Expanding on its nationally recognized career services, Denison is launching a new program that brings senior executives to campus for student engagement, connection, and mentorship.
Denison’s new executive-in-residence program partners with leaders from various industries who collaborate with students and share experiences and insights gained through their leadership and decision-making.
“This initiative reflects the heart of Denison’s mission: empowering students to excel academically, personally, and professionally,” said Raj Bellani, vice president of external affairs, career outcomes and chief of staff. “Through structured engagement, our students are learning how seasoned decision-makers have navigated complex business challenges, providing the kind of mentorship and perspective that complements their education.”
The launch of this program is a statement about the power of relationships, the value of experience, and the university’s commitment to preparing students to quickly and successfully launch into their lives and careers after graduation.
Denison’s inaugural group of executives-in-residence includes founders, CEOs, CFOs, and board chairs, among them:
- John Faraci ’72, retired chairman and CEO of International Paper and current member of the board of directors of U.S. Steel
- Oyauma Garrison ’96, CEO, Maryhaven
- David Hirsh, co-founder and CEO, Atrium Corporation
- Donna James, president and CEO, Lardon & Associates LLC, and chairwoman of the board for Victoria’s Secret & Co.
- Jonathan Ramsden, executive vice president, CFAO, Big Lots, Inc., and former CFO and then COO of Abercrombie & Fitch
- Ilaria Rawlins ’92, founder, president, and CEO, Fortuna Bank
Each executive will work with Denison to tailor their involvement based on their background and campus needs. Some may lead workshops and panels. Others will mentor students, join classroom discussions, meet informally with student organizations, or consult with faculty on emerging trends.
Faculty and staff will also benefit from candid conversations with executives who will provide their perspectives on how their fields are evolving and what new opportunities are on the horizon.
“This isn’t about parachuting someone in for a keynote,” said Melanie Murphy, executive director of the Knowlton Center for Career Exploration. “It’s about providing additional ways to build relationships that stretch students’ thinking, sharpen their aspirations, and help them navigate a successful transition from college to career with confidence.”
Denison offers a comprehensive four-year approach to career exploration and launch, focused on utilizing every year of a student’s academic career to prepare them for post-graduation success. Through the Knowlton Center, career-oriented programs and opportunities are built into every semester, summer, and break.
Overall, Denison’s career services programs are driving higher rates of post-graduation success and applications. In the Class of 2024, 93% had successful career outcomes within six months of graduation. In the last decade, applications for admission tripled, reaching more than 12,000 during the past admission cycle. These achievements have propelled Denison forward — Princeton Review recently ranked Denison #4 for career services among all U.S. colleges and universities.
Students build their career networks while learning the skills they need in today’s workplaces. The Knowlton Center has strong relationships with 100+ employers and builds networks with alumni using the Ask a Denisonian platform, which has been highly successful in facilitating connections.
For more information about Denison’s executive-in-residence program page.