Recognizing Excellence: Micki Benz Receives March 2025 STAR Award The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh College of Business is proud to celebrate Micki Benz, an outstanding administrative assistant in the Dean's Office, who has been honored with the prestigious STAR Award for March 2025. This recognition highlights Benz's exceptional dedication, professionalism, and outstanding contributions to the college's administrative operations. As a key member of the Dean's Office team, Benz consistently demonstrates remarkable skill and commitment in supporting the college's daily functions. Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering work ethic have set her apart as a valuable asset to the university community. The STAR Award serves as a testament to Benz's hard work and the significant impact she makes in her role, inspiring her colleagues and contributing to the overall success of the College of Business. MORE...

During an enriching spring break, students from ECU's College of Business embarked on transformative international learning experiences across two distinct cultural landscapes: Peru and France. These immersive study abroad programs offered students unique opportunities to expand their global perspectives, engage with international business practices, and develop cross-cultural understanding. In Peru, students explored the vibrant business ecosystem of Lima, gaining firsthand insights into emerging market dynamics and local entrepreneurial strategies. They visited innovative companies, participated in cultural exchange workshops, and witnessed the intersection of traditional commerce and modern business approaches. Simultaneously, students traveling to France delved into the sophisticated European business environment, experiencing the nuanced world of international commerce in cities like Paris. They attended lectures at prestigious institutions, networked with local business professionals, and gained valuable insights into global economic strategies. These international experiences go beyond traditional classroom learning, providing students with practical knowledge, cultural competence, and a broader understanding of global business landscapes. By stepping outside their comfort zones, these ECU College of Business students are preparing themselves to become adaptable, globally-minded professionals ready to navigate the complexties of international commerce. MORE...

In a promising development for Northvolt, the company's bankruptcy trustee announced significant strides in securing the battery maker's operational continuity. On Friday, the trustee revealed substantial progress in ongoing negotiations, simultaneously exploring potential buyers who could breathe new life into the electric vehicle battery manufacturer. The update signals hope for the company, suggesting that despite financial challenges, Northvolt may have a path forward. Discussions are actively underway to ensure the company's critical operations remain intact while simultaneously seeking strategic investors or acquirers who could potentially rescue the business from its current financial predicament. The trustee's statement underscores a proactive approach to navigating the company's complex financial landscape, offering a glimmer of optimism for employees, stakeholders, and the electric vehicle industry at large. MORE...

In a stark warning about the potential impact of policy changes, the founder of Planson International has revealed that the company could face a devastating 50% revenue reduction if USAID's current structural framework is dismantled. The revelation highlights the critical relationship between international development organizations and private sector contractors. The company's leadership is deeply concerned about the potential fallout from proposed organizational restructuring, which could dramatically alter the landscape of international aid and development partnerships. With revenue hanging in the balance, Planson International finds itself at a critical crossroads, facing unprecedented uncertainty about its future operational capacity. This potential revenue cut underscores the delicate ecosystem of international development work, where policy shifts can have immediate and profound consequences for businesses operating in this specialized sector. The founder's candid assessment serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of companies dependent on government aid contracts and the broader geopolitical dynamics that shape international development efforts. As the situation continues to evolve, Planson International is closely monitoring potential changes and preparing strategic contingencies to mitigate the potential financial impact of USAID's potential restructuring. MORE...

In a bold move to reshape Amazon's corporate culture, CEO Andy Jassy is championing a transformative approach that prioritizes agility, accountability, and individual empowerment. The tech giant is set on dismantling bureaucratic barriers by reducing management layers and fostering a more dynamic, merit-driven workplace. Jassy's vision centers on accelerating decision-making processes and encouraging employees to take greater ownership of their work. By streamlining organizational structures, Amazon aims to create a more responsive and innovative environment where talent and performance truly matter. The strategy reflects a significant shift from traditional corporate hierarchies, emphasizing speed, efficiency, and individual contribution. Employees are being urged to think and act more entrepreneurially, with career advancement tied directly to demonstrated results and impact. This cultural reset comes as Amazon seeks to maintain its competitive edge in an increasingly fast-paced tech landscape. By breaking down unnecessary management tiers and promoting a culture of direct accountability, the company hopes to unleash greater creativity and productivity across its global workforce. Jassy's approach signals a clear message: at Amazon, potential is measured by performance, and every team member has the opportunity to drive meaningful change from within. MORE...

In a bold move that signals significant changes to federal education policy, President Trump unveiled plans on Friday to transfer the management of federal student loans to the Small Business Administration. This strategic shift appears to be part of a broader initiative to potentially dismantle or dramatically restructure the Department of Education. The proposed transition represents a substantial departure from current educational administrative practices, suggesting the administration's intent to streamline federal student loan operations and reduce bureaucratic complexity. By moving loan management to the Small Business Administration, the president aims to introduce a more business-oriented approach to handling student financial assistance. This announcement has already sparked intense debate among education policy experts, lawmakers, and student advocacy groups, who are closely analyzing the potential implications of such a significant administrative reorganization. The proposed change could have far-reaching consequences for how student loans are processed, managed, and distributed in the future. MORE...

The soaring cost of beef is creating a significant financial squeeze for American businesses and consumers alike, forcing companies to navigate complex pricing strategies and potentially make difficult economic trade-offs. As beef prices continue to climb, restaurants, grocery stores, and food manufacturers are confronting the challenging reality of maintaining profitability while keeping products affordable for customers. The unprecedented surge in beef prices is putting immense pressure on supply chains and consumer wallets. Business leaders are now tasked with making critical decisions about how to absorb or pass along these escalating costs without alienating their customer base. Some may need to explore innovative solutions such as menu adjustments, alternative protein offerings, or strategic pricing models to mitigate the financial impact. Consumers, meanwhile, are feeling the pinch at the meat counter, with many rethinking their purchasing habits and seeking more budget-friendly protein alternatives. This economic challenge is reshaping the food industry landscape, compelling businesses to adapt quickly and creatively to maintain their competitive edge in an increasingly volatile market. MORE...

In a bold move signaling significant administrative changes, the Small Business Administration (SBA) unveiled a comprehensive restructuring strategy on Friday. This strategic overhaul is part of the Trump administration's broader initiative to streamline government operations and reduce operational expenses. The announcement highlights the administration's commitment to enhancing efficiency and optimizing resource allocation within the federal agency. By reimagining the SBA's organizational structure, officials aim to create a leaner, more responsive support system for small businesses across the United States. While specific details of the restructuring remain to be fully disclosed, the plan represents a substantial shift in how the agency will approach its core mission of supporting entrepreneurship and small business growth. The cost-cutting measures are expected to have far-reaching implications for the agency's future operations and service delivery. MORE...

Destiny Her has found her voice. Once hesitant and reserved, she has transformed from a quiet student to a powerful advocate for gender equality at the Craig School of Business. Her journey of empowerment began when she first joined the school's gender initiatives program, where she discovered the strength to challenge traditional narratives and speak up for meaningful change. Through her passionate involvement, Destiny has become a catalyst for conversations about diversity and inclusion. She has learned that silence is not an option when it comes to addressing systemic barriers and creating opportunities for underrepresented students. Her personal growth reflects a broader movement within the business school, where students are increasingly recognizing the importance of amplifying marginalized voices. What sets Destiny apart is her ability to turn personal experiences into collective action. She has not only shared her own story but has also created platforms for other students to express their perspectives. Her leadership demonstrates that true progress happens when individuals are courageous enough to step forward and challenge the status quo. Today, Destiny Her stands as a testament to the power of speaking up, proving that one voice can indeed spark significant institutional transformation. MORE...

In a significant shift for small business financing, the Small Business Administration (SBA) is set to take on the management of loans for approximately 40 million American borrowers. This unprecedented move promises to streamline loan processes and potentially provide more supportive financial resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners across the United States. The SBA's expanded role represents a strategic effort to enhance loan accessibility and support the backbone of the American economy - its small businesses. By directly managing such a vast number of loans, the administration aims to create more transparent, efficient, and borrower-friendly lending practices. This development could mark a turning point for many small business owners who have struggled with complex loan management systems. The SBA's direct involvement suggests a more personalized approach to financial support, potentially offering more flexible terms and clearer guidance for borrowers. As the lending landscape continues to evolve, this move by the Small Business Administration signals a commitment to empowering small businesses and fostering economic growth at the grassroots level. MORE...