Last week, I had the opportunity to help set up for and attend CEO Day, an event hosted by Sleeping Giant Capital (SGC) that brought together our incredible group of portfolio CEOs and leaders to share their journeys to success and lessons learned. As both a Research Analyst Intern at SGC and a senior finance student at Western Michigan University, this event was particularly meaningful to me and provided a rare glimpse into what it truly takes to lead at one of the highest levels.
Several special guests and speakers attended including; Western Michigan University’s (WMU) President Russ Kavulhuna, WMU Hockey Coach Pat Ferschweiler, CEO of Graphic Packaging Michael P. Doss, and all five of SGC’s portfolio CEOs. The event blended stories of leadership, perseverance, and purpose. All speakers shared from different angles but united by a common message: the road to success takes sacrifice, self-awareness, and a commitment to serving others.
We kicked off the first panel with introductions from each guest, followed by a dynamic discussion panel led by our Managing Partners, Doug & Derrick. Each speaker shared their unique path to becoming a leader: from challenges faced early in their career and how they grew from them to the moments of doubt that ultimately shaped their character. The speakers made the atmosphere electrifying and filled the room with ambition, further engaging the students.
One of the most memorable moments came when Coach Ferschweiler spoke about belief in oneself and what we stand for. When he spoke about how Western Michigan University has often been too shy to be bold — too willing to put itself second out of fear of losing. And he pointed out how many students walk around campus wearing other schools’ letters, when instead, we should proudly wear our Bronco letters and represent who we are — Broncos, no matter what. Everyone’s faces were filled with ambition and drive.
Similarly, Mike Doss talked about how it’s not enough to just be talented — you must be someone who adds value to your team. He pointed out that plenty of people are skilled, but not everyone knows how to be a good teammate. His message reminded me that leadership looks different for everyone, but it always starts with teamwork.
From my standpoint, CEO Day was an invaluable experience. It connected the classroom with the integrity and realities of real-world leadership — and how it's embodied. I was especially inspired by how each leader emphasized lifelong learning and the humility to keep growing, even at the top of their careers.
After the event closed, I left feeling refocused and determined. Seeing how everyone was able to embark on the journey from a rookie to an experienced leader reminded me that the most successful leaders are those who aren’t always right, are lifelong learners, teammates who build up others, and those who can embody integrity. I’m thankful that Sleeping Giant Capital and WMU gives students firsthand leadership experience and the ability to evolve our skills as leaders.