Bauer Honors Beginnings
The Bauer Business Honors Program was established in 2002 by Dr. Everette Gardner. With support from then-Dean Arthur Warga, the program was built on a vision to invest in high-achieving business students. At the time, only one honors business course was offered. As Faculty Director, Dr. Gardner worked with both The Honors College and the Bauer College of Business to develop and expand the business honors curriculum. Founding Program Manager Brent Spraggins also helped establish many of the traditions that continue today, including Freshman Fête, the Fall Mixer, and Scheduling Bash.
In 2013, the Bauer Honors Commons opened in Melcher Hall, fulfilling Dr. Gardner's vision of creating a dedicated space where students, faculty, staff, and alumni could connect. Dr. Gardner and current Administrative Director Sarah Gnospelius worked together to design the space from the ground up. The Commons quickly became the hub of the program, providing students a place to call home as Bauer Honors continued to grow and evolve through the dedication of its directors, advisors, students, and supporters.
From an inaugural class of 75 students in 2002, Bauer Honors has grown to more than 1,300 alumni. Over the years, Bauer Honors has continued to evolve through initiatives such as the Freshman Mentor Program, Sophomore Leadership Development Program, required co-curricular professional development, Learning Away experiences, and national business case competitions. "Our goal is to continually introduce new opportunities that enrich the student experience and prepare our students for success in their careers and beyond," says Administrative Director Sarah Gnospelius.
