Better Business Leadership

MBA students world travels reveal new leadership insights.

Summer 2009

In Bethel’s MBA program, Marlys Dunne, along with 18 others, had the opportunity to go to Hong Kong as part of the program’s global leadership trip in August 2008.

“It made me far more aware of the global economy we live in and are a part of,” she says. “My life, job, and career seemed small and insignificant. At the same time, it also made me far more appreciative of the country and society we live in, the privileges we enjoy (and take for granted!), and the opportunities we have that many societies do not.”

This learning experience was only one of the many she had through Bethel’s MBA program, which she recently completed in May. “I really appreciated the emphasis on organizational design, ethics, and leadership,” she explains.
And so has her company. Since starting Bethel, Dunne has been promoted three times at Xccent where she’s worked since 2001. The company engineers, develops, markets, and sells park furniture into various industries. Now as chief financial officer, she oversees all financial reporting, strategic direction, human resources, IT and operations management.

She’s excited to continue using her new knowledge. “I’ve learned how to better utilize my skills and then apply them to various surroundings, people, staff, and situations for maximum outcomes,” she says. “It has greatly expanded my appreciation for organizational structure, strategic HR, and transformational leadership.”