By Maya Bryant
William Peace University, formerly known as Peace College, has been shaping women — and more recently men — into leaders since 1857. The mission of the university is to prepare students not only for careers, but for students to also be knowledgeable and resourceful enough to become business owners.
On average, more than 90 percent of the University’s graduates are placed in jobs or graduate school within one year of graduation.
WPU’s job and graduate school placement rate exceeds the national job placement average of 59 percent reported in 2011-2012 by the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ Career Services Benchmark Survey.
In 2014, WPU reported a placement rate of 97 percent of graduates within a year of graduation. Additionally, WPU is ranked No. 1 in the nation when it comes to colleges with the highest rate of internships, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Allison Woolard is exemplifies the mission of William Peace University. Woolard graduated from Peace College in 2001 with a B.A. in Liberal Studies.
“William Peace University has helped me in so many ways. When I was there, it allowed me to continue growing and networking and it has never stopped. I flourished from a small school atmosphere as well as professors and friends that filled the fire behind my passion,” said Woolard.
In 2007, Woolard dreamed of a unique and specialized boutique where a fashion savvy person could come in and find something special and affordable, and leave feeling like a part of the family. She decided to seize this opportunity and Woolard’s boutique, The Pink Alli, was born.
Woolard believes that business can be about more than the bottom line. Through her experience as a boutique owner, she has redefined customer service. At The Pink Alli, customers claim that they can find themselves transported into a world where the only thing more special than the merchandise is the client.
Woolard continues to be very active on campus at William Peace University, as she is currently serving as the Alumni Board President and attends campus weekly for Zumba and CrossFit.
As a Career Mentor, Woolard helps students progress in their careers, and lives and breathes the school’s mission every day. You may find her guest speaking in various Communications and Business classes.
“I took a lot of academia from Peace but the social game that I learn helps me every single day. I learned how to deal with all types of people from all different backgrounds,” said Woolard.
Woolard has inspired many students on campus through her outstanding campus involvement, including an employee and current WPU student, Holly Kauls.
“I have learned so much about owning a small business and what goes into running a small business. Every time I work there I learn something new. Because of my experience there it makes me want to open a store just like The Pink Alli.”
The Pink Alli is located in Cary, North Carolina and open Monday through Saturday from 10am-6pm.
Stop by and see what the buzz is all about and remember this little tip — anyone who mentions William Peace University gets a 10 percent discount.