Daniel Pfaltzgraf is a Professor of Practice at the University of Toledo and Toledo Mud Hens’ Ballpark Host, whose work spans classrooms and community, creating connections that inspire at scale. In the corporate world, he led Hampton by Hilton’s “100% Happiness Guarantee” international rollout, impacting 2,500 hotels and over 90 million guests.

He also co-created two patented Nationwide platforms with more than 1 million users, highlighting his innovation and leadership in technology and business. Pfaltzgraf is the author of Contemporary Business (Wiley), a text used in over 150 universities nationwide, while energizing classrooms and Toledo Hens fans alike with his zestful spirit and heart.

His recognition as a 20 Under 40 honoree reflects his ability to combine professional excellence, innovation, and community engagement to inspire meaningful connections locally, nationally, and internationally.