The 2023 Joan Burge Innovation Award Winner

Amidst the unique challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Susan identified the need to support and nurture new EAs. With this in mind, she conceived the groundbreaking idea of the first-ever Executive Assistant College at P&G. This pioneering institution is tailored for EAs within the first three years of their executive assignment, designed to bolster their skills, expand their networks, and seamlessly integrate them into the company’s ethos of excellence.

Susan’s strategic thinking extended to the college’s marketing plan, which successfully created a buzz within the community and gained the endorsement of P&G executives. This initiative was not just a mere addition to the company’s training programs but a transformative experience that attracted 39 enthusiastic participants from across the United States, eager to embark on this novel educational journey. She is also a Star Achievement Series Certified Trainer, putting that skillset to full use at P&G in her efforts.

Susan’s leadership was instrumental in the meticulous planning and execution of the college’s two-day, in-person training event, demonstrating her team’s ability to transcend comfort zones and deliver an impactful, well-received educational program. This initiative has garnered tremendous excitement and support from the EA community, with executives fully endorsing their EAs’ participation and pledging to remove any barriers that may hinder their involvement.

Through the lens of Susan’s self-nomination for the Joan Burge Innovation Award, we gain insight into a professional who not only leads with integrity but also with a genuine passion for the advancement of her colleagues. Her advocacy for her team and the broader administrative community at P&G is evident in every initiative she champions.

Susan’s recognition with the Joan Burge Innovation Award is a fitting accolade for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and the pioneering spirit that has set a new standard within the realm of executive support. Her visionary contributions resonate well beyond her immediate team, inspiring others within the administrative profession to think boldly and act with conviction.

As we celebrate Susan Schultz and her remarkable achievements, we are reminded of the transformative power of innovative leadership and the impact it can have on individuals and organizations alike. Her journey embodies the spirit of the Joan Burge Innovation Award, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and shape the future of the administrative profession for years to come.