Established in the fall of 2010, the Virginia Tech Marketing Advisory Board (MAB) supports the Marketing Department by enhancing the educational experience of students in marketing. Each MAB member brings a wealth of business and industry expertise from across the nation. Inspired by a commitment to launch successful careers, the board has placed 90percent of marketing graduates through direct networking and mentoring. 

Pamplin’s advisory boards provide value through distinct structures and the tailored activities designed to meet the specific needs and goals of the college’s departments, programs, and centers. A primary objective of the PCLE is to highlight and elevate exceptional initiatives developed by individual boards that demonstrate strong potential for broader adoption. By formally recognizing and rewarding these high-impact efforts, other boards are encouraged to implement similar practices, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness in supporting their respective areas. This approach reflects a commitment to establishing and sharing advisory board best practices. 

The Marketing Advisory board exemplifies just that, a continued support of students in every step of their educational journey. As the youngest board in Pamplin, they’ve made fast progress; through Giving Day fundraising, the Barracuda Bowl competition, and three endowed scholarships totaling over $100,000. They have created tangible opportunities while engaging over 75percent of students with real-world guidance. Board members participate in 100 percent of marketing courses, providing job connections, interview preparation, and industry insights that directly translate to career placements, making this initiative an unparalleled model of alumni-driven student success. 

“This award is a direct reflection of that mission, made possible through the creation of the Student Marketing Advisory Board, where marketing students are empowered to support, mentor, and elevate one another” says Christina Daves, Pamplin Advisory Council and Marketing Advisory Board member. “It was truly an honor to be recognized for this work, especially as the program has now become a model across Pamplin, with every department establishing its own student advisory board.”

Board members work with students directly through their Student Marketing Advisory Board (SMAB), a group of passionate and driven marketing students who work together to engage and inform fellow peers on what Pamplin’s Marketing Department has to offer. These students have the opportunity to build connections with incoming students and serve as a representative body for the department. Members also partner closely with the Marketing Advisory Board through connective mentorship. The MAB pioneered an entirely new concept of student involvement through the Student Marketing Advisory Board, integrating students faster and more effectively. As a result, SMAB operates as a proactive organization dedicated to fostering a more inclusive, informed, and authentic communication channel for students.

The Marketing Advisory Board also awards a scholarship to outstanding Pamplin College of Business students who are majoring in marketing or pursuing the digital marketing strategy minor. Recipients demonstrate a strong passion for marketing and a commitment to leadership, inclusivity, and meaningful involvement in organizations beyond the classroom, reflecting the values of the MAB.

“We are incredibly grateful to work beside alumni whose commitment to students, placement, and engagement continues to inspire me every day,” says Donna Wertalik, associate professor of practice. Wertalik has served as faculty liaison for the Marketing Advisory Board for the past 12 years.

Marketing Executive Associate Mary Peyton Marble & Professor of Practice Donna Wertalik
Marketing Executive Associate Mary Peyton Marble & Professor of Practice Donna Wertalik

The recognition of the Marketing Advisory Board by the Pamplin Center for Leadership Excellence underscores the impact of strong collaboration between alumni and students. Through innovative programming, meaningful mentorship, and a sustained commitment to student success, the MAB continues to set a standard for advisory board engagement.