PACE Leaders Pave the Way

Olivia Winters, BBA ’25, began her UC journey as an exploratory studies student, but it was one class that drew her into the business world. Overwhelmed by the many pathways UC had to offer, Winters found her way into one of Lindner's unique First-Year Experience introductory courses.

“Second semester of my freshman year, I took Business Foundations. I loved the class and had a great relationship with the professor, who invited me to be a PACE leader if I chose to join Lindner,” reflected Winters.

Winters would go on to join Lindner as an operations management student and pursue the PACE leader offer.

PACE leaders are vital to the First-Year Experience, Lindner’s immersive introductory curriculum.

The PACE philosophy is a pillar of the Lindner experience, driving students to exemplify the attributes of professionalism, academics, character and engagement.

Students refine their communication skills and workplace etiquette with professionalism.

“Professionalism means showing up consistently as your best self — with integrity, accountability and intention,” said Natalie George, BBA ’27. “It’s about how you carry yourself, how you treat others and how you handle challenges with a growth mindset.”

George was inspired by her PACE leader to pursue the same pay-it-forward track.

Academics extend beyond the classroom, reflecting a holistic approach to business and challenging students to achieve a deeper level of understanding.

Character drives students to lead at Lindner. With a global understanding and cultural competence, students can balance teams comprised of people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences.

“Through PACE, I’ve learned that strong character is the foundation of meaningful leadership and lasting impact.

As a PACE Leader, I strive to lead with humility and purpose, to uplift those around me, and to model what it means to live with integrity,” said George. “By passing on what I’ve learned, I hope to help my students grow into confident leaders who make a difference in their own communities.”

Engagement, the final pillar of PACE, creates well-rounded students that are active outside of the classroom in the UC and Cincinnati communities.

PACE leaders wear multiple hats, acting as teaching assistants and mentors for fellow students. Having already completed Lindner coursework and engaged in professional experiences like co-op, these upperclassmen have stood where entering first-years now are and are equipped with the knowledge to guide them through their Lindner experience.

“I wanted to keep helping other students like me who were maybe a little lost. So, I applied to return the following semester as a PACE Leader,” said Winters. “With each semester, I refined my methods of helping my students to get them to feel like they know what they wanted from Lindner and UC.”

The program is one of mutual benefit. PACE leaders receive ample opportunity to continue their professional development. Students lead class sessions and meet one-on-one with the members of their learning community to provide guidance and offer their expertise.

Students reflect fondly on their experience as PACE leaders, finding joy in their ability to make a difference for Lindner students.

“My favorite memory as a PACE Leader was watching my students present their First-Year Experience business project in front of our class and a panel of business professionals.

I felt incredibly proud — not just of them, but of myself as well,” relayed George. “They had worked so hard all semester and seeing them confidently deliver such strong presentations was incredibly rewarding. It was one of those full-circle moments that reminded me why I chose to be a PACE Leader in the first place!”

Winters understands the critical role PACE leaders play in making Lindner a welcoming place for its business problem solvers to learn and earn a college degree and takes great pride in her ability to leave a mark.

“In five semesters, I have had the opportunity to introduce so many students to the Carl H. Lindner College of Business and guide them to resources to help make the most of their time with this college. And it has been worth every ounce of effort.”