51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Cindy Rippé

Sales pushes students beyond their comfort zone. That's why Dr. Cindy Rippé, associate professor of sales in the Mike Cottrell College of Business, seeks to set the example for her students whether it's in the classroom or preparing for competitions.

"They see I work just as hard as they're working," Rippé said. "Our sales team works toward the goal of trying to do the absolute best we can."

She joined 51³Ô¹ÏÍø in 2019 to launch a professional sales concentration in the marketing degree. Ever since, Rippé has encouraged and coached students to multiple successes in national and regional sales competitions. She is the director of the 2021 National Collegiate Sports Sales Championship, which 51³Ô¹ÏÍø hosts virtually in early 2021 along with Baylor University's Center for Sports Strategy and Sales and the Atlanta Hawks.

"I believe strongly my classes should prepare students for the workforce," she said. "I want to simulate real-world activities to help them develop."

Rippé aims to connect with her students through authenticity and empathy. She said her student-centered approach enhances her ability to teach.

"If you care and you do things for students, it's real, it's authentic, and they can see it. Leaders can be focused on where they want to go," she said. "But what are the students' goals? What's in it for them? Where do they want to go? That can make a very big difference in getting their buy-in."

The consistent opportunities for sales practice in the classroom and competitions provide an ideal learning laboratory in Rippé's estimation.

"We have to create an environment where it's OK for students to make a mistake while they're learning a new skill," she said.

Rippé appreciates the ways sales training can benefit students whatever they do after graduation. From job searches to branding themselves, the benefits are extensive. All of her efforts come with an optimistic mantra for students: "Be our next success story."

Mike Ryan

Mike Ryan

Mike Ryan, who teaches microeconomics and macroeconomics and is the head of the Department of Economics and Finance in the Mike Cottrell College of Business at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, has been recognized for teaching excellence by state and national organizations.
Ash Mady

Ash Mady

Dr. Ash Mady, a 51³Ô¹ÏÍø computer science graduate, is an assistant professor of computer science. He emphasizes to students and colleagues that every person must be vigilant against growing cybersecurity threats.
Steve Gooch

Steve Gooch

Two degrees at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø have helped equip Georgia state Sen. Steve Gooch to lead at the state legislature.
Sheila  Sanchez

Sheila Sanchez

Sheila Sanchez has a passion for proper health care and skills of financial planning. She plans to use both to become an advocate for elderly and low-income patients.
Josh Shepherd

Josh Shepherd

Josh Shepherd vibrates with energy, which has helped him achieve his goals.