Left to right: Betty Gibson, Christopher Rogers, Cin Thang, Armand Poblete, Chris Ryback, and Takudzwa Mugwisi.
On October 4, 2023, students and faculty members of the INFS 447 Project Management class were privileged to have a special guest – Chris Ryback, the esteemed IT Director & Heritage from the Edward Lowe Foundation. Ryback graced the class at 3:30 pm, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in navigating the intricate dynamics of project management within a not-for-profit organization.
The Edward Lowe Foundation, established in 1985 by Ed and Darlene Lowe, has a rich history and a mission deeply rooted in supporting second-stage businesses and mature enterprises. Ed Lowe, the creative inventor of kitty litter and the brain behind the renowned Tidy Cat brand, sold his successful venture to Purina and turned his focus to fostering growth, leadership, and ethical land stewardship through the Foundation.
In a captivating session, Ryback delved into the complexities of managing scope, time, and cost – three critical aspects that are integral to the success of any project. Drawing from the Foundation’s ethos and his personal experience, he accentuated the importance of having a “champion” among stakeholders. This individual or entity is pivotal in steering the project, ensuring that communications are streamlined and that stakeholder expectations are not only met but exceeded.
Ryback underscored the importance of effective communication, elucidating that it is the cornerstone in managing expectations and mitigating potential risks. In the backdrop of an endowed not-for-profit organization like the Edward Lowe Foundation, these elements become even more quintessential, given the intricate balance that needs to be maintained between the organizational goals and the expectations of the diverse stakeholders.
The students and faculty were engrossed as Ryback shared insights on integrated growth, a concept that the Edward Lowe Foundation ardently supports. Integrated growth encompasses a holistic approach, taking into account not only the business aspect but also ethical land stewardship and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, values that were dear to Ed Lowe.
The session was not only informational but also inspirational. Ryback’s profound knowledge, coupled with practical insights, painted a vivid picture of the dynamic world of project management. His talk encouraged the audience to look beyond the conventional and explore innovative approaches to managing scope, time, and cost.
As the session concluded, it was evident that Ryback had left an indelible mark. The students and faculty were equipped with invaluable lessons, not just in the theoretical aspects of project management, but in the practical, real-world applications that are instrumental in navigating the challenges and complexities inherent in this field. The Edward Lowe Foundation’s legacy and Ryback’s insightful discourse indeed made October 4 a memorable day for the INFS 447 Project Management class.
