Friends MBA 42 candidates had the unique opportunity to listen to lectures from two impressive community business leaders during the Marketing Management module, taught by Frank Choriego. First, Sam Solomon, CEO of The Coleman Company, visited the class and shared his perspective of Coleman history and marketing experiences. Mr. Solomon encouraged the class to “Define your dreams in writing and then find out what you have to do to win them. After the captivating lecture, Mr. Solomon left the students with the advice: “Expect challenges, plan and prepare a response, and role play possible scenarios.”

These same MBA candidates were honored to hear from Mr. Mike Pompeo. He is a West Point graduate who went on to earn his professional degree with honors at Harvard Law School. He is currently president of Sentry International. Mr. Pompeo spoke to the class about the strategies he used to build Sentry International, a small equipment company in Hesston, into a $100 million-a-year company with global reach. Mr. Pompeo stated, “A company’s marketing plan tells its business goals. As a brand, you have to decide what you are going to be.” Pompeo is also a leading candidate in the race for the 4th District Congressional seat. He reflected upon the business wisdom which has helped him run a successful campaign.

 “Tell a story, be truthful, honest and completely transparent, and deliver on your product. That is how you gain market share," he said.

 A tremendous thank you goes out to these two fine business leaders for sacrificing a Saturday morning to share their professional wisdom with Friends MBA Candidates.

-- Lisa M. Kraemer