Leadership is often developed over time, shaped by experience, responsibilities and a willingness to adapt. At the 2026 Commencement weekend, the University recognized Dr. Wallace E. Boston School of Business students and faculty who have demonstrated significant leadership, balancing professional demands with academic achievement.
Graduate Academic Scholar Award: Julieta Locklear
For Julieta Locklear, returning to school was not a simple decision. Like many adult learners, she questioned whether the timing was right and whether she still had the capacity to succeed in an academic environment.
Through her graduate studies in management with a concentration in organizational leadership, Julieta developed technical knowledge and a deeper understanding of leadership, communication, and organizational dynamics. Her coursework challenged her to think critically and apply what she learned in meaningful ways, strengthening her confidence.
The support Julieta received from faculty played a defining role in her journey. Their presence, responsiveness, and willingness to help created an environment where she felt seen and supported, especially during times when Julieta faced personal challenges that included her struggles with mental health.
“I truly believe that the knowledge and support I received at the University prepared me for my future as a leader,” she reflects.
Today, Julieta works as a career advisor, supporting veterans and military spouses navigating their own transitions. Her message to others is that it is never too late to return to school.
Undergraduate Academic Scholar Award: Eydan Mayorga
Eydan Mayorga’s academic journey is defined by responsibility, resilience and a deep commitment to public service.
As a Master Sergeant in the United States Army and a father of four, Eydan balanced the demands of military leadership, family life, and academic study while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in management. Each role required discipline and focus, and they also reinforced the personal values that guided his success.
A first-generation immigrant to the United States, Eydan credits his upbringing with shaping his perspective on perseverance and opportunity. His path has been defined by the determination to move forward in life, regardless of challenges.
“Managing my responsibilities has strengthened my resilience and commitment to leading by example,” he observes.
Beyond his academic work, Eydan serves in a leadership role at the Noncommissioned Officer Leadership Center of Excellence, mentoring future Army leaders. He also dedicates time to his local community, demonstrating that leadership extends beyond professional roles.
His achievement reflects more than academic excellence. It reflects a life built on service, growth and the desire to create opportunities for others.
Graduate Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Barbara Alston
Dr. Barbara Alston is recognized for her ability to connect academic theory to real-world application, creating relevant and impactful learning experiences for her business students.
Her approach to teaching emphasizes structure, clarity and purpose. Her adult learners are not only introduced to key concepts, but they are also guided in how to apply those concepts in professional settings. This focus on real-world practicality ensures that learning extends beyond the classroom and into meaningful career development.
Dr. Alston’s courses are designed to creating a supportive learning environment. By establishing clear expectations and maintaining strong communication, she aids learners as they navigate complex material and balance other responsibilities in their lives.
Her work reflects a broader understanding of what business education should provide. Through her teaching, she helps students develop the tools needed to lead, adapt and succeed in a constantly evolving professional landscape.
Undergraduate Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Doris Blanton
Dr. Doris Blanton approaches teaching with a focus on accessibility and engagement, ensuring that students feel both supported and challenged throughout their academic journey.
She believes that learning is most effective when students clearly see the connection between course material and real-world application. Her courses are designed to make that connection visible, helping students understand not only what they are learning, but also why it matters.
Dr. Blanton’s teaching style emphasizes clarity, organization and responsiveness. At the same time, she encourages exploration, inviting students to think critically and develop their own perspectives.
Her work reflects a commitment to meeting students where they are and pushing them to grow. Through that balance, she helps students to build competence and self-assurance and to develop skills that extend far beyond the online classroom.
Alumni Service Award and Dr. Wallace E. Boston Leadership Award: Nicholas Rinell
Nicholas (Nick) Rinell’s journey with the University reflects a sustained commitment to service, leadership and lifelong learning, shaped by more than two decades in the United States Marine Corps.
Nick chose to follow in his grandfather’s military footsteps, enlisting in 2003 and training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. Over time, Nick built a career defined by discipline and operational excellence.
He has served with all three Marine Expeditionary Forces and was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Currently, Nick serves as an Air Traffic Control Maintenance Chief at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton.
While completing his MBA, Nick emerged as a leader within the university community. As President of the Student Veterans of America chapter, he leads a globally dispersed student organization that maintained Platinum status, the highest level of distinction within the SVA network. His leadership emphasizes mentorship, engagement and professional development for military-affiliated students.
One of his most enduring contributions is the development of the Veterans Legacy Project in partnership with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. Designed with long-term sustainability in mind, this initiative preserves the stories of veterans while creating meaningful leadership opportunities for students.
Nick’s commitment to service extends into the classroom. As an undergraduate adjunct faculty member in the Dr. Wallace E. Boston School of Business and as adjunct faculty for the Sergeant School Seminar Program at Marine Corps University, he has mentored more than 150 students. His teaching emphasizes ethical leadership, reflection and real-world application.
His contributions have been recognized both within and beyond the University, including the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. His work reflects a consistent focus on building systems that support others, strengthening both the university community and the broader network of military-affiliated learners.
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