Phi Beta Lambda

Phi Beta Lambda Students

Six students from Ashford University - Mitch Seifert, Cale Clark, Mike Rosselli, Keegan Maxwell, Keith Caldwell and Cassie Broderick - represented Ashford at the Iowa Phi Beta Lambda Conference.

Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) is a national organization for students interested in pursuing a business career, however, membership is not exclusive to business majors. Members tour businesses, invite guest speakers to chapter meetings, compete in state, regional and national contests, and become involved in other service and business-related activities. During the fall of 2007, PBL met with the marketing director for the Quad City Mallards and were treated to a hockey game. In the spring of 2008 PBL toured Ashford University's Enrollment Center to learn more about the positions, opportunities, and vision of Ashford's online component.

The mission of Phi Beta Lambda is "to bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs."

PBL is the collegiate division of Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda, Inc. and has about 11,000 members across the United States. PBL is NOT a fraternity or sorority. Anyone who is interested in pursuing a business or business-related career can join PBL. Currently, our membership includes sports-recreation majors, criminal justice majors, secondary education majors, computer graphic design majors and business majors. There are many opportunities for everyone; any major!

WHAT ARE PBL's GOALS?

  • Develop capable, aggressive leadership
  • Strengthen the confidence of students in themselves and their work
  • Create more interest in and understanding of American business enterprise
  • Encourage members in the development of individual projects, which contribute to the improvement of home, business, and community
  • Develop character, prepare for useful citizenship, and foster patriotism
  • Encourage and practice efficient money management
  • Encourage scholarship and promote school loyalty
  • Assist students in the establishment of occupational goals
  • Facilitate the transition from school to work

Local Chapter's History

The Lambda Alpha Phi Chapter was first organized in 1979. The driving force behind this chapter was students Kenly Jones, Dan Phelan and advisers Dr. Charles Bright and Larry Roller. Jones and Phelan believed that there should be some way for the business students to gain experience outside of their classrooms and to meet others interested in business careers. The University of Northern Iowa sponsored the local chapter on February 8, 1980, and the Lambda Alpha Phi Chapter of Phi Beta Lambda was officially installed.

Phi Beta Lambda Creed

  • I believe education is the right of every person.
  • I believe the future depends on mutual understanding and cooperation among business, industry, labor, religious, family, and educational institutions, as well as people around the world. I agree to do my utmost to bring about understanding and cooperation among all of these groups.
  • I believe every person should prepare for a useful occupation and carry on that occupation in a manner that brings the greatest good to the greatest number.
  • I believe every person should actively work toward improving social, political, community, and family life.
  • I believe every person has the right to earn a living at a useful occupation.
  • I believe every person should take responsibility for carrying out assigned tasks in a manner that brings credit to self, associates, school, and community.
  • I believe I have the responsibility to work efficiently and to think clearly.
  • I promise to use my abilities to make the world a better place for everyone.

March of Dimes

In the nearly 40 years PBL has been united with the March of Dimes, it has consistently ranked as the top clubs and organizations fund-raising partner, raising more than $15 million. This year will be no different. Ashford University's Phi Beta Lambda will once again be raising money for the March of Dimes. Every little bit will help and will make a significant difference in helping a family bring home their newborn baby. Join PBL and give back to make a positive impact in the community.

National Leadership Conference (NLC)

PBL members have the competitive edge, as the best and brightest of PBL convene to compete in leadership events, share their successes, and learn new ideas about shaping their career future through workshops and exhibits. This four-day conference is considered the pinnacle of the PBL experience, especially for those running for national office. PBL has forged partnerships with industry leaders to underwrite competitive events and scholarships for students achieving national ranking.

2009 NLC - Anaheim, California

2010 NLC - Nashville, Tennessee

OFFICERS:
President: Keegan Maxwell
Vice President: Michael Rosselli
Secretary: Mack Larsen
Public Relations: Mitch Siefert

For more information, students interested in joining PBL, can contact advisors David Ward, ext. 1314 (david.ward@ashford.edu) or Diane Cornilsen, ext. 1523 (diane.cornilsen@ashford.edu)