S P R I N G 2 0 2 5
BOARD MEETING
A G E N D A
WELCOME Board Chair Remarks
SENIOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REMARKS
Cultivating Courageous Careers Strategic Plan Updates
HEGI FUNCTIONAL TEAMS UPDATES
Hunt Leadership Scholars Program Updates
Career Development & Career Leaders Updates
Employer Engagement & Industry Updates
Peter Hegi, Board Chair
Dr Crystal Clayton, Senior Executive Director
Jade Weaver, Associate Director
Evan Saperstein, Associate Director Amanda Bobo, Associate Director
STUDENT AFFAIRS DIVISION UPDATES Dr KC Mmeje, Senior VP Student Affairs
OPEN DISCUSSION
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
Peter Hegi & Board Members
Peter Hegi, Board Chair
STRATEGIC GOAL PILLARS
L E T T E R F R O M T H E
S E N I O R E X E C U T I V E
D I R E C T O R
Fred B Hegi’s unparalleled generosity and visionary spirit have left an indelible mark on Southern Methodist University, forever transforming the landscape of career development for students Through his extraordinary donation of millions of dollars to the SMU Hegi Family Career Development Center, Fred has not only enhanced the lives of countless Mustangs but has also paved the way for future generations to thrive in their careers.
His commitment to empowering students with the tools, resources, & opportunities necessary to succeed in today’s competitive job market reflects a deep belief in the power of education and mentorship The Hegi Family Career Development Center, named in honor of Fred’s legacy, has become a beacon of support for SMU students, offering them invaluable career counseling, internship placements, and networking oppor-tunities that will shape their futures for years to come.
Fred’s investment in career development at SMU as well as his position as Chair for the Hegi Center’s Advisory Board speaks to his understanding of the importance of building bridges between academic achievement and real-world success. His philanthropy has fostered a community of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate their careers with purpose and passion
“Fred [Hegi] has not only enhanced the lives of countless Mustangs but has also paved the way for future generations to thrive in their careers.”
We are deeply grateful for Fred B Hegi’s vision and generosity and over 20 years of leadership as our Hegi Advisory Board Chair, which continue to inspire and elevate the careers of SMU students. His legacy is one of
CRYSTALL.CLAYTON,ED.D. Senior Executive Director, Hegi Family Career Development Center & Hunt Leadership Scholars Program
SPRING SEMESTER APPOINTMENTS
YEAR
Appointment projections indicate total appointments for spring 2025 could reach 1037, a 14.70% decrease from Spring 2024 and a 5% in-crease since Spring 2023. Depicts spring semester only.
*total as of 3/14/2025
**projected Spring 2025 total
CAREER COUNSELING
As of March 14, 2025, the Career Development Team (CDT) has completed 687 spring appointments and projects a total of 1,037 by the semester's end. This is a 14.7% decrease from spring 2024 but a 5% increase from spring 2023. Although these projections seem inconsistent with data shared at the fall board meeting, they align with actual fall numbers
Analysis shows that individual staff utilization in spring is higher than in fall, despite the loss of a Counseling Intern and an ongoing vacancy since the semester began (Figure 1) To date, a total of 1,848 appointments have been completed in the academic year (AY)
The CDT has also tracked appointment noshow rates and assessed utilization rates per staff member across partner career centers (Figure 2) The findings reveal that the Hegi CDT's utilization rate is comparable to that of peer offices. This metric accounts for full-time, part-time, and student workers, based on thresh
thresholds for completed appointments. The CDT aims to engage 20% of the undergraduate student population by the end of the Spring 2025 semester.
687
STUDENT APPOINTMENTS as of 3/14/2025 (Spring Semester only) as of 3/14/2025
1,848 TOTAL APPOINTMENTS 24-25
FIGURE 1: HEGI
CENTER STAFF UTILIZATION RATE
This graph illustrates the average number of appointments completed per month by non-undergraduate Counseling Staff members during the fall and spring semesters The Career Development Team (CDT) operated with seven staff members in the fall and five in the spring To optimize efficiency and maximize student access to career services, structural role adjustments were implemented, allowing for improved staff time utilization These adjustments are reflected in the spring semester utilization results
FIGURE 2: STAFF TIME UTILIZATION BY APPOINTMENT RANGE
This graph compares staff utilization rates across the Hegi, Cox, and Lyle Career Development centers based on scheduled appointment ranges The y-axis notes the average number of appointments per staff, the x-axis notes the appointment range being considered, and the numbers just above the x-axis note the number of staff within this range. Ranges are calculated using total scheduled appointments as tracked in 12Twenty. The data indicates that the Hegi CDT has the highest utilization rate, with staff completing 250+ appointments, while its utilization remains comparable to other career centers when analyzing staff completing 150+ appointments per semester. Includes data from 8/1/2024-3/14/2025.
Hegi
C A S E S T U D Y
C O M P E T I T I O N
The Hegi Family Career Development Center hosted its annual Case Competition on March 8, 2025 Students acted as consulting teams, selecting one of four businesses and developing a five-year strategic plan to achieve 5-8x growth This year’s case was developed by Ivan Roussov, and the event attracted 80 registrants, with 30 students presenting final proposals Supported by staff and coaches, participants refined their analytical and presentation skills throughout the competition, which concluded with a fireside chat with Ivan during the celebratory dinner. The competition provides a valuable experience, fostering strategic thinking and professional development among students while promoting collaboration between our office and external partners.
JUDGES & PARTNERS
CASE : Ivan Roussev Senior Manager Machine Learning & AI, EY; Hegi Board of Directors
JUDGES : Aaron Crist Co-Founder, HYDE (MyCareerCloset)
Sara Doutt CEO & Founder, Myngly
Marla Cannon Managing Director, Riata Capital Group
Thank you to the judges, coaches, and staff for making this event possible. The Hegi Case Competition continues to provide students with real-world experience, mentorship, and professional growth opportunities.
TEAMS
JUDGES
H U N T L E A D E R S H I P S C H O L A R S P R O G R A M
INTERVIEW
On February 27 and 28, 2025, the Hunt Leadership Scholars Program partnered with the Provost’s Division of Student Academic Engagement & Success, the SMU Office of Admission, and various academic colleges to host the Scholars’ Interview Weekend This year, nearly 500 applications were submitted, and increase of about 20 from the previous year From this pool, 63 candidates were invited to interview, with 53 ultimately participating, supported by over 70 faculty, staff, alumni, and community volunteers.
From the 53 finalists, 27 students were awarded the Hunt Leadership Scholarship for the incoming class of 2029. Based on historical data, it is anticipated that 17 to 18 students will accept their offers. The priority deadline for scholarship
ship acceptance is April 1st, with a final deadline of May 1st
Selection decisions were based on interviewer evaluations, recommendations from current Hunt Scholars, a holistic review conducted by the Scholarship Selection Committee, and discussions with President Turner and Dr Mmeje, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs
The Hunt Leadership Scholarship covers about three-quarters of tuition and fees for up to four years, provided the student maintains a minimum GPA of 3.0 and meets all scholarship requirements. Those not selected as Hunt Scholars will receive the SMU Leadership Scholarship. The university aims to retain all interviewed candidates as first-year students in the fall.
C U L T I V A T I N G C O U R
ERS
A L E G A C Y
O F C A R E E R
L E A D E R S H I P
Dr. Frederick B. Hegi Jr., an esteemed alumnus of Southern Methodist University, has profoundly influenced the university's career services landscape through his visionary leadership and generosity. For decades, Fred Hegi has been more than just a benefactor; he has been a mentor, a leader, and an unwavering advocate for student success.
A VISION FOR CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Fred Hegi, a proud SMU alumnus and successful businessman, has long been dedicated to the advancement of his alma mater. In 1999, SMU President Gerald Turner approached the Hegi family with the idea of establishing a premier career center on campus. Seeing the critical need for robust career services, the Hegis embraced this vision, aiming to create a resource that recognized
would support students, faculty, & alu throughout their professional journ
They recognized that, with individ changing career focus an average twelve times during their lifetim providing ongoing support beyond college years was essential. The fam states, “That is why the ‘career deve ment’ name was important to all of Whether we are 18 years old or 78, career interests can be and should b continually developing.”
Since its inception, the center has ser as a vital hub for career explorat internships, and professional developm
Thanks to the Hegi family's support, S students have had access to invalua guidance, networking opportunities, career counseling that have helped launch successful careers across various industries
Dr Fred Hegi & Jan Hegi with Dr R Gerald Turner, SMU President, at the opening of the Hegi Family Career Development Center in 1991
A PERSONAL TOUCH TO LEADERSHIP
A deep personal commitment to the students and staff of the career center has marked Fred Hegi’s leadership Fred's involvement extended beyond financial contributions, as he actively engaged with students, faculty, and administrators, ensuring that the center remained a dynamic and innovative resource His commitment to student success was evident in the way he interacted with staff and aspiring professionals, and many recall how Fred's warm, personal approach made a lasting impact on those around him.
TRANSFORMING CAREER SERVICES
This commitment extended beyond words Through Fred Hegi’s commitment to SMU students, career services at the university have reached new heights His vision was clear: to create a career center that not only provided career
career exploration assistance but also fostered lifelong professional development This vision materialized through numerous initiatives, including mentorship programs, networking events, and partnerships with top employers.
A LASTING IMPACT
Fred Hegi’s contributions to SMU extend far beyond bricks and mortar He has created a culture of support, ambition, and excellence that will benefit generations of Mustangs to come His vision has not only shaped the Hegi Family Career Development Center but also left an indelible mark on the countless students whose careers he has helped launch.
As we celebrate his contributions and welcome the next chapter of board leadership under incoming chair Peter Hegi, one thing remains certain: the Hegi Family Career Development Center will continue to be a beacon of opportunity, guiding students toward bright futures, just as Fred Hegi envisioned
“That is why the ‘career development’ name was important to all of us. Whether we are 18 years old or 78, our career interests can be and should be continually developing.”
PREVIOUS PAGE left to right: Dr Fred Hegi receives distinguished alumni award (pictured with Dr. R. Gerald Turner and Hegi board member Ken Malcomson); Dr Hegi chats with alumna Nia Kamau at the groundbreaking of the Moody Graduate School in 2021 THIS PAGE clockwise from top left: Dr and Mrs Hegi at the reopening of the Hughes-Trigg Student Center in 2020; Dr Hegi on the Boulevard at Homecoming; Dr Hegi with Brian Hegi and guests at a Hegi Center event; Dr and Mrs Hegi with Center staff and board members on the Boulevard in 2022; the Hegis with Former President and First Lady George and Laura Bush; the Hegis with Ray Hunt
E M P L O Y E R R E L A T I O N S
Since the last board meeting, the Employer Relations team has remained actively engaged in strengthening employer partnerships and expanding opportunities for student-employer interactions Efforts have been focused on finalizing the Employer Events calendar for the Spring semester to optimize recruitment opportunities as well as employer-facing career development experiences for students
Employer Relations staff across campus continue to closely monitor the evolving hiring landscape Through this proactive approach, the team can ensure that students receive the most relevant and effective career guidance tailored to the current market. This is crucial in maintaining robust employer partnerships, particularly as recruitment engagement fluctuates compared to previous years. The team remains committed to fostering relationships that support successful career outcomes for students
CAREERS IN GOVERNMENT AGENCIES WEEK
In Fall 2024, the Hegi Center, in partnership with the SMU Tower Center, hosted Careers in Government Agencies Week to highlight public sector job opportunities for SMU students. The week featured a "Lessons in Global Diplomacy" panel with diplomats Daniel Stewart and Ambassador Robert Jordan, and established partnerships with the CIA, FBI, and DHS Feedback was positive, with organizations expressing strong interest in future recruitment at SMU
CAREERS IN GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
Session
Fellowship & Scholarship Info Session
Lessons in Global Diplomacy
STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIPS: CROSS CAMPUS PROGRAMMING
A key goal for Employer Relations has been to expand cross-campus programming to create impactful events Two successful initiatives that contributed to this were the International Student Mix ‘n’ Mingle and the Black History Month Networking Reception, establishing a model for future programs.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT MIX ‘N’ MINGLE
SMU and the Hegi Family Career Development Center are committed to enhancing career opportunities for international students A networking event was held to connect current international students with SMU alumni & companies seeking global talent; this was planned through the following partnerships:
International
Student & Scholar Services
Lyle Career Development Center
Cox Career Management Center
The event brought together nearly 100 students, alumni, and employers, creating valuable professional connections This initiative aims to improve future employment outcomes for the international student community at SMU
BLACK HISTORY MONTH NETWORKING RECEPTION
Recent student feedback showed a desire for more personalized networking with Black professionals and businesses As a result, the Hegi Center introduced the Black History Month Networking Reception, hosted in collaboration with several campus and community partners, including:
Cox Career Management Center
Lyle Career Development Center
Black Alumni of SMU
Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce
various student organizations
The event connected SMU students with Black alumni and industry professionals, offering networking opportunities while fostering mentorship and community-building while celebrating the contributions of Black alumni and student organizations.
N T E R N S H I P F A I R
For the Spring 2025 All Majors Career Fair, we maintained our rigorous employer review process to ensure that the participating employers were aligned with the academic programs at SMU and matched with student career aspirations This year, 69 employer partners participated, represented by 157 recruiters seeking to fill internship and job openings while enhancing their visibility on campus Although overall recruitment activity has seen a decline compared to previous spring semesters, the numbers of participation remain strong, showcasing the caliber of SMU students The top industries represented included Investment Management/Counsel, Non-Profit Organizations, Education, Insurance, Sales & Marketing, Commercial Banking, Consulting, Healthcare, Internet Services, Marketing & Adaccounting
ATTENDANCE BY ACADEMIC YEAR
vertising, and Retail. Dedman College students accounted for 46% of participants, while 76% of attendees were comprised of juniors or above, indicating strong engagement across all academic years
157 total representatives
ATTENDANCE BY COLLEGE
H E A L
T H C O N N E C T I O N S
In Fall 2024, the Hegi Family Career Development Center, in collaboration with Pre-Health Advising, revamped the Health Connections program to support students applying to medical and dental schools Job shadowing is vital for applications, providing essential clinical exposure that enhances candidacy Research shows that participants are more likely to gain acceptance With 11 physicians and dentists participating in Fall 2024, 11 students secured job shadowing opportunities, continuing into Spring 2025 To expand these opportunities, a partnership with Baylor, Scott & White Health is being finalized, adding 10 more physicians and increasing placements to 21 for Fall 2025
AVERY WHITE
Matched with Dr Justin Moseley, Dentistry
“Shadowing Dr Moseley gave me firsthand exposure to both the clinical and business sides of dentistry, everything from patient care and treatment planning to learning how they manage insurance and run a practice. The experience provided me with invaluable insights into the profession, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to learn in such a hands-on way.”
MADISON LESTER
Matched with Dr. Charles Slack, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
“My experience in the Health Connections Program was amazing It allowed me to connect with doctors, nurses, and other medical staff, and I learned invaluable lessons from every shadowing experience This program truly solidified my love for medicine”
DR. SAMUEL CHANTILIS
Reproductive Endocrinologist | SMU Alum
“[Camille] has seen and been exposed to a variety of medical conditions! I've had a wonderful time mentoring Camille and would be pleased to have another student next year”
SHANYTA RIDER Coordinator II srider@smuedu CRYSTAL CLAYTON, ED.D.
Senior Executive Director, Hegi Career Development Center & Hunt Leadership Scholars Program cclayton@smuedu
EVAN SAPERSTEIN, M.ED. Associate Director, Career Development esaperstein@smuedu
MARSHAY BOOKER, M.ED. Assistant Director, Career Development mbooker@smuedu
KELSEY CARROLL, M.A. Assistant Director, Career Development carrollk@smuedu
YAJAIRA DIAZ, M.S. Assistant Director, Career Developement ydiaz@smuedu
ALYSSA SCHERTZ, B.A. Marketing Specialist aschertz@smuedu
VACANT Assistant Director, Career Development
AMANDA BOBO, MBA Associate Director, Employer Relations abobo@smuedu
LAUREN SEARWAY, M.ED. Assistant Director, Employer Relations lsearway@smuedu
SOMMERS, M.ED. Assistant Director, Employer Relations sommersd@smuedu JADE WEAVER, M.ED. Associate Director, Hunt Leadership Scholars Program jadew@smuedu
B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R S
PETER HEGI, CHAIR President, Braxton Advisors
DR. FRED HEGI, PAST CHAIR
Founding Partner, Wingate Partners
SANDRA BEACH LIN Board Director & Member
MARLA CANNON Managing Director, Riata Capital Group
KEVIN HANRAHAN President, Optimus Recruiting, LLC
MONICA LIRA BRAVO
Board Certified Immigration Attorney, Lira Bravo Law PLLC
DR. RENEE MCDONALD
Senior Associate Dean for Research & Academic Affairs, SMU Dedman School of Humanities & Sciences
PATRICIA PORTER Independent Arts Management Professional
DR. GRETCHEN SMITH
Associate Dean for Students, SMU Meadows School of the Arts
BRIAN HEGI Partner, Crossplane Capital
KAY BRALY SMU Mom's Club Representative
CAROLYN CARLSON VP for Sales - Central Region, Okta
PAUL HOFFMAN Retired Human Resources Executive
KEN MALCOLMSON President & CEO, North Dallas Chamber
JARED MILLER Senior Packaging Engineer, Qorvo
IVAN ROUSSEV Senior Manager Machine Learning & AI, EY
MARCY WRIGHT SVP, Corporate Development for InContext Solutions
Hughes-TriggStudentCenter 3140DyerStreet,Suite126
Dallas,TX75205
P.O.Box750256 Dallas,TX75275
(214)768-2266 smuedu/career smuedu/hunt @smuhegi
We thank you for your continued support in our efforts to equip SMU students on their career development journey.