Dawn Burlew ’86 never expected her college internship to steer her toward the fast lane — but nearly 40 years after her first Field Period®, she’s now president of Watkins Glen International.
The Keuka College alumna recently took the wheel at one of NASCAR’s most iconic racetracks, becoming the first woman to lead the venue. Her journey began with a first-year internship at Corning Inc., where she got hands-on experience in corporate communications — and unknowingly, a foot in the door at the Glen.
“That Field Period experience planted the seeds for everything that came after,” Burlew said. At the time, Corning was helping revitalize Watkins Glen International, and she became part of the effort. That connection grew into a 40-year career at Corning, where she worked in economic development and government affairs — always circling back to the Glen.
Her longtime support made her a natural choice when NASCAR went looking for new leadership. Today, she’s leading the track into a new era focused on community events, inclusivity, and innovation — from races and festivals to charitable walks.
Burlew credits Keuka College and its signature Field Period program with giving her the tools to build a career she never expected. Now, she’s giving back by mentoring current students and helping place them in internships — often with help from fellow alumna Mackenzie Peterson ’20, now a senior manager at the track.
“Life comes full circle in ways you never expect,” Burlew said. “The Field Period program wasn’t just about experience. It was about taking initiative and building relationships — lessons that still guide me today.”
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