Oldenburg Academy Holds "Career Guest Speaker Week"

A total of 57 guest speakers engaged OA students November 4-8.

John Schutte, Vice President of Sales, Batesville (Casket), gave “tips for success” during his presentation. He told the students, “if you can read and write, you can do anything.”Hillenbrand and Batesville (Casket) was a huge partner, assisting in securing 11 speakers. Photo provided by Jonathon Maple, Assistant Principal.

(Oldenburg, Ind.) - As part of the Oldenburg Academy College to Career Readiness Program, Oldenburg Academy students had the opportunity to hear from 57 different guest speakers throughout the third annual “Career Guest Speaker Week” November 4-8. During the Catholic college-preparatory high school’s REACH time, students spent 30 minutes listening to college-career guest speakers. Doctors, nurses, lawyers, educators, pharmacists, athletic trainers, criminal justice professionals and entrepreneurs were just a few of the professionals that shared thoughts with students.

Many students found the week to be beneficial. Senior Ruth Heile attended a session given by Brian Rennekamp, from The Village Workshop. Heile was inspired by the interactivity and engagement of the speaker, “he seemed very passionate about his work.” After talking with Rennekamp after the session, Heile determined that she wanted to participate in a semester-long internship program at the Village Workshop; Heile looks forward to the internship and learning hands-on and first-hand.

Career Guest Speaker Week was just one of the many activities that students have participated in to further prepare them for their college and career decisions. “It was a huge success – anytime that we can excite our students about their future and give them memorable opportunities to learn from the community, we know it will have a lasting impact,” noted OA Assistant Principal, Jonathon Maple. “Furthermore, anytime we can showcase local careers to retain talent in the area and state, it is a win-win.” Anyone who is interested in participating in an Oldenburg Academy Career Guest Speaker Week can contact Maple at jmaple@oldenburgacademy.org.