Launch sets recent graduates for success
Three former members of the Launch: Lakeland’s Student-Run Businesses executive team have secured local employment following graduation in May.
Amanda Brandt, Curtiss Dokey and Sydney Pingitore are the first students who worked in Launch leadership roles to complete their bachelor’s degrees.
Lakeland President Beth Borgen said Launch provides an unparalleled learning and growth environment for Lakeland students by empowering them to create, develop, manage and lead business ventures.
“We are so proud of each of their accomplishments as they begin their careers,” Borgen said. “They are examples of how Launch provides innovative entrepreneurial learning opportunities for students that prepare them for post-graduation success. Lakeland continues to be a talent importer for this region, and Launch looks forward to developing the current group of executives into tomorrow’s leaders.”
Brandt, of Kiel, Wis., and was a member of the original Launch team which began in May of 2020, serving as chief marketing officer until December of 2021. She received a bachelor’s in business administration and marketing and is working for Engaged Marketing Co. of Sheboygan, Wis., as a marketing and social media specialist.
“I learned how to manage social media pages, how to stay organized and how to communicate effectively in the business world,” Brandt said. “It gave me the hands-on experience I needed.”
Dokey, of Manitowoc, Wis., was also a member of the original leadership team and served as Launch’s chief strategy & innovation officer from May 2020-December 2021. He received a bachelor’s in accounting and is currently employed as an auditor for the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
“Launch provides such a unique experience and having this on my resume is a conversation starter which helps exemplify my work history,” he said.
Pingitore, of Kenosha, Wis., was Launch’s president of merchandising from October 2020-May 2022. She received a bachelor’s in marketing and is currently administrative assistant at Jake’s, A Lakeland Community in downtown Sheboygan.
“Launch prepared me for this role by enhancing my organization and communication skills,” Pingitore said. “Launch was able to provide me the opportunity to understand how to run a business, oversee and manage operations and approach tasks, projects and new opportunities from a different perspective.”
Students interested in becoming a Launch executive or member of a business venture can learn more at Launch’s webpage to see current positions available.
