When Dawn Burlew ’86 arrived at Keuka College, she never imagined her future would include becoming the first woman president of Watkins Glen International, one of NASCAR’s 16 major racetracks. What set her on that road was a hallmark of the Keuka College experience: the Field Period® program.
Dawn’s first-year internship placed her at Corning Inc. in corporate communications, where she not only gained hands-on experience in the corporate world but also discovered a connection that would shape her future. At the time, Corning was investing in revitalizing Watkins Glen International, and the Management major found herself supporting efforts that linked her to the legendary racetrack.
“That Field Period experience planted the seeds for everything that came after,” she said.
Those seeds grew into a 40-year career at Corning, where Dawn advanced through roles in economic development and government affairs – always returning in some way to Watkins Glen. From advocating for major projects, like the 2015 repaving of the track, to championing community revitalization initiatives, she became a trusted partner in the venue’s growth.
So, when NASCAR began searching for new leadership, Dawn’s long history of involvement made her the natural choice.
Today, she is leading Watkins Glen International into a new era of accessibility and community connection, hosting everything from world-class races to wine festivals and charity walks. And she credits Keuka College for giving her the confidence to embrace opportunities that shaped her career.
“The Field Period program wasn’t just about getting experience. It was about learning to take initiative, solve problems, and build relationships. Those lessons have stuck with me throughout my career.”
The cycle has come full circle. Dawn now mentors Keuka College students, offering internships of her own, sometimes with an assist from fellow alumna Mackenzie Peterson ’20, senior manager for experiential activation at Watkins Glen International.
The Field Period experience didn’t just launch Dawn’s career;, it continues to influence it, decades later.
“Life comes full circle in ways you never expect,” she said.
