Omnibus Series classroom visits illuminate possibilities and paths for PFW students

In more ways than one, the IDEASpace at Helmke Library is a good place to be for folks who want to see what’s happening out there in the real world. Featuring windows that stretch almost all the way from floor and ceiling, multiple video monitors, and a steady stream of captivating programs, it’s easy to understand why some consider this central spot on the campus of Purdue University Fort Wayne to be a hub of academic pursuits.  

Throughout the year, it’s also a setting where students get exclusive opportunities to interact with honored guests of the university’s Omnibus Speaker Series before the main event a couple hours later. The classroom discussions are insightful, refreshingly candid, and conclude with question-and-answer sessions that frequently draw compliments from all involved.

Despite the need to compete with clear views of activity along Mastodon Way, or the occasional ray of much-needed sunshine during winter months, the presenters are rarely at risk of being upstaged by what’s taking place on the other side of the glass.

The most recent classroom experience took place Thursday when Atlanta Hawks executive and professional sports trailblazer Melissa Proctor visited campus to describe her journey to executive vice president and chief marketing officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena.

According to Proctor, her desire to connect with students is driven by not having comparable opportunities when she was in college.

“I remember being a student and wishing I could get access to people who could impart their knowledge  through shortcuts, tips, and different ways to think about things,” Proctor said. “I’m grateful to be in a position to be able to do this with my unique background and approach.”

On average, about 30 students are in the room. Many of them come from the Honors Program and are invited to participate by their director, Farah Combs, who also oversees Experiential Learning at PFW. They are regularly joined by a few faculty members, some experts themselves in the topics being covered.

For students like Katy Gilbert, a junior majoring in history and secondary education, getting to spend time with Omnibus presenters like Proctor, and Karl Rove, whose classroom experience she attended in October, moves the student experience beyond standard course content.  

“This is a way to ask open-ended questions and build a true rapport with the person,” Gilbert said. “Hearing from someone who’s considered an expert in their industry or field helps us better understand the cultural impact of what they do and how these individuals moved into their professional sphere.”  

As moderator of the Omnibus series student sessions, Combs sees firsthand how impactful they can be for students who haven’t had prior exposure to those making their mark at the highest levels.  

“These exchanges humanize big ideas and allow students to see how knowledge, experience, and ambition translate beyond the classroom,” Combs said. “By asking questions, sharing perspectives, and connecting directly with accomplished thinkers, students leave not only intellectually energized but personally inspired to envision their own paths and future impact.”

Proctor describes her creativity as a superhero power and a way to solve complex business challenges in unique ways.  

“That’s a difference I bring,” Proctor said. “I want the students to know that my path wasn’t clear and pretty. The bumps along the way and the successes are what make it a career.”

The final speaker of the current Omnibus season will be podcaster and citizen journalist V Spehar on March 23. Visit pfw.edu/omnibus to learn more about Proctor, Spehar, and the history of the series.