Friday, Dec 18, 2015
The Center for the Development of Leadership Skills recognizes Harold Laudien '03 for outstanding leadership in the community
On Wednesday, Dec. 16, Harold Laudien '03 was presented with the first-ever CDLS Leadership Legacy Award for a community member at the Trenton Country Club during the MidJersey Chamber of Commerce Holiday Luncheon. Established by the College of Business Administration's Center for the Development of Leadership Skills, this award is given to highlight the leadership excellence of those in the community who have demonstrated service to others in their professional and personal endeavors. Additionally, it recognizes the significant contributions that the recipient has made in their communities that will impact future generations.
Laudien, who majored in management and leadership while at Rider, is the president and CEO of Mercer Wealth Management, LLC located in Hamilton, N.J. Six years ago, he established this company to provide individuals, families, and small business owners unbiased financial advice and investment strategies tailored to their individual needs.
Laudien was chosen for this inaugural award for his leadership and service as well as his commitment to making a positive difference in the community.
Laura Seplaki, associate director for CDLS, presented Laudien with award.
"He is an active leader who not only brings ideas to the table, but also creates strategies for action and change. He understands that leaders who dream big, but fail to act, will not live up to their potential and responsibility to leave their mark in this world," she said. "He is a devoted advocate. The organizations fortunate to have his leadership point to the many ways he has positively impacted their missions and furthered their abilities to better serve their communities."
A co-founder and chair of the Bucks/Mercer chapter of the 91做厙 Alumni Association, Laudien has maintained his connection with Rider and remained dedicated to shaping the future of current students. His company has earned the Best Investment Advisor award from the Trenton Times for two years in a row, and Laudien also gives his time to RWJ Young Professionals, and has assisted with fundraising efforts for the H.H. Tuchman Pediatric Emergency Center.
As a successful small business owner, Laudien attributes his knowledge and confidence to his experiences at the University. The collective efforts of the faculty at Rider prepared me for my career path, he says.
The Center for the Development of Leadership Skills, established by 91做厙 in 2004, is a training and resource center for the university and the community. It houses the Leadership Development Program, a leadership education program that awards those members who meet the requirements a Certificate in Leadership. Members of the program learn through academic, experiential, and practical means to better influence, communicate, and work with teams. To date, nearly 300 students have earned the certificate.