## Level Up Your Ethics: UWF Celebrates Business Leaders Who Play by the Rules
In the fast-paced world of gaming, where strategy and cunning often reign supreme, there’s a crucial element that many players overlook: ethics.
Just as a fair game requires integrity and respect for the rules, so does the business world. And that’s why the UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business and the Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola are teaming up to celebrate those who truly embody ethical leadership. Get ready to meet the 2025 Ethics in Business Award recipients – the real-life heroes who are changing the game, one honest decision at a time.Gamestanza’s Perspective on the Importance of Ethical Business Practices for the Gaming Industry
The gaming industry is a multi-billion dollar market, and with great success comes great responsibility. Ethical business practices are crucial for building trust with customers, fostering a positive reputation, and ensuring long-term sustainability. At Gamestanza, we believe that ethical business practices are essential for the gaming industry, and we’re committed to promoting and supporting companies that share our values.
Ethical business practices involve more than just complying with laws and regulations. They require a commitment to transparency, accountability, and fairness in all aspects of business operations. This includes treating employees, customers, and partners with respect and dignity, and making decisions that benefit the greater good. In the gaming industry, this means prioritizing player safety, protecting user data, and promoting responsible gaming practices.
Gamestanza is dedicated to providing our audience with the latest news, trends, and insights on the gaming industry. We believe that by promoting ethical business practices, we can help create a more sustainable and responsible gaming ecosystem that benefits everyone involved.
Building a Culture of Ethics: Lessons from the Award Winners
Insights from Potomski and DeStafney on How to Foster a Culture of Ethics within an Organization
UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business recently recognized John Potomski and Nan DeStafney as the winners of the 2025 Ethics in Business Award. Both Potomski and DeStafney have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to ethical business practices, and their stories offer valuable insights for organizations looking to build a culture of ethics.
Potomski, the executive director of operations for Baptist Health Care, emphasized the importance of mentorship and community engagement in promoting ethical leadership. He noted that his own success was due in part to being mentored and developed by outstanding teachers and leaders in the Pensacola community. “Our community has grown and prospered because of like-minded individuals working together for the betterment of all concerned,” he said.
DeStafney, the CEO of Blues Angel Music, highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in business operations. She emphasized the importance of conducting business with the highest ethical standards, integrity, and transparency, and noted that her company’s commitment to ethics has been recognized through its membership in Impact 100 and the Paul Harris Society.
Practical Tips for Businesses Looking to Strengthen Their Ethical Foundations
So, how can businesses strengthen their ethical foundations and build a culture of ethics within their organizations? Here are some practical tips based on the insights of Potomski and DeStafney:
- Mentorship and leadership development: Provide opportunities for employees to develop their leadership skills and mentorship programs that foster a culture of ethics.
- Transparency and accountability: Embed transparency and accountability into all aspects of business operations, from financial reporting to customer service.
- Community engagement: Engage with the community through volunteer work, sponsorships, and partnerships that promote ethical business practices.
- Employee empowerment: Empower employees to make ethical decisions and take ownership of their work by providing training and resources.
UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business: Nurturing the Next Generation of Ethical Leaders
The College’s Commitment to Ethics Education
The UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business is committed to educating the next generation of ethical leaders. The college offers a range of programs and initiatives focused on ethics education, including courses, workshops, and research projects that promote ethical business practices.
According to Dean Richard Fountain, “The Ethics in Business Award program is an important part of our commitment to ethics education. It recognizes individuals who exemplify the concept of ‘service above self’ and work to build a positive sense of self-worth within both the business community and the broader community as a whole.”
Preparing Students to Make Ethical Decisions in the Workplace
The UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business prepares students to make ethical decisions in the workplace by providing them with a comprehensive education in business ethics. This includes courses on business ethics, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability, as well as research projects and internships that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
Dean Fountain noted that “our students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to make informed decisions that balance business goals with social and environmental responsibilities.”
Alumni Success Stories: Leading with Ethical Values
Profiles of UWF Alumni Who Are Making a Difference through Their Ethical Business Practices
The UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business has a long history of producing successful alumni who are making a difference in the business world through their ethical practices. One such example is Michael O’Sullivan, a UWF alumnus who has had a distinguished career in accounting and finance.
O’Sullivan earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from UWF in 1973 and went on to become the managing member of Warren Averett, LLC. He has served on the UWF Board of Trustees, Foundation Board of Directors, and Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business Advisory Council, and has been recognized with numerous awards for his contributions to the business community.
The College’s Role in Providing Alumni with the Tools and Support to Succeed Ethically
The UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business provides alumni with the tools and support they need to succeed ethically in the business world. This includes access to networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and professional development resources that help alumni stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in business ethics.
Dean Fountain noted that “our alumni are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to make informed decisions that balance business goals with social and environmental responsibilities. We’re proud to support them in their careers and help them make a positive impact in the world.”
Conclusion
The recent announcement of the 2025 Ethics in Business Award recipients by the UWF Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business and Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola shines a spotlight on the critical role ethical conduct plays in the business world. Recognizing individuals and organizations who embody integrity, fairness, and social responsibility is not just a feel-good gesture, it’s a vital step in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for all. As the article explored, these awardees demonstrate that ethical business practices aren’t just about avoiding legal pitfalls, they’re about building trust, fostering innovation, and creating a positive impact on the community.
The implications of this recognition extend far beyond the recipients themselves. By highlighting these exemplary individuals and organizations, we inspire others to strive for ethical excellence in their own endeavors. This serves as a powerful reminder that ethical behavior is not a luxury, but a necessity for long-term success. As we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the need for ethical leadership and responsible business practices has never been greater. The stories shared in this article are a testament to the power of integrity and a call to action for all of us to contribute to a more ethical and sustainable business landscape.
Let us remember, the true measure of success is not just profit, but the positive impact we leave on the world.
