Outstanding Graduate Awards

Boise State has been an incredible place to learn, grow, and build lasting connections. Through my experiences working at Walmart and completing a summer internship with Techtronic Industries, I discovered my passion for supporting and developing people in the workplace. These experiences, along with inspiring HR courses and projects, have shaped my interest in talent acquisition and employee engagement.I am grateful for the guidance of my professors and the support of my peers who have made this journey so meaningful. I am hopeful to continue my HR career in Idaho and represent Boise State University everywhere I go.

I am a US Navy Veteran, retired Border Patrol Agent, husband, father of four, and a grandfather. I am graduating with a BBA in Business Management. I completed my coursework entirely online as I live in Montana. I found the Management curriculum fun, challenging, and rewarding. Although I started my degree path with the idea of starting my own business, I enjoyed my studies so much, I have decided to try to continue my education, and have applied for law school. I know the knowledge I have acquired at Boise State will help me succeed.

I am a finance major with an affinity for numbers and a fascination with the financial system. While interning at Alturas Capital Partners, I plan to pursue a master’s in accountancy and obtain my CPA to achieve utmost competency in my field. I aim to make a meaningful impact at a company I believe in, leveraging my skill set. Whether as a CFO or innovative analyst, I aspire to inspire those around me by advocating for excellence and proliferating enthusiasm for learning.

I am truly honored to be recognized as a COBE Outstanding Graduate. My time at Boise State has been defined by creativity, collaboration, and a passion for entrepreneurship. Through challenging courses, hands-on projects, and supportive mentors, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how business can drive real change. The support and guidance of my professors and peers have shaped me into a more thoughtful and confident leader. As I move forward, I’m excited to continue building meaningful solutions that reflect the values and education I’ve gained through Boise State’s College of Business and Economics. 

I am incredibly grateful to be recognized as the Outstanding Marketing Graduate upon finishing my dual degree in Marketing and Business Administration. COBE’s engaging classes and supportive instructors—especially Jason MacDonald, Leslie Koppenhafer, and Nick Sabala—transformed me from an uncertain student into a confident, passionate business professional. Thank you to the Marketing faculty for this recognition of my hard work. This achievement allows me to show my son that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. With the education I received from COBE, I am now ready to make a meaningful impact on the marketing industry! Go Broncos!

I am incredibly honored and grateful to be selected as the accounting program’s Outstanding
Graduate! This program, along with its faculty, has taught me so much throughout my academic
career. I was born and raised here in Boise and love being outdoors exploring, whitewater
rafting, and camping. During my time here, I had the amazing opportunity to participate in the
Blue Thunder marching band for two years, as well as being involved in my church group on
campus. These experiences, along with the accounting program, will always hold a special place in my heart. I am so excited to graduate from COBE and continue with the program to pursue my Master of Accountancy in the spring. Go Broncos!

I am a military veteran and MBA graduate from Boise State University’s College of Business and Economics. My journey through the program has been one of growth, balance, and discovery. I have learned to navigate career, family, and education while building on the discipline and perspective the military instilled in me. Boise State challenged me to think differently, connect authentically, and lead with purpose. I have learned that personal growth is the foundation for making a broader impact, and I am grateful for the professors, classmates, and experiences that shaped my path forward in both business and life.

I am currently studying Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship, graduating in December 2025. I am passionate about leadership, creativity, and finding innovative ways to help organizations grow and succeed. As a proud member of Zeta Tau Alpha, I value community, connection, and giving back, both on campus and beyond. My goal is to build a career where I can combine my business knowledge and entrepreneurial mindset to make a positive impact and continue learning from every experience along the way.

It has been a great experience participating in the COBE program, not only have I had the opportunity to learn about international business, but I have also been able to interact with the
younger generation in a way that I never would have except as an older student. This has led me to not only grow in knowledge, but also as a person. I am grateful for my time in COBE, and for
the many classes that I have been able to attend. I am truly blessed to have had access to such amazing and dedicated educators and supportive classmates.

Throughout my time at Boise State I have had the great opportunity to meet many inspiring people who have shaped the outcome of my professional and personal life tremendously. Highlights of my Boise State career so far have been meeting my fiancé, Hadley, and completing the supply chain project in collaboration with Micron. After graduating with a supply chain management degree in May, I am now a purchaser at Dixon Container Company, where I frequently reference my class notes, specifically ITM 315 and SCM 366. I feel very grateful to work so close to campus where I began navigating to where I am today. 

I am honored to be selected as the Outstanding Graduate for the Business and Economic Analytics program. My time at Boise State and COBE has been a rewarding journey, and  I am grateful for the support from my professors, my advisor Kyle Nelson, and my peers. I am also a member of the Business Analytics Service Experience (BASE) club, where I work on data analytics projects for nonprofit organizations. I look forward to applying the skills I have learned throughout my journey to make a positive impact. Thank you.

I am deeply honored to complete the COBE program and celebrate this milestone despite the health challenges I faced. Life offers gifts, but it also tests you, and the MBA program’s engaging courses and dedicated professors—especially James and my professors—kept me focused, fueled my love for learning, and strengthened my resilience. I am grateful to my two daughters, my husband, my parents, and my siblings for their unwavering support. I am also proud to be recognized as the Outstanding MBA in Marketing Leadership Graduate. COBE has provided me with a pathway to create businesses that not only succeed but thrive by delivering real value to their customers.

I am a senior pursuing degrees in finance and criminal justice. My academic journey included studying abroad in Turin, Italy, serving as Delta Upsilon’s fraternity treasurer, and forging meaningful connections with peers and faculty. Born in Tacoma, Washington, I am an avid outdoorsman who enjoys skiing, hiking, climbing, fishing and hunting. Attending the College of Business and Economics has been my greatest academic challenge and achievement. The COBE community’s profound impact on my undergraduate experience has inspired me to continue my education at Boise State University as an MBA student next fall. Go Broncos.

I will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business with a minor in Mandarin studies. When I began my higher education journey I was uncertain what career path was for me. It wasn’t until I attended Dr. Jack Marr’s courses that I discovered my passion for international relations and global business. Through COBE’s connections, I had the opportunity to go abroad and gain invaluable experience in a professional setting through the Asia Biztech Program. I am grateful to all my COBE professors for the mentorship they have provided. Looking ahead, I am so excited to further my knowledge of cross-cultural connections through endeavors in international business.

I am incredibly grateful for my experience in Boise State’s online MBA program. As a financial analyst at Northrop Grumman, this program has strengthened my strategic thinking, leadership and financial expertise. The faculty’s dedication and insight have been invaluable, providing real-world applications and new perspectives. I couldn’t have done this without the unwavering support of my husband and daughters who have continuously motivated me throughout this journey. This experience has been both challenging and rewarding, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned to future opportunities. Thank you to my family, professors and classmates. Go Broncos.

I am honored to be recognized as an Outstanding Graduate! After receiving my bachelor’s in accounting at BYU-Idaho, Boise State welcomed me into the Master of Accountancy program with open arms. As I earned my degree, I also had the wonderful opportunity to work as the financial graduate assistant for the Executive MBA program. Looking back, I know that Boise State was the right place for me because I truly felt that all my classmates, co-workers and professors were genuinely rooting for my success. Thank you for helping me get where I am today!

I am incredibly honored to be selected as an Outstanding Graduate in supply chain management. My experience at Boise State and in COBE has been incredibly rewarding, shaped by supportive professors, inspiring classmates and many challenges that have pushed me to grow. I am grateful for the opportunities that have allowed me to apply what I have learned, including participating in a case competition, working on data analysis projects, engaging in service-based projects and gaining real-world experience through my internship. More than anything, I appreciate the friendships, mentorships and the constant support I have received. This recognition is truly an honor, but I am most thankful for this journey that has prepared me for the next chapter.

I am honored to be named the COBE Signature Student and Outstanding Graduate for the master’s degree in economics program. My time at Boise State, both as an undergraduate and master student, has been extremely transformative. With the support of faculty in the Department of Economics and the COBE Career Center, I have received multiple doctoral degree admissions offers and look forward to starting this fall. I am especially grateful to my mentor, Professor Rafael Ribas, as well as Professors Michail Fragkias and Kelly Chen for their support in my thesis and doctoral degree journey. Thank you to the entire department. Go Broncos.

I am honored to be an Outstanding Graduate for Spring 2025! I am graduating with a dual major in business administration and entrepreneurship management and have made the Dean’s List every semester except one. Born and raised in the Treasure Valley, my love for Boise State University and this community is strong! Having been to all 50 states, I plan to work in the travel industry, supporting my passion for exploring the world. Thank you to my Savior, Jesus Christ, for everything, my family for all their love and support, and my professors for pushing me to learn and grow.

I am honored to receive the Outstanding Graduate Award from COBE. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Boise State in 2015 and I am excited to graduate with my MBA this year. The Professional MBA program allowed me to work full-time while gaining the knowledge and skills needed to advance my career. I’m grateful to my family, fiancée and the incredible faculty and staff at COBE for their support. In this program, I have engaged in collaborative projects that enhance my leadership and analytical skills, and I look forward to applying these experiences to make a meaningful impact in business and the community.

I am honored to be selected as the College of Business and Economics Outstanding Graduate for the MBA program. Completing my MBA with a concentration in cyber operations has been a transformative journey, and I am deeply grateful for the support and mentorship from the COBE faculty and my peers. My time at Boise State has allowed me to bridge my background in operations and technology with advanced business strategies, preparing me to tackle complex challenges. I look forward to applying these skills to drive innovation and efficiency in my future endeavors.​

When I returned to Boise State for the Career Track MBA program, I didn’t show up to blend in—I came to push myself. Balancing full-time work at Simplot and for the university while navigating this program wasn’t easy, but I poured everything into it. Earning Outstanding Graduate wasn’t some happy accident; it was the goal. This chapter of my life challenged me, sharpened my thinking and reminded me how much I love building big things with remarkable people. I want to thank COBE and everyone who helped me get here. This isn’t the finish line; it’s the launch pad.

I am incredibly honored to be selected as a COBE Outstanding Graduate. My collegiate journey has been possible only because of the incredible professors, mentors and friends who have supported me. I look forward to graduating with a dual degree in accountancy and finance with an analytics certificate before starting full-time in Microsoft’s Finance Rotation Program. My extracurricular involvement has been
instrumental in finding professional interests and developing my network. As an officer in various student organizations, I have led teams and mentored students to create a lasting positive impact in the community. Go Broncos.

I am nearing the completion of the Professional MBA program and am excited to graduate alongside my classmates. I have had the unique opportunity to not only experience the Professional MBA program but also be the program manager for the Executive MBA program. During my two years in the program, I have earned my PMP certification and am eager to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained in my professional career. In my free time, I enjoy baking, hiking Table Rock, running on the green belt, volunteering, traveling and spoiling my nieces and nephew.

I am honored to receive this award, a reflection of the invaluable support from my professors, peers and family. As an introvert, I am both surprised (at myself) and fortunate enough to have created lasting relationships through the IT Club and classroom projects at COBE. Graduating in ITM with a minor in applied mathematics, I am excited to begin my journey as a federal IT specialist. The wisdom I’ve come to value from the mentors in my life is this: our thoughts shape the reality we get to experience, so care for yourself and approach all that you do with intention.

I am incredibly honored and grateful to be selected as the Outstanding Graduate for the marketing department. This recognition would not be possible without the dedicated professors who have guided and supported me along the way. From my freshman year in UF 100 with Wendy Wong, to Calc 160 with Eric Olsen, Buscom with Michelle Mahoney, Marketing Insights with Shikhar Sarin and MKTG 497 with Bill Wynne, I have had nothing but the most enriching and inspiring experiences. Graduation marks a new chapter as I begin my career as a sales trainee with CED and transition into the corporate world. I am confident that I will excel in this role and embrace any challenges life may bring, thanks in large part to the education and relationships I have built throughout my journey at this university.

I am incredibly grateful and honored to be recognized as an Outstanding Graduate. I joined the Master of Science in Accountancy Taxation program after receiving my bachelor’s degree in accountancy from Boise State. Currently, I work with the Department of Accountancy as a graduate assistant. Upon graduation, I will pursue CPA licensure while working in public accounting. The Master of Science in Accountancy Taxation program was an incredible experience and has provided me with great value. I deeply appreciate the wonderful professors who have guided my learning and development along the way. I am excited to finally put my education to use and apply what I’ve learned to my career.

I am fortunate to have had such an incredible journey at Boise State. My experiences as a student athlete taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, teamwork and resilience. I’m deeply grateful to my professors for their dedication and inspirational guidance; their unwavering support helped me balance athletic commitments with academic excellence. As I complete my business administration degree with an ITM minor and business analytics certificate, I’m excited to leverage my education to help businesses become more efficient through analytics. The remarkable community at Boise State has turned challenges into opportunities and dreams into achievements. It has been, and always will be, an honor to be a Bronco.

I am a 20-year-old senior in human resources here at COBE. Originally from Kuna, Idaho, it has been an amazing opportunity to work and live at Boise State University for the past few years. I serve as a teaching assistant for the accountancy department and a resident assistant at Honors Hall, while also serving as president of the student HR Club. After graduation, I look forward to using my degree to build a career in Idaho, letting me remain close to my family.

I am graduating from Boise State University with a bachelor’s degree in business and economics analytics and a minor in IT management. Throughout my academic journey, I have excelled in data analytics, predictive modeling and decision-making, applying these skills to real-world challenges. Beyond coursework, I have participated in service-learning projects through BASE, collaborating with the Downtown Boise Association and Boise Co-op Market to support local businesses through analytics. I work at a mitigation company, utilizing data-driven strategies to optimize daily operations. I am thrilled to receive the Outstanding Graduate Award and look forward to using data to tackle complex business challenges.

After a rewarding journey at Boise State, I am wrapping up my studies with bachelor’s degrees in economics, applied mathematics and philosophy, with the ultimate goal of beginning a career in law after graduating. I’ve had the privilege of conducting original research with the HCRI, serving as an instructor and mentor to students both in and outside the classroom, and connecting with the exceptional faculty in the Department of Economics. For every contribution I have made to the vibrant, diverse community they have cultivated, I have received immeasurable support and encouragement in return. A special thanks to Kelly Chen, Lee Parton and Anne Walker! Go Broncos!

I am deeply grateful to be selected as a COBE Outstanding Graduate. I owe my success to the inspiring professors and supportive classmates I’ve had throughout the years. Without their encouragement, I might never have found my path or enjoyed the journey as much as I did. As a first-generation college graduate, I feel fortunate to be part of a community that has pushed me to reach my potential. Serving as president of the Human Resources Association has shown me what it’s like to be in the right place with the right people—a feeling I’ll be chasing as I step into the next chapter of my life.

I am honored to be selected as the Department of Finance Outstanding Graduate for fall 2024. My involvement in COBE has tremendously impacted my college experience, and I could not be more grateful for the peers and professors I have met along the way. After graduation, I will be joining EY in the audit and assurance practice before beginning graduate school in the fall. I want to thank all who have helped get me to where I am today, especially my professors. I cannot wait to see where this next chapter of my life takes me!

I am honored to be recognized as an Outstanding Graduate of the Online MBA program, and grateful to the College of Business and Economics for such a rewarding experience. My passion for seeing small businesses succeed manifests in the form of strategic marketing and leadership. Each class in this program has pushed me to become a more capable, competent and evolving professional. I will carry this valuable experience forward indefinitely. A huge thanks to my friends and family, my amazing advisor, collaborative cohorts and all the supportive professors and TAs.

I am deeply grateful for COBE’s opportunities to grow my skills and sense of purpose. With invaluable support from my professors, I have been able to balance leadership roles, internships and academic projects that have prepared me for a dynamic career. Serving as the founding president of the ITM Club and participating in various extracurricular activities has allowed me to build a strong foundation in technology and business, fueling my passion in this field. I will graduate with bachelor’s degrees in information technology management and business administration and a business analytics certificate. I look forward to building a career in the technology industry and, one day, creating a successful tech-driven business dedicated to making a meaningful, positive impact. Overall, I am incredibly thankful for the experiences and growth I’ve gained at Boise State and through COBE!

I am honored to be recognized as the Outstanding Graduate in Supply Chain Management. This achievement reflects the endless support and guidance I have received from faculty, peers and family throughout my time at Boise State. Their encouragement has been instrumental in my growth as a student and as an aspiring business professional. Participating in the Business Analytics Service Experience (BASE) club and serving as a founding member of the ITM Club has allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals while equipping me with valuable skills for success after graduation. My journey in the College of Business and Economics has been truly transformative, and I look forward to applying the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained to my future endeavors.

I will graduate this December with a Bachelor’s in international business and a minor in entrepreneurship management. My journey as an international student at Boise State, and especially at the College of Business and Economics has been inspiring and full of growth. COBE’s globally experienced professors have helped shape my goals, fueling my passion for business and my ambition to make a meaningful impact. I am incredibly grateful for my time here and excited for the future as I pursue new opportunities in international business.