COB students practice etiquette
It was an evening of elegance – and learning – as College of Business students learned the fine art of etiquette. Towne Insurance hosted the impactful evening at the Rock Springs Center in Greenville, North Carolina, presenting the “Dress for Success” Etiquette Dinner late last month. The event was designed to help risk management and insurance students refine their professional presence. It also combined practical career preparation with a memorable five-course dining experience.
More than just a dinner, the event was a celebration of professionalism, preparation and partnership. Through the collaboration between Towne Insurance and ECU, students gained practical skills, meaningful connections and renewed confidence as they prepare to enter the professional world.
The evening began with complimentary professional headshots, giving attendees a valuable tool for LinkedIn profiles, internships and future employment opportunities. As students took their seats, the interactive etiquette program led by Kathryn Carroll, ECU leadership and professional development curriculum coordinator, guided participants through five challenging dinner courses. The courses included bread, salad (olives with pits), soup, chicken on the bone with pasta, and dessert. Carroll explained the nuances of formal place settings, appropriate dinner conversation and the subtle but powerful role of professional demeanor in career success.
Representing the event’s sponsor, Towne Insurance, were Blake Wingfield and Janet Buchanan. Throughout the evening, Towne executives engaged with students, serving as judges and offering encouragement, insight and real-world perspective on workplace expectations.
There were also awards – a gift certificate to Coffman’s and a gift certificate to Talbot’s. They were presented for Most Professionally Dressed, Most Professional Demeanor and Most Outgoing. Several recipients were also randomly selected for a spirit of fun and friendly competition in the formal setting.
East Carolina University was represented by Dr. Brenda Powell Wells, Dr. David Pooser, Prof. Kurt Fickling and Carroll. The faculty members supported students throughout the evening, reinforcing the connection between classroom learning and professional application