Twilley Academy of Sales Leadership announces new board

Published Mar 02, 2026 by

Rich Klindworth

Filed under: Office of Expert Services News, Twilley Academy of Sales Leadership News, Uncategorized News

A variety of backgrounds highlight the newly finalized executive board of directors for East Carolina University’s Twilley Academy of Sales Leadership. The central hub for cutting-edge sales education, research and industry engagement in the College of Business sets students up for professional success.

“This board will provide applied, practical and hands-on-experience that the Sales Academy will require to build a nationally ranked professional sales program,” said Richard Twilley, who established the sales leadership academy.

“Each board member has demonstrated outstanding leadership and influence across sales, business transformation and enterprise growth,” said Dr. Michael Rodriguez, director of the Twilley Academy. “Their strategic direction and active mentorship will expand opportunities for our students, elevate our research portfolio and help the academy set a new standard in sales education.”

Composed of industry executives and thought leaders — including Board Chair Twilley, Ken Burnette (director, Spectrum Business), Parker Raven (Business Development, Celonis), Tracy Sary (director, Cloudflare), Gary Sloper (co-founder, Macronet Services), William Kellog (vice president, Spectrum), Michael Blount (director, McCormick & Co), Chandler Ward (client executive, Sentinel), and Anne Slough (head of GTM enablement, Collibra) — the board’s collective wealth of real-world experience strengthens the academy’s industry connectivity and provides students with rich mentorship and professional insight.

Rodriguez said the distinguished group of accomplished sales, technology and go-to-market leaders brings deep expertise, strategic vision and a shared commitment to developing the next generation of sales professionals. Twilley agrees. “Congratulations to Dr. Rodriquez for assembling a cutting-edge board that encompasses a broad base of experience,” Twilley said. “From sales and enablement at all levels – C-Suite responsibilities to building a successful growth company as an entrepreneur. This ensures student success, public service and regional transformation.

Meet the distinguished professionals who guide the Twilley Academy’s strategic direction. Our Board Members bring together leaders from academia, industry, and alumni networks to shape the future of sales education at ECU.