On Thursday, March 12, Plaza College’s Society of Business Professionals hosted a virtual induction ceremony for high-achieving students enrolled in the College’s business programs. Membership in the Society is open to students in the School of Business pursuing an Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master of Health Administration (MHA) programs who maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher.
The Society is dedicated to promoting professionalism within the college community. Members commit to upholding values that foster a respectful and professional environment while participating in activities and opportunities that support personal growth and career development. The Society also works closely with the Department of Student Engagement to organize events that help prepare students for successful careers.
The program began with a welcome from Society Moderator Director Risa Cohn, followed by presentations on professional development, networking, and career preparation from Dr. Wendy Finlay, Dean Marianne Zipf, Director Regina Pokidaylo, and Director Sasha Sawh.
A highlight of the evening was a presentation from honored alumna Shirley S., who shared how her education at Plaza College helped shape her professional journey. Shirley earned her Business Administration degree in 2022 and her Bachelor of Business Administration Management in 2025, graduating Magna Cum Laude. She is currently continuing her education in the Master of Health Administration (MHA) program.
Shirley currently works at The Jericho Project as a Case Manager and SOARS Specialist. She began her career there as a Program Specialist and was promoted to Case Manager within nine months. During her presentation, she explained that many of the skills she developed in her BBA program helped her grow professionally and succeed in a mission-driven organization.
She shared how courses focused on leadership, data-driven decision making, organizational behavior, and operational efficiency gave her the ability to think strategically about organizations and systems. These skills, she explained, allow her to analyze information, identify patterns, and make informed decisions that help improve operations and better serve clients.
Shirley also emphasized that the principles she learned in organizational management help her stay organized, prioritize tasks, and ensure that her work is completed effectively and in compliance with program requirements.
“My education has helped me communicate clearly, coordinate effectively with team members, and advocate for my clients,” Shirley shared with attendees.
Reflecting on her recent promotion, she noted that it reinforced how valuable it is to connect classroom learning with real-world practice.
“My BBA program has given me tools that extend beyond traditional business environments and into mission-driven organizations like The Jericho Project,” she said.
The event concluded with the recitation of the Society’s pledge, led by Dr. Wendy Finlay, reaffirming the Society’s commitment to professionalism, leadership, and continued growth within the Plaza College community.
