b'MESSAGE from the DEANIn this issue of Blazer Business, we focused on engagement, innovation, and impact. When designing this issue, we had an incredible opportunity to illustratethe pursuit of excellence that is demonstrated every day by our administration, faculty, staff, and students. We make it our mission to offer a challenging curriculum and provide experiential learning opportunities that prepare our students for a dynamic business environment. Our students engage in research with our faculty, experience the world through study abroad and social impact, and develop professional skills through internships and membership in our award-winning student organizations.One of the three pillars of the Valdosta State UniversityStrategic Plan is to significantly expand the opportunities L. Wayne Plumly Jr.of experiential education for our students.PresidentDean, Langdale College of Carvajal is an advocate of real-world training and heBusiness Administrationbelieves education is most impactful when classroom learning is accompanied by experiential learning opportunities. The Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration, a leader in this area, has emphasized this type of learning by forming a standing committee charged with constructing an instrument designed to measure student learning outcomes. Our educational goal is to provide the student with the widest range of learning opportunities so that they are prepared for the world after college.This issue contained a story about two of our graduates with a vision who were willing to take on the risks, put in the hours, and persevere through the highs and lows of self-employment. I am sure you agree that our feature story embodied all of this and more. Their story has been featured in Forbes and People Magazines and is the product of how two people can overcome tragedy through entrepreneurship. What a great tribute to our universitys commitment to practice civility, integrity, and citizenship.We strive daily to transform the lives of our students and the communities we serve. We hope this issue of Blazer Business makes you excited and proud to be a Blazer.Until the next issue Go Blazers!SPRING 2019 73'