Lasell hosted its annual Michal Longe ’95 School of Business Day on Wednesday, March 5 with a theme centered around networking and collaboration. The event brought together alumni, industry professionals, and students for a day filled with impactful discussions, professional engagement, and development insights.

The day kicked off with a keynote speaker, Senior Director and Head of Development at ESPN Kati Fernandez.

Fernandez, who is also the Vice President of Women in Sports & Events with ESPN, shared her career journey and emphasized the importance of building professional connections, collaboration, and dedication in achieving success.

“Her insightful discussion in front of a jam-packed de Witt Hall focused on career preparation and navigation really set the tone for what would be a phenomenal day of connected learning,” said Dr. Matthew Reilly, Chair of the Business program and Interim Chair of Lasell’s Sport Management program. 

Throughout the day, students participated in a variety of sessions designed to engage and educate on key business topics. Among these discussions included a presentation on launching a brand with Adam King, founder of 1587 Sneakers and Shark Tank contestant. This discussion was followed by a hospitality alumni panel.

Students also had the opportunity to connect with industry leaders during a sports management panel which included representatives from the Boston Celtics, the Boston Bruins, and Boston College Athletics. The session highlighted the importance of collaboration within the sports industry.

The day also featured an Esports watch party, co-sponsored by the Esports Club and the BUSS338 Advanced Esports & Gaming course. Students, faculty, and staff participated in the event, where student coaches led exciting competitions.

A finance and accounting professional panel hosted in the Innovation Center concluded the day where alumni from Fidelity and other local certified public accountant firms engaged with students to discuss the role that networking plays within the finance industry.