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lepley headshot
lepley headshot

Justin Lepley

Visiting Assistant Professor of Business

My favorite part of teaching at Mount Union is building meaningful connections with students and learning about their personal and professional goals.

Education

Juris Doctor - Case Western Reserve University, School of Law
Bachelor of Arts - University of Mount Union

Hometown

Alliance, Ohio

Awards

Greater Akron Chamber 30 for the Future Awardee 2023

Why the business field?

From a young age, I was fascinated by the way business could bring people together and strengthen community. As I pursued my education and explored new opportunities, I discovered that business could also serve as a bridge for my passions and the causes I care about, allowing me to share them with others while building a livelihood. Now, as an educator, I have the privilege of collaborating even more deeply and discovering new ways to connect, inspire, and grow alongside others.

 

A strong network

As Director of Northside Marketplace in Downtown Akron, I collaborate with up to 140 entrepreneurs and local businesses at any given time. These relationships give me unique opportunities to bring real-world challenges and experiences into the classroom, helping students see how the subjects we cover connect directly to the realities business owners face.

 

What makes Mount Union special?

A Mount Union education is unique because students gain extensive practice in applying what they learn to real-world situations. In today’s dynamic job market, technical skills constantly shift as technology evolves, but Mount Union equips students with the social and interpersonal skills needed to thrive in any environment. My favorite part of teaching at Mount Union is building meaningful connections with students and learning about their personal and professional goals. Helping them take the next step by making introductions and opening doors to opportunities they want to explore is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.

 

Entrepreneurship at Mount Union

The School of Business, and especially the Entrepreneurship Program, stands out because its courses are valuable and applicable to students in any major. No matter the career path, from doctors running their own practices to artists building a livelihood from their work, business and entrepreneurial skills are essential. This program can enhance any field of study or serve as a powerful stand-alone focus.