Paul Seiverd was the 2025 commencement speaker for the WilmU College of Business, Undergraduate Programs Ceremony. With over three decades of leadership experience, he is a senior manager in supply chain operations at Macy’s, overseeing a direct-to-consumer distribution center.

In this role, he has developed a passion for giving back and supporting the communities his team serves, making community engagement a central focus of his leadership. He is a Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society member and serves on Wilmington University’s Organizational Leadership Advisory Committee. In addition to his professional and academic pursuits, he enjoys traveling and the culinary arts, and he is a lifelong supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles. 

Q: Can you tell us about your WilmU journey and what prompted you to choose the B.S. in Organizational Leadership program? 

I had always wanted to earn a degree in a field related to my work. I attended the University of Delaware in the ‘80s and studied Exercise Physiology, but I never worked in the field. I have always been in management throughout my career, and I felt that I could put the B.S. in Organizational Leadership to good use.  

Dr. Mary Pat Braudis was one of my favorite teachers. Believe it or not, Statistics was one of my favorite classes once I finally got a grasp on it. 

I have used a lot of the lessons in my daily work. I am always teaching young leaders, and I find myself pulling information from the lessons I learned at Wilmington University.  

Q: What do you love about Wilmington University? 

What I love most about Wilmington University is how supportive and flexible the learning environment is. Whether you’re taking classes online or on campus, the professors genuinely care about your success and make an effort to connect with you. The University understands that many students are balancing work, family and other responsibilities, and they’ve built their programs to fit real life. It’s a place where you’re not just a number — you’re part of a community that wants to see you grow. 

Q: Do you have any words of wisdom, advice or encouragement for people who are thinking about taking their education further? 

Absolutely — go for it. Taking that next step in your education can feel intimidating, but it’s also one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time because it may never come. Start where you are, use what you have and trust that you’re capable of more than you think. Wilmington University makes it possible to pursue your goals at your own pace, with the support you need to succeed. Your future self will thank you. 

Q: Lastly, is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for helping you achieve your goals? 

Without a doubt, I would not have been able to complete my degree without the support of my lovely wife of 36 years, Lorie, and my three adult children, Ashley, Jared and Amanda.