Students glean valuable career advice from top leaders at Future CEO Dinner

The 70th U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, recently announced as the Distinguished Chair of Liberty University’s Helms School of Government, shared his thoughts on foreign and domestic policies with students and special guests as the keynote speaker at Liberty’s Future CEO Dinner on Tuesday in the Montview Student Union, Alumni Ballroom.

The event marked the first night of the three-day CEO Summit 2023: Networking the Nations and was facilitated by Vice Provost for Engagement and Public Relations Dr. Dave Brat. Special guests, diplomats, and CEOs from around the world attended the dinner and offered advice to students on how to be Christian entrepreneurs in the corporate realm.

During the meal, students had the opportunity to network with various representatives at their assigned tables, engaging in conversations about industry success.

Pompeo’s message centered on declaring the importance of protecting religious freedom.

“When you are not prepared to defend the things that matter, you get more conflict,” Pompeo said, urging students to uphold their morals and stand for what is right.

To the future CEOs and entrepreneurs in the room, Pompeo encouraged team building, risk taking, and goal-driven strategies to ensure success. He warned against following the trend of core institutions that have lost their focus, mission, and ultimate purpose, which he believes should be to “continue in the foundational ideas that built this country.”

Pompeo highlighted the value of a quality education and said it’s important for schools like Liberty to remain “intentionally Christian.” He claimed that all Christian educational institutions are tasked with fostering a climate of love for the Lord and preparing students for their roles in life as teachers, parents, or leaders in the community and beyond.

“If this is taken seriously, they will do the Lord’s work for generations,” Pompeo said.

Students also had the chance to hear from David Rice, CEO of New Home Star, and Former Small Business Administrator Linda McMahon, who emphasized the need for future CEOs to “predict [their] downsides but take risks,” and understand that failures and setbacks are guaranteed but never an excuse to give up. Rice closed with a call for Liberty students and special guests to “count it all as joy” as they mature in Christ and create value in their future endeavors by giving sacrificially and developing a healthy fear of God.

Liberty President Dondi Costin attended the dinner and stayed to talk and connect with students afterward. Senior Cassidy Burton, a member of the on-campus business mentorship club NEXUS, helped orchestrate the event as a student volunteer.

“The night was amazing and facilitated an environment where the Lord could move through meaningful interactions with CEOs. I loved serving with my team,” she said.

Junior Valerie Flores, a member of Liberty’s Women in Business club also assisted in the event.

“As a student, it was an honor to hear from various industry leaders who lead their lives and businesses in light of Christian values,” she said.

Kevin Ilozor real estate agent for Century 21 All-Service, said he was grateful for the chance to attend.

“Coming here tonight was an amazing opportunity to network and fellowship with some of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs and diplomats while surrounded by great food, music, and speakers.”

Senior Annika Stubblebine said her purpose for attending was “to make connections with CEOs and leaders since I am graduating in May.”

“I enjoyed how open and humble the CEOs were, and they gave me phenomenal, practical advice for life,” she added. “I also enjoyed how they put God first and it shone in how they do business.”

The annual CEO Summit, which seeks to provide students with access to Liberty’s extensive network of world-class CEOs, government leaders, innovators, and influencers, continued through Thursday. Students had the chance to hear from over 60 prominent figures in business, entertainment, and politics and interact with facilitators who provide a Christian perspective to leadership. In the past, students have obtained jobs and internships from networking at the summit.