The Intentional Leader: How purpose and perspective shaped Dean Crawford’s path

Crafting a Career With Purpose

For many college students, the journey to a meaningful career is full of twists and surprises. For Georgia College & State University alumnus Dean Crawford, that journey was built on intentional choices and an unwavering commitment to service. Now a senior consultant at Slalom, Crawford spends his days helping some of the world’s largest organizations transform the way they work by connecting people, process and technology.

Building Identity Capital, One Experience at a Time

Crawford’s path did not begin in corporate strategy sessions. It started with a mindset built around curiosity and preparation. He sought out opportunities that pushed him to grow, from interning at the International Rescue Committee working with refugee students to developing technology advisory skills at KPMG and exploring data science at UPS Capital.

These experiences became what he calls “identity capital,” a collection of unique skills and perspectives that helped him stand out long before graduation. That momentum helped him secure consulting job offers before his senior year even began. After graduation, he added a surprising new chapter to his identity capital by working as a horse wrangler in Yellowstone National Park, a role that taught him adaptability in a completely different environment.

Finding His Strength in the Pivot

Despite knowing he wanted to be a consultant early on, Crawford did not immediately love the field that would become his specialty. He jokes about avoiding anything related to process in college. By embracing the challenge at Slalom, he discovered that mastery often begins with discomfort. Today, he leads operational improvement projects for major brands across customer experience, supply chain, Agentic AI and mergers and acquisitions integration.

Putting People at the Center of Technology

Even as he helps organizations adopt automation and intelligent systems, Crawford believes the most important skill of all is change enablement. He emphasizes the ability to step into the shoes of employees who are being asked to work differently and to guide them with empathy and clarity.

Advice for Tomorrow’s Professionals

When asked what advice he offers current Georgia College students, Crawford encourages them to stretch beyond what feels easy. He credits professors like Dr. Meg Geddy and Professor Jehan El-Jourbagy for pushing him to think critically and speak with confidence. He encourages students to take challenging classes, read widely, learn new skills and pursue experiences that broaden their thinking.

A Purpose-Driven Life Beyond the Workplace

Crawford’s story highlights the power of deliberate growth, curiosity and service. Work is only one part of his larger mission to uplift communities and help others recognize their own strengths. His path shows that success is not accidental. It is built through intention, perspective and a willingness to embrace every opportunity along the way.