Dan Boylan wins Champions of Change Award for education from the GFW Inc. Women’s Network

Created to celebrate individuals who mentor and empower women in Allen County, the Champions of Change awards ceremony held Wednesday night at Ceruti’s Summit Park included three finalists in the education category from Purdue University Fort Wayne—and the eventual winner. Dan Boylan, assistant professor of accounting in the Doermer School of Business, earned that honor presented by the Greater Fort Wayne Inc. Women’s Network. This is the fifth year for the Champions of Change Awards, which also recognize achievement in the categories of corporate, public service, and nonprofit.

The other two PFW finalists in the education category were Melissa Gruys, dean of the Doermer School of Business, and Giang Petroviak, director of New Student Programs. Several other members of the university community were also in attendance to show their support, which was something Boylan acknowledged in his remarks to the large gathering. 

During a Q&A with each of the winners, Boylan described one of his main goals in the classroom to be helping students identify how they are special. When asked what traits during the scope of his career have made him an impactful mentor, Boylan took a self-effacing approach to his response.

“I do believe I’m not the smartest person in the room – except for accounting – but I am annoying,” Boylan said. “I will continue to hound them until they find their special gift.” 

And that plan seems to be paying off.  In addition this honor, Boylan was also recognized recently as part of the annual Student Leader Awards in the category Student Organization Advisor of the Year. 

Learn more about this year’s Champions of Change Awards by clicking here.