Lankford BA’22, MBA’24 Graduates with hands-on Business, Leadership Experience

By Willamette University Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- When former Willamette University golfer Riley Lankford BA'22, MBA'24 (Pilot Rock, OR/Pilot Rock HS) looks back on his time at the Atkinson Graduate School of Management, he will remember the practical business experiences he gained through the impactful experiential learning courses he took. Through his work with the Willamette Angel Investing Fund and the O'Neill Student-Managed Investment Fund, Riley gained the entrepreneurial and finance skills at the heart of venture capital investing.

"These classes have allowed me to connect with impactful individuals and organizations in the Willamette Valley that I would not have been able to meet otherwise," Riley says.

Through these courses, Riley was able to work with organizations such as the Oregon Venture Fund, Oregon Sports Angels, and build relationships with key long-term mentors in the business community.

He also gained valuable leadership opportunities as president of the Atkinson Student Association, the school's student governing body.

"The experiential classes I took, Angel Investing and O'Neill Student Investment Fund, have allowed me to connect with impactful individuals and organizations in the Willamette Valley that I would not have been able to meet."

As he departs Willamette, Riley reflects on the community that supported him as a student.

"I cannot say how much I appreciate everyone in this community," he says. "I would also like to thank my colleagues. I couldn't think of a better group of people to go through this program with."

One of the key members of that community for Riley was Assistant Professor of Strategic Management Jim Ostler. He says that Ostler is a source of compassion and support for not only himself, but his fellow students.

"Professor Ostler has challenged me to push forward and have as large of an impact as I can while I am here," Riley says. "He opened his office doors for me outside of the classroom, helped me with personal matters, and provided me with listening ears and advice when I needed it. I mention him because I know I am not the only one he does this for."

Looking ahead, Riley says that Atkinson gives graduates like him "an amazing opportunity to empower and make a positive contribution to the communities we are in."

Read more Willamette University featured graduate stories:
Riley is one of Willamette's 2024 featured graduates. To read more inspiring stories about our graduating students, click here. From student-athletes and scientists to aspiring artists and attorneys, these students represent just a few of the incredible members of our Willamette community.