IGNITE
Ignite Spring 2025 Schedule

Sustainability Leadership & ESG Luncheon
January 23, Thursday
11:30 am-1 pm
Miller Education Center, Jones College Suite
Explore how sustainability leadership and ESG investing shape careers and impact the future. Dive into real-world applications of sustainable practices and responsible investment strategies while enjoying a complimentary lunch. Seats are limited—register now to secure your spot!
Hosted by Carly Escue and the Jones College Executive Education Center
Master LinkedIn for Networking
January 30, Thursday
2:30-4 pm
SunTrust Room, BAS S326
Learn how to create a standout LinkedIn profile, leverage it for effective networking, and prepare for professional meetings.
Hosted by Thom Coats


Resume Workshop-Part 1
February 11, Tuesday
4:30-5:30 pm
BAS S277
Are your marketing materials ready for post-graduation interviews? Preparing for the BEST Career Fair? Join us for Resume Workshop – Part 1 to discover strategies for crafting a stronger branding statement, enhancing your resume header with relevant details, and identifying notable achievements as key talking points.
Hosted by Jean Wilson
Networking Essentials Workshop
February 18, Tuesday
8-9:15 am
SunTrust Room, BAS, S326
Learn how to network effectively and master the art of following up to build strong professional connections.
Hosted by Thom Coats


Practicing Your Pitch
February 18, Tuesday
11:20 am-12:45 pm
KUC 324
You’re Invited to Perfect Your Elevator Pitch!
Join this interactive workshop to craft your pitch, explore the Career Closet for FREE professional attire, and snap a LinkedIn-worthy photo at the headshot selfie station. Plus, meet employer partners ready to hear your pitch
Hosted by Career Development
Resume Workshop-Part 2
February 20, Thursday
4:30-5:30 pm
BAS S277
Don’t miss Resume Workshop – Part 2 as we continue perfecting resumes for post-graduation interviews and the BEST Career Fair. Learn what to highlight in the Education section and how to showcase your achievements by focusing on results rather than duties in your Experience and Volunteer sections.
Hosted by Jean Wilson


Medical Center Tour
February 21, Friday
9:45 am-12 pm
Join us for this exclusive opportunity to explore the facility, learn about operations, and HCA opportunities. Plan for a Q&A session.
Registration required via QR code.
Hosted by the Healthcare Administration Club
Understanding Credit Reports & Scores
February 24, Monday
4:30-5:30 pm
BAS N127
Unlock the power of your credit. Your credit report affects more than just loans! Join us to learn how to check your report, dispute errors, and boost your score with smart strategies.
Hosted by Keith Gamble, Presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union


Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
February 25, Tuesday
2:30-4 pm
SunTrust Room, BAS, S326
Learn how to craft a meaningful and impactful introduction to make a lasting impression.
Hosted by Thom Coats
Building Your Professional Online Presence with LinkedIn & ORCID
February 26, Wednesday
12:00-12:45 pm
Discover how to leverage LinkedIn for job searching and networking, and learn to use ORCID to build your scholarly identity.
Hosted by the Career Development Center and Walker Library Faculty


DEI: Does it matter?
February 27, Thursday
3-4:30 pm
Join us for an insightful Zoom workshop on the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in workplaces and educational settings. Featuring a panel of DEI experts from corporate and academic fields, this session offers valuable insights, real-world perspectives, and opportunities for interactive dialogue. Explore how DEI shapes careers, communities, and workplace culture.
Hosted by Dr. Millicent Nelson
Supply Chain Summit
March 4, Tuesday
8:45 am-4 pm
Student Union Ballroom
Register via Handshake to attend.
Hosted by the Center for Supply Chain Management and Sustainability


Protect & Prosper: Smart Insurance Strategies
March 5, Wednesday
4:30-5:30 pm
Learn how different types of insurance safeguard your assets and secure your future. Knowledge is power—let’s make informed financial decisions together!
Hosted by Keith Gamble, Presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union
Explore First Amendment Freedoms with Elisha Hodge
March 6, Thursday
11:30 am-12:30 pm
SunTrust Room
Learn the essentials of First Amendment rights, public audits, and their legal impact on citizens and public employees. Gain expert insights on public recording, accountability, and balancing individual rights with government authority.
Hosted by Gamma Iota Sigma


Prepare to Put Your BEST Foot Forward!
March 6, Thursday
4:30-5:30 pm
Strategize to effectively market yourself at the B.E.S.T. Career and Internship event.
Hosted by Jean Wilson and Beka Moore from the Career Development Center
The 60-Second Spotlight
March 18, Tuesday
Throughout the day–Reserve your timeslot in English or Spanish
Sales Lab, BAS S123
Test your elevator pitch and get immediate, valuable feedback to refine your introduction skills.
Hosted by Thom Coats

Neuromarketing Symposium–Brain Behavior in the Age of AI
March 19, Wednesday
Times will be published soon
State Farm Room
Join this international symposium featuring experts in Neuromarketing from around the world.
Hosted by Dr. Gaia Rancati
BEST Career Fair
March 25, Tuesday
10 am-2 pm
Student Union Ballroom
Professional attire and a resume are required for entry. Meet with employers seeking College of Business majors.
Hosted by Jean Wilson


Business Etiquette Dinner
March 25
5:30-8 pm
Miller Education Center Atrium
Learn the art of networking while enjoying a formal dining experience. Gain essential business etiquette skills to enhance your professionalism.
Registration is required—secure your spot today!
Hosted by Thom Coats
Casino Night
March 26, Wednesday
5-8 pm
Miller Education Center Atrium
Dive into the excitement of casino games while mastering the principles of risk management. Play blackjack, craps, and roulette in a fun, hands-on environment, and learn how to assess and manage risks like a pro. Don’t miss this unique blend of fun and strategy!
Hosted by Gamma Iota Sigma


Leadership For Today: Cultivating Growth & Vision
April 3, Thursday
3 p.m.
BAS S277
Join us for a dynamic workshop inspired by The Gardener: A Lesson for Leaders. Discover how to nurture growth, foster resilience, and lead purposefully through interactive discussions and practical strategies.Grow as a leader. Inspire others.
Hosted by Dr. Millicent Nelson & James McCarroll

Human Resource Management Professional Panel
April 3, Thursday
4:15-5:45 pm
BAS S126
Explore Workforce Trends with HRM Experts!
Join us for a conversation with HR professionals, from early career to CHROs. Ask questions, gain insights, and learn from their experiences shaping the future of work!
Hosted by Kristie Abston
CFP Panel Discussion
April 15, Tuesday
4:30-5:30 pm
BAS S334
You’re Invited: The CFP® Advantage
Join a panel of Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) as they share how they earned their certification, prepared for the exam, and apply it in their careers. Gain insights, ask questions, and explore the value of becoming a CFP®.
Part of Financial Literacy Week events
Hosted by Keith Gamble

Job Searching 101: A Recruiter’s Perspective
April 16, Wednesday
3-4 pm
Learn from industry professionals the dos and don’ts of the job application process from a recruiter’s perspective.
Hosted by Career Development Center & Employer Partners
Unlocking Financial Freedom: Keynote with Manisha Thakor
April 16, Wednesday
4:30-6 pm
Tennessee Ballroom, James Union Building
Celebrate Tennessee Financial Literacy Month with a leading advocate for women’s financial empowerment. With 30+ years in the industry, she’ll share essential insights on financial health, emotional wealth, and why financial independence is key to having a voice and choices.
Awards totaling $10,000 will be given to students who attend this & at least one other event and submit a video. Learn more here.
Hosted in collaboration with Financial Literacy Week.
Etiquette Dinner & Career Ready Fashion Show
April 17, Thursday
5:30- 8:30 pm
Student Union Ballroom
You’re Invited to an Evening of Etiquette and Style! Join us for a 5-course meal where you’ll learn and practice proper business dinner etiquette. Plus, enjoy a fashion show highlighting appropriate work attire for various industries. Don’t miss this unique blend of dining and career preparation! Registration required here.
Hosted in collaboration with Career Development Center, FADS Student Organization, & CME Pathways Program. (IGNITE attendees will be seated together with a designated employer partner.)
Many thanks to our IGNITE sponsor
