Axe ’Em, Jacks!
NACOGDOCHES, Texas –– The Nelson Rusche College of Business at Stephen F. Austin State University has launched the Rusche Ambassadors Program, a student leadership initiative designed to enhance recruitment efforts, elevate the visitor experience and strengthen student engagement within the college.
“The Rusche Ambassadors Program exemplifies how the Rusche College of Business advances its mission of ‘learn, launch, lead,’” said Dr. Jason Reese, interim dean of the college. “Through this experiential learning initiative, students develop meaningful leadership skills while gaining practical experience. The program not only supports students in launching their own careers but also strengthens the college’s ability to tell its story to prospective students and external partners throughout the region.”
Rusche Ambassadors serve as representatives of the college at recruitment events, including college tours, high school visits, college fairs and other outreach activities. During these events, they provide prospective students and their families with a firsthand look at the academic programs, facilities, culture and opportunities available in the Rusche College of Business.
“After three years of being an RCOB student, I feel like I truly know this community and what makes it special,” said Rory Price, a senior entrepreneurship major from Edgewood who was selected for the program. “I had people who showed me how impactful this place could be for me, and I want to be that same supportive presence for prospective and future students who are exploring what Rusche can do for them.”
In addition to Price, the following 10 students representing a variety of business disciplines and backgrounds were selected for the program:
- Annie Johnston, junior economics major from Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Brandon Joest, sophomore international business major from Houston
- Bre Stephenson, junior accounting major from La Porte
- Erin Lewis, sophomore finance major from Houston
- Kai Hudson, sophomore accounting major from Canton
- Kainen Leon, sophomore general business major from Fort Worth
- Kendall Kindred, sophomore marketing major from Dallas
- Reed O’Grady, senior management major from Weatherford
- Sofia Ramirez, junior finance major from Baytown
- Zala Ule, business graduate student from Koper, Slovenia
Ambassadors participate in comprehensive training at the beginning of each semester, including a full-day retreat focused on professionalism, communication and public speaking. The retreat also features an in-depth overview of the college’s majors, minors, certificates, experiential learning opportunities and student support services. This training ensures ambassadors are well prepared to represent the college accurately and confidently.
“The Rusche Ambassadors serve as the first point of contact for many prospective students and families,” said John Chambers, program advisor and recruiting and marketing specialist for the Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship. “By equipping students with the knowledge to confidently share information about our programs and resources, we are creating a more engaging and informative recruitment experience while also investing in the development of our current students.”
Beyond recruitment, Rusche Ambassadors support student retention and success. They also represent the college at events with corporate partners, donors, alumni and community stakeholders. In these settings, ambassadors serve as professional representatives of the college and help strengthen relationships with external partners.
The program also emphasizes leadership development and professional growth. Through their involvement, ambassadors gain hands-on experience in communication, customer service and university representation, all of which translate directly to future careers in business and leadership roles beyond graduation.
For more information about the Rusche College of Business, visit sfasu.edu/cob. To schedule a tour of the college, visit gosfa.com/RuscheTour.