Tyler Cowher

Tyler Cowher said, “Being a courageous leader is about stepping up and providing a platform for those who may not have the ability or power to do so.”

Tyler exemplifies courageous leadership through his executive roles in Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity on campus.

As the chapter’s inaugural vice president of societal impact, he created a framework to promote allyship, celebrate and observe important occasions, and educate his peers through workshops, chapter presentations, and collaborations with external speakers.

Tyler had observed how difficult it can be to find belonging if you aren’t sure if others will accept you, and he wanted to help the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized communities feel welcome.

Tyler created opportunities for students to present on issues important to them at weekly chapter-wide meetings. He also held events to educate peers and non-members on important topics like social inequity, cultural humility, and the importance of inclusivity.

His efforts fostered engaging, supportive spaces for students to learn from each other and find common ground.

Now president of Delta Sigma Pi, he has expanded those efforts across campus through meaningful partnerships and continued advocacy.

In times of uncertainty and fear for marginalized communities, Tyler has stood by his values to help others feel seen and supported. He uses his voice to advocate for what he believes in, and in doing so, helps others feel safe to do the same.

His nominator said, “His advocacy reflects his dedication to creating spaces where all individuals — especially LGBTQ+ students — feel seen, valued, and protected.”

Tyler also models his courageous leadership in his devotion to personal development. His nominator said: “Every interaction with Tyler reaffirms his maturity, compassion, and genuine desire for personal growth. He consistently puts others before himself, leading with optimism, empathy, and unwavering dedication in everything he does. Tyler’s leadership is not only effective but also deeply inspiring to those around him.”

In addition to Tyler’s work in Delta Sigma Pi, he has co-founded 180 Degrees Consulting, a social good-focused student consultancy, and has been involved with the student leadership team. He said, “Being able to not only learn and grow from those organizations but to also give back and invest in the growth of others has been incredibly gratifying.”

“Tyler Cowher is not only an outstanding student and professional,” said his nominator, “he is a courageous, compassionate, and visionary leader who is making a tangible difference in our community.”

Tyler is pursuing dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Cybersecurity Management and Analytics and in Management Consulting and Analytics in Pamplin College of Business. After graduation, he plans to join Capital One as a Business Analyst in their Analyst Development Program in McLean, Virginia.

For using his voice to ensure that others are heard and passing on the torch of what he has learned, Student Affairs is proud to present the Aspire! Award for PREPARE FOR A LIFE OF COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP to Tyler Cowher.