The Society for Advancement of Management proudly recognizes Dr. Sevilay Onal as a recipient of the Outstanding Faculty Advisor Award for her exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to student success at the University of Illinois Springfield. Since 2020, Dr. Onal has served as the advisor of the UIS SAM Chapter, guiding it through a period of impressive growth and impact.
Dr. Onal’s influence on the SAM chapter extends far beyond logistics or event planning. She has become a true mentor to her students, consistently encouraging them to surpass their limits and engage meaningfully in leadership and professional development. Her open-door approach and readiness to offer guidance have helped countless students develop the confidence, skills, and motivation to succeed both academically and professionally.
With a background in Industrial Engineering, Dr. Onal brings her expertise in simulation, mathematical modeling, and e-commerce supply chains into her mentorship. She actively involves students in research and encourages participation in symposiums, university fairs, and case competitions. Her efforts have created a vibrant, intellectually curious environment within the SAM chapter and the broader UIS community.
Under her guidance, the chapter has hosted impactful programming, including resume-building workshops, guest speaker sessions, and networking events. These initiatives have helped students sharpen critical thinking, communication, and career readiness skills. Her encouragement of student-led initiatives has led to the chapter raising over $4,000 for leadership development and earning recognition at the SAM International Business Conference.
What sets Dr. Onal apart is her personalized approach to mentorship. She invests time in helping students navigate challenges, explore career pathways, and connect with professionals in the field. Her mentees credit her for shaping their academic trajectories and inspiring them to grow as leaders.
Dr. Onal’s positive influence is felt not just in the success of the SAM chapter but also in the confidence and competence of the students she mentors. Her work exemplifies the spirit of SAM by advancing management by fostering the next generation of ethical, thoughtful, and effective leaders.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Sevilay Onal for this well-earned honor and thank her for her extraordinary contributions to the SAM community and the students of UIS.