Own your future: L.E.E.D. Conference equips students with industry insights, networking

By Central State University Communications
Posted Mar 14 2025
business leaders on a panel with a video camera recording them

The College of Business at Central State University invites you to the Leaders, Executives, Entrepreneurs, Directors (L.E.E.D.) Conference from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 19 and 20 at Charles S. Smith Hall College of Business

This year’s theme, "Own Your Future: From Campus to Career and Beyond," will empower students with insights from top industry leaders, engaging panel discussions, networking opportunities, and competitions designed to sharpen business acumen. 

Keynote speaker: Terry Trayvick 

Terry Trayvick is a seasoned business strategy and transformation leader with over 40 years of experience spanning automotive, consumer goods, printing, housing, healthcare, food, and private funding industries. Renowned for his ability to align organizations for exceptional results, he has earned the respect of global leaders across multiple sectors. 

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terry trayvick headshot
Keynote speaker Terry Trayvick

Trayvick is the founder and leader of Level Five LLC, a company dedicated to helping businesses transition from good to great, and 5th Level Capital, a private funding firm specializing in real estate investments. As a co-owner of Trayvick Private Investments and Trayvick Model Homes with his wife, Sandy, and Trayvick SFA with his daughters, he has played a pivotal role in real estate development in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. 

Before becoming an entrepreneur, Trayvick held executive positions in corporate America for 20 years. As global president of R.R. Donnelley Financial, a $1 billion business unit, he led a team of 5,000 across 40 locations, driving an $80 million profit improvement in three years. He also held key strategy and finance roles at Procter & Gamble, Sara Lee, and General Motors. 

Trayvick currently serves as executive vice chairman of John Houston Homes, chairman of the Board for Water.org, a board member of Emacx Systems, and vice chairman of the board of trustees for Christ Church in New Jersey. A Dayton, Ohio, native, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management from the University of Cincinnati and a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing from Columbia Business School. 

Event highlights: 

  • Industry insights from leading companies: JP Morgan Chase, Key Bank, PNC Bank, Protective Insurance, and more 
  • Business plan and case study competitions in partnership with Walmart and Morgan Stanley Investments 
  • Networking lunches sponsored by Protective Insurance and Key Bank 
  • Special sessions: Delta Mu Delta Honor Society Induction, HBCU C2 App Showcase, and a Student Business Fashion Show 

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable career guidance, connect with professionals, and take charge of your future! 

See the complete agenda.  

📅 March 19-20 

 📍 Smith Hall Auditorium, Central State University