Join Carla Suber (Chicago Bears) and Rory James (Saint Louis Zoo) for a candid conversation on how to translate your higher education expertise into a high-impact career beyond campus.

In this session, Carla and Rory will share how they leveraged their backgrounds in student advocacy, inclusion and mental health to thrive in careers in professional sports and in conservation. Learn how to re-brand your transferable skills (such as crisis management, staff development and intercultural communication) to successfully navigate your own career pivot.

  • Feb. 12, 2026
  • 9-10 a.m.
    (breakfast at 8:30)
  • DUC 276
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Carla Suber

Currently the Director of Wellness/Team Clinician for the Chicago Bears. Carla transitioned from higher education to the NFL, where she now applies her expertise in mental health and wellness to help professional athletes manage the high-pressure transition into the league.

Rory James

Currently the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Saint Louis Zoo. Formerly the Director of Student Diversity & Inclusion at Indiana University, Rory now brings his extensive experience in college access and student retention to the world of wildlife conservation and community engagement.