Â鶹Éç is excited to announce that George Sample '02, '12G an accomplished HR consultant and community leader, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Graduate Commencement Ceremony.Ěý
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A JCU alumnus, Sample has spent more than two decades shaping corporate leadership and diversity initiatives in Northeast Ohio, and he is eager to share his insights with this year’s graduating class.
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“I started my journey at John Carroll as a computer science major, but my career took me into HR and leadership development,” Sample said. “Now, I work with organizations on talent management, leadership development, and helping people grow once they step into new roles.”
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After spending over 15 years in various leadership roles at prominent organizations—including the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, the Cuyahoga County Public Library, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland—Sample launched his own consulting firm, Blue Streak Consultants, in 2023. His expertise has made him a trusted advisor to organizations looking to strengthen their leadership pipelines and workplace cultures.
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Beyond his professional work, Sample is deeply engaged in community service serving on many nonprofit boards, including that of John Carroll, the Red Cross of Northern Ohio, and the United Way of Greater Cleveland. His dedication to service aligns with John Carroll’s mission, making him an inspiring choice to address this year’s graduates.
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As he prepares for the commencement address, he plans to encourage graduates to embrace the unpredictability of their professional paths. “I tell people all the time—I’ve been consulting for 10 years, but I only made it official recently,” he shared. “Success isn’t just about credentials—it’s about being someone people know, like, and trust – and that’s built over time.”
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He also plans to reflect on the difference between career success and personal fulfillment. A father of two, Sample has coached his daughters’ soccer teams for years, even joining a high school coaching staff despite the financial sacrifices it required. “At some point, I realized—who cares if my bank account is this high or this high? My time with my kids is limited, and I want to be present for these moments,” he said.
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As John Carroll continues its mission to develop ethical leaders, Sample’s story serves as a testament to the impact of lifelong learning, service, and the power of community. His address at the 2025 Graduate Commencement promises to inspire the next generation of Blue Streaks as they take their next steps beyond JCU.
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