Ball State University announced on Apr. 7 that its Center for Professional Selling has been recognized as one of the Sales Education Foundation’s Top Sales Programs for 2025-26, marking the twentieth consecutive year it has received this national honor.
The recognition highlights Ball State’s ongoing efforts to prepare students for careers in professional selling through hands-on learning and strong industry connections. The Center, part of the Miller College of Business, provides students with real-world experience through specialized courses, internal competitions, networking events, career fairs, internships, and participation in national collegiate sales competitions.
“This recognition speaks to the strength and consistency of what Ball State has built over time,” said Chris Wilkey, director of Ball State’s Center for Professional Selling and associate lecturer of marketing. “Our students are developing the kind of communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills that employers want, and our faculty and industry partners have helped create a program that gives students meaningful, hands-on preparation for success after graduation.”
Students at Ball State benefit from experiential learning opportunities such as working with partner companies on case competitions and developing real-world sales materials. The university also offers CRM-related experiences and connects students with recruiters through targeted events. The award-winning Sales Team allows participants to compete nationally in role-play events and speed-selling contests.
“Miller College is committed to giving students practical, career-focused experiences that help them stand out in the job market,” said Dr. Cathy DuBois, Bryan Dean of Miller College of Business. “This continued national recognition affirms the quality of Ball State’s Center for Professional Selling, the dedication of its faculty and staff, and the strong outcomes our students achieve through experiential learning and close connections with industry.”
According to the official website, Ball State University serves more than 20,000 students across seven academic colleges according to the official website. The university has produced over 200,000 alumni worldwide as noted on its official website, secures funding through initiatives like a $350 million campaign along with state investments exceeding $210 million according to its official site, fosters an inclusive environment guided by Beneficence values according to its official website, utilizes facilities including classrooms and labs as well as new projects like a planned Performing Arts Center as described online, provides education in fields such as architecture or business while focusing on affordable opportunities according to its legacy statement, and is recognized both as a top-tier Midwest institution and for high economic mobility among graduates as noted by university sources.
The broader impact reflects how programs like those at Ball State contribute not only to student development but also support community engagement initiatives designed around service values.