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entrepreneurial essentials. O'Leary provided pointed feedback, emphasizing the importance of a clear value proposition in their pitches. His visit highlighted the dynamic intersection of personal ambition and business strategies, underscoring that true entrepreneurship is about creating autonomy and succeeding in a competitive market.

Chris Stevens, an adjunct management professor at Notre Dame, has profoundly impacted his students' lives, particularly through his early morning classes. Formerly a vice president at Keurig, Stevens chose to retire and dedicate himself to teaching, traveling from Massachusetts before moving to South Bend to be closer to his students. Students express their gratitude in heartfelt letters, praising his inspiration and the valuable life lessons they've learned in his classroom.

Mendoza News
Finance Professor Robert Battalio recently testified before the Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations regarding conflicts of interest in low-cost stock brokerages. Accompanied by co-authors Shane Corwin and Robert Jennings, Battalio's research raises concerns about how brokerages like TD Ameritrade prioritize profitability over customer interests in order routing practices. Their study, which utilized previously inaccessible market data, aims to shed light on the implications of these practices for everyday investors.

Mendoza News
The Investing for the Poor Conference, held at the Vatican, brought together over 100 global business and faith leaders to tackle the pressing issue of income disparity highlighted by Pope Francis. The event focused on impact investing, a strategy aimed at generating both financial returns and social benefits, aligning with Mendoza College of Business's mission to merge profit with purpose. Dean Roger Huang emphasized the transformative potential of this approach in addressing critical global challenges like poverty and inequality.

Mendoza Profiles
Takashi Yanagi's journey from high school student facing personal tragedy to junior at Mendoza College embodies resilience and determination. After losing his mother to cancer and assuming her caretaking responsibilities, Yanagi navigated the challenges of adolescence with remarkable strength, all while maintaining his academic focus. His story reflects the profound impact of his mother's support and the community they built together, ultimately leading him to fulfill her dream of attending a prestigious university.
Ask More of Business
Jordan Karcher, inspired by his rescue dog Molly, founded Grounds & Hounds Coffee Company to help save animals from euthanasia. Launching his business shortly after starting his MBA at Notre Dame presented challenges, but support from mentors like Chris Stevens provided vital encouragement. Karcher reflects on his journey as both exhilarating and humbling, driven by a mission to create affordable products that lead to larger donations for animal rescue.

First Person
In March, a journey to a remote village in Rwanda revealed an unexpected entrepreneurial initiative involving tilapia ponds and rabbit farming. As local villagers creatively utilized resources for sustainable self-sufficiency, the experience prompted reflections on the broader role of business in addressing poverty and fostering community resilience. Enrolling in the MBA Business on the Frontlines course, the author engaged with pressing social issues beyond their expertise in accounting, challenging their perspectives on what it means to contribute meaningfully to development.

John Halloran, who recently retired after 37 years as an associate professor of finance at Notre Dame, reflects on his journey in the university community, emphasizing how it became intertwined with his identity. Known for his approachable demeanor, Halloran has played a pivotal role in introducing finance to a diverse range of graduate students, making complex concepts accessible and engaging. His unique ability to connect with both students and business executives has left a lasting impact on countless careers and exemplifies the strong bonds formed within the Notre Dame network.

Alumni Community
Charles Florance, an infantry captain turned entrepreneur, transformed his passion for whiskey into a thriving business with Indiana Whiskey Company. After a life-changing diagnosis led to his retirement from the Army, Florance found inspiration for his company while recovering, aided by the support he received at Notre Dame. His small-batch whiskey production is rooted in local resources, aiming to foster community through the shared experience of enjoying good spirits.

Class Notes
Several alumni have recently reached new professional milestones across various industries. Greg Andrews and Ryan Bandy were recognized on the 2014 All-ACC Academic Men's Tennis Team for their contributions to Notre Dame's tennis program. In the finance and consulting sectors, members like Ray Korson and Daniel Webster have transitioned into significant roles at Gibson and PwC, respectively. Additionally, Cheryl Booms, Coley Girouard, and others have made notable moves in fundraising, environmental initiatives, and eCommerce. These individuals reflect the diverse paths Notre Dame graduates take in their careers.