Hall of Fame Inductees

The College of Business Hall of Fame honors alumni and faculty whose leadership, innovation and service reflect the standards we believe in.

These individuals have built companies, led global organizations, strengthened communities and invested in the next generation. Their careers demonstrate what preparation can become over time.

Each inductee represents a commitment to excellence and a belief that success carries responsibility.

Know someone whose leadership and career impact represent the highest standard of the College of Business? Submit a nomination for consideration.

2026 inductees

Melanie Kalmar ’87, ’25

Former Corporate Vice President, Chief Information Officer and Chief Digital Officer at Dow, Melanie Kalmar led large-scale digital transformation and global innovation over a nearly 40-year career. She continues to invest in future leaders through mentorship, advocacy for STEM and women in technology, and active engagement with CMU and its students.

Bob Oros ’90, ’24

Former CEO of HighTower, Bob Oros has led the firm’s growth into a national wealth management organization, building on decades of leadership across Fidelity, LPL Financial and Charles Schwab. He remains deeply engaged with CMU, creating hands-on investment experiences and mentoring students while connecting classroom learning to the realities of the industry.

2025 inductees

Jan Hewlett '77, '84

Co-founder of Azimuth Capital Management, Jan Hewlett has built a distinguished career in investment leadership, managing billions in assets and shaping strategic financial planning at the highest levels. A CFA charterholder and committed mentor, she pairs financial expertise with sustained service to the university and community.

Sarah Opperman '81

A corporate and civic leader, Sarah Opperman spent nearly three decades at Dow and now serves as Chair of Isabella Bank Corporation. A first-generation graduate and former CMU Board Chair, she has invested deeply in leadership development and enduring university initiatives.

2024 inductee

Enrico DiGirolamo '76

Chairman of the Board at Coherent and former global finance executive with General Motors, Enrico “Rico” DiGirolamo has led at the highest levels of international business. He remains actively engaged with CMU, mentoring students and supporting entrepreneurship and experiential learning.

2023 inductee

Keith Goodwin '74

Former Senior Vice President at Cisco, Keith Goodwin led a global partner organization representing the majority of company revenue. His career in technology leadership and continued service reflect a lifelong commitment to business excellence and community impact.

2020 inductees

Rosemary Prasad, Ph.D.

Department of Finance & Law

Dr. Rosemary Prasad dedicated her career to teaching, mentorship and service, shaping generations of finance students at CMU. Her impact extended beyond the classroom through global instruction, community leadership and unwavering commitment to student growth.

W. Sydney Smith '65

Founder of Smith Equities and lifelong entrepreneur, Sid Smith has shaped the Mount Pleasant and CMU communities through business leadership, public service and transformational philanthropy. His decades of involvement reflect deep loyalty to the university and region.

2018 inductee

Richard Featheringham, Ph.D. '81, '84

Department of Business Information Systems

Dr. Richard Featheringham devoted more than three decades to advancing business communication education, authoring textbooks and presenting nationally and internationally. His scholarship and teaching excellence elevated both the department and the profession.

2017 inductees

Daniel E. Vetter, Ph.D.

Department of Finance & Law College of Business Administration Associate Dean

Dr. Daniel Vetter served in multiple leadership roles, including interim dean and senior associate dean, guiding accreditation efforts and major strategic initiatives. His steady leadership and commitment to quality strengthened the College of Business for generations.

Jon E. Voigtman, '84

Managing Director and Senior Officer at RBC Capital Markets, Jon Voigtman has built a global finance career while remaining a devoted advocate for CMU students. His philanthropy and mentorship have created transformational opportunities across the college.

2016 inductees

Douglas C. Iles, '06

Department of Finance & Law

A nationally recognized financial advisor and dedicated educator, Doug Iles elevated CMU’s personal financial planning program and mentored dozens of students into successful careers. His industry leadership directly strengthened academic preparation.

David W. Underwood, '79

Entrepreneur and founder of multiple high-growth technology companies, Dave Underwood turned innovation into industry impact. He continues to invest his time, expertise and resources in the next generation of business leaders at CMU.

2015 inductee

Robert L. Cook, Ph.D.

Department of Marketing & Hospitality Services Administration

Robert Cook built one of the nation’s leading logistics programs at CMU, combining academic rigor with real-world experience. His dedication to students shaped thousands of careers in supply chain and operations.

2015 alumni inductee

Michael F. O'Donnell, '70, '04

Co-founder of Protiviti and former Arthur Andersen partner, Michael O’Donnell has led in global consulting and business strategy. He remains committed to creating opportunities for students and strengthening the university’s future.

2014 inductees

W. Lyle Whillhite, Ph.D.

College of Business Administration Dean

As the first dean of the College of Business, W. Lyle Willhite laid the foundation for growth, accreditation and academic excellence. His leadership shaped the trajectory of the college for decades to come.

Alfred E. Cambridge, '56, '90

A longtime leader at Arthur Andersen, Al Cambridge combined professional excellence with sustained service to CMU. His mentorship, philanthropy and commitment to academic quality have left a lasting legacy.

2013 inductees

Leonard E. Plachta, Ph.D.

School of Accounting College of Business Administration Associate Dean College of Business Administration Dean Central Michigan University President

Professor, dean and 11th president of CMU, Leonard Plachta led with integrity and vision. His leadership advanced accreditation, expanded programs and strengthened the university’s long-term trajectory.

Roger L. Kesseler, '58, '89

Former Dow executive and dedicated community leader, Roger Kesseler combined business acumen with deep civic commitment. His philanthropy and university leadership continue to shape opportunities for students across campus.