ÃÛÌÒav

Public Relations

SALISBURY, MD---Student Business Leaders in ÃÛÌÒav’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business serve as ambassadors for the school, engage with advisory boards and business leaders, and provide peer leadership for other students in the school.

But who provides leadership for them?

That would be Michelle Lambert, executive administrative assistant I in the Perdue School, who, for the past decade-plus, has ensured more than 125 in the Student Business Leaders (SBL) program are polished, poised, and ready to put their best foot forward not only during their time at SU, but upon entering the business world after graduation, as well.

The University System of Maryland Board of Regents recently honored Lambert’s dedication to these students and the Perdue School at large, bestowing upon her its highest staff honor: the Regents’ Staff Award for Acting as a Role Model.

“Michelle is a mentor in the truest sense, offering students in the SBL and Perdue School encouragement and guidance,” said SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre. “Whether she is coaching a nervous student through a public speaking project or challenging SBL students to expand their networking skills, Michelle embodies the ideals of leadership and mentorship.”

Dr. Christy Weer, dean of the Perdue School, also praised Lambert’s impact on students: “She is their confidant, their mentor, their biggest cheerleader, and, importantly, their role model. Not surprisingly, many of these students go on to successful careers in big-four accounting firms and with major corporations. It is Michelle’s leadership that has led to the success of the SBL program.”

Current PSB students and alumni agree.

“Michelle plays a vital role in shaping the SBL,” said SU senior Isabella Casey. “From the moment students step into their roles, she fosters an environment that encourages personal and professional growth. She is not just a supervisor; she is a mentor who challenges us to step outside our comfort zones. Whether navigating leadership roles or, in my personal experience, delivering a senior speech to 400 students, she ensures we have every tool to succeed.”

“More than a decade after graduating from ÃÛÌÒav, Michelle is still the first person who comes to mind when I think about the most influential mentors in my life,” said Lori Defnet ’14, today an environmental, social, and governance controller at The Hershey Co. “Michelle’s constant encouragement throughout my time as an SBL, and the soft skills and confidence that Michelle instilled in me, are the unwavering foundation of my professional career success to date. I am forever grateful for the influence she has had on my life and for her continued mentorship.”

In addition to her work with students, Lepre noted that Lambert also “has become a role model for her colleagues. She upholds the highest standards of professionalism and embodies the values of ÃÛÌÒav.”

Learn more about SU and opportunities to Make Tomorrow Yours at the SU website.