Current and previous members of the College of Business Administration’s Dean’s Alumni Circle and Dean’s Council gathered to toast past accomplishments—with a nod to a shared vision for the future at Florida International University (FIU).
The evening spent at The Grove Isle Hotel in Miami provided a welcome opportunity for both groups to reconnect. In previous years, Joyce J. Elam, executive dean, hosted each group at her home on separate occasions during the holiday season.
According to Monique Catoggio (EMBA ’03), director, advancement, alumni and corporate relations, more than 100 attendees were on hand to hear Elam reflect on the achievements of the past ten years.
![Rojas Medina Elam and Caruncho](https://biznews.fiu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Rojas-Medina-Elam-and-Caruncho.jpg)
Catoggio and Annabelle Rojas (MBA ’98, BBA ’87), assistant dean, advancement, alumni and corporate relations, also spoke briefly to the group.
“It was a lovely way to thank these dedicated alumni and council members for the positive impact they have on our college and business community,” Catoggio said. “We have been successful in many ways because of their ongoing involvement and support.”
Original goals realized—with a passionate commitment to the future.
Alfredo Cepero (MACC ’90, BACC ’88), current Alumni Circle chair, has been with the group since its inception.
![Marlene and Alfredo Cepero](https://biznews.fiu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Marlene-and-Alfredo-Cepero.jpg)
“Serving as ambassadors for the college is an incredibly rewarding experience as we work together to build local awareness of our world-class business school,” he said. “Over the past ten years, this powerful group of dedicated volunteers has collaborated with Dean Elam and the college to drive strategy, mentor students and provide feedback on curriculum to build a stronger program that is highly marketable to current and future employers.”
Cepero recognizes Elam as the visionary who was instrumental in starting both groups.
“This event also gave us a chance to collectively thank her for her unending commitment, guidance and enthusiasm,” said Cepero, who is equally passionate about the future. “We will continue to drive positive change and fuel this economic engine for our community.”
The current Alumni Leadership Campaign is helping build that future, with many members of both the Alumni Circle and the Dean’s Council already contributing more than $110,000 toward a five-year $2 million goal.