To our Collegiate Members of SAM,
My name is Henry “Hank” Johnson, and I have the privilege of serving as President of the Society for Advancement of Management. This is my first message to you in that capacity, and I am pleased to welcome you to a new academic year.
I first joined SAM as a student member in 1999 (yes, last century). I care deeply about SAM because it develops leaders, connects learning with practice, and builds a community that continues after graduation. Students are the center of this work. Your perspectives shape our programs, your initiative strengthens our chapters, and your ambitions set the direction of the Society.
Most importantly, YOU are the future of SAM.
The Society for Advancement of Management is excited to continue its mission of fostering leadership, professional development, and collaboration among our collegiate members.
I am pleased to introduce the Student Advisory Council. The Council has been established to ensure that student perspectives are directly represented in the work of the Society and to create a space where students can share their experiences, ideas, and recommendations. By providing feedback and insight directly to the President, the Council will play a meaningful role in shaping programs, supporting chapter development, and enhancing the value of SAM membership for students nationwide.
I am also pleased to announce that Megan Dearth of Ohio Northern University has been appointed as the first Chair of the Student Advisory Council. Megan is a recent graduate of Ohio Northern, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Management and minors in Arts Administration and Marketing. During her time at the university, she was a dedicated student leader who joined the Ohio Northern chapter of SAM in 2022 and quickly became a driving force in the organization. In 2023–2024 she served as Fundraising Director, successfully supporting her chapter’s competition team at the International Business Conference. Most recently, she served as Chapter President, where her leadership helped triple student attendance at the 2025 conference and guided the chapter to a 2nd place award in the Small Chapter Division of the Campus Chapter Performance Program.
Students who would like to become a member of the Council should complete the application to become a member and represent their school. There is a limit of one student per collegiate chapter. You can complete the application by clicking the link below
The creation of this Council represents SAM’s commitment to listening to its student members and ensuring that their voices influence the future direction of the Society. We believe the Student Advisory Council will be a source of innovation and collaboration, enriching the experience of all students who engage with SAM.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I welcome you back to campus and invite you to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead this year. We look forward to your involvement, your leadership, and your vision as we continue to advance the mission of the Society together.
Cheers,
Hank