Student-led Conference: "Creating Careers"
University News | November 3, 2026
For students preparing to enter the professional world, the question "What comes next?" opens doors to countless possibilities. Batten University's Fall 2026 Marlin Business Conference, with the theme "Creating Careers," aims to help students explore these possibilities, forge connections, and turn passions into careers.
Scheduled for November 16–19, this four-day event brings together students, faculty, and business professionals from across the region for:
- Free workshops
- Presentations
- Interactive panels
- Networking opportunities
- Student competitions
Organized entirely by students enrolled in Principles of Management, taught by Frank Futyma, the conference culminates months of work, offering students hands-on experience in:
- Fundraising
- Special event planning
- Networking
- Project management
- Financial planning
- Organizational leadership
"This semester, we focused on a question every college student can relate to: What comes next?" said John Enoch, a junior Business Administration major and one of the conference's co-CEOs. "We chose the theme 'Creating Careers' because we want students to understand there's not one set path to success, but many opportunities to achieve their goals."
Enoch emphasized the importance of building professional relationships, aiming to connect students with new industries, experienced professionals, and inspire them to consider how their interests and passions can lead to meaningful careers.
Leadership Team
The Fall 2026 leadership team comprises:
- Co-CEOs: Thomas Skelly (sophomore Business Administration major) and John Enoch (junior Business Administration major)
- Chief of Staff: Max Davis (junior Business Administration major)
- Director of Fundraising: Allison Peck (junior Sports and Recreation Management major)
"Throughout the process of organizing this conference, we've developed valuable skills in delegation, event planning, organizational communication, and leadership," noted Skelly. "We've also connected with professionals across diverse industries, enhancing our communication skills while gaining insights into the professional world and the various career paths available."
Skelly highlighted the importance of learning to delegate responsibilities and trusting the team for successful leadership.
The team has been actively reaching out to businesses and professionals to secure guest speakers, competition judges, and sponsors. They've designed student competitions in consulting, Shark Tank, marketing, and business ethics, each offering a unique opportunity to apply classroom concepts in practical ways, from analyzing business challenges to pitching entrepreneurial ideas and navigating ethical dilemmas.
"Our team has been working diligently on all aspects of the conference to ensure its success," said Davis. "Each competition is tailored to challenge students differently while allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge."
Fundraising efforts are also well underway.