Leading with Purpose and Passion
For Lauren Manley ’07 Nalls, Susquehanna University was more than a place to earn a degree — it was where she discovered her purpose, developed her confidence and built relationships that continue to shape her life today.
As a student, Nalls dove into every opportunity the university offers, exploring athletics, leadership opportunities and community involvement. She played varsity basketball and competed in track & field, experiences that taught her teamwork, time management and perseverance. She also held multiple roles at Charlie’s Coffeehouse, served as a member of the Student Conduct Board, led campus tours, managed finances for the student newspaper, and contributed to the Sigmund Weis School of Business Networking Committee.
“Susquehanna encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone,” Nalls says. “Each opportunity made me feel part of something larger than myself and connected me with new friends and mentors while helping me apply what I was learning in class to real-world situations.”
It wasn’t long before she found her professional calling. Initially unsure of her career path, Nalls discovered her passion for business after taking an introductory marketing course taught by James Brock, then dean of the Sigmund Weis School of Business.
“I fell in love with it,” she recalls. “Dean Brock’s knowledge, experience and engaging teaching style were captivating. I left that class knowing marketing was the right fit for me.”
Nalls credits the close-knit, supportive environment of the Sigmund Weis School of Business for laying the foundation of her career. “The professors and staff were invested in our success,” she says. “They made learning both challenging and engaging, and they helped me see how business principles apply to every part of life.”
Today, Nalls serves as manager of learning & talent development at The Hershey Company, where she supports the growth of the sales and category management teams.
“Our goal is to ensure every team member feels supported in their development so they can thrive in their current role and prepare for future opportunities,” she explains. “Each step in my career — from sales to leadership — has reinforced my passion for helping others realize and achieve their long-term potential.”
Nalls continues to stay closely connected to Susquehanna, mentoring students and speaking during university initiatives such as the Gates-Mueller Leadership Symposium. She also participates in the Sigmund Weis School of Business mentorship program and enjoys collaborating with current interns and alumni colleagues at Hershey.
“It’s important to pay forward the investment that so many people made in me,” she says. “Staying connected to Susquehanna allows me to honor that investment, while continuing to build meaningful relationships. I value every chance I get to return and engage with the campus community.”
