By: Mekenna Earnhart
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) — The University of Arkansas’ Walton College of Business has earned national recognition several times for different achievements. The Walton College’s undergraduate supply chain program was ranked as the best in the country. Also, its MBA program was recognized as the 11th best for return on investment nationwide. This year, the Walton undergraduate program secured the 25th spot among public institutions. These accolades showcase the college’s dedication to quality education.
A recent addition to the college’s offerings is a new business course being offered on campus. This course focuses on providing students with numerous opportunities to connect with professionals. Through this course, students gain skills and experiences that prepare them for success in the business world. This further proves the Walton College’s commitment to providing education and preparing students for careers after graduation.
The new course available on campus is a marketing class titled “Sales Application and Leadership or Marketing Topics,” also referred to as MKTG 4103. This course is instructed by professors Harold Goodwin and John Ballentine.
This class focuses on connecting students with professionals. Harold Goodwin said, “We are focusing on building top-level career skills in sales that will equip students to succeed and excel in their chosen professional progression. Therefore, it is important to provide as many direct contacts as possible with sales and business professionals throughout the term.”
Throughout the semester, students enrolled in the course have had the opportunity to participate in discussions with multiple industry leaders. Among these notable guests are key figures such as the vice president of Supply Chain and the director of CH Supply Chain at Kimbel Mechanical, the president of Gatorade, a sales professional from Southern Missouri Container, and a National account manager at Tyson. Additionally, representatives from Uber Freight, Inceed, State Farm, and Simmons Foods have shared their insights with the class.
But the list doesn’t stop there. With more guest speakers already scheduled for the upcoming eight weeks, students can anticipate further opportunities for connections. The coming speakers include the president of Packaging Specialties, the president of Big Country Farm Toy, the president of Signature Bank of Arkansas, and a representative from WorldSync.
Moreover, in addition to these in-class sessions, each student will have the opportunity to partake in a ride-along experience, spending a day shadowing a seasoned sales professional on the job.
Despite the new class only being in session for a brief eight weeks, students have already given it glowing reviews. University of Arkansas senior Ella Boswell said that this class has offered her opportunities to chat with professionals and establish meaningful connections. She said that this has been one of the most beneficial courses she has taken during her four years at the U of A.