Showing 30 of 36 articles
Features
LAYING THE PIPELINE
"Investing in Women: Bridging the Gender Gap" and "Women Leading in a Male-Dominated Industry." Erin Bellissimo reflects on her journey in finance and her dedication to increasing the representation of women in investment careers. Through initiatives like the Women's Investing Summit and her role at the Notre Dame Institute for Global Investing, she aims to create opportunities and support networks for future female leaders in the industry.
Family
MOTHER'S HELPER
county than anywhere in the Midwest, and there's truly a spirit of collaboration," Rupchock says of St. Joseph County's community. Recently, she has been instrumental in securing significant funding to expand early childhood education options in the area, recognizing the crucial need for these services. Rupchock's journey from a foster care advocate to a dedicated leader in early childhood education emphasizes her commitment to supporting families facing challenges in childcare access.
Family
SMART GOALS
Notre Dame hockey captain Cal Burke faced a challenging scoring drought, going six games without a win or a goal, which stretched into a 20-game personal dry spell. Instead of succumbing to pressure, Burke focused on what he could control, reminding himself of key skills and the importance of mental strength. Drawing on his experiences with the Irish Strong initiative, he sought to raise awareness about mental health and performance anxiety, emphasizing that while everyone faces different challenges, handling them positively can lead to greater happiness and success both on and off the ice.
Family
Eye of the Beholder
Ben Moore, an MBA graduate, has launched The Ugly Company to combat food waste by turning rejected fruit into delicious dried snacks. His venture focuses on "ugly" produce that doesn't meet strict retail standards but is still perfectly edible, helping to address both the excess waste on farms and the need for affordable snacks. With products like dried apricots and peaches, the company aims to shift consumer perceptions about food aesthetics while promoting sustainable practices in the agriculture industry.
Family
A LITTLE BIT OF A LEGACY
Twenty-six-year-olds are not supposed to die, especially vibrant individuals like Laura Szejka Zimmer, who was known for her sunny disposition and relentless spirit. After losing her to colon cancer just shy of her 27th birthday, family and friends continue to honor her memory through acts of kindness, such as handing out sunflowers in Chicago's Millennium Park. Laura's legacy lives on through the memorial fund "A Little Bit of Laura," fostering a tradition of celebrating her life and love for others. Her story reflects both the tragedy of her early departure and the joy she brought to those around her.
Family
ARIKE, AGAIN
Arike Ogunbowale, the star who became famous for her winning shots in the NCAA women's basketball semifinals and championship game, reflects on the team effort behind her success. Despite her individual accolades, she emphasizes that basketball is a collective sport, crediting her teammates and coaches for their support throughout her journey. With a strong focus on community and teamwork, Ogunbowale shares her experiences from the playgrounds of Milwaukee to the national spotlight, illustrating her commitment to representing women's basketball.
Profiles
FLOWER POWER
Two Notre Dame alums, Juan Pablo Montúfar and John Tabis, have co-founded The Bouqs Company, an eco-friendly floral retailer that delivers stunning Ecuadorian roses directly from farms to customers. Montúfar, a third-generation farmer, saw an opportunity to improve the supply chain, ensuring better pay for farmers and fresher flowers by eliminating middlemen. Their journey from Dillon Hall friends to entrepreneurs demonstrates how innovative thinking and a commitment to sustainability can transform an industry.
Family
FROM FINANCE TO FOODSTUFF
Rob McColgan transformed from a Wall Street professional who couldn't cook into a successful restaurant entrepreneur, opening his 29th location on his college campus. Teaming up with childhood friend Anthony Pigliacampo, they aimed to create a fast-casual eatery serving healthy, locally sourced food at affordable prices. Launching Modmarket in Boulder, Colorado, they quickly adapted their menu to cater to diverse tastes, now offering items from personal pizzas to upscale dishes, with many locations serving beer and wine. Their restaurants, with a design blending contemporary and rustic elements, attract long lines, especially during lunchtime
Family
TRAVELS WITH ANDY
Andy Wendelborn's adventures in travel have taken him across 39 U.S. states and internationally to places like China, South America, and Europe. As an associate director for student services in Mendoza's Graduate Business Programs, he balances his work supporting student needs with a passion for exploration. Wendelborn reflects on how stepping out of his comfort zone has transformed his perspective, allowing him to connect with diverse cultures and experiences along the way.
Profiles
Brian Ratigan: A Dream Come True
Brian Ratigan, a former linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts and Notre Dame graduate, transitioned from the football field to the operating room, driven by his long-standing ambition to become a doctor. After completing medical school and an orthopedic residency, he returned to Notre Dame as the team orthopedic surgeon in 2010, emphasizing injury prevention and supporting athletes in achieving their peak performance. Ratigan's journey reflects a unique blend of sports and medicine, showcasing his commitment to the health and well-being of student-athletes.