Watterson Scholars

College of business and humanities

Dana Scholars Program

Developing Future Business Leaders: Dana Scholars Program 

About Our Program

The Dana Scholars Program is a selective opportunity for business students to connect what they’re learning to real-world business. Established through a 1991 donation from the Dana Corporation and launched in 1995, the program brings experienced business leaders to campus through an Executive-in-Residence model. 

Each year, 10 high-achieving students are chosen for their academic performance and leadership potential. As a Dana Scholar, you’ll work closely with the Executive-in-Residence through a dedicated weekly Business in Action course, engaging with guest speakers, visiting companies, and gaining hands-on exposure to how business works in practice. 
You’ll graduate with real-world experience, professional connections, and a deeper understanding of how to lead in today’s business environment. 

A call for applications goes out to the student body in early Spring to select members for the following Fall.  

Dana Chair

Every year a Dana Chair is selected by the Dean of the College of Business to serve as a team builder and provide leadership in the undergraduate business program. A group of 10 outstanding business students are selected every year based on their academic achievements and leadership skills. During the fall semester, the group meets once a week with the Dana Chair for the Business in Action course (BUAD 495 ), which was redesigned for Dana Scholars only with the purpose of exposing these students to a more action-oriented learning experience. At the Dana Chair’s discretion, guest speakers from various levels of business are brought in, and class trips are taken to area businesses.  

Bibler Kellie
2025 Dana Chair:
Kellie Bibler