Showing 10 of 19 articles
Family
A FUTURE IN HIS PAST
Ruviel Sibaja, a Notre Dame graduate with a Master of Nonprofit Administration, faced an array of job offers but chose to return to his roots in Tamuin, central Mexico. Driven by a desire to give back to the community that supported him during his difficult childhood, he is working with Grupo GUSI to establish a charitable foundation focused on improving housing and education in the region. Despite the challenges of poverty and limited resources, Sibaja is committed to making a difference, fueled by his own experiences and the support he received throughout his life.
Family
AI HAS SOME EXPLAINING TO DO
Kyndi, a promising AI startup led by Ryan Welsh (MBA '13), aims to make artificial intelligence more user-friendly by focusing on explainability. Welsh's approach contrasts with traditional deep learning methods, which struggle with natural language processing. By integrating basic reading comprehension skills into its AI, Kyndi's technology can analyze complex financial documents and deliver clear, actionable insights, transforming how users interact with AI-driven data.
Features
AUTOMATION ANXIETY AND THE MEANING OF WORK
Automation presents both challenges and opportunities in today's workforce. Since the landmark event on "Jeopardy!" in 2011, fears surrounding job displacement have shifted from traditional blue-collar roles to white-collar professions, where skilled workers in fields like finance, journalism, and even medicine now face the realities of intelligent machines. The discussion now revolves around how these advancements can lead to a re-evaluation of the purpose of work itself, urging professionals to rediscover the value in what they do amidst the rise of technology.
Family
CLASS NOTES
The Class Notes section captures a variety of updates from alumni, including new job launches, awards, and personal milestones. Notable mentions include Neil Hitz's launch of My Life Directory, Thomas E. McCabe receiving recognition as Outstanding Chief Legal Officer, and John Baumer's significant donation for a new residence hall at Notre Dame. This mix of career achievements and personal news underscores the ongoing contributions and connections of the Mendoza community.
Vita
Editor's Letter
Eugene "Genie Deez" Staples, a BBA graduate from Notre Dame, shares his journey from waiting tables at Legends to thriving as a film producer in LA. His story reflects a broader conversation about the importance of meaningful work in an age increasingly influenced by AI and automation. The cover feature, "Automation anxiety and the meaning of work," examines how these technological advancements affect our roles and highlights the necessity for human skills as we navigate this changing landscape.
Vita
FACULTY IN THE NEWS
Experts share insights on a variety of timely topics, including concerns over Facebook's privacy practices, the NFL's influence in stadium negotiations, and the financial implications of CEOs manipulating stock options. Additional commentary highlights consumer spending habits among couples, the effects of insider stock sales on market returns, and the broader impact of U.S. sanctions on Venezuela's oil industry. Perspectives range from the philosophical to the practical, urging a balance between financial awareness and appreciation for life's simple joys.
Vita
FUTURES
Five Notre Dame MBA students, all military veterans, undertook a challenging project to help rural residents of Puerto Rico still recovering from Hurricane Maria by demonstrating a water filtration system. To build trust with the community, the students drank filtered water from a questionable source themselves, proving its safety and efficacy. Their efforts, part of a collaboration with the nonprofit Waves for Water, showcase how business education can apply to meaningful humanitarian work while addressing the ongoing impact of the hurricane on the island.
Family
GOOD WORK
Bob Whalen's decision to make employees part-owners of HB McClure has proven beneficial on multiple fronts. The transition to an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) not only helped him secure ownership during the financial crisis but also fostered a thriving company culture. Since the implementation of the ESOP in 2010, the share value has soared, and the company has significantly expanded its workforce and operations, demonstrating the positive impact of employee engagement on business success.
Family
IN MEMORIAM
The recently published remembrance features the lives and contributions of several Notre Dame alumni. Donald T. Schaefer, a former Football Academic All-American and Philadelphia Eagles player, is remembered fondly for his passion for the university and his family. Michael Michaux, an accomplished CPA and lawyer, is celebrated for his vibrant spirit and love for Ironman Triathlons, asking loved ones to honor him with a colorful farewell. Kathryn Schurtz and her fiancé tragically lost their lives before their wedding, and Laura Ritter Allio is remembered for her advocacy and resilience in the face of cancer. Each story
Vita
INSIGHTS
Maximizing your virtual presentation requires focusing on audience engagement and effective communication techniques. Tips from the Fanning Center for Business Communication include making virtual eye contact by looking directly into the camera and using second-person pronouns to connect with your audience. Additional strategies involve setting up visual aids in your workspace, incorporating engaging visuals, and being aware of your nonverbal cues to enhance your delivery.