On April 18, Bryan School students and their families listened intently to Jerome (Jay) L. Raffaldini II describe his “epic journey” of successes and failures in business. Raffaldini is Founding Partner, Managing Director, and Head of Global Products Specialists for UBS Hedge Fund Solutions, the second largest hedge fund investor in the world. You also may know him as owner and winemaker of North Carolina’s flourishing Raffaldini Vineyards. He shares something in common with the students he addressed: membership in Beta Gamma Sigma, the highest recognition a business student anywhere in the world can receive in an undergraduate or master’s program at a school accredited by AACSB — The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
As the Bryan School’s 2016 Chapter Honoree and keynote speaker, Raffaldini joined 43 students selected for recognition by the society. Dean Mac Banks addressed the student honorees, reminding the undergraduates and graduates of what sets them apart. “We produce innovative, principled problem solvers,” he said, noting their academic accomplishments, commitment to service, and hands-on experience — as well as the bond and engagement they have with Bryan School faculty.
“This package makes us different from other business schools and business students around the world.”
Beta Gamma Sigma inductees enjoy another point of distinction — ranking at the top of their classes. At the event, however, it was clear that induction means much more than having an outstanding GPA.
“After the ceremony, I received so many compliments and words of thanks from the families,” says Tuisha Fernandes Stack, Administrative Director of Graduate Programs. “I think an event like this reminds them how much we care about student success here.” Donald Beck earned his Beta Gamma Sigma status just before graduating with a master’s degree in information technology management. “To me it was a validation of the hard work of all the inductees,” he says. “Recognition for a job well done is a huge motivator for people. It’s nice the Bryan School recognizes students in this way.”
