Events
Join us for an engaging in-person Q&A session with two accomplished marketing leaders,Chris Epple, Vice President of Marketing, Consumer Audio at Harman International, and Mark Hanson, Vice President, Commercial and Division Marketing at PepsiCo US Beverages.
This is a unique opportunity to hear how top executives shape global brands, drive innovation, and lead high-performing teams. Whether you are pursuing a career in marketing or simply want to learn how creative thinking and strategy come together in the business world, this session will be an inspiring and valuable experience!
Date: Monday, October 21Time: 1:45 – 3:00 PMLocation: SOM LoungeRSVP Deadline: Friday, October 17 by 3:00 PMDo not miss this chance to learn from two of the best in the industry!o secure your spot!
Chris Epple, Vice President of Marketing, Americas at HARMAN, an American audio electronics company and independent subsidiary of Samsung Electronics since 2017.Chris brings a wealth of experience in transformative leadership and strategic marketing, having led teams at HARMAN for over seven years to achieve record-breaking successes, including maintaining JBL’s #1 position in portable audio and pioneering innovative consumer engagement initiatives. His impressive career includes senior roles at A+E Networks and PepsiCo, where he championed groundbreaking marketing strategies and digital innovation.
Mark Hanson, Senior Director of Commercial Marketing for the Beverages Portfolio at PepsiCo, has over 18 years of experience driving growth for major beverage brands like Pepsi, Mtn Dew, and Rockstar Energy. Mark’s expertise in leading impactful business programs, strategic marketing, and multi-channel innovation has earned consistent recognition. His leadership was pivotal in achieving 3-5% sales growth for PepsiCo’s $3.5 billion iced tea portfolio and executing strategic programs at The Dannon Company and Bozell Worldwide. RSVP Here by Thursday, November 14th at 12:00. Dress is Business/Neat Casual.
Panelists include Izabella Bajraktarevic (RSM Strategy & Management Consultant), Noah Hoch (Protiviti Business Performance Improvement Consultant), Julia Almeida (EY Technology Risk Assurance), and (FINAL PANELIST TBD, likely PWC). Guided discussion will be facilitated by Liam Landau (Deloitte Risk and Financial Advisory).
To RSVP use
Applications are due on Saturday, November 2nd by 11:59 PM. Late submissions will not be accepted. Applicants must submit a SOM-approved resume, a writing sample, and a video submission. Attendance to at least one GIM is mandatory for an application to be considered.
Applications and more information available on our website: /som/undergraduate-programs/dmp.html
In today’s ever-changing job market, being proactive is key. A successful job search isn’t just about having one plan—it’s about having multiple options. This session will guide students through the process of creating a strategic job search plan, exploring both linear and non-linear career paths, and developing transferable skills that can open doors across industries. Participants will also gain insights into valuable resources and tools to stay informed about job market trends, ensuring they’re prepared to pivot when needed. Whether you’re focused on your ideal career path (Plan A) or exploring alternative opportunities (Plan B and C), this session will help you build a flexible and resilient approach to your job search. The session will also cover tips for the interview process.
Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Location: University Union, UU133A - Fleishman Career Center
Join professionals from Deloitte for an interactive workshop focused on virtual interviewing best practices. Whether you're preparing for your first interview or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will offer practical tips to help you stand out in a virtual setting. Learn what top firms are looking for, how to present yourself professionally on screen, and how to navigate common interview questions with confidence.
Open to all SOM students. Don’t miss this chance to get insider advice from one of the world’s leading professional services firms!
The Investment Company Institute, the Washington, DC-based association representing regulated funds globally (e.g., mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and closed-end funds), is offering a free webinar onThursday, October 23, from 3:00 – 4:00 pm ET,to introduce students to career opportunities in the asset management industry.
Detailed information about the webinar, including the names and affiliations of our speakers and a link to register, is(and int he promotion below). At the conclusion of the webinar,we will encourage attendees to submit their resumés to ICI’s resumé repository, which is accessible for review only by ICI member firms (i.e., asset management companies),seeking to hire interns and new talent.
WiB x Grant Thornton Global Trends Case Competition
Date: Friday, October 24Case Study: DuolingoWomen in Business will host a case competition in collaboration with Grant Thornton, where students will analyze Duolingo, the world’s most popular language learning app, and its strategy to expand into the broader digital education space.Studentswill explore how Duolingo is using artificial intelligence (AI) to evolve into a full-service, AI-powered education platform. The case will challenge students to consider how the company can scale, manage brand expansion, and lead in the competitive 83 billion dollar edtech industry.
Students will evaluate:
Duolingo’s use of AI for personalized learning and content creationThe opportunities and risks of expanding its brandStrategic recommendations for growth in the digital education market
Allen Margolius -
Portfolio Manager – Webster Bank
Allen Margolius is a multi-asset class portfolio manager at Webster Bank with a strong track record of raising and managing assets while building lasting relationships with institutional clients, consultants, wealth advisors, and high-net-worth individuals. He brings broad generalist expertise across multiple sectors, engaging with C-level executives and collaborating closely with advisory, trading, marketing, and operations teams.
As a member of the Investment Committee, Allen conducts due diligence, interviews and selects investment managers, and contributes to asset allocation model decisions. His experience spans research, portfolio construction, and client engagement, positioning him as a trusted advisor and manager.
Allen earned his MBA in Finance from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and graduated cum laude from with a B.A. in Economics and Political Science, concentrating in Public Policy and Administration.
Geoff Wolinetz is the Founder and Principal of JPEG Consulting, a boutique advisory firm that helps companies unlock their full revenue potential through smart, actionable go-to-market strategies. With over 20 years of leadership experience across media, advertising, and technology, Geoff has held senior roles at Warner Media, Comcast/FreeWheel, OpenX, and Chalice AI, where he led sales, growth, and platform strategy.
In addition to consulting, Geoff is Co-Founder of JPEG Investments, which supports early-stage startups in advertising, location, and information security technology. He also hosts the podcast and newsletter “OK, So…”, featuring candid conversations with industry leaders on trends, creativity, and professional journeys.
A proud alumnus, Geoff is an active mentor with the #HIREBLACK initiative and serves on the boards of Amanda Selwyn Dance Theatre/Notes in Motion and the Cognitive Film Society.
Marketing and MIS Concentrations – interested in digital media, advertising strategy, brand development, or marketing analytics.
Entrepreneurship & Consulting-Focused Students – curious about building or advising startups, scaling growth, and early-stage investing.
Students in leadership positions – those developing professional skills in pitching ideas, managing teams, or navigating industry shifts.
The Koffman Incubator’s October webinar will showcase the benefits of adopting a Quality Management System (QMS). A QMS is critical for startups working in design, service and/or manufacturing to build sustainable processes and avoid quality headaches.
Register:
Date: Tuesday, October 28
Location: Zoom
Bi-weekly on Wednesdays | 6:00 – 7:00 PM ET
Hosted on Zoom
Kickoff Session: Wednesday, October 29
Hosted byLuca M. Pautasso, Partner at New York Life Manhattan General Office
Registration link:
Take a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to build a career withone of the most respected financial services firms in the Country. Explore the day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of being a Financial Advisor or Partner at New York Life - Manhattan General Office. Learn about our mission-driven culture, career development paths, training programs, and the meaningful impact you can make in your community.
Whether you're considering financial services or are interested in a leadership path, this session offers valuable insights into how New York Life empowers professionals to build their own financial practice,with the support of a Fortune 500 company that’s been doing right by its clients for over 180 years.
Who Should Attend:
Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as alumni, who are exploring careers in financial sales with a potential path to management.
Do you possess:
An entrepreneurial mindsetCoachabilityA strong sense of self-disciplineIf you answered “yes” to all three, we’d love to meet you.
Please note: Visa sponsorship isnotavailable for these roles under any circumstances
Please find attached a virtual flyer that includes a registration link and QR code. Feel free to share it on your online platforms or forward it via email to anyone who may be interested.
Arianna will guide us through key strategies from B-Healthy’s most impactful workshops, including:Building Resilience through identity exploration and habit formation using the ABC methodFostering Emotional Wellness with practical tools from the science of Positive Psychology and the PERMA modelUnderstanding Suicide Prevention, including how to recognize warning signs, support friends in need, and connect them with campus resourcesNavigating Wellness Resources available to all students—on and off campusThis session will be an engaging mix of reflection, real talk, and useful strategies you can start using right away. Come ready to explore how to thrive, not just survive,e this semester!
Arianna Cammisa is a Mental Health Specialist at 's B-Healthy initiative, where she leads efforts to build a supportive, inclusive campus culture and strengthen student belonging. She develops and delivers evidence-informed wellness programs, promotes preventative policies, and collaborates with faculty and staff to integrate mental health strategies into the classroom.
Arianna holds a Master of Science in Developmental Psychology from the University of East Anglia, where she graduated with distinction, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from . Her work focuses on increasing mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and expanding access to on-campus resources through engaging workshops, outreach, and strategic partnerships across the campus community.
Join us for a dynamic Skills Lab featuring Sandy Hathaway, a senior technology product development expert who is currently working as Senior Director of SAP BTP Product & Strategy Partnerships at SAP, and has previously been a B2B machine learning startup founder and innovation consultant for high tech companies. She will share her insights into the rapidly evolving world of generative AI and explore how students can begin developing essential skills in critical thinking, and asking the right questions from AI tools to enhance productivity and decision-making.This session is perfect for anyone curious about how AI is transforming the workplace—and how to stay ahead by working smarter.Sandy is passionate about working on the cutting edge of technology, creatively collaborating with diverse customers and entrepreneurial teams. With years of experience in corporate medtech and venture capital funding, she brings her innovation and business development skills to enterprise software.
What to expect: Expand critical thinking skills and ask probing questions exploring the world of AI. Take advantage of generative AI as it transforms the corporate workplace. Enhance productivity and decision-making by using AI as a guide.
Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Time: 5pm - 6:30pm
Location: University Union, University Union Room 133A, Fleishman Career Center
Applications are due on Sunday, November 2nd by 11:59 PM. Late submissions will not be accepted. Applicants must submit a SOM-approved resume, a writing sample, and a video submission. Attendance to at least one GIM is mandatory for an application to be considered.
Applications and more information available on our website: /som/undergraduate-programs/dmp.html
You can get information about the event and how to register. And on.
Join us at the Excellus BlueCross BlueShield - Summer 2026 Internship Fair! We are thrilled to host this event and have the opportunity to connect with students who are eager to explore internship positions for the upcoming summer. This is a fantastic chance for students to learn more about Excellus BCBS and the exciting internship opportunities we have to offer. Don't miss out on this valuable networking opportunity with our team. We look forward to meeting you at the event!
Thursday, October 30th from 3-5 pm at the BCBS Headquarters in Rochester.
165 Court St., Rochester, NY, 14647
To register visit
Mark Yonaty – Greater Development
Mark Yonaty is a real estate developer dedicated to revitalizing downtown. Through Greater Development, he has advanced majorcommercial projects that contribute to the region’s economic growth. Beyondreal estate, he is also a partner in Station 45 American Chop House,adding to his impact on the region’s dining and hospitality scene. Hisleadership earned him recognition as the Greater Chamber’s Entrepreneurof the Year in 2020.
Dan Polhamus – Owner, Food & FireBBQ & Taphouse
alumnus (Class of 2000). Dan Polhamus is the co-owner of Food& Fire BBQ & Taphouse. Rising from dishwasher to restaurant owner,including Iron Agave, he has built a strong presence in the Southern Tierhospitality scene. He is also known for launching the #takeouttuesdaycampaign during the pandemic, rallying community support for local restaurants.
Sara Liu – Founder & CEO, ParlorCity Foods
alumna. Sara Liu is the founder and CEO of Parlor City Vegan, the plant-basedcomfort food brand she launched in 2016 with her husband, Lei Liu. What beganas a farmers market stand has grown into a café and a nationally recognizedbrand, earning accolades such as PETA’s Roast Boast Award. Sara ispassionate about creating innovative, plant-based alternatives to classiccomfort foods.
Ilene Friedman – Founder &Co-Owner, Send Me Waffles
Ilene Friedman is the founder of Send Me Waffles, a CliftonPark–based company delivering artisanal Belgian-style waffles nationwide.Launched in 2019, the company combines locally sourced ingredients withinnovative shelf-stable packaging to make waffles available by mail. Herentrepreneurial drive was first spotlighted in the Capital Region Chamber’sEntrepreneur Boot Camp.
Connor Wilson – President, Brew CrewHoldings
Connor Wilson is the President of Brew Crew Holdings, which oversees 7Brew coffee franchise operations in Tennessee. Partnering with his father,Larry Wilson, he is leading the rollout of at least 20 new 7 Brew locationsacross the state. Previously, he managed multiple Jersey Mike’s franchises,and now focuses on scaling 7 Brew’s unique community-driven drive-thru coffeemodel.
Kara Wendling – Owner & Baker,Belle’s Barkery
Kara Wendling is the owner and “Baker to the Dogs” behind ’s, a Hudson Valley–based business specializing in natural, handmadedog treats, cakes, and celebration boxes. Inspired by baking a birthday cakefor her pup Belle, Kara built a brand committed to creating treats free ofsynthetic dyes and safe for dogs. She combines her love of baking and pets tobring joy to dogs and their families.
Michael Schwartz
Partner, Capital Markets – Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Michael Schwartz advises U.S. and international issuers, private equity and hedge fund sponsors, SPACs, REITs, and underwriters on a wide range of public and private financing transactions. His work spans IPOs, high-yield and investment grade debt offerings, spin-offs, and complex equity and refinancing transactions.
He has deep experience in the SPAC market, including representing Ajax I in its $800 million IPO, the underwriters in multiple SPAC IPOs, and Morgan Stanley in the first-of-its-kind Stakeholder Aligned Initial Listing (SAILSM). Michael also counseled Perella Weinberg Partners on its $975 million de-SPAC with FinTech Acquisition Corp. IV.
He earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law and his B.A. from Univers
Join us to learn about visiting employers and alumni in Washington DC and Boston! Attend this information session to learn more about the DC and Boston employer site visit programs, February 26-27. Designed for networking, career education and learning about working and living in these cities. In partnership between the Fleishman Center and the Office of Alumni Engagement, this trip will be funded with minimal costs to students (trip includes transportation, hotel accommodations and alumni reception event).
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Time: 12pm - 1pm
Location: University Union, UU - 111
Here
Sydney Sherman is an accomplished professional with extensive expertise in project management, operations, and community engagement. As Director of Project Management at SERHANT., she drives the execution of innovative strategies to enhance organizational efficiency and deliver exceptional client experiences.
Previously, Sydney served as Customer Relationship Manager at SERHANT., where she spearheaded operations and project management initiatives, solidifying client relationships and ensuring seamless project execution. Before that, she played a pivotal role as Senior Community Development Manager at SERHANT. Ventures, where she managed digital communities with a combined reach of over 100,000 subscribers, launched high-impact products, and cultivated meaningful engagement strategies that resonated with audiences.
Sydney is also the founder of By Syd LLC, where she combines her entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in personal training to empower individuals in achieving their fitness goals. Her prior experience includes serving as Community Manager at Tray.io, where she developed and launched strategic operations to enhance user engagement, doubling active discussion channel participation month over month.
Sydney’s early career includes impactful roles at ’s School of Management, where she drove exponential enrollment growth for the MBA program, improved communications strategies, and implemented initiatives to enhance student satisfaction.
Sydney holds both a Bachelor’s Degree and an MBA from ’s School of Management, where she was a member of Beta Gamma Sigma. Her proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, develop strategic solutions, and foster community connections makes her a dynamic leader in every role she undertakes.
HereBi-weekly on Wednesdays | 6:00 – 7:00 PM ET
Hosted on Zoom
Kickoff Session: Wednesday, October 29
Hosted byLuca M. Pautasso, Partner at New York Life Manhattan General Office
Registration link:
Take a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to build a career withone of the most respected financial services firms in the Country. Explore the day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of being a Financial Advisor or Partner at New York Life - Manhattan General Office. Learn about our mission-driven culture, career development paths, training programs, and the meaningful impact you can make in your community.
Whether you're considering financial services or are interested in a leadership path, this session offers valuable insights into how New York Life empowers professionals to build their own financial practice,with the support of a Fortune 500 company that’s been doing right by its clients for over 180 years.
Who Should Attend:
Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as alumni, who are exploring careers in financial sales with a potential path to management.
Do you possess:
An entrepreneurial mindsetCoachabilityA strong sense of self-disciplineIf you answered “yes” to all three, we’d love to meet you.
Please note: Visa sponsorship isnotavailable for these roles under any circumstances
Please find attached a virtual flyer that includes a registration link and QR code. Feel free to share it on your online platforms or forward it via email to anyone who may be interested.
The Central NY Real Estate Conference, presented by Kenwood University of NY Campus Association, will take place on November 13, 2025, at Destiny USA. It is the largest student-run real estate event in the region.
Featuring expert panels, a high-impact keynote speaker, and interactive networking sessions, the conference is designed to empower the next generation of real estate investors.
Located at Destiny USA, the conference benefits from the malls exceptional foot traffic. Industry data shows Destiny USA welcomes 45,000–50,000 visitors daily (Spectrum Local News), so we conservatively expect exposure to at least 20,000 patrons on conference day.
Attendees will explore:
Breakout sessions on niche investment strategies, portfolio management, real estate financing, and governmental incentives.
Interactive networking designed to spark partnerships among students, educators, and industry veterans.
Tabling of industry professionals and companies sharing their products, insights, and the latest innovations and techniques.
🔗 Learn more and register at:
Here
Gary Yang is Director of Commercial Finance for the Americas at Cognex Corporation, partnering with Sales and Global Marketing on financial planning, forecasting, and strategic initiatives. Previously, he led EU Strategic & Commercial Finance at Wayfair, launching Wayfair Ireland and driving market strategy across the UK, Germany, and Ireland. He has also held roles at Walmart eCommerce, KPMG, and as an independent consultant. A School of Management graduate with a B.S. in Finance, Leadership, and Accounting, Gary has expertise in brand financials, forecasting, market launches, and strategic partnerships.
An alumni roundtable is an interactive, small-group discussion event that connects current students with alumni working across a range of industries.Roundtables allow students to engage directly with alumni in a more personal and conversational setting. These events are designed to foster meaningful dialogue, provide industry knowledge, and help students build their professional network.
Bi-weekly on Wednesdays | 6:00 – 7:00 PM ET
Hosted on Zoom
Kickoff Session: Wednesday, October 29
Hosted byLuca M. Pautasso, Partner at New York Life Manhattan General Office
Registration link:
Take a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to build a career withone of the most respected financial services firms in the Country. Explore the day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of being a Financial Advisor or Partner at New York Life - Manhattan General Office. Learn about our mission-driven culture, career development paths, training programs, and the meaningful impact you can make in your community.
Whether you're considering financial services or are interested in a leadership path, this session offers valuable insights into how New York Life empowers professionals to build their own financial practice,with the support of a Fortune 500 company that’s been doing right by its clients for over 180 years.
Who Should Attend:
Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as alumni, who are exploring careers in financial sales with a potential path to management.
Do you possess:
An entrepreneurial mindsetCoachabilityA strong sense of self-disciplineIf you answered “yes” to all three, we’d love to meet you.
Please note: Visa sponsorship isnotavailable for these roles under any circumstances
Please find attached a virtual flyer that includes a registration link and QR code. Feel free to share it on your online platforms or forward it via email to anyone who may be interested.