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Craig School of Business

Pay It Forward Luncheon Series

Graphic banner with text "Pay It Forward Luncheon Series, with Mendy Laval, brought to you by the Lyles Center. Celebrating 10 years."

An interdisciplinary opportunity to connect with fellow students, faculty and our community.

Hosted by the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the Pay It Forward Luncheon Series brings together Fresno State students and community business leaders. Each session is led by different business professionals to highlight a new, informative topic. These events explore in-depth issues and allow for impactful networking between Fresno State students and successful business professionals.

Pay It Forward luncheons are free and open to the public. Registration is required and space is limited.

Upcoming Pay It Forward Luncheon events

October 16, 2025

Banner for Oct. 16 Pay It Forward Luncheon with Kodey Wells, president of Wells Upholstery Inc

Kodey Wells
President, Wells Upholstery Inc.
Thursday, October 16, 2025, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Resnick Student Union

Join us October 16 for the Pay it Forward Luncheon featuring Kodey Wells of Wells Upholstery Inc. Kodey's career has been defined by grit, vision and entrepreneurial spirit — transforming challenges into opportunities at every stage of life. By the age of 15, Kodey endured the loss of both parents, an experience that forced him to grow up quickly and instilled in him a deep understanding of resilience. At 23, he launched a company out of his garage. Today, at 33, he leads a team delivering projects across the nation for world-class clients including Apple, Google, LinkedIn, Amazon and more — recognized for both quality craftsmanship and artistic innovation in custom seating. A proud Fresno State graduate, Kodey’s journey has come full circle: from sitting in the audience at the Pay It Forward Luncheon 10 years ago, to now returning as keynote speaker. His story embodies the power of belief, resilience, and the truth that adversity is not the enemy, it’s the advantage.

Register now!

November 12, 2025

Justin Levine, Regional Sales Manager
Bill Betts, President and COO
Betts Company
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 11:30-1:30 p.m.
Resnick Student Union

Past Events

Missed an event?

Catch all the highlights, inspiring talks and memorable moments from our past events on our YouTube channel.

Watch the full playlist here