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Hasbro President to Virginia Wesleyan: SMILE
Distinguished alumnus Eric Nyman '94 shares acronym for success during Founders Day Convocation
University News | October 4, 2019
Virginia Wesleyan graduate Eric Nyman '94 has one word of advice for current students: SMILE. The president of Hasbro North America and VWU Trustee delivered his message October 4 during Founders Day Convocation in the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center.
“That’s right: SMILE,” he said. “At minimum an authentic smile will likely get a smile in return, help you meet people more easily, and likely make you feel a lit bit better.”
He explained that SMILE is an acronym he created in business school after several conversations with mentors about the importance of having a plan to achieve career happiness and success.
The “S” stands for Strategy. A tactic Nyman credits with helping him narrow down—and eventually land—his dream jobs.
“You are all fortunate to be going to one of Americas' top universities,” he said. “Don’t waste it. Have a strategy. Think about what you love to do and what jobs exist doing that. Think about where your talents lie, and identify fields of study you can pursue that align with that. And think about how you can make a meaningful difference in the community around you.”
Following Mentorship (M) and Intellectual Curiosity (I), Nyman came to Love (L).
“In my opinion, we all need to love a little harder right now,” he said. “Care about and love the people around you…If you can truly love others, and live the values of inclusivity and respect for all, you will have done your part to make this campus and this city a better place while you are here—and you be well on your way to finding happiness and making the world a better place when you leave.”
He completed his acronym with Engagement (E), but told students if they forget everything else, remember to SMILE.
Following the keynote address, VWU President Scott D. Miller presented Nyman with the 2019 Distinguished Alumnus Award. As president of Hasbro North America, he is responsible for sales and marketing for the entire U.S. market. He previously served as general manager and senior vice president of marketing at Hasbro, and also worked in brand management roles for Timberland and LEGO. He joined the Virginia Wesleyan University Board of Trustees in 2018.
“We are all very proud of you and the way you represent Virginia Wesleyan,” Dr. Miller said. “Thank you for being here and for being such an exemplary role model.”
Nyman and his fellow 2019 Alumni Awards recipients—Candice E. Driskell '94 (Alumni Service Award), Wallace R. Driskell, Jr. '00 (Alumni Service Award), and Amari Agee '15 (Graduate of the Last Decade Award)—will be further celebrated on October 5 as part of Homecoming and Family Weekend.
Concluding the event, Virginia Beach Police Chief James Cervera was honored with The Wesley Award in recognition of his service to the people of Virginia Beach. Named for the central figure of Virginia Wesleyan’s founding Methodist denomination, John Wesley, the Wesley Award is given for outstanding contributions to human relations, social inclusiveness, and interpersonal understanding.
“I accept this on behalf of the 830 police officers for the City of Virginia Beach," Cervera said. "You have one dynamite police organization. The men and women every day are totally committed to serving our community and to going above and beyond.”
Founders Day was launched in 2016 as an annual event to honor the history and heritage of Virginia Wesleyan. View the convocation in its entirety on the VWU Digital Broadcasting Network.