By Togzhan Baikenova, Contributing Writer
On March 11, Saint Leo University’s Business Day 2026 proved to be a standout career opportunity, featuring everything from presentations and lectures by industry leaders to a career fair where companies and students could connect and take the first steps toward their future.
The event began with a keynote presentation at TECO Hall by Saint Leo alumnus Dr. Jose Morales of Motorola Solutions, followed by several learning sessions led by guest speakers from various fields. The speakers touched on crucial topics for aspiring business professionals, such as leadership development, professional relationships, and the skills needed for long-term career success.
Scott Amole, owner of Chick-fil-A Zephyrhills, appeared as one of the main speakers at the event. Amole shared his success story along with the difficulties he experienced throughout his journey.
Amole explained that people must confront challenges if they want to achieve successful outcomes. He wanted students to perceive themselves as upcoming leaders because of his journey, which began with his 2010 entry into the company. “If I can have a small influence or impact in one of your lives, then I feel like I’m winning,” Amole stated
Other sessions featured Andrea Wilcome, senior HR business partner at Oldcastle APG, who spoke about the importance of professional relationships in business, Alison Kampmann, owner of Trinity Volleyball Club, who discussed applying an athlete’s growth mindset to leadership and entrepreneurship, Dr. Passard Dean, Dean and Professor of the Tapia College of Business, presented on building confidence through professional image, and Jackie Pilarte-Ramos, CEO of the Tampa Bay Academy of Etiquette, led a session on corporate dining etiquette.
Later on, students attended the Networking Luncheon in the Greenfelder-Denlinger Boardrooms, where they enjoyed a more relaxed environment for conversations among students, faculty, and business professionals.
The luncheon drew a significant number of participants, 160 in total. All the students took this very seriously and dressed professionally, showing their serious career intentions, something the professors were very proud of.
Ronald Burrell, assistant director of Career Services at Saint Leo, said events like Business Day help students gain confidence when interacting with employers.
“Networking, getting out of their comfort zone, meeting employers of potential choice – but also being able just to be familiar with meeting with potential employers,” Burrell said. “That’s the biggest thing that I think events like this will help our students grow.”
He emphasized that networking is the most important skill students should develop.
“Networking — that’s the key thing. Who are you is the question that everyone should ask themselves,” Burrell said.
Professor Peter Marian, management instructor II, also highlighted the professional benefits students gain from attending events like Business Day.
“Students get to meet people in the workforce who are looking to hire for positions after they graduate or internships while they’re still in school,” said Marian.
For students who are still unsure about their future career path, Marian encourages exploration.
“Try working in different areas. Try an internship outside of your comfort zone, ask questions, and talk to professionals. Find your passion — even if it comes later in life.” Marian explained.
The day concluded with the Business Day Career Fair from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Marion Bowman Activities Center, where 47 companies and organizations, including Premier Health Care, Waffle House, Inc, Fifth Third Bank, and others, met with students interested in internships and future career opportunities. There were also headshots going on for students who needed a new professional photo.
Tiffany Alongi, a junior majoring in Business Management, shared her outcomes from the Business Day. Alongi said one of the most valuable parts of the event was speaking with professionals who offered specific advice.
“I had conversations with professionals like Emily Henke from Chick-fil-A and Tessa Jennings from UCrew, where I walked away with a specific next step rather than just a business card,” Alongi said.
“That doesn’t always happen,” she noted.
“One conversation in particular opened a door I wasn’t expecting, which made the whole day feel worth it,” Alongi said.
Business Day remains one of the largest professional development events, giving students the opportunity to expand their networks, explore career paths, and prepare for future opportunities.
