Lincoln University School of Business Hosts Advisory Board Luncheon, Inducts Six New Members
Office of Communications and Marketing
Young Hall
820 Chestnut Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
From left, Gary Plummer, president and CEO of the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce; Brandy Bryant, president and CEO of Jefferson Bank; Luke Holtschneider, president and CEO of the Jefferson City Regional Economic Partnership; Abdul Yinka Ajia, chair of the School of Business at Lincoln University of Missouri; and Paula Clay, director of career services at Lincoln University of Missouri.
The School of Business at Lincoln University of Missouri hosted a Business Advisory Board Luncheon on Feb. 26, bringing together industry leaders, faculty, students and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and advance workforce development initiatives.
The event featured the formal induction of six distinguished professionals into the School of Business Advisory Board, reinforcing the university’s commitment to aligning academic programs with industry needs and expanding career pathways for students.
The newly inducted Advisory Board members include:
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Brandy Bryant, president and CEO of Jefferson Bank
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Ron Fitzwater, CEO of the Missouri Pharmacy Association
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Luke Holtschneider, president and CEO of the Jefferson City Regional Economic Partnership
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Diane Gillespie, executive director of the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau
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Gary Plummer, president and CEO of the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce
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Casey Wasser, CEO and executive director of the Missouri Soybean Association
The luncheon provided a forum for meaningful dialogue around the future of business education, emerging workforce trends and the role of innovation in preparing graduates for today’s competitive job market. Participants discussed opportunities to enhance internships, mentorship programs and career placement efforts by strengthening industry partnerships.
“This event represents our continued commitment to bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application,” said Abdulmumin Yinka Ajia, chair of the School of Business. “The caliber of professionals joining our Advisory Board strengthens our ability to deliver relevant, forward-thinking business education while creating tangible opportunities for our students.”
A key highlight of the event was a Student Spotlight presentation, which demonstrated the direct impact of experiential learning and industry engagement on student success. The presentation showcased how hands-on experiences, mentorship and employer partnerships are translating into career readiness and employment outcomes.
The strong attendance and engagement from business leaders and community partners reflected the growing role of the School of Business as a hub for regional economic development and talent cultivation.
The newly inducted Advisory Board members will play a critical role in guiding curriculum development, supporting strategic initiatives and ensuring that Lincoln University graduates are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the workforce.
The Lincoln University School of Business continues to expand its industry partnerships and experiential learning opportunities, further strengthening its role as a driver of workforce development and economic impact in Missouri and beyond.