The Society for Advancement of Management proudly honored Ally Dolan with the inaugural Graduate of the Last Decade Award at the 80th Annual International Business Conference, held in Tallahassee, Florida. This prestigious recognition is presented to an early-career professional who has completed their degree within the last ten years and has made outstanding contributions to the field of management while upholding the highest standards of ethics and social responsibility.
Dolan’s connection to SAM began during her time as a student at the New England Institute of Technology. After hearing a class presentation about the organization, she immediately took initiative to establish a collegiate chapter on her campus. That same year, she led her team to a strong showing at the 2017 SAM Case Competition, tying for fourth place. Her efforts and academic excellence earned her recognition as a National Outstanding Student.
After graduating, Dolan remained a guiding force for the chapter she helped build. She volunteered her time to mentor students, offering advice and even sending food to students during late-night case preparation sessions. Her encouragement and leadership directly contributed to an extraordinary run of success for the chapter, which went on to win the 2018 SAM Case Competition and the 2019 International Business Skills Championship.
In the years that followed, Dolan expanded her involvement in SAM by joining the Competitions Committee in 2020 and 2021. Her leadership trajectory continued when she was appointed to the SAM Board of Directors in 2022. It was in this role that Dolan identified a major gap in the SAM network. Graduates no longer had a pathway to continue their professional development locally. Determined to address this issue, she founded the first SAM professional chapter in Rhode Island.
Since its founding, SAM Rhode Island has grown to include more than 50 members and has raised over $10,000 to support student participation in SAM conferences. The impact has been personal and profound. One student, who asked not to be named, shared, “I work two jobs and go to school full time. Being able to attend the SAM conference because of SAM Rhode Island’s support is something I’ll always treasure.”
In addition to student support, the Rhode Island chapter also hosts an annual meeting that recognizes professionals for their leadership and community impact, as well as a local nonprofit making a difference in the region.
“Ally has changed the face of management in Rhode Island,” said SAM National Vice President Henry “Hank” Johnson. “She is an incredibly dedicated professional who works every day to bring people together, improve management practice, and make Rhode Island a thriving business community.”
The SAM GOLD Award serves to recognize individuals like Ally Dolan, visionary leaders who bring energy, compassion, and innovation to the world of management. Her continued contributions stand as an inspiration to the entire SAM community.