Celebrating Our Outstanding Class of 2025

2025 Graduate Highlight Story

Rika Hayashi - Accounting

The College of Business proudly celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of Rika Hayashi, who graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, specializing in Accounting.

In just three years—one year studying in Japan and two years in the U.S.—Rika completed her undergraduate degree with distinction, earning three major honors from the College of Business:

• Undergraduate Award for Overall Academic Excellence

• Academic Excellence in Accounting

• Completion of the Business Honors Program

Her honors capstone, “The Future of Overseas Marketing & Branding: Sustainable Approaches in the Personal Care Industry,” was conducted under the guidance of Professor Robert Ettl, reflecting Rika’s intellectual curiosity and global perspective.

Rika’s academic excellence is matched by her leadership and engagement. She consistently earned a place on the Dean’s List, demonstrated dedication to the Business Honors Program, and served as an executive board member of Beta Alpha Psi, the international honor society for accounting, finance, and information systems.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family, professors, and friends who supported me throughout my college journey. Graduating in just three years wouldn’t have been possible without your thoughtful and generous encouragement.”

Rika will begin an internship with PwC, and in the fall, she will pursue a Master of Professional Studies in Management at Cornell University.

We are proud of all that Rika has accomplished and look forward to seeing the impact she will make in the world of business.