Tanya Thompson, B.B.A.'15, MBA'20, earned her degrees from WMU Haworth while raising two daughters and building The Aroma Labs

The 30

WMU Haworth is honored to present its 2026 edition of The 30, a publication that recognizes emerging alumni who are leading with intention and striving for more in the business world. Selected by a committee of faculty, staff and recent alumni, these honorees represent the integrity, leadership and purpose that are synonymous with being a Business Bronco.

Your 2026 Honorees

Chris Bailey, B.B.A.’20, M.S.A.’21

Chris Bailey, B.B.A.’20, M.S.A.’21

Access Advocate 
Chris Bailey is crunching numbers and barriers.  At Plante Moran he leads audit engagements for manufacturing and distribution clients. Outside of work, he spends time mentoring high school students through NABA Inc. and working with Jamaican refugees.

Mary Tabanguil, B.A.’13, B.B.A.’13, MBA’21

Mary Tabanguil, B.B.A.’13, B.A.’13, MBA’21

Community Cornerstone
Mary Tabanguil turned a summer teller position into a career, combining her natural financial aptitude and passion for helping people. What energizes her is connecting with the community, which she does by volunteering, teaching and lending her expertise to local nonprofits.

Vernon Crump Jr., B.B.A.’20

Vernon Crump Jr., B.B.A.’20

Business Builder
At WMU, Vernon Crump Jr. learned to break down complex challenges, analyze root causes and create solutions that work in real business environments. Today, he runs two thriving businesses, Unriva Solutions and BeOfficial, combining his technical skills and entrepreneurial instincts. 

Kaitlyn Watkins, B.B.A.’17, M.S.A.’18

Kaitlyn Watkins Quezada, B.B.A.’17, M.S.A.’18

Numbers Navigator
Kaitlyn Watkins Quezada has a drive to succeed in business. Her love for numbers led her to pursue her CPA and a master’s in accountancy. She now works as an audit manager at Crowe LLP, where she leads complex audit engagements. 

Jose Cardona, B.B.A.’16, MPA’18, MBA’19

Jose Cardona, B.B.A.’16, M.P.A.'18, MBA’19

Supply Chain Strategist
Jose Cardona has mastered all three aspects of supply chain: logistics, operations and procurement. His leadership as senior supply continuity specialist at Cummins keeps global production moving and teams functioning at optimal levels. 

Federico Tavarez, B.B.A.’17

Federico Tavárez, B.B.A.’17

Energetic Entrepreneur
Federico Tavárez has turned sports into a launchpad, transforming athletic talent into life-changing opportunities. His work spans athlete development, organizational leadership, event operations and building platforms that give youth a real shot at their dreams. 

Andrew McCotter-Bicknell, B.B.A.’17

Andy McCotter, B.B.A.’17

Strategic Storyteller

Andy McCotter is a skilled storyteller. He turns complex products into clear narratives that customers actually understand. At WMU, he learned to prioritize work, stay consistent and focus on what mattered most—skills he uses today to thrive in an ever-changing industry.