School of Business Administration

Leonardo Morales Badillo, better known as Leo around the halls of the School of Business Administration at the University of Dayton, is wrapping up an extraordinary chapter in his life where he’s earned both a Master of Professional Accountancy and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. Hailing from Puerto Rico and shaped by the resilience of relocating to Columbus, Ohio, after Hurricane Maria, Leo’s path to UD was anything but predictable. What began as a hesitant application—urged by his mother—turned into a life-changing journey filled with friendships, growth, and a deep connection to a campus that quickly became his home away from home. Now, as he prepares to launch his career with Deloitte & Touche LLP, Leo reflects on the transformative experiences that made UD so much more than just a stop on his academic path.

Leo’s first encounter with the University of Dayton was anything but ordinary. Moving in during the height of the pandemic, his initial moments on campus were cut short when he tested positive for COVID-19 just two days later. But those 48 hours were enough to leave an indelible mark. “I was surrounded by people who later became my best friends for the next four years.” Leo shares. “Campus was beautiful even with COVID, and everyone made the best out of the situation.” Those initial impressions would set the tone for his four years at UD, where he discovered not only a place to learn but also a home where he could thrive.

At UD, Leo dove headfirst into opportunities to grow, wearing many hats, including that of a School of Business Administration Dean’s Ambassador. This role allowed him to combine his love for helping people with his pride for UD, giving tours to prospective students and sharing the experiences that made his time at the university meaningful. “I feel like I can identify with them,” Leo explains about recently giving a tour to prospective SBA students from Puerto Rico. “I was also that kid who was trying to figure out life and had no idea where to go, but I also had the blessing of having friends who were older than me who came to UD and helped me settle in. Any time I can give back to my roots, I will always do so proudly. ”

For Leo, the magic of UD isn’t just in its classrooms or programs—it’s in the people. From the friendships forged in the student neighborhood to the connections built with professors who became mentors, every relationship played a role in shaping who he is today. “The connection I made with my accounting professors. They not only taught me accounting but also became my mentors.”

 "I have had the pleasure of knowing Leo for several years, and it has been truly inspiring to see his full engagement with all that UD has to offer.” shared Courtney Stangel, MPAcc Program Director and Senior Lecturer in Accounting at UD.  “He embodies the essence of what it means to be a UD student—an active and integral member of the community, both inside and outside the classroom. Leo is an exemplary role model for his peers, and the positive impact he has made on the UD community will continue to resonate for years to come."

Of course, Leo’s time at UD wasn’t without its challenges. The transition from Puerto Rico to Ohio, and eventually to college life, tested his independence and resilience. “It was definitely a little challenging to know that everything depended on me. Meaning that it was up to me to wake up and study, get involved on campus, get a job, etc.” 

Those jobs he obtained while at UD helped contribute to his growth at UD. “I feel like I have grown so much both personally and professionally. Being a Dean’s Ambassador with the business school and a Student Service Representative with the university’s admission team has helped me shape into the person and professional I aspire to be. Both positions have helped me improve skills like communication, professionalism, and problem-solving.” Pointing out that a lot of it comes back to the people at UD: “The most important part though is the people I have met in both jobs. I have been blessed to be part of two teams where everyone pushes each other to be the best version of themselves. This motivates me to be the best I can, no matter what the task is.“

Leo’s favorite memories at UD blend the electric energy of basketball games and every random day living in the student neighborhood next to his best friends. Moments like these, he says, are what make UD feel like home. “ I struggled a lot in Columbus sometimes because I felt like I was so far away from home. Don’t get me wrong, I like Columbus and my friends there but I just had that feeling sometimes. When I arrive to Dayton, every time I get off the exit, I breathe home.”

Now, as Leo prepares to start his career with Deloitte & Touche LLP and work toward his CPA license, he carries with him not just the knowledge he gained in the classroom but the sense of community and belonging that defined his time at UD. His advice to new students is simple: “The special thing about UD is that you can make community in all of the areas you get involved with. These friendships will be with you not only throughout your four years here but also post-graduation. These people will push you to be the best version of yourself. ” For Leo, the University of Dayton will always be more than a chapter in his story—it’s the foundation of a future that’s just beginning.