Managing a performing arts company, at the best of times, is a juggling act: running productions smoothly, keeping budgets on target, and making sure artists and crews are happy. But when the pandemic struck in 2020, says Theresa Von Klug (MS ’02), “It came down to survival and keeping our people safe.” As then–general manager … Continue reading A New Stage: Theresa Von Klug (MS ’02) and the human side of arts administration
A Sweet Gig: Hostess Brands’ Amit Sharma (MBA ’06)
Amit Sharma (MBA ’06) originally planned to work in information technology, but his professional path led him to a more appetizing industry, so to speak. He currently serves as vice president of Investor Relations at Hostess Brands, parent company of beloved snack brands like Twinkies and Ding Dongs, where he is responsible for increasing the … Continue reading A Sweet Gig: Hostess Brands’ Amit Sharma (MBA ’06)
Tech Powerhouse: Jacky Wright (’85) Named ‘Most Influential Black Person in Britain’
Here are some surprising facts about Jacky Wright (’85), chief digital officer of Microsoft and the top name on the 2022 Powerlist of most influential Black people in Britain, as published annually by U.K.-based Powerful Media. Number one: She’s based in the United States, not the U.K. Number two: Her career in technology began with … Continue reading Tech Powerhouse: Jacky Wright (’85) Named ‘Most Influential Black Person in Britain’
From Shining Shoes to Respected Leader: Jack Sobel (’59) Pays It Forward
The proud Baruch alumnus talks about his humble beginnings, providing scholarship support, and dedicating a lecture hall to help future students Jack and Barbara Sobel Jack Sobel (’59) was always something of a workaholic – and while he enjoyed a lengthy career in the pension and defined benefits industry, he still fondly remembers his very … Continue reading From Shining Shoes to Respected Leader: Jack Sobel (’59) Pays It Forward
The Power of Persuasion: With Real Estate Star John Gomes (MBA ’02)
It takes more than a little charisma to rise to the top of the high-powered, fiercely competitive world of New York real estate. “It also takes passion,” says John Gomes (MBA ’02), whose love for design and architecture, entrepreneurial spirit, and talent for trendspotting have landed him in the catbird seat of the luxury real … Continue reading The Power of Persuasion: With Real Estate Star John Gomes (MBA ’02)
Documenting the Gray Areas: Filmmaker Sam Pollard (’73)
Emmy Award–winning and Oscar-nominated director, editor, and producer Sam Pollard (’73) has told powerful stories of African American history and lives—from the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., to photographer Gordon Parks. The inspiration, he says, comes from within: “These stories are part of my DNA.” Growing up in Harlem during the fight for civil rights … Continue reading Documenting the Gray Areas: Filmmaker Sam Pollard (’73)
Sustainable Snacking: Matt Feldman (’15) Pioneers Mushroom Jerky
Snacking while vegan can be a challenge—just ask entrepreneur Matt Feldman (’15), founder and CEO of Moku Foods. After learning about the lack of sustainability in the meat industry and the health benefits of plant-based nutrition, he committed to a vegan diet. “It made me feel great, physically, mentally, spiritually,” says Mr. Feldman, who was … Continue reading Sustainable Snacking: Matt Feldman (’15) Pioneers Mushroom Jerky
Washington Trailblazer: Justice G. Helen Whitener (’88)
Justice G. Helen Whitener’s career has been a series of “firsts.” The latest came in November 2020, when she won election to retain her seat on Washington State’s Supreme Court—a position to which she had been appointed by Governor Jay Inslee in April of that year. With that victory, she says, came a revelation: “Unbeknownst … Continue reading Washington Trailblazer: Justice G. Helen Whitener (’88)
Looking Back with Herbert Rubin (’56)
Although he graduated from Baruch more than 65 years ago, Herbert Rubin (’56) still carries with him the qualities he honed during his college days: hard work, grit, and determination. Now 89 years old, Rubin has a wealth of stories and experiences to reflect on—and invaluable lessons to share with the next generation of Baruch … Continue reading Looking Back with Herbert Rubin (’56)
DACA Dreamer and Healthcare Hero: JC Alejaldre (EMBA ’18)
In March 2020, Juan Carlos (JC) Alejaldre—an administrator in the Division of Community and Population Health at NewYork– Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center— received an urgent call from his supervisor. With the medical center’s Emergency Department overwhelmed by rising numbers of Covid-19 patients, Mr. Alejaldre was informed that “on Monday we would help decamp the … Continue reading DACA Dreamer and Healthcare Hero: JC Alejaldre (EMBA ’18)