr. Analiz Rodriguez MD, PhD, FAANS on winning the 2023 UAMS Chancellor’s Award of Excellence in Clinical Innovation!
06/22/2023
Adventure Is Out There - Walton MBA Global Immersion
The Walton MBA students recently returned from Chile (Santiago, Santa Cruz, Valparaiso, and Puerto Montt) and Indonesia (Jakarta and Bali).
06/15/2023
Student Spotlight: Alyssa Eby
Alyssa Eby is a Senior Product Designer at Workrise and currently pursuing her Walton Executive MBA.
05/31/2023
Walton Executive MBA Students Grow Their Business Relationships and Expand Their Professional Development
Walton Executive MBA students attend networking event featuring a panel of experts sharing on managing people, communication, and careers.
05/26/2023
Brant Ward Promoted to President of Signature Bank of Arkansas
Congratulations to Walton MBA alumnus Brant Ward on his promotion to president of Signature Bank of Arkansas!
05/24/2023
Student Spotlight: Dennis Daniels
Dennis Daniels recently completed his Walton MBA at the University of Arkansas after graduating from Southern Arkansas University in 2021 with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.
05/23/2023
Tomas Jandik Reaches Milestone as Instructor the Walton Executive MBA Program
Congratulations to Tomas Jandik on marking 20 years as the primary finance instructor for the Walton Executive MBA program!
04/05/2023
Faculty Spotlight: Remko Van Hoek's Latest Article Publication
Congratulations to Walton Executive MBA Professor Remko Van Hoek on the recent publication of his article, “Design of a Company-Engagement Model for Procurement and Supply Management Classes” in Logistics!
03/22/2023
Congratulations to Dr. Analiz Rodriguez MD, PhD, FAANS on UAMS Being Ranked in the Top 5% in the Nation for Brain Surgery by Healthgrades
Congratulations to Executive Walton MBA student Dr. Analiz Rodriguez MD, PhD, FAANS on UAMS - University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences being ranked in the top 5% of the nation for brain surgery by Healthgrades!
03/21/2023
Student Spotlight: Sophia Schmidt
Sophia Schmidt is a full-time MBA student with a concentration in marketing and creative advertising.
02/28/2023
An Interview with Dr. Eric Spann (Walton MBA ’23, LSU M.D. ’91)
Dr. Eric Spann sat down with Walton MBA Insider to discuss his experience as a healthcare consultant, how his time in the Walton MBA program has empowered him to further pursue his passions, and what steps he takes to ‘do it all’.
01/30/2023 | By Ariel Sibley
Walton MBA Student Grace Crain Hands Off Her Homecoming Crown
2021 Homecoming Queen Grace Crain (Walton MBA ‘23) handed off her crown to fellow Little Rock native Karlie Barnett at the Arkansas vs. Liberty Homecoming football game this year. Grace sat down with Walton MBA Insider to discuss her homecoming experience and what it means to be a leader, a role model and a Razorback.
12/05/2022 | By Ariel Sibley
Andrea Albright Receives the 2022 Walton MBA Distinguished Alumni Award
Congratulations to Andrea Albright (Executive Walton MBA ‘15) for receiving the 2022 Walton MBA Distinguished Alumni award!
12/02/2022
Alumni Spotlight: An Interview with Phil Keil of Zweig Group
Phil Keil, Principal & Director of Strategy at Zweig Group, Northwest Arkansas Business Journal Fast 15 Class of 2017, and Walton MBA class of 2016, reflects on his time at Walton, challenges facing the current business climate, and how he seeks inspiration in his day to day.
10/03/2022 | By Ariel Sibley, Kyleigh Tucker
Alumna Tina Winham Makes a Positive Community Impact
Walton EMBA Program alumna Tina Winham graduated with her MBA in 2018 and currently works as the Walmart lead at Conair in the Hair Beauty Accessories division. With over 15 years of experience overseeing multi-million dollar budgets, Winham has extensive experience with operations, sales and marketing efforts for several major global brands.
05/04/2022 | By Taylor Poe
Walton MBA Students Participate in Business Plan Competitions
Degree-seeking Arkansas college students presented business plans and learned about entrepreneurship in the Arkansas Governor’s Cup business plan competition held in March.
04/27/2022 | By Ontario West
Custom Tracks Through the Walton MBA
Students are specializing their graduate school experience by developing custom degree plans. In this business climate, niche talents can find their place to shine. Currently, the University of Arkansas’ Walton MBA program offers five different career tracks in entrepreneurship and innovation, retail marketing, supply chain management, financial management and data analytics.
04/27/2022 | By Heidi Rolf
Emily Murphy ’22 Fights the Good Fight at Arkansas Children’s Hospital
Emily Murphy, a 2022 Executive MBA graduate, works at the heart of the battle against COVID-19 as a registered respiratory therapist and ECMO specialist at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
04/27/2022 | By Alexandra Goforth
Walton MBA Students Make Connections at Networking Event
The Walton MBA programs teamed up with Walton Career Services to host a networking event for students prior to the Walton College Spring Business Fair. The event included 51 companies, and all expressed an interest in hiring MBA students. Many second-year students attended the event actively seeking employment, and first-year students made connections with representatives for internships or full-time positions after graduation.
04/02/2022 | By Ontario West
Morgan Keeling Banks on Change for the Watershed
As the community relations manager at the Illinois River Watershed Partnership, 2021 Walton Executive MBA graduate Morgan Keeling advocates for watershed conservation and restoration practices.
04/02/2022 | By Sarah Browning
Flexibility in the Walton EMBA
The Walton Executive MBA program is designed with the needs of the working professional in mind, particularly in flexibility.
04/02/2022 | By Taylor Poe
Fostering a Passion of Sustainability Through Biking: Benefits for Yourself and Your Community
Are you looking to foster a passion for sustainability? Biking is a great solution, and springtime in NWA is the ideal time to start. As the number of cyclists in NWA increases, so do the benefits to the environment, social community and the cyclist’s overall health.
04/02/2022 | By Lori Speer
Students Choose Walton MBA for Exceptional Networking Opportunities
With a diverse cohort, world-renowned professors and expansive opportunities for connection, the Walton MBA offers an unparalleled networking experience.
02/23/2022 | By Allie Mertensotto
Walton MBA Ranks 11th out of 600 programs for ROI by the Wall Street Journal
Few words are heard as often in Walton as “value.” It often seems like one of those words you just cannot escape. You may hear about it with regard to Walton’s EPIC values, the Blockchain Center of Excellence’s research on the “Internet of Value,” the value-added services that the Supply Chain Management Research Center provides, or in everyday classroom discussions.
02/23/2022 | By Ryan Sheets
Classic MBA Versus a Specialty Degree: What's the Difference?
Before deciding on the graduate degree best for themselves, students need to look at the differences between an MBA program and compare it to specialty graduate degrees.
02/23/2022 | By Heidi Rolf
Hiring Partners Consider Walton MBA Program a Rich Source of Talent
The Walton MBA program has earned a reputation with employers for being a rich source of talent, producing graduates that embrace the entrepreneurial spirit with a newfound way of strategic thinking. Employers continue to be impressed with graduates’ strong communication, leadership, and decision-making skills. When it comes to hiring decisions, employers recognize that the resources available to Walton MBA students produce top-tier candidates.
02/23/2022 | By Lori Speer
Walton EMBA Alumni Spotlight: Stephanie Martinez
Walton Executive MBA graduate Stephanie Danielle Martinez (EMBA ’19) shares her experience in the EMBA program and her entrepreneurial inspiration and drive.
02/02/2022 | By Ontario West
Full-Time MBA Internship Placements
Full-time Walton MBA students received internship placements with industry leaders.
02/02/2022 | By Kimberly Silva-Nash
Walton MBA Ethics Project Impact
During the fall of 2021, second-year full-time Walton MBA students completed The Walton MBA Ethics Project. This project was incorporated into the Business Leadership and Ethics course taught by Adam Stovernik, director of Walton MBA Programs and associate professor of management. There were 10 teams of students who received $1,000 to complete a project that will benefit others.
02/02/2022 | By Mackenzie Brown
MBA Faculty Feature: Dr. Raja Kali on Economics, Research and Teaching
Raja Kali, Walton MBA faculty and chair of the Department of Economics, describes his experiences and research in higher education, favorite economics concepts to share with students and Walton MBA Program insights.
02/02/2022 | By Taylor Poe
Walton MBA Student Spotlight: Meet Micah and Sophia
Full-time students Micah Wittschen and Sophia Schmidt share why they chose the Walton MBA, their experience in the program and their goals for the future.
01/28/2022 | By Collin Macias
Dr. Stoverink on Managing Remotely
Dr. Adam Stoverink provides insights into best managing employees in a remote environment.
12/01/2021 | By Laurel Schley
The Walton MBA Mentorship Program
The Walton College provides a unique mentoring program where the full-time MBA students are paired with top-level corporate executives from all over Northwest Arkansas.
12/01/2021 | By Kimberly Silva-Nash
Ralph Bray, Walton MBA and Clinton MPS Candidate, on Helping For-Profit Business Operate More Sustainably
Ralph Bray (MBA ‘23) is on a mission to bridge the gap between for-profit business and environmentalism.
12/01/2021 | By Ariel Sibley
Alumna Erin Moody Rosa Provides Program and Industry Insights
Program alumna Erin Moody Rosa discusses her role as a director of sales at Warner Media, program insights, involvement with the Alumni Advisory Board and experiences with volunteering and leading with kindness.
12/01/2021 | By Taylor Poe
Walton MBA Student Spotlight: Grace Crain and Phil Necessary
Walton MBA students Grace Crain and Phil Necessary discuss their experiences with the program and homecoming court.
12/01/2021 | By Ontario West
Walton MBA Student Spotlight: Liz Luzcando and Ayden Owens
Liz Luzcando (MBA ’22) is from Panama and practices jiujitsu. Ayden Owens (MBA ‘23) is from Pittsburgh, Pa., and is one of eight children in his family.
11/29/2021 | By Collin Macias
Graduate Net Impact Speaker Panel
Graduate Net Impact consists of student organizations and professional groups that strive to build a more sustainable world. By running diverse program initiatives, the University of Arkansas Graduate Net Impact chapter drives meaningful change on campus, in the workplace and in the local community.
11/03/2021 | By Taylor Poe
Event: MBA Career Day
October is a busy month for our Walton MBA full-time students kicking off their fall internship hiring cycle. The MBA Programs Office works with companies to organize an MBA Career Day each year.
10/15/2021 | By Lindsey Steiger-Muck
Welcome New Marketing Director Jerra Nalley Toms
Toms loved her experience in the Walton Executive MBA program. The biggest benefit she gained from the program is reflected in her network; she still talks to her EMBA classmates often, whether it be to solve a business problem or discuss their bi-monthly get-togethers.
10/13/2021 | By Ariel Sibley
Walton MBA Ethics Project Inspires Full-time MBA Students to Change the World
The Walton MBA programs have implemented a new semester-long ethics project for second-year students that requires students to work in teams creating a project that will benefit others.
10/06/2021 | By Julie Storing
Changes in Consumer Behavior Impacting the Supply Chain
Across the country, retailers and shoppers alike are dealing with a new reality of shipping delays, less variety, and stockouts. Since the start of the pandemic, consumers’ habits have shifted dramatically, taking a toll on the supply chain.
10/06/2021 | By Laurel Schley
Stephen Agnew Creates a Legacy for His Children
Stephen Agnew (EMBA ’22) tells his story of growing up in East Little Rock as the youngest of 12 and pursuing an MBA to build a legacy for his children.
10/05/2021 | By Taylor Poe
Professional Development Builds Long-Term Skills
Walton MBA Professional Development is a one-credit hour course that students are enrolled in three times throughout the program. It’s one of the most innovative aspects of the Walton MBA.
10/05/2021 | By Lindsey Steiger-Muck
MBA Learning Series: Risk Management Principles for Uncertain Environments
Paul McDowell, senior risk management consultant for USAID and Walton MBA alumnus, describes the enterprise risk management process and how it enables corporations to achieve their strategic objectives in the face of uncertainty.
10/04/2021 | By Ariel Sibley
Walton Executive MBA Entrepreneurship and Business Analytics Focus Study Areas
The Graduate School of Business offers graduate certificates in the focus study areas of entrepreneurship and business analytics.
09/01/2021 | By Ariel Sibley
Benefits of the Full-Time MBA Internship Program
Previous UpSpring, Nielsen IQ and Henkel Walton MBA interns and corporate recruiters shared their insight into the Full-Time MBA Internship Program.
09/01/2021 | By Taylor Poe
Walton College Executive Education Celebrates Come as You Arkansas
Join Walton College Executive Education in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of the University of Arkansas.
09/01/2021 | By Alondra Cruz
Fall 2021 Welcome Back Message
Walton MBA Director Adam Stoverink shares a welcome message for the start of the Fall 2021 semester.
09/01/2021 | By Adam Stoverink
Internship Reflection: Ontario West
The Walton MBA program provides every student the opportunity to complete an internship with a company of their desire or companies they have great relationships with. Reminiscing over this past summer, I reflected on the hardships, learning opportunities, soul searching and victories I experienced through multiple internships.
09/01/2021 | By Ontario West
I got my MBA right after undergrad and here’s what happened…
“I wouldn’t do that if I were you, it will be much more valuable to get industry experience first then go back for your MBA.”
05/03/2021 | By Emily Wiencek
First Generation EMBA Students Experience In Graduate School
Many first-generation college students face a mountain of challenges when they decide to pursue a degree – especially those enrolling in graduate school.
05/03/2021 | By Ontario West
Walton MBA Faculty and Alumni Published in Special Issue of the Journal of Retailing
The special issue has eight articles focused on topics in retail: AI, Technology, Format, Private Label, CRM, Promotions, Merchandising and Sustainability. We spoke to Gauri and Dr. John Aloysius of the Walton College faculty and alumni Dinesh Hegde, Erin Rosa and Rand Waddoups.
05/03/2021 | By Hannah Lee
Walton MBA Welcomes New Director
Adam Stoverink, associate professor of management and former Ph.D. program coordinator, will serve as new director of MBA programs at the Sam M. Walton College of Business.
05/03/2021 | By Alexandra Goforth
Walton EMBA Admissions: Frequently Asked Questions
Walton MBA staff answer common EMBA admission questions to make the application process more transparent and easier to understand.
04/05/2021 | By Julie Storing
Teaching During the Pandemic
As the University of Arkansas prepares to return to in-person instruction in fall, Walton MBA professors Tomas Jandik and Christian Hofer reflect on teaching during the pandemic.
04/05/2021 | By Alexandra Goforth
The Walton MBA Learning Series
The Walton MBA Learning Series allows students, alumni and the public to practice continuous learning, network with successful working professionals and gain new perspectives.
03/01/2021 | By Taylor Poe
MBA Student Spotlight: Chuan Yaw Lim
International student Chuan Yaw Lim shares his experience in the full-time Walton MBA program.
03/01/2021 | By Ontario West
How the Walton MBA is “Keeping It Real” with a New Digital Marketing Course
SEO. Influencers. Automation. PPC. All topics at the cutting-edge of marketing practice today. They’re also, as it happens, topics we’re discussing in the full-time Walton MBA program this semester.
03/01/2021 | By Chris Medenwald
Walton College Executive Education Accepting Nominations for 2021 Leadership Circle for Banking Cohort
Walton College Executive Education is partnering with Milestone Leadership to host the second cohort of Leadership Circle for Banking.
02/01/2021 | By Alondra Cruz
Spring Full-time MBA Internship Placements
Full-time MBA students Vasu Chawla, Madeleine Corbell, Brock Davis, Gina Monaldi and Cara Woelffer share their experiences securing their internships as a part of the full-time Walton MBA program.
02/01/2021 | By Hannah Lee
From the Classroom to the Workplace (and Back)
Executive MBA students Mitchell and McKinley Harris (EMBA ’22) bring new skills and solutions to the workplace after attending MBA Visual Analytics workshop.
02/01/2021 | By Alexandra Goforth
Outdoors Club Allows Students to Stay Active and Connected
Hayden Banister, full-time Walton MBA student and former regional service manager at J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc., wanted to find opportunities for new students to connect outside of the classroom. Due to COVID restrictions, an Outdoors Club offered a safe space to stay connected.
02/01/2021 | By Ontario West
Walton EMBA Curriculum Challenges and Educates Students
The Walton Executive MBA program’s Fall 2020 classes have provided students with a strong base of business knowledge while also challenging the students to be creative in their problem solving.
11/05/2020 | By Julie Storing
Walton College Executive Education Announces its Spring Program Calendar
Drive innovation, maximize team performance, design a narrative or learn about micro-finance — Walton College Executive Education is thrilled to announce upcoming learning opportunities with its Spring 2021 program calendar.
11/05/2020 | By Alondra Cruz
Deadline Approaching to Earn Master’s Degree in Public Service through Clinton School Online
The University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service is now accepting applications for the fourth class of its online master’s degree program. The deadline to apply is December 1.
11/05/2020 | By Patrick Newton
Walton MBA Walks
The Walton MBA Walks initiative, hour-long outdoor executions hosted by Walton College faculty and administration, creates safe opportunities for full-time MBA students to connect with the Walton College community.
11/05/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Student Spotlight: Karrie Claybrook
In Karrie Claybrook’s life, two people really helped to shape her into the person she is today. Her mother and grandmother instilled in her the importance of education and curiosity. For these trailblazing women, education was the great equalizer, an accomplishment no one could take from them.
11/05/2020 | By Ontario West
Walton College Executive Education Launches Digital Badges
Upon completion of select Walton College Executive Education programs, participants will now receive a LinkedIn badge to showcase professional or technical expertise skills gained.
10/12/2020 | By Alondra Cruz
Sarah Goforth Leads Graduate Entrepreneurship Program
Sarah Goforth is the executive director of the Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Arkansas. She teaches the graduate level New Venture Development course sequence and oversees the interdisciplinary Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship.
10/12/2020 | By Hannah Lee
Saatchi & Saatchi X CEO Hosts Walton MBA Conversations
Jessica Hendrix, president and CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi X, led a session of the Walton MBA Conversation Series on “COVID’s Impact on Shopping and Decision Making.”
10/12/2020 | By Allison Vincent
Walton MBA Events and Programming Connect and Educate Alumni
While the coronavirus has changed how events and programming are offered, the Walton MBA Programs Office has continued to provide learning and networking opportunities for its many alumni.
10/12/2020 | By Julie Storing
Walton MBA Fall 2020 Overview
After moving to remote instruction in mid-March 2020, the University of Arkansas and Walton MBA programs have returned for the Fall 2020 semester with a combination of both remote and in-person class options to maintain a quality educational experience while also protecting the health and safety of the students and faculty.
09/08/2020 | By Julie Storing
Full-time Walton MBA Internships
The Walton MBA internships are incredibly beneficial to students because they allow for the development of valuable work experience based on the student’s interest. Lindsey Steiger-Muck, assistant MBA director at the Walton MBA programs said, “Students have the opportunity to explore a potential career path and give themselves a competitive edge in the job market based on the skills they’ve learned.” Molly Bombonato, Robert Cummings, Sean Grady, Meritt Rae and Sydney Wendfeldt spoke about their internship experiences.
09/08/2020 | By Hannah Lee
Jeff Murray’s New Executive MBA Podcast
Jeff Murray, professor in the Department of Marketing at the Sam M. Walton College of Business, joined the University of Arkansas in 1989. Murray, a Colorado-native turned long-term Arkansas resident, currently teaches in the Executive MBA and Full-time MBA programs at Walton College. When the university moved to remote instruction in March, Murray wanted a high-context medium to ease the lack of face-to-face interaction with his Executive MBA students. He kept coming back to the idea of a podcast. Season 1 of Hidden Signs is now available to students, alumni and the public.
09/08/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Bill Ryan Joins MBA Programs as Career Coach
To better assist the Walton MBA students as they navigate an ever-changing job market, Bill Ryan has joined the Walton MBA Programs office as a career coach. This new position will primarily assist Executive MBA students as they plan their career paths after graduation.
08/07/2020 | By Julie Storing
Adam Stoverink Offers New Business Leadership and Ethics Course
Adam Stoverink, Ph.D. is an associate professor of management in the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas. Dr. Stoverink teaches leadership to undergraduate, graduate and executive audiences and also instructs a teaching seminar in the Walton College doctoral program.
08/07/2020 | By Hannah Lee
The Tango Press Business Model with John Ballentine
Small businesses are facing the brunt of COVID-19 shutdowns. In one of the first analyses of the impacts of the pandemic on small businesses, Stanford reported a 22% reduction in active small business owners between February and April – an estimated loss of 3.3 million businesses in less than three months. However, some businesses are thriving under the current social and economic climates. Walmart’s online sales are up 74% and telehealth visits are skyrocketing. But why are some businesses doing better than others?
08/07/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Jaymin Patel and CelluDot: The Heartland Challenge
Jaymin Patel is an operations science analyst at ArcBest Technologies, a logistics provider in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He graduated last month from our Walton Executive MBA program. During his time as a student in the Walton EMBA program, Patel’s focus study area was entrepreneurship. He holds a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering from the University of Arkansas. This past summer, Patel participated in the inaugural Heartland Challenge.
08/07/2020 | By Hannah Lee
Walton MBA Faculty Spotlight: Varun Grover “Is Digital IT?”
Varun Grover, Distinguished Professor and David D. Glass Endowed Chair in Information Systems at Walton College, shares “Is Digital IT?” An original article for the Walton MBA newsletter.
05/11/2020 | By Varun Grover
Ben Davis and Jeff Cady Receive 2020 Outstanding Graduating Student Awards
Healthcare Executive MBA students, Ben Davis, medical director of the Surgical Intensive Care Unit at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Jeff Cady, associate director of strategic accounts at Johnson and Johnson Health Care Systems, were recognized on April 24 as outstanding graduating students from the Walton College Class of 2020
05/11/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Walton MBA Student Spotlight: Giang Dang Vu
The Walton MBA Program believes in the value of a diverse cohort. Students come from a variety of backgrounds, with different undergraduate degrees and from different parts of the world. International students add variety to the MBA program by offering unique perspectives and enriching class discussion.
05/11/2020 | By Sarah Williamson
Farewell to Walton MBA Student Workers
We are saying goodbye to three incredible student workers as they leave for local internships. Ashley Perone, Chrissy Matlock and Cornelia Swardh have been instrumental in assisting staff and helping to organize key Walton MBA events. Each student worker has been awarded a yearlong internship with local corporations and will be moving to the next chapter in their professional development.
05/11/2020 | By Sarah Williamson
Walton MBA Alumni Spotlight: Shan Pesaru
Shan Pesaru is the owner and CEO of Sharp Hue and a 2007 Walton Executive MBA alum. He graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering in 2005 and says he was missing the experience needed for business ownership and entrepreneurship before joining the program. Pesaru says the Walton MBA gave him the confidence and skills he needed to start his business.
05/11/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Walton College Executive Education Utilizes Mindful Marketing to Connect with Community
Over a month has passed since universities and workplaces have mandated stay-at-home procedures. During this month, we have seen changes in policies and social norms that reflect these unprecedented times.
05/11/2020 | By Alondra Cruz
Sustainability and Resiliency in Times of Uncertainty with Dr. Christy Melhart Slay
Christy Melhart Slay, director of technical alignment for The Sustainability Consortium, a global organization co-led by the University of Arkansas and Arizona State University that helps industries “define, develop and deliver more sustainable products,” earned her Ph.D. in biological sciences from the University of Arkansas in 2010. As a graduate student she was interested in sustainability and the intersection of science and business.
05/11/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Alumni Spotlight: Kenny Bierman
Kenny Bierman, a 2015 full-time MBA graduate, works for PepsiCo as a senior category adviser for Walmart. Before Bierman began his journey in the MBA, he worked for more than eleven years for the U.S. Air Force. His journey towards his MBA was non-traditional, but the experience helped transform his career.
03/27/2020 | By Sarah Williamson
Walton MBA Learning Series: “Coronavirus and the Global Economy”
In 2003, a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) outbreak in the Guangdong Province of China lead to approximately 8,000 cases and 800 deaths – affecting almost 30 countries and resulting in an estimated economic loss of $40 billion dollars.
03/27/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources
Recommended reads from Walton MBA faculty and alumni for the Walton MBA and the Northwest Arkansas business communities. Updated 4/13/2020.
03/27/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
2019 Walton MBA Faculty of the Year
Every year, the Walton College MBA Faculty of the Year award is bestowed upon an exceptional faculty member to recognize their influence as an educator and a leader among the MBA and Executive MBA (EMBA) programs.
03/27/2020 | By Sarah Williamson
First Recipient Earns Walton College Executive Education Proven Leadership Certificate
Emily Money, central Arkansas development director for the University of Arkansas, has earned the first Walton College Executive Education Proven Leadership Certificate by completing a series of three courses through Walton College Executive Education.
03/27/2020 | By Alondra Cruz
A Message from the Director
This newsletter comes out at a time when we confront significant challenges resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods of working, teaching, and living have changed.
03/27/2020 | By Vikas Anand
Walton College Executive Education Hosts Second Leadership Circle for Healthcare
Walton College Executive Education has partnered with Milestone Leadership to host a second custom cohort of Leadership Circle for Healthcare. The six-month program provides industry leaders with skills, experiences and connections that create a lasting personal, professional and industry impact.
02/28/2020 | By Alondra Cruz
A Digital Revolution in Retail with Focus on Walmart
Daniel Eckert, former senior vice president of Walmart Services and Digital Acceleration, says customers are changing how, where and when they shop, and a harmonized commerce ecosystem—the seamless integration of physical and digital retail environments—will win the future of retail.
02/28/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Spring 2020 Alumni Learning Series
The Walton Alumni Learning Series, hosted by the Walton MBA programs at the Sam M. Walton College of Business, started the Spring 2020 series with a sold-out event.
02/28/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
Elizabeth Arredondo Shares on the Value of Internships
Corporate internships are a critical experience for MBA students. Experience gained in an internship expands learning beyond what can be taught in a classroom. Students experience firsthand how classroom lectures apply to work performed in the office. Elizabeth Arredondo, 2018 Walton MBA alumna, shares on the value of internships.
02/28/2020 | By Sarah Williamson
Alumni Spotlight: Bill Fedorchak
The idea of returning to academia as a ‘non-traditional student’ may be intimidating to some, especially after spending nearly a quarter of a decade in the industry. 2017 E.M.B.A. graduate Bill Fedorchak explains how the experience challenged and benefited him in more ways than he expected.
01/28/2020 | By Sarah Williamson
Executive Education Launches Pop-Up Programs
The Walton College Executive Education now offers Business Foundations, a program designed to develop business the skills needed to run organizations in leaders who lack business backgrounds. The customizable program, which can be delivered in various locations, is ideal for organizations who looking to broaden their business acumen and enhance their decision making skills.
01/24/2020 | By Alex Blythe
The Nielsen Academy
Nielsen joins forces with Walton MBA to create student-centered, community-based learning and professional development opportunities for MBA students.
01/24/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
8 Ways to Pay for Your MBA
Program costs can feel like an overwhelming barrier between you and your MBA. From full tuition waivers to study abroad travel assistance, Walton MBA offers several scholarship and funding opportunities for the full-time and executive MBA programs.
01/24/2020 | By Alexandra Goforth
New Members Join the Alumni Advisory Board
The Walton MBA Alumni Advisory Board is crucial to the success of the M.B.A. programs. Alumni provide valuable insight and leadership, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant during times of change in industry. Meet our three newest alumni board members and hear what they believe they each bring to the program.
01/24/2020 | By Sarah Williamson