By BRENT MESKE
UCF College of Business (January 9, 2025)
ORLANDO, FL – Ten UCF College of Business students earned scholarships last semester as part of the new ADP Business Knights Leadership Academy, thanks to support from global human resources management company ADP. In collaboration with ADP and the college, the ADP Business Knights Leadership Academy is designed to enhance leadership development and create opportunities to prepare students with the knowledge and skills they need in their first jobs.
The first round of scholarships was presented to business students Wyatt Anderson, Monica Andrade, Daniela Ardila, Cyro Baldaci, Thatcher Brutus, Devin Gaston, Arel Mizrahi, Nicole Munoz, Andrew Stevenson and Zaphaniahn Torres. Students with a 3.0 GPA in McFadden’s GEB 3006 course were eligible to apply for the scholarships, which will be offered each semester, by submitting a 500-750 word essay describing their leadership, volunteer or customer service experiences and sharing key lessons learned and how those experiences have influenced their career goals.
“Thank you, ADP, for all you do for our students,” said Denise McFadden, Director of Professional Programming. “These students took a risk and applied for this scholarship. Anytime you get out of your comfort zone and try something new, it’s a step in the right direction for your career.”
The leadership academy expands ADP’s existing efforts with the college. ADP Vice President and General Manager Simon Choy, who recently joined the College of Business Dean’s Advisory Board, said there was no doubt ADP wanted to continue supporting UCF’s efforts to develop and prepare their students.
“We love UCF,” said Choy, speaking to students during the scholarship presentation. “In fact, many of the associates in our Orlando office are UCF alumni. We look forward to continuing to support students as they prepare for their future careers, so stop by and say hello when we’re in the college. Come get to know us.”
“Culture comes from leadership,” said Paul Jarley, Dean of the College of Business Dean. “I encourage you all to get to know Simon because Simon’s team loves him. I know a good leader when I see one.”
As part of the collaboration, ADP will host speaking engagements at the college focusing on innovation, human capital management and cutting-edge technology. Sessions will prepare students for their transition into the workforce by exposing them to real-world business challenges and leaders.
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