Riding Toward Success: Harley-Davidson District Manager Powers His Career With UNH
Driven to Excel: Harley-Davidson District Manager Keeps Momentum with UNH
When you think of Harley-Davidson, you think of the open road, the freedom of the ride, and the unmistakable connection between rider and machine. For Ted McPherson '25, District Manager at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, that same drive fuels his professional growth and educational journey.
Ted serves as the bridge between Harley-Davidson Corporate and 14 dealerships across New England, acting as a business consultant to help partners improve operations, grow sales, and strengthen their connection to the legendary brand.
With a demanding travel schedule and a full plate professionally, Ted needed a learning experience that could keep pace. “Special thanks go to my academic advisor, Joe Hannon, whose guidance and support made the entire experience seamless,” Ted shares. ”His advocacy truly played a key role in my success."
Ted credits his progress to discipline and structure. “Balancing work, classes, and personal responsibilities was no easy task, but I stayed focused by setting a schedule and leaning into the flexibility of online learning,” he says. “Consistency is the silent engine of extraordinary results!”
Why UNH?
With his career constantly on the move, in-person classes weren’t feasible. UNH offered the right mix of quality, flexibility, and relevance. “The program aligned with my goals and allowed me to apply what I was learning directly to real-world business challenges,” Ted explains.
UNH’s 90-credit transfer policy also helped him make the most of his prior academic experience, accelerating his progress. Ted completed his B.S. Business Management: Management degree.
A High-Impact Experience
Ted highlights the value of engaged faculty and practical coursework. “I was fortunate to learn from professors like Claude Caswell, Jake Collins, and Kelly Duggan during my capstone,” he says. “I committed myself fully to the program, focusing on being as efficient and productive as possible throughout the process.”
In August of 2025, Ted received exciting news: he had been accepted into Brown University for graduate school. “UNH has been a foundational part of opening doors to growth in my career and my education.”
He also recognizes the impact of his employer. “Throughout my journey, the support of Harley-Davidson and its leadership was an integral part of my success. I received encouragement, flexibility, and a culture that values continuous learning.”
Ted’s Advice to Future Students:
“Whether you’re starting fresh, picking up where you left off, or pursuing another degree, college can reinvigorate your confidence and help you reach your next big goal.”