Hawes Internship Award fund supports students’ internships through the University of Oregon.
1/14/2020 11:30
Joseph Hawes is giving back to students at the University of Oregon through financial support allowing them to pursue internships in the U.S. and worldwide.
Hawes, CEO and owner of ACA International member company Professional Credit Service in Springfield, Oregon, created the Hawes Internship Award at his alma mater to support non-local internships for graduate and undergraduate students, according to a news release from the University of Oregon.
"I feel strongly about the importance of academic excellence in business studies and the University of Oregon's Lundquist College of Business demonstrates the high level of quality and integrity that's required in an education to prepare its students for successful careers,” Hawes said. “But studying business is different than operating in business. In addition to the academic portion of their education, students need opportunities for hands on experience which are often unavailable or unaffordable.”
In 2019 students in the program completed internships in Japan, Spain, China, New York City and Tennessee, among many other locations.
Seventeen undergraduate students and eight graduate students secured internships in summer 2019 thanks to support from the Hawes Internship Award.
“Hawes Internship Awards empower both graduate and undergraduate students alike to dream bigger and seek internships that they might not otherwise be able to pursue due to the costs associated with interning—such as travel and housing,” according to the news release.
“It’s a tool to encourage students to think broadly and not limit themselves,” said Chris Bennett, senior associate director of career engagement at Mohr Career Services in the Lundquist College of Business.
More than 60% of the students supported in 2019 had real financial need and would not have been able to participate in these internships if it wasn't for the support of the Hawes Internship Fund.
“We especially appreciate the innovation Joe put into developing this to truly help broaden students’ understanding of the real world, and create a better experience for them, and the employer community,” said G. Scott Purcell, ACA International Board Member and president of Professional Credit Service.
Recipients of the Hawes Internship Award completed programs in industries ranging from financial services to professional sports and health care and had the opportunity to work with executive leaders at companies.
“I’ve seen how an internship can be the spark that ignites business success,” Hawes said. “Financial support to cover some of the living and travel expenses for students seeking internships helps to bring these opportunities for success within their reach.”