Keiser University Flagship Campus business and automotive dealership management students recently gained firsthand knowledge from industry leaders during an engaging Legacy Leadership Panel discussion.

Industry Leaders Share Real-World Experience

Led by Professor Brian Bastin, the panel featured Urban League President and CEO Patrick Franklin, Schumacher Auto Group President and CEO Chuck Schumacher, and Schumacher Auto Group Chief Operating Officer Sal DelGreco. The distinguished speakers shared insights from their professional journeys, offering students practical guidance on leadership and career success.

A Commitment to Student Success and Community Impact

“We were pleased to host this distinguished group to share insights with our students, and also to honor the transformational work of Chuck and Amanda Schumacher of the Schumacher Automotive Group and Patrick Franklin of the Urban League for their exceptional leadership and impact on our community,” said Bastin. “Events such as this help demonstrate our shared commitment to student success, community engagement, and leadership excellence, so we are very thankful for the opportunity,” he added.

Leadership Lessons: Integrity, Relationships, and Growth

A central theme throughout the discussion was the importance of leading with integrity, humility, and commitment to continuous learning.

Schumacher emphasized the value of building relational rather than transactional customer experiences, noting that some of his greatest rewards come from seeing his team succeed and from the philanthropic impact he and his wife, Amanda, have made in providing essential resources such as food and clothing to communities in need globally.

Franklin encouraged students to conduct thorough research when pursuing partnerships and opportunities while remaining grounded in their core values. He advised students to stay focused and to ‘stick to what brought you to the dance.’

Building a Strong Professional Foundation

DelGreco stressed that work ethic is what truly sets people apart. Even if someone isn’t the most naturally gifted or highly skilled, he believes consistent effort makes the difference. “Do it yourself, get there early, stay late, and be the hardest worker to become a successful leader and mentor,” he said. That’s why he prioritizes bringing in team members who share that same strong commitment and drive.

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration Automotive Dealership Management program prepares students with the skills needed to become future industry leaders. The curriculum examines various environmental factors influencing the automotive industry, such as technological progress, consumer expectations, government regulation, and personal mobility. Students will be exposed to the unique challenges facing today’s automotive and vehicle retail distribution systems, and graduates will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and techniques to thrive in this new environment.

About Keiser University

Since 1977, Keiser University has been empowering students to achieve their career dreams. As one of Florida’s largest private, non-profit institutions, founded by Dr. Arthur Keiser and Evelyn Keiser, it offers:

• Over 100 degree programs from associate to doctoral level
• Recognition as the No. 1 university in the U.S. for Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report (2023)
• Proud membership in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities
• A legacy of excellence in education spanning more than 45 years

Don’t wait to start building your future. Contact Keiser University today and take the first step toward your dream career. Call Toll-Free: 888-KEISER-9  or Contact a Keiser Campus near you. Schedule your campus tour and learn more about our flexible programs, financial aid options, and career services support.