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MILLIGAN COLLEGE, TN (July 30, 2003) — Joe Wise, director of development at Milligan College, has been recognized by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities, Tennessee/Virginia, as a member of their 2003 “40 Under Forty” class. The program recognizes and salutes 40 individuals under the age of 40 who have distinguished themselves in the business community and who are expected to be the next generation of “movers and shakers.”
The “40 Under Forty” group will be profiled in the September issue of the Business Journal and honored at a special luncheon on Thursday, August 14.
As director of development at Milligan College, Wise has managed donor relationships generating $500,000 annually and has been instrumental in communications and fundraising strategies which have helped double alumni giving participation from 16 to 32 percent in the past five years. Wise also played a key role in the formation and implementation of the college’s Leaders in Christian Service program, which recognizes strong examples of leadership in the region.
“Joe consistently identifies ways that the college can make a difference in the region and steps forward to lead those efforts,” said Todd Norris, vice president for institutional advancement at Milligan. “Through his intellect, creativity and commitment, Joe will use his talents to advance this region for many years to come through ministry, civic and educational endeavors.”
Prior to his work at Milligan, Wise was a manager for Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Johnson City and Bristol, Tennessee, and several offices in Canada. At the Bristol branch, Wise helped develop the Southwest Virginia market and achieved an 85 percent increase in units on rent by increasing referrals. In Canada, he oversaw logistics for a fleet of 1,200 units operating across three provinces. His branch was ranked number one for customer satisfaction out of 3,500 locations and six quarters.
Wise is an active member of the Johnson City Kiwanis Club. He previously has served as vice president for the Johnson City Jaycees, who presented him with the Keyman Award in 1994. He served as chairman of the Enterprise Employee Campaign of the United Way Fund Drive from 1995-98. He is a member of the Tri-Cities Public Relations Society of America and is an active member in various leadership roles at Grandview Christian Church in Johnson City.
“Joe is a man of strong character and integrity in leadership,” said Aaron Wymer, minister of Grandview Christian Church. “His leadership qualities stretch seamlessly from his professional life to his home life and into his religious life. He is motivated by a desire to enhance the lives of those around him.”