2026 Alumni Award Winners Recognized

Four School of Business alumni were recognized for outstanding leadership, service and impact at the Board of Visitors spring dinner. We’re checking in with our winners to explore the significance of their achievements.

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Amy pictured with Pat Sweeney, executive director of the Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character.

Amy Reynolds (MBA ’19), Senior VP – Marketing & Customer Engagement, Flow Automotive Companies

Winner of the Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character Excellence in Leadership Alumni Award

What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally?

Receiving this award was an unexpected and humbling experience for me personally. As a professional, I strive each day to make a positive impact on the organizations, communities and individuals I serve. To be invited to share about that work and to have my impact recognized by a group of people I deeply respect and admire was a defining moment that I will forever cherish. 

Looking back, what experiences at Wake Forest helped shape who you are today?

During my time in the WFU MBA program, I was continually challenged to contribute and lead as a team member and classmate. Specifically, Dr. Amy Wallis’ classes on “Personal and Team Development and Global Immersion – Cuba” were among the most impactful to me. Through these courses, Dr. Wallis facilitated opportunities for me to reflect on who I am as a person and a professional, and to explore new ways to make an impact on the teams and communities of which I am a part.

What advice would you give to fellow alumni or current students striving to make a meaningful impact?

My advice would be to just jump in! As a recovering perfectionist, I can be hindered by thoughts that my contribution isn’t sufficient, or that if I can’t give something 110% that it’s not worth doing. I’m always glad when I shake off those doubts and just jump in, because the first step in making an impact is just showing up.

Any last thoughts you would like to share?

Being included in the Wake Forest community has been incredibly enriching, and I’m always eager for the next opportunity to give back. Each engagement builds on the last – from working with my close-knit MBA team & cohort, to giving the keynote at the first MBA graduation after the pandemic, to mentoring students and guest speaking in the classroom – and I’m excited for what’s next!  

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Deekshanya pictured with Chris Smith, executive director of the Center for Analytics Impact.

Deekshanya Roy (MSBA ’25), Business Analyst – Credit Risk, Global Lending Services, LLC

Winner of the Center for Analytics Impact Alumni Award

What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally?

Professionally, this award is a stepping stone that inspires me to lead with impact in everything I do. Personally, this award is a testament to the support system and community I have at Wake Forest – one that stands with me and cheers me on. 

Looking back, what experiences at Wake Forest helped shape who you are today?

In every class I had at Wake Forest, I used to ask questions incessantly as I learned the material to the fullest. My professors answered every single question – and then some. I wouldn’t be who I am today without them!

What advice would you give to fellow alumni or current students striving to make a meaningful impact?

For current students, my advice would be to find work that doesn’t feel like work. That’s when you know you’re in impact-making territory. 

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Christopher pictured with Susan and Judson “Dave” DeRamus Jr.

Christopher Steighner (MBA ’10), Project Leader, MITRE Corporation

Winner of the Judson D. DeRamus Distinguished Alumni Award 

What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally?

Receiving this award was one of the most rewarding and touching experiences of my life. Giving the profound respect I have for so many of my close friends and classmates from my time at Wake and other Wake alumni with whom I have worked and interacted, this is truly a humbling experience. 

Looking back, what experiences at Wake Forest helped shape who you are today?

I learned a great deal from the classroom work that shaped and advanced my professional skills. I often look back on all the lessons I learned sitting in professors’ offices, talking over problems with friends and diving into group work. The lessons I learned from those around me were just as valuable as the formal curriculum.

What advice would you give to fellow alumni or current students striving to make a meaningful impact?

In the military, we are directly charged with developing those below us. I’m at a point in my career now where I find it more rewarding to recognize the accomplishments of those I’ve mentored than anything else. Take time to develop those with potential and pass on all of the lessons that you were taught. 

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Lauren pictured with Stacy Owen, executive director of alumni engagement for the School of Business. 

Lauren Lamb (’22, MSM ’23), Lead Manager – Investment Planning, Reynolds American

Winner of the inaugural Heart of Business Alumni Award 

What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally?


Receiving this award truly feels like a dream come true. Wake Forest has been such a foundational part of my life, and to now be recognized by a community that helped shape me makes this incredibly meaningful. Personally, it represents the years of showing up, working hard every single day, and staying committed to growth. Professionally, this recognition means so much because it reflects not only the progress I’ve made in my career, but also the impact I hope to continue having. It’s both an honor and a motivator to keep pushing forward, growing in my career, and finding ways to give back to the Wake Forest community that has given me so much. 

Looking back, what experiences at Wake Forest helped shape who you are today?


My experience in the classroom at Wake Forest had the biggest impact on who I am today. The small class size created an environment where I couldn’t just sit back; I was encouraged to actively participate, share my perspective and learn from others. That dynamic taught me how to be a true team player, how to listen, collaborate and contribute in a meaningful way.

At the same time, it pushed me to build confidence in myself. Being consistently challenged to speak up, think critically, and engage in discussion helped me find my voice and trust my abilities.

What advice would you give to fellow alumni or current students striving to make a meaningful impact?


Focus on consistency over perfection. Meaningful impact doesn’t come from one big moment, it’s built through the small, intentional choices you make every day. Be willing to take on challenges that stretch you, even when you don’t feel fully ready, and don’t shy away from difficult seasons. Those are the times that often shape you the most. Also, invest in your relationships. The people you surround yourself with will influence both your growth and your perspective, and those connections often become just as valuable as any professional achievement.