Alumnus, BMW Employee Receives Employer Recognition Award from UA

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Keith Hanson, a 2008 graduate of the operations management master’s program at The University of Alabama, recently received the 2010 Employer Recognition Award for his service to UA students during their career search.

The Career Center and the Culverhouse College of Commerce and Business Administration presented the award to Hanson at BMW Manufacturers in Greenville, S.C.

Dr. Josef Kerscher, president of BMW Manufacturing, attended the ceremony hosted by Dr. Chuck Sox, OM professor and program director, Dr. Jim Cashman, professor of management, Jerry Paschal, director of UA’s Career Center, and Linda Johnson, director of employer development and relations.

The award recognizes alumni who give back to UA as employers by advancing students’ knowledge of companies and careers and by assisting in preparing students for a successful career search. Faculty and staff nominate alumni based on willing involvement in Career Center programs, mock interviews, career fairs, mentoring and networking.

“The award means a lot to me because it represents the students’ willingness to accept feedback,” said Hanson.

Hanson, from Alabaster, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in operations management in 2007, and in 2008 he earned a master’s in operations management.

“I enjoy working with and helping people from a perspective that’s different than the academic world,” said Hanson. “I think that students who utilize both academics and field-based knowledge are on the path of success.”

Hanson is the first C&BA graduate to be hired by BMW, his employer of two years.  He visits campus twice a year to meet with students and offer guidance.

“We are proud of his achievements and willingness to inspire our students,” said Johnson. “Keith has not only helped recruitment for BMW, but he has also helped students see what the possibilities are after graduation.”