By Brandi Mauro, NACS program manager, executive education

This summer, I had the privilege of attending our Executive Education programs at Wharton, Cornell and Kellogg.

Each program offered a unique experience. At Wharton’s Financial Leadership Program, leaders sharpened their financial acumen and explored frameworks that can transform how they approach their business. At the Executive Leadership Program at Cornell, strategy and leadership took center stage, enriched by inspiring stories from Henry Armour and Frank Gleeson. The Kellogg Marketing Leadership Program brought us together around marketing strategy and innovation, with a powerful reminder that growth takes work—and that even small, intentional steps can drive lasting change.

While the professors’ insights were invaluable, what struck me most were the conversations I had with our members and the ones they had with each other. I learned not only about the challenges they face, but also the creative solutions they are putting into action—like the innovative ways retailers are minimizing the impact of swipe fees by encouraging customers to use debit cards and passing the savings directly along to them; how retailers are working more closely with vendors and suppliers to use data strategically and strengthen loyalty programs; and the big question every retailer faces—how to win over customers. Location still matters, but today’s game-changers are personalization and differentiation, and technology and AI can help retailers tailor offers.

Beyond the classroom, I was impressed by the energy and openness of these leaders. They came curious, ready to challenge themselves and eager to exchange ideas. They weren’t just learning for themselves—they were investing in the future of their teams and the entire industry.

One story in particular really stuck with me. A member attending his first Executive Education program shared how he was preparing to take over his family business. He admitted feeling intimidated sitting among more experienced leaders, but also energized. He could see what success looks like in this industry, and that vision gave him confidence about his own future.

Hearing members’ stories reminded me why I love what I do. Exec Ed is not just about growing skills and developing professionally; it is about inspiring growth in people and in our industry, and helping our members create a vision for the future of their stores. That’s what makes these programs so special. They give retailers the tools, insights and network to envision what’s next—and the confidence to go after it.

It’s also about personal connections. One of the things I loved most about this summer was the relationships formed during these courses. Hearing stories of members sending kids to college, growing their families, preparing for new roles or stepping into family businesses reminded me that growth happens on multiple levels.

This summer proved something I deeply believe: Executive Education is about more than knowledge—it’s about creating lasting connections, inspiring change and growing both individually as a leader and together as an industry.

To learn more about NACS’ Executive Education programs, reach out to me at Bmauro@convenience.org.