Rathbun Insurance had the privilege of supporting Michigan DECA’s Networking Dinner as Executive Mentors, hosted by the Broad College of Business at Michigan State University. Representing our agency were Ben Rathbun, Laura Stoken, Heather Cooper-Kim, and Marcy Rzepka —all proud to invest in Michigan’s next generation of business leaders.
More than 100 DECA students from across the entire state gathered for an evening designed to connect emerging talent with professionals from a wide range of industries. It was a powerful reminder of why events like this matter: they create space for students to explore careers, ask questions, build confidence, and discover what’s possible for their futures.
The dinner kicked off with an engaging keynote presentation, “The Sweet and Sticky Parts of Being an Entrepreneur,” delivered by Andrew Gauthier, co-owner of Groovy Donuts in Lansing. Andrew’s story—rooted in inspiration, grit, community, perseverance, and, of course, really good donuts—offered an authentic look into the realities of entrepreneurship. His message resonated deeply with the students and mentors alike.
Following the keynote, each Rathbun team member joined other local business professionals as Executive Mentors, guiding small groups of students in thoughtful conversation around:
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Career exploration
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Choosing a college or training path
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Navigating early professional decisions
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Building skills that matter in today’s workplace
Mentors kicked off the dialogue by sharing their own career paths, responsibilities, and lessons learned along the way. From leadership to client relationships, insurance to entrepreneurship, students were encouraged to ask questions, consider new possibilities, and reflect on the kind of professional journey they hope to build.
At Rathbun Insurance, Being There Matters Most—and that includes showing up for the next generation. By partnering with organizations like DECA and supporting events hosted by the Broad College of Business, we help empower young people to dream big, seek opportunity, and gain real-world insights from professionals who care.
We’re grateful to Michigan DECA, MSU’s Broad College of Business, Andrew Gauthier, and the many business mentors who made this evening such a success. And most importantly, we’re inspired by the students who showed up with curiosity, ambition, and a readiness to learn.
Here’s to Michigan’s future business leaders—and to being there every step of the way.