In 2008 the first graduating class of the Business Scholars Co-op Program (BSCP) donned their caps and gowns, walked across the Commencement stage and entered the work force. Now, as the program celebrates its 10th anniversary, those original graduates have blazed amazing paths for themselves while today’s students prepare for the same future of unlimited possibilities.

Over the past decade, the BSCP has seen extraordinary talents and partnered with notable companies in the region such as Ernst & Young, Johnson & Johnson, KPMG, PwC, Subaru, Kreischer Miller, The Philadelphia Eagles, and The Walt Disney Company among others.

Greg Bruce, MBA ’81, Dean Emeritus of the School of Business, brought the idea of the program to La Salle. Susan Mudrick, MBA, Assistant Dean of the School of Business, built a committee to design the programs structure including Kathi McNichol, Ph.D., assistant professor, Sharon Javie, B.S., M.B.A., Ph.D., former University marketing department chairperson and faculty member, and Lou Lamorte, former Director of Career Services. Over many months, they created an incredible system that became the BSCP.

Today, what began as a little-known entity of La Salle has flourished into a producer of high-quality talent and has big name organizations in the area specifically seeking to work with and hire La Salle graduates.

“It has been gratifying and satisfying to see a program grow from almost the very beginning. To have the BSCP rise over the years to be a program to be modeled after is something to be proud of,” says Penelope Grob, MA, ’12, Director of the BSCP and long- time supporter.

Graduates of the program have become fierce leaders in the business world and beyond. Many of them find their way back to the Program after graduation, serving as mentors and resources for the next generation of Co-op Scholars.

This year’s graduates are no different. They gave it their all and their hard work paid off. Five of the program’s seniors are joining Johnson & Johnson in their Financial Leadership Development Program, an outstanding number from one University.

As the program continues attract students and employers, its future seems bright. Grob foresees the expansion of mentorship for students in the program and alums. She wishes to continue to see not only BSCP, but the BS/MBA in Accounting and our newest signature program, the Business Leadership Fellows Program, position La Salle at the head of Business Education in Philadelphia and the region.