WKU News

The Gordon Ford College of Business (GFCB) is proud to announce that WKU Alumni Chase Carpenter ('12) is one of 25 business school graduates honored by AACSB International (AACSB)—the world’s largest business education alliance—in its 2023 Class of Influential Leaders. AACSB International is GFCB's accrediting organization. This year's class features individuals defining what it means to be a societal impact leader.

Chase graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship. Since graduation, he has successfully opened three new businesses, each with a mission to impact the community and the next generation. He opened Bundles of Joy (BOJ) Preschool in 2012, fulfilling a critical need for families on the west end of Bowling Green. In 2021, he co-founded Like Us Academy, which produces flashcards and educational resources with culturally accurate images. Chase (and his business partners) opened One Roof Event Space in 2022. It is the first African American-owned business in downtown Bowling Green Fountain Square Park in the city's 224-year history.

"I can't find the words to truly describe my gratefulness for this prestigious award. It is a blessing to see my relentless hard work, consistency, and acts of good stewardship not go unnoticed," said Chase. "My family, our community, and the GFCB body have shown me nothing but unwavering love and support in my efforts to make a difference and transform lives. I accept this award on our behalf, and this is only the beginning."  

As an Alumni, Chase continues to give back to the Gordon Ford College of Business and the WKU Community. He openly shares his journey into entrepreneurship through an open and honest dialogue that includes professional mistakes, discrimination, persistence, gratitude, and success. Additionally, Chase is a mentor in the Jonesville Academy and spends a significant amount of time-mentoring young, minority men.

Chase was nominated by the Department Chair of Management, Dr. Whitney Peake, Sr. Associate Dean, Dr. Evelyn Thrasher, and Dean, Dr. Christopher Shook. They described Chase as someone who is "wholeheartedly committed to positive change and making a difference through compassionate, curious, and resilient leadership with a focus on purpose, people, and the planet." 

To read more about Chase and the unique stories of each honoree and how they are creating meaningful, lasting impact in the world, please visit the AACSB website.

Gordon Ford College of Business: Western Kentucky University's Gordon Ford College of Business creates market-ready graduates through innovative learning experiences, using an applied, flexible, and adaptive curriculum. GFCB is home to six departments that offer robust undergraduate and graduate programs, certificates, and minors. The departments include Accounting, Analytics and Information Systems, Economics, Finance, Management, and Marketing. All programs in GFCB are accredited by AACSB-International. GFCB's programs and student success activities give students the foundation to lead in today's diverse business environments. For more information, visit wku.edu/business.

Contact: Liz Fogle, liz.fogle@wku.edu