45 years strong: EMBA alumni return to celebrate success and growth

The CWRU Weatherhead School of Management recently hosted a landmark reunion for alumni of the Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) program, celebrating more than 45 years of academic excellence and professional growth. This event marked the first of its kind, bringing together graduates from across the decades for a weekend filled with nostalgia, learning and camaraderie. 

A weekend to remember

The reunion weekend was meticulously planned to offer a mix of educational and social activities, ensuring that attendees could both reconnect with old friends and gain new insights into their professional lives. From the moment alumni stepped onto the campus, there was a palpable sense of excitement as classmates reunited, some seeing each other for the first time since graduation.

Engaged leadership and informative updates

Dean Andrew Medvedev (CWR ’97) played an active role throughout the entire weekend, attending sessions and major meal events. His presence was not only a testament to his commitment to the program but also a source of valuable insights for the alumni. Dean Medvedev provided comprehensive updates on the program and the school, which alumni found to be both informative and inspiring.

Associate Dean Kevin Smith contributed to the weekend's success by providing an update on the fundraising initiatives designed to support executive student enrollment in the future. His presentation underscored the importance of these efforts in sustaining and growing the program.

Program Director Simon Peck, along with many current and former faculty members who taught classes in the program, actively participated in the weekend. Their involvement added depth to the discussions and reinforced the strong ties between the faculty and alumni community.

Alumni contributions: The heart of the reunion

The success of the reunion was largely due to the dedicated efforts of alumni who spent over a year planning and supporting the event. Their greatest contribution was reaching out to their cohort and classmates, personally inviting them back to the reunion. This personal touch was instrumental in fostering a strong turnout and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

In addition to outreach, these alumni volunteers served as session hosts and moderators for the educational programs offered during the reunion. Their involvement ensured that the sessions were engaging and relevant, drawing on their own experiences and insights to enrich the discussions.

Special Fireside Chats: A tribute to Richard Osborne, PhD

One of the standout features of the weekend were the special Fireside Chats, particularly the session featuring alumnus Mike Fisher, PhD (GRS ’13, management). This chat paid homage to the legendary Richard Osborne, PhD (MGT ’73), former professor of marketing and policy studies, affectionately known as "The Gorilla," whose world-class entrepreneurship classes left a lasting impact on countless students.

Osborne was renowned for bringing top-caliber CEOs to guest lectures in his classes, challenging students to distill the "Top 10 Learnings" from each session. His unique approach and personal touch extended to giving each student a memorable nickname, a tradition fondly recalled by all who took his classes.

The Fireside Chat with Mike Fisher captured the essence of Osborne's teachings, drawing on the wisdom imparted in those transformative sessions. Adding a poignant touch to the event, Osborne's widow, Elizabeth, attended, celebrating her husband's enduring legacy and the profound influence he had on the Weatherhead community.

Social highlights: A dinner cruise and clam bake

One of the most anticipated events of the weekend was the dinner cruise on the Lady Caroline, a four-deck ship that cruises along Lake Erie. Although mechanical issues kept the ship dry-docked, the spirit of the evening was not dampened. Alumni enjoyed a delightful evening on board, reminiscing about their time at Weatherhead while savoring a delectable dinner.

The festivities continued with the famous clam bake, a beloved tradition featuring a mouthwatering array of clams, potatoes and corn on the cob. 

A celebratory atmosphere

Throughout the weekend, the atmosphere was one of celebration and reflection. Alumni shared stories of their journeys since leaving Weatherhead, highlighting the impact that the EMBA program had on their careers and personal growth. The reunion served as a testament to the strong bonds formed during their time at the school and the enduring legacy of the program.

Looking forward

As the weekend drew to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of connection to Weatherhead and each other.