WAXAHACHIE, Texas (Sept. 07, 2026) – Nelson University welcomed businesses from Waxahachie, Red Oak, Midlothian, and the surrounding Dallas–Fort Worth area to campus for the Business Expo on Sept. 2nd. 

Hosted by Nelson’s Career Development Center, the event gave students meaningful ways to explore career paths, build professional connections, and discover internship and employment opportunities—all inside the Sheaffer Center.

“This year, we had nearly 25 businesses participating in our Business Expo. It was a great time for students to see what local businesses are offering in terms of part‑time employment or internships,” Director of Career and Strategic Development Jo Cardenas said.

The Business Expo was attended by a variety of companies, including:

• C.A.R.E. Services
• Chick-fil-A
• Ellis County Children’s Advocacy Center
• Ellis County District Attorney’s Office
• Express Employment Professionals
• GEICO DeSoto
• Hibachio Waxahachie
• Living Right Designs
• Young Life

Along with many more employers eager to connect with students. 

Senior Catherine Egbe said the event plays an important role in preparing students for their future careers. “I’m a business management major, and especially in my senior year, coming to the Business Expo is really important for me because this is where I get to meet possible future employers,” Egbe said. “I’m really excited to be here and hopefully get to make some new connections.”

By bringing employers directly to campus, students could engage in conversations that may lead to internships, part-time positions, full-time employment, and long-term professional relationships.

For many employers, the expo is also an opportunity to invest in the next generation of professionals. Michael Butz, owner of Butz Law Firm, has participated in the Business Expo for three consecutive years and has seen firsthand how those connections can impact students’ careers. 

“Every year I try to get one or two interns that I can get started on their legal journey,” Butz said. “Right now, one of the interns I’ve had is in law school and another is a paralegal at a large firm in Dallas. I try to be a good jumping point for the Nelson community and for future students here.”

Employers also attended to share the variety of career paths available within their organizations. 

Bridgett Hodgen, a corporate training manager for full-time hiring at QuikTrip, highlighted the company’s continued growth and broad range of opportunities. While many students are familiar with QuikTrip’s retail locations, Hodgen explained that career opportunities extend beyond store operations and include fields such as real estate, development, construction, and medical services.

Organizations focused on leadership and community impact were also represented. 

LaDondra Hervey, president and founder of the Texas Christian Chamber of Commerce, said connecting with students aligns closely with the organization’s mission. 

“We are really excited to be here,” Hervey said. “We equip Christian leaders, transform cities, and multiply eternal Kingdom impact. We love connecting with students, sharing more about our mission, and hearing about what Nelson students are doing.”

From 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., the expo floor remained busy as students moved from booth to booth asking questions and networking.

Nelson Admissions Counselor Christopher Morris emphasized the value of helping students recognize the opportunities available throughout Waxahachie and the Dallas–Fort Worth region. “There are many opportunities for students to grow their professional skills while earning their degree, which will help launch their careers,” Morris said. 

Luke Adams, representing the City of Waxahachie Convention and Visitors Bureau, echoed that sentiment. “This is a great opportunity for students to see what our great city of Waxahachie is made of through all of these different local businesses,” Adams said.

Nelson University’s Career Development Center hosts events throughout the year designed to help students prepare for life after graduation. Through career fairs, networking opportunities, employer partnerships, and professional development resources, students can pursue their goals with confidence.

Nelson University extends its appreciation to this year’s Business Expo sponsors. Our Silver Sponsors were Butz Law Firm and Hibachio Waxahachie, and our Purple Sponsors were Express Employment Professionals Waxahachie, Travelin’ Tom’s, and the Waxahachie Downtown Merchant Association (WDMA).

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About Nelson University 

Nelson University is a private Christian institution located in Waxahachie, Texas, just 30 minutes south of the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex. Established in 1927, the university offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs on campus and online. With a mission to integrate faith and learning, Nelson equips students to pursue their God‑given callings within a Spirit‑empowered community. For additional details, Request Information or call 1‑888‑937‑7248.