Meet Savannah Woodall, a current student in the College of Business who will be graduating in December of 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. She also holds a certificate in Marketing from Athens State. Her choice to attend Athens State was driven by the University’s flexibility, affordable tuition, and convenient location close to home. Woodall is passionate about local economies and small business management which make her degree and certification a dynamic combination.
Athens State gives me an experience that is both practical and transformative, combining the best elements of real-world learning and community involvement.
Woodall’s time at Athens State has been enriched by impactful faculty who foster an atmosphere of understanding, excellent instruction, and support. This supportive environment has made Athens State a place that Woodall feels both deeply connected and prepared for her future steps in life. Woodall shared that Dr. Kerner, Professor of Business Policy, is making a difference in the classroom
“Dr. Kerner’s interactive teaching style and genuine enthusiasm for helping students is making my final semester at Athens State a joy,” Woodall added. “He is approachable and truly invested in his students’ success.”
Among her many accomplishments, Woodall’s role in the Bonner Leader Program (BLP) stands out as a significant part of her university experience. As a member of BLP’s inaugural cohort, Woodall has served as a Bonner Leader for two years under the mentorship of BLP Program Director, Trish DiLullo.
“She (DiLullo) has inspired me and served as an outstanding mentor, offering support not only through the Bonner Leader Program but also personally,” shared Woodall. “I am grateful for her mentorship and positive influence.”
During her two years with BLP, Woodall has forged meaningful partnerships with organizations like Girls Inc., Better in 12, and notably, the Singing River Trail (SRT). Over four semesters, Woodall has worked closely with SRT to promote regionalism across North Alabama by connecting trails across eight counties, supporting local economies, and securing grant funding for trail enhancements. While at SRT, Woodall realized the importance of internal marketing initiatives and brand awareness which inspired her to obtain certification in Marketing from Athens State.
“Working with SRT is incredibly rewarding, especially seeing firsthand how interconnected communities can thrive together,” she shared.
Woodall’s involvement with SRT has given her a range of experiences, from assisting in community projects to meeting influential leaders such as members of Congress, mayors, and advocates from across the region. One particularly memorable moment was her participation in SRT’s Launch Tank event where local entrepreneurs compete to earn funding for their start-up companies.
“The Launch Tank event was incredibly inspiring,” Woodall reflected. “Seeing finalists from eight different communities pitch innovative ideas to support the trail and benefit the broader community was a highlight of my time at SRT.”
Woodall’s commitment to community involvement will continue beyond her graduation in December. She has accepted a position as a Marketing and Communications Specialist for Wellstone, a Huntsville-based nonprofit, where she can apply her knowledge to promote community well-being and positive change. Her daily responsibilities will involve project management, event management, and advocacy.
“The Bonner Leader Program helped me define my ideal career path, and I know that as long as I’m helping my community, my work will be fulfilling,” she explained.
Looking to the future, Woodall plans to continue her education at Athens State as a graduate student while working at Wellstone. Athens State moved Woodall’s course of study beyond theory and into a place of tangible experience, giving her the confidence to move forward in life with purpose and confidence.
About the College of Business
The mission of the College of Business is to offer programs of study to students that will prepare them for positions in business, finance, or government, enhance the professional development of those already employed, and provide an academic framework for graduate study leading to professional positions. Through its course offerings, the College of Business provides a high-quality education for all students, teaching them to think critically, use technology efficiently, be effective leaders, decision-makers, and communicators, maintain ethical standards, and understand the global economy. Learn more about the College of Business.
About the Bonner Leader Program
The Bonner Leader Program is a fellowship program for undergraduate students that have financial needs (qualify for Federal Work-Study), exhibit a capacity for leadership development, and show an interest in community service. Learn more HERE.