MBA transformers: Todd Dennett

Once: Advance man, The White House

Now: Consultant, Tiller/Dennett & Company

Todd Dennett (MBA 2004) has always made things happen.

So it was no coincidence when the go-to guy landed an internship in the White House press room while studying international affairs and communications at George Washington University. This kicked off a dizzying five years orchestrating events and travel for Vice President Al Gore, followed by a job as protocol officer at the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics and, later, heading operations for Howard Dean’s meteoric presidential campaign.

But Dennett felt he needed to strengthen his management skills. So, home to the Puget Sound and the Foster School he went.

His unique organizational experience and expanded management portfolio got the attention of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which hired him to organize its founders’ activities and maximize their influence. It was a job that took him around the world.

Still globetrotting today, Dennett runs a niche consulting firm, with clients that include the Gateses, the Obamas and the Olympic Games. As ever, he’s the consummate organizer, making things happen to perfection. “It’s always been my passion,” he says. “The work is not so different, but the Foster MBA helped me do it on my own.”

Find out about the other alumni who transformed their careers via the MBA Program.