Empowering leadership: Michelle Riepe named GSCFM Student Leader of the year

Credit professionals do more than manage risk and protect their companies’ bottom lines, they often serve as mentors, leaders and changemakers. Today, we celebrate those who not only excel in their own careers but also uplift others along the way. These credit professionals make a lasting impact on the people and organizations around them. We’re proud to recognize Michelle Riepe, CCE, credit support manager at Ben E. Keith Company (Fort Worth, TX), recipient of the GSCFM Student Leader Award from NACM’s National Honors and Awards Program.  

This peer-selected award is presented by the graduating class of the Graduate School of Credit and Financial Management. It recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to the overall quality of the program through active class participation and meaningful enhancement of the educational experience. “I’m honored that my peers selected me for this award and amazed that I made such an impression on the class,” Riepe said.  

Riepe was inspired by her previous employer to continue her credit education through NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program. Attending the GSCFM program was another part of her journey in earning her Certified Credit Executive (CCE) designation. “One of my colleagues had gone through the program years ago and had really great things to say about it,” Riepe said. “It quickly became one of the greatest opportunities I’ve had in my career.” 

The graduate program not only provided invaluable knowledge, but it also empowered Riepe to step out of her shell and engage more confidently in class discussions. “I’m more reserved by nature so I don’t often speak up in class or in meetings, but I found myself sharing more than I normally would,” Riepe said. “I was encouraged to talk about my experiences and share stories that related to the topics that we were covering.” 

Above all, Riepe is grateful for the opportunity to expand her knowledge and network with other credit professionals. “Some companies can make you feel like the credit department sits on an island, so just knowing that there’s more of us out there that we can relate to and bounce ideas off is wonderful,” Riepe said.  

✏️Study Tip: Riepe recommends that students seek out mentorship to help with questions and offer encouragement. It was the support from her managers and colleagues that helped her successfully complete the GSCFM program. “It’s just great to know that they value all the work that I’ve put into all the programs with NACM and they’re just behind me 100% of the way,” Riepe said. “I’m hoping that it will help me continue to advance and progress through my career.”