Students develop skills through volunteerism in impactful CBA Ambassador Program

Students develop skills through volunteerism in impactful CBA Ambassador Program

For UWL student Hayley Moore, small acts of kindness are part of her daily routine.

"Whether it's a smile or holding the door … I also volunteer giving manicures at a local assisted living center on Cass Street every Thursday," says Moore. "I just like helping others. And in return, I feel a sense of belonging."

That same spirit of service and connection led Moore to join the College of Business Administration (CBA) Ambassador Program last year - a volunteer initiative that allows CBA students to support college events, share insights with fellow students and build community within the college and beyond.

"The networking aspect is huge. TJ knows who I am. The dean knows who I am. That feels really cool," says Moore. "I've become more immersed than just being a student. You see familiar faces, professors and other students - and you get to connect on a deeper level."

What is the CBA Ambassador Program?

CBA Ambassadors are student volunteers who represent the college at a wide range of events and activities. From checking in guests at the Benson Management First Friday Lecture Series, to running mics, answering student questions and taking event photos at student orientation events - ambassadors are the behind-the-scenes support that helps college events run smoothly.

Building confidence, one event at a time

They also play a vital role in larger community-facing events, like the State Bank Financial Economic Indicators, where the CBA Dean TJ Brooks presents an update on the economy for regional business professionals and community leaders.

The level of commitment is flexible, allowing students to choose how involved they want to be. But the benefits - from leadership growth to networking - are consistently rewarding.

Taylor Tews, '24, recalls speaking to more than 400 first-year students during orientation - a milestone that helped her build confidence for future professional environments.

"As a CBA Ambassador, I was provided countless opportunities to lead, practice presentation skills and network with UWL staff and business professionals," says Tews.

Tews' ambassador experience opened the door to further opportunities, including a CBA dean's office internship. She went on to complete a Master's in Consumer Psychology at the University of Galway in Ireland and now works as a Product and Development Intern with Welliba in Galway.

"These different experiences helped shape my professional background outside of the classroom," she says.

Leading by example

For Ava Mueller, another current ambassador, the role is about giving back and helping ensure other students have a great experience in the CBA.

"We support the speakers and the students attending - helping to keep things running smoothly so the college can keep offering these opportunities," says Mueller.

Moore and Mueller say they've gained real-world experience through the program - from meeting speakers behind the scenes, to connecting with local professionals, to learning marketable skills like leadership and photography.

The program is especially beneficial for rising sophomores and juniors, says Erin Flottmeyer, academic advising manager in the CBA and the program's founder.

"It's a great way to build leadership skills early in your college career - while getting exposure to networking, resume building and even direct contact with the dean's office," says Flottmeyer. "I'm excited that this is something we're continuing to grow."

Growing opportunities, growing support

Flottmeyer launched the program in spring 2022 after noticing a need for additional student support during group advising sessions. Since then, the ambassador role has expanded well beyond advising - into student outreach, community engagement and even campus visit days for prospective students.

"It's all the little things that add up to something big," she says. "The presence of engaged students at events sends a powerful message. It strengthens the college community."

Moore says she wishes the ambassadors program had existed when she was a freshman. "Going to college events as a new student can feel intimidating. Seeing a familiar student face makes a huge difference," she says.

Mueller agrees, noting that the ambassador program has given her a platform to develop leadership skills while helping others navigate their CBA journey.

"New students don't know what they don't know," she says. "We've learned from experience - whether that's finding the right professor, getting involved in a student org or navigating a career fair. We're here to help."

CBA Student Success Fund supports CBA Ambassadors

In 2024, the generous supporters of UWL's annual giving day, One Day for UWL, helped the college kickstart a new CBA Student Success Fund. This fund is now being used to provide small scholarships to the 2025-2026 CBA Ambassadors.

As the college continues to grow the Student Success Fund, alumni and friends have the opportunity to make an even greater impact. Additional support will allow the college to expand scholarship amounts and offer ambassadors broader resources to support their professional development needs.

Want to support our student ambassadors?

Make a gift to the CBA Student Success Fund during One Day for UWL that starts at 9 a.m. on October 21 and ends at 9 a.m. on October 22! The Student Success Fund not only supports CBA Ambassadors but helps meet the varied needs of students.

For questions about the CBA Student Success Fund or to explore other ways to philanthropically support students contact CBA Development Officer Jeff Meyer at [email protected] or 608.785.8502.

What is a CBA Ambassador?

CBA student ambassadors are volunteer leaders who support the College of Business Administration by assisting with events, advising sessions and student outreach. They help foster a welcoming environment for current and prospective students while gaining professional skills in leadership, communication, event planning and networking.