Nurturing Leadership Beyond the Classroom
By Emma McDonough ’23, ’24G
In the Providence College School of Business (PCSB), a commitment to excellence resonates not only in the faculty’s achievements but also in the remarkable stories of its students. The interconnectedness of faculty mentorship and student achievement forms the backbone of PCSB’s mission, where collaboration is a mutually enriching experience. One such initiative that embodies this commitment is visiting assistant professor of accountancy at Providence College, Karl Kern’s unique Student Spotlight series on LinkedIn.
The inception of the Student Spotlight series was fueled by Professor Kern’s commitment to highlighting the unique talents and stories of PCSB students. Kern’s goals for the series extend beyond a display of academic achievements. “The overarching theme is to highlight leadership qualities—turning challenges into opportunities, transforming the bad into good, the good into better and the better into the best,” he expressed. The objective is to provide a platform for students to share their narratives, demonstrating that success is not solely defined by grades or extracurriculars but by the strength of one’s character.
A particular focus for Kern’s Student Spotlight series is on student-athletes, challenging the misconception that their lives end with athletic eligibility. Instead, he sees sports as a platform for these individuals to show their true selves. “Whether it’s the court, the ice, the field, the pitch, or the track, it is just a place for students to showcase who they are. You can take who you are and go anywhere,” says Kern. He hopes that through this series, he can instill a sense of limitless potential in all students, ensuring they never feel restricted in their identity or what they can achieve.
The series has garnered positive responses, with students appreciating the spotlight on their unique successes. Morgan Potter ‘25, a current undergraduate accountancy student shared her experience, stating, “I think the Student Spotlight series is a great idea as it highlights students and their often overlooked achievements, shedding light on their successes.” She notes, “Professor Kern always says that these spotlight posts write themselves about his students, but that is not necessarily true. He goes out of his way to make these connections and get to know his students.”
Despite not having Professor Kern in a classroom setting, Morgan has observed his exceptional care and support for his students. “Watching how Professor Kern goes above and beyond for his students has been beneficial for me to learn about how to lead with care. I have become both a better tutor and a better friend just by learning how important it is to listen. Professor Kern always listens first, which, oftentimes is all the student is asking for,” Potter says.
Reflecting on the process, Professor Kern emphasizes the significance of soft skills. He candidly admits to making mistakes during interview processes, emphasizing the need for students to be true to themselves first and foremost. “Resumes get interviews, personalities get jobs,” he asserts, recognizing the evolving job landscape shaped by technology and uncertainty. The way students present themselves has become critical.
Going forward with this series, Kern hopes to increase his awareness of a broader spectrum of students, seeking to establish connections between individual personalities and their relevance to the field of accounting. He asserts, “Ultimately, I don’t teach accountants, I teach accounting. If the technical aspects aren’t resonating, I hope the softer, interpersonal elements leave a lasting impact on my students.” Through his philosophy, he hopes to shape well-rounded professionals ready for the challenges of the business world.
Professor Kern’s mentorship within the PCSB goes beyond academics; for him, it encompasses a commitment to leading with care, actively listening, and providing a safe space for students to seek advice—whether pertaining to academics or life. In his final remarks, he notes “I hope that through this series, students learn to always fall back on who they are as a person because somebody is going to find that personality attractive or necessary on the job.”
