Topic - Iona Students Learn Outside The Lines (142)

Gaels Play Pivotal Role in Bringing Olympic Games to Life (News 5974)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:30:51 +0000

Gaels Play Pivotal Role in Bringing Olympic Games to Life (News 5974) jhernandez33@g… Thu, 03/12/2026 - 12:30 Gaels Play Pivotal Role in Bringing Olympic Games to LifeIona University students and alumni were hard at work bringing the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games into homes across the country March 12, 2026

As the world turned its attention to Milano Cortina for the 2026 Winter Olympics, Gaels were hard at work helping to bring the Games into homes across the country. From producing to streaming and everywhere between, members of the Iona University community helped tell the stories of – and behind – the performances. Each step of the way, Gaels once again demonstrated how an Iona education translates into real-world impact on one of sport’s biggest stages.

Rebecca Bittner ’28: Gaining Meaningful Experience

For Rebecca Bittner, a Media & Strategic Communication major expected to graduate in May 2028, the Olympics marked a defining early chapter in her professional journey. Serving as an intern within NBC Sports’ immersion program, Bittner worked in digital ad commerce, streaming exclusive events across Peacock and NBC platforms while inserting advertising pods into live coverage.

“This experience was truly one of a kind,” Bittner said. “I was able to push myself and learn about thriving in a professional environment.

For Bittner, the experience was not only an opportunity to bolster her resume; it provided firsthand exposure to the world of sports broadcasting — providing practical experience and preparation to succeed in her career.

“It felt surreal that I was able to contribute and do my part during the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics,” Bittner said. “All while representing Iona University and the type of students we pride ourselves on being."

Chernoh Jalloh ’25MA: Bringing the Games to Life

Just one year after earning his master’s degree in Sports Communication & Media, Chernoh Jalloh ’25MA helped power NBC’s Olympic curling coverage as a freelance production assistant.

Throughout the Games, Jalloh organized, tagged and managed broadcast footage of curling events, logging and time-coding commentator audio to support editors and producers. He also assisted with real-time asset retrieval, helping ensure smooth live and post-production workflows.

“Working the Winter Olympics was a life-changing experience,” Jalloh said. “It proved that the stories I once watched on TV were now the stages I help bring to life — from every sweep, every call and every stone.”

Nico Laveris ’23MA: Shaping the Story of Freestyle Skiing

As an associate producer at NBC Sports, Nico Laveris ’23MA served as edit producer for freestyle skiing, covering aerials and moguls.

In his role, Laveris produced short-form content for both daytime and primetime broadcasts across NBC platforms, crafting everything from quick-turn highlight packages to in-depth athlete features that captured the personal journeys behind the performances.

“Covering the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics was an unforgettable milestone for me,” Laveris said. “Whether building momentum heading into a final run or delivering emotional depth in a feature piece, I was proud to produce content that elevated the viewer experience. Being part of such a globally celebrated event and collaborating with an incredibly talented team made this chapter of my career especially meaningful. It was truly a rewarding experience that I will carry with me for years to come.”

Gus Ramirez ’17, ’19MBA: Powering the Streaming Experience

For Gus Ramirez ’17, ’19MBA, the Milano Cortina Games marked his third Olympics with NBC. As an L2 Digital Operator on the NBC Sports streaming team, Ramirez helped run Peacock’s morning edition of NBC’s daily “Gold Zone” show.

Working as master controller, he oversaw prechecks for video, audio and graphics, coordinating closely with the production team to ensure the show ran smoothly for viewers streaming at home.

“This was my third Olympics,” Ramirez said. “It is always rewarding knowing that thousands of people are watching my work on Peacock and knowing that I am contributing the best work that I can. It is very tiring work for those two weeks but always rewarding once we get to the closing ceremony.”

Allen Pines ’21MA: From Digital Operator to Emmy Winner

Allen Pines ’21MA brought experience from four Olympic Games — Tokyo, Beijing, Paris and now Milan Cortina — to his current role as associate technical product owner at NBC.

Earlier in his career, Pines worked as a digital operator, assisting in launching and running live event streams for Peacock and the NBC App, monitoring events and escalating technical issues in real time. For Milan Cortina, he transitioned into a leadership-focused role, helping manage and enhance the tools the digital team uses to deliver those same streams successfully.

“While this past Olympics I got to work from home, the hustle and bustle of the 24/7 environment, while also living in a hotel in Stamford for the run of the games was a real grind, which I consider some of the best team building and overall accomplishments I can claim,” Pines said. “Our team was even awarded Sports Emmys for the Paris games, which now makes me an Emmy winner. I look forward to future Olympic events.”

From students gaining hands-on experience to alumni advancing in the industry, Gaels continue to make an impact in the professional world. Their work surrounding the 2026 Winter Olympic Games highlights the career readiness Iona students build — and the value of an education rooted in real-world opportunity.

ABOUT IONA
Founded in 1940, Iona University is a master's-granting private, Catholic, coeducational institution of learning in the tradition of the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers. Iona's 45-acre New Rochelle campus and 28-acre Bronxville campus are just 20 miles north of Midtown Manhattan. With a total enrollment of over 4,000 students and an alumni base of 55,000 around the world, Iona is a diverse community of learners and scholars dedicated to academic excellence and the values of justice, peace and service. Iona is highly accredited, offering undergraduate degrees in liberal arts, science and business administration, as well as Master of Arts, Master of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees and numerous advanced certificate programs. Iona students enjoy small class sizes, engaged professors and a wide array of academic programs across the School of Arts & Science; LaPenta School of Business; NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences; and Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Iona also continues to be recognized in prestigious national rankings. Most recently for 2025, Iona has been named one of the nation’s best colleges by The Princeton Review, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes and others. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report recognized Iona as one of top for social mobility in the country, while Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW) ranked an Iona degree in the top 6 percent nationally for long-term return on investment. Iona’s LaPenta School of Business, meanwhile, is also accredited by AACSB International, a recognition awarded to just 6 percent of business schools worldwide. In addition, The Princeton Review once again named Iona to its “Best Business Schools for 2025,” recognizing both its on-campus and online MBA programs. Connecting to its Irish heritage, Iona also opened a new campus in County Mayo, Ireland, located on the historic 400-acre Westport House Estate. A school on the rise, Iona officially changed its status from College to University on July 1, 2022, reflecting the growth of its academic programs and the prestige of an Iona education.

Iona University Garners Attention for New “Education in Real Life” Program, Bridging the AI Gap Between Classroom and Career (News 5932)

ptascio@iona.edu — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 18:13:49 +0000

Iona University Garners Attention for New “Education in Real Life” Program, Bridging the AI Gap Between Classroom and Career (News 5932) ptascio@iona.edu Fri, 02/20/2026 - 13:13 Iona University Garners Attention for New “Education in Real Life” Program, Bridging the AI Gap Between Classroom and Career February 20, 2026

As artificial intelligence continues to assume a prominent role in the world, Iona University remains committed to providing its students with the means to succeed — both on campus and into their careers.

This is evident in the University’s announcement of “Education in Real Life,” a four-week summer program that offers students the opportunity to explore how human creativity, reason, and technical skill converge by working directly with both faculty and industry leaders in energy, construction and hospitality.

In a conversation with Fox 5 reporter Richard Giacovas ’13, Iona President Seamus Carey, Ph.D., noted that while education and work are bigger than AI, the new program will be instrumental in positioning students for future success—both personal and professional.

“We are excited that our students are going to get a leg up on the future of work and what that means for them and their lives,” Carey said. “They will have a leg up on the way these industries are evolving because they will be working directly with industry leaders who are exploring these questions for themselves.”

Joining in on the conversation with Giacovas, “AI in Real Life” club co-founder Cy Abbot ’28 expressed enthusiasm for the program for the possibilities it provides to students.

“We want to bridge the gap between education and AI,” Abbot said. “We want to use AI as a tool, not just as a replacement for the education that you need.”

Abbot has already applied for the program and is hopeful to be selected as part of the inaugural cohort.

Joining in on the discussion, both News 12 and WPIX highlighted Education in Real Life, featuring the program as part of its coverage on how Iona is responding to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. The hits highlighted Iona’s proactive approach to preparing students for an evolving workforce, emphasizing the University’s focus on pairing emerging technology with creative thinking, ethics and hands-on industry engagement.

ABOUT EDUCATION IN REAL LIFE

Through coursework, conversation with industry leaders, small-group activities and site visits, students will examine how AI and other digital technologies are rapidly reshaping planning, performance and workforce needs. At the same time, students will connect industry knowledge with the reading of texts relevant to the themes raised by consideration of energy, building, hospitality, and the world they shape.

Iona Singers Set to Perform for Global Audience at Walt Disney World (News 5928)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:19:58 +0000

Iona Singers Set to Perform for Global Audience at Walt Disney World (News 5928) jhernandez33@g… Thu, 02/19/2026 - 12:19 Iona Singers Set to Perform for Global Audience at Walt Disney World

Isabella Ruggiero, Class of 2026

February 19, 2026

For Isabella Ruggiero ’26, finding her fit at Iona University meant creating a space where her passions did not have to compete — they could coexist.

A graduate of LaGuardia High School of Music and Art, and a speech pathology major with a lifelong love of music, Ruggiero knew she wanted to build a career in helping others. She also knew she was not going to let her passion for singing take a back seat.

“There was no way that I was just going to stop singing,” Ruggiero said. “That is definitely why I chose Iona, so that I could do both. And it ended up being such a blessing.”

That decision has shaped her entire college experience; this month, it will take her and nearly 20 fellow students to Walt Disney World.

As president of the Iona Singers and a founding member of the NightinGaels — the University’s a cappella group — Ruggiero has helped lead the ensemble to new heights. From February 19–22, the group will travel to Orlando, Florida, where they will participate in an exclusive Disney recording studio workshop, ending with a performance at Disney Springs for guests from around the world.

The NightinGaels deepen their vocal training through more advanced harmonies, contemporary repertoire, and unique performance opportunities.

“I'm very excited,” Ruggiero said. “I grew up going to Disney with my family, so it is a big win that I get to take the group. I think the energy in the group has stayed extremely high ever since we announced that we are taking this trip.”

Inside a backstage Disney recording studio, students will gain hands-on experience in voice acting and singing while learning how sound and music are recorded for animated films — an immersive look at the intersection of performance, storytelling and technology. They will also take the stage at Disney Springs for a concert featuring NightinGaels favorites alongside beloved Disney classics.

“We have been having Disney-specific rehearsals, and everyone is really excited about it,” Ruggiero said. “When a section gets tough and we have to rehearse it repeatedly, I remind my peers that we are all going to be in Florida together. These are the friends you have made in the group, and now you get to enjoy a weekend with them and show off a little bit.”

"Iona performing arts has proven to be such an accepting place. It is a great place to build community."

Determined to ensure that all members had the opportunity to travel, the group has been hard at work in fundraising as a community.

“I do not think the Singers, at least in my time, have ever taken on something of this scale,” Ruggiero said. “This group has really been showing that we want it. We have been fundraising so enthusiastically and have been working hard to make sure this trip is everything we want it to be.”

For Ruggiero, the group’s dedicated efforts to ensure a successful and memorable trip speak to the character of both the singers and Iona performing arts as a collective.

“I think Iona performing arts has proven to be such an accepting place, and it shows in the Singers,” Ruggiero said. “It has proven to be an onstage and offstage type of group. Whenever there is something rough going on, we show up for each other — outside the concert hall too. It is a great place to build community.”

About The Iona Singers

The Iona Singers organize and participate in several musical productions on campus and off each year. Their concerts include solos and group performances, and are conducted and accompanied by a professional director. You will hear them at many major campus events, such as Homecoming, Commencement, Maroon Madness and more, including performing at the historic Radio City Music Hall.

Iona Singers

About The NightinGaels

The Iona University NightinGaels, part of the esteemed Iona Singers ensemble, are a captivating a cappella group known for their dynamic performances and diverse repertoire. Comprised of talented singers from various backgrounds, they blend harmonies seamlessly, delivering spellbinding renditions across genres. With rigorous rehearsals and a commitment to excellence, they inspire audiences on campus and beyond, fostering a sense of community through their music.

Iona NightinGaels

As AI Transforms the Future of Work, Iona University Partners with Industry Leaders to Launch Groundbreaking Summer Program (News 5919)

ptascio@iona.edu — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 22:20:33 +0000

As AI Transforms the Future of Work, Iona University Partners with Industry Leaders to Launch Groundbreaking Summer Program (News 5919) ptascio@iona.edu Tue, 02/10/2026 - 17:20 As AI Transforms the Future of Work, Iona University Partners with Industry Leaders to Launch Groundbreaking Summer Program

The program will welcome 20 first- and second-year students.

February 11, 2026

NEW ROCHELLE & BRONXVILLE, N.Y. — As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms the economic landscape and the future of work, Iona University today announced a bold new summer program designed to place students at the intersection of education, industry and technological innovation as they prepare for evolving workplaces.

Education in Real Life reflects the vision of Iona President Seamus Carey, Ph.D., and builds upon Iona’s mission of meeting modern-day challenges while remaining anchored in its foundational commitment of providing a transformative educational experience.

Set to launch this May, the four-week program will engage with three critical industries: energy, construction and hospitality. Students will simultaneously study texts that provide context and meaning to the human experience as expressed through these fields.

“It is no secret that AI is having a profound effect on the workplace across nearly every sector of the economy, changing both the prospect of work and perhaps even its meaning, for the future our students will live in. The best way to ask questions about what’s ahead is to start with what leaders in key sectors are already doing, and how they see the technology influencing their operations and opportunities,” Carey said. “Education in Real Life starts there, while remaining rooted in our commitment to an education that deepens the capacities of human understanding and purpose. At Iona, we see artificial intelligence as a partner to the real intelligence education fosters—and that the real world demands.”

Applications to join the inaugural cohort are now open. The program will welcome 20 first- and second-year college students, each of whom will receive a $1,000 stipend and three (3) free credits as part of this innovative learning experience. Learn more and apply at iona.edu today.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Education in Real Life reflects the vision of Iona President Seamus Carey, Ph.D.

The first group of industry partners includes Eos Energy Enterprises; Consigli Construction Co., Inc.; Union Square Hospitality Group; Wyndham Hotels and Resorts; and legendary Westchester restaurateur John Crabtree. Working alongside Iona faculty, these partners will be central to Education in Real Life, allowing participating students to:

Explore real industries to understand their core demands and objectives as well as how AI can reconfigure strategy, systems and operations.
Engage directly with industry professionals and faculty mentors, gaining clarity on the evolution of industries and the jobs that support them.
Examine real-world career journeys and opportunities.
Connect reading and reflection to the pursuit of personal and professional goals, linking lessons with technical and professional experience.

“I want to express my gratitude to our partners for their willingness to contribute to our important and exciting experiment,” Carey said. “They are on the front lines of workforce transformation, just as our faculty are on the front lines of educational transformation. This program will no doubt serve as a catalyst for future innovation at Iona. My hope is that it will also offer a model for how the world of study and the world of work can engage in richer conversation through human connection as well as technology.”

Education in Real Life reinforces Iona’s mission to prepare students who are not only fluent in emerging technologies like AI but are also grounded in ethics, creativity and human understanding. Visit iona.edu for more information or to apply to be part of the first cohort.

Students will examine how AI and other digital technologies are rapidly reshaping planning, performance and workforce needs.

Education in Real Life reinforces Iona’s mission to prepare students who are not only fluent in emerging technologies like AI but are also grounded in ethics, creativity and human understanding.

Through reading, reflection and discussion, students will gain deeper insight to their personal and professional goals.

Applications to join the inaugural cohort are now open. Students accepted to this innovative learning experience will receive a $1,000 stipend and three (3) free credits.

Iona Students Curate 250th Anniversary Exhibit of “Common Sense” in Thomas Paine’s Historic England Home (News 5790)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:49:38 +0000

Iona Students Curate 250th Anniversary Exhibit of “Common Sense” in Thomas Paine’s Historic England Home (News 5790) jhernandez33@g… Thu, 12/11/2025 - 13:49 Iona Students Curate 250th Anniversary Exhibit of “Common Sense” in Thomas Paine’s Historic England HomeThrough the Institute for Thomas Paine Studies, students spent three weeks gaining invaluable hands-on experience abroad. December 11, 2025

Iona University students recently had the opportunity to travel to Lewes, England, to curate an exhibit commemorating the 250th anniversary of Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense,” set to open January 2026 at Bull House, site of Paine’s historic home and business.

Due in part to the generosity of the Lapidus Initiative for Early American Inquiry at the ITPS, students spent three weeks working directly with Leanne O’Boyle, director of Bull House, and Iona professor Adam Arenson, Ph.D., to create the exhibit, which highlights the enduring legacy of Paine’s ideas on democracy. Students also received three course credits in DH 492 – Internship in Public and Digital History for their involvement.

“This program was an incredible opportunity for students to immerse themselves in museums, historic houses and rare-book archives,” said Arenson. “We were thrilled to see how our students could learn how Thomas Paine’s legacy is understood in England and to contribute to the growth of the Bull House museum.”

Students were housed at the University of Sussex, located in Falmer, England, which offered social events and various excursions. For instance, students enjoyed traveling to Arundel Castle, touring the Royal Pavilion in Brighton and interacting with other students from around the world.

Hear from students as they reflect on how this transformative experience deepened their understanding of democracy, expanded their global perspective and brought the study of history to life in meaningful and unexpected ways:

Janae Nora ’28: “I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the town where Thomas Paine spent a pivotal part of his life, and through that, I gained a new appreciation for public history and the role it plays in connecting the past to the present. One of the most meaningful aspects of this internship was the hands-on approach to historical interpretation. We were not confined to a classroom or library, we were out in the field, learning how to interpret physical space, communicate historical ideas to a general audience, and contribute to a broader understanding of an important historical figure. This program fosters a deeper understanding of Thomas Paine’s legacy, while also equipping interns with critical skills in research, public interpretation, and historical communication. Supporting this initiative ensures that future students can gain similar transformative experiences, and that the memory of Paine’s contributions remains vibrant and accessible.”

Megan Basile ’26: “This internship exposed me to other possible career paths that I would have never before considered. This experience requires students to think critically about the purpose of the museum, the story it should tell, the audiences it should attract, and the information it should provide. I think one of the most unexpected topics we covered on this trip was the importance of ongoing discussions about democracy. I believe it is important for the ITPS to continue this trip so that students can have conversations about democracy on an international scale.”

Mackenzie Murphy ’28: “This experience was valuable because it gives students an opportunity to explore topics outside of their major that they usually wouldn't have the opportunity to engage with. It allows students to experience new places and learn new skills. Conducting research and witnessing archives is something most students wouldn't do on their own, but it is something that we learn about in our Public History and Digital Humanities class. Being able to do this with my fellow classmates was an amazing experience.”

Iona Students Tackle Greenburgh Food Scrap Recycling and Small Business Social Media in Latest City Labs Project (News 5733)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 14:40:30 +0000

Iona Students Tackle Greenburgh Food Scrap Recycling and Small Business Social Media in Latest City Labs Project (News 5733) jhernandez33@g… Wed, 11/05/2025 - 09:40 Iona Students Tackle Greenburgh Food Scrap Recycling and Small Business Social Media in Latest City Labs Project November 5, 2025

A new collaboration between the Business Council of Westchester (BCW) and Iona University is deploying the innovative power of design thinking to address two community challenges in the Town of Greenburgh.

Iona business students will lead the latest City Labs project—a key component of the BCW’s Westchester Innovation Network (WIN). The students will focus on two distinct yet vital areas: boosting participation in the town’s food scrap recycling program and strengthening the social media presence of local businesses.

The initiative leverages the human-centered, problem-solving methodology of design thinking, which emphasizes understanding the needs and behaviors of the community before proposing solutions.

Aakash Sapru, assistant professor of design thinking and innovation at the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, said that the dual focus offers a blend of community service and business development.

The core challenge for the food scrap recycling program is not implementation, but participation. Greenburgh already has a program, potentially featuring curbside pickup, but it struggles with resident adoption. The Iona students will examine the behavioral and communication barriers preventing widespread success.

“It’s one thing for the government to encourage these initiatives. It’s another thing for the residents to change their behavior. And that’s the biggest issue,” said Sapru.

Using design thinking, the students will move through a structured process, beginning with extensive research. They are currently conducting secondary research on successful food scrap recycling programs in other communities across New York and the US. They will then move on to primary research, including visiting Greenburgh and engaging directly with residents to understand their motivations, or lack thereof.

The design thinking framework will guide students from empathizing with residents to defining the true problem, ideating solutions, and testing prototypes with the community.

“I am very pleased that the town will be working with students from Iona. I’m committed to starting a food scrap curbside recycling program for all residents of unincorporated Greenburgh in 2026 and appreciate the help and involvement of students,” said Greenburgh Supervisor Paul Feiner. “A successful food scrap curbside program will reduce the amount of garbage that we have to collect.”

As part of their research, the Iona students met with a representative of Table2Ground, a WIN participant and food-waste recycling innovator that markets composting machines to local municipalities. Table2Ground’s technology transforms food waste into pre-compost material within 24 hours.

The second focus area addresses the need for local Greenburgh businesses to better use digital platforms. Students will study the current social media landscape of these businesses and provide actionable recommendations and strategies to help them effectively connect with customers and grow their presence online.

“The Business Council of Westchester established City Labs as a vital bridge between our academic community and local government,” said Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of the BCW. “This initiative allows our future workforce—talented Iona business students—to apply innovative concepts like design thinking to solve practical, real-world problems for our municipalities. It’s a win-win: local governments get actionable solutions, and students gain valuable career experience they can immediately apply to jobs right here in Westchester County.”

This City Labs project will run for six weeks, with the students planning to present their final recommendations to the Town of Greenburgh in early December.

Diego Aguilar '26 Builds Community on Campus and in the Big Leagues (News 5504)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:16:28 +0000

Diego Aguilar '26 Builds Community on Campus and in the Big Leagues (News 5504) jhernandez33@g… Wed, 09/17/2025 - 12:16 Diego Aguilar '26 Builds Community on Campus and in the Big Leagues September 17, 2025

New Rochelle, N.Y. - This summer, Diego Aguilar ’26 went from helping Iona students feel at home as a resident assistant to giving fans behind the scenes access to home plate at Citi Field.

A Long Island, N.Y., native, Aguilar found his fit at Iona because of its reputation for excellence in marketing and business education.

“I chose marketing as my major because I've always been drawn to understanding people,” Aguilar shared. “The marketing department has provided exceptional instruction, industry insights, and opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios."

A driven student both in and out of the classroom, Aguilar is a welcoming presence on the Iona campus as both a resident assistant and a Gael Guide.

"As a residential assistant, I support and guide student in their transition to campus life, fostering a safe and inclusive living environment.”

Aguilar gives perspective residents the full rundown of the Iona campus as a Gael Guide and first-year orientation leader. “I welcome new students, help them navigate resources, and represent the university to prospective families."

Involving himself in the community and taking skills from transformative classes, Aguilar earned a move to “The Show.” As a Premium Experiences Intern for the New York Mets, he gained real-world experience in one of Major League Baseball’s most cutting-edge clubs.

To ensure an impactful gameday experience for fans, Aguilar prepared and executed pregame routines at Citi Field. “On game days, I helped facilitate exclusive experiences such as coordinating the ceremonial first pitch and escorting clients to batting practice for behind-the-scenes access,” he said.

While in Queens, Aguilar noticed the impact of his experiences in New Rochelle. “Being involved on campus with leadership roles helped me get better at communicating and working with others, which definitely came in handy when I was with the Mets."

Aguilar transformed skillsets learned in Iona classrooms into passions that will help him hit his future goals out of the park.

“I’m motivated to keep pushing toward a career where I can combine my love for sports with storytelling and connecting with people.”

From Classroom to Career: Iona Graduate Earns Full-Time Offer with Big Four Accounting Firm (News 5495)

ptascio@iona.edu — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 18:44:43 +0000

From Classroom to Career: Iona Graduate Earns Full-Time Offer with Big Four Accounting Firm (News 5495) ptascio@iona.edu Mon, 09/08/2025 - 14:44 From Classroom to Career: Iona Graduate Earns Full-Time Offer with Big Four Accounting FirmIona's Oluwawolemiwa Olusanya ’25 is eager to begin his career at EY. September 8, 2025

New Rochelle, N.Y. - For Oluwawolemiwa Olusanya ’25, choosing Iona University wasn’t just about picking a school; it was a strategic step toward a career in accounting.

“I was interested in the opportunities available to accounting students and Iona’s reputation for preparing students to meet the demands of the industry,” he said.

Drawn by the LaPenta School of Business’ prestigious AACSB accreditation and hands-on learning environment, the Yonkers native immersed himself in campus life, built lasting connections and earned a full-time offer at EY, one of the Big Four accounting firms.

Olusanya credits not only the curriculum but also the people at Iona who supported his journey. One of Iona’s key advantages is the opportunity to gain practical experience within a supportive, close-knit community.

His favorite spot on campus? The trading floor, complete with state-of-the-art Bloomberg terminals and gorgeous views overlooking the New Rochelle campus.

“At Iona, I gained self-confidence and the ability to form bonds from a single conversation,” he said. “I am well prepared for this opportunity at EY because I got the chance to practice amongst my peers during my time as a student.”

Lucas Quintana ‘26 Steps into Big Shoes as Social Media Intern at Bleacher Report Kicks (News 5491)

ptascio@iona.edu — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 17:09:13 +0000

Lucas Quintana ‘26 Steps into Big Shoes as Social Media Intern at Bleacher Report Kicks (News 5491) ptascio@iona.edu Thu, 09/04/2025 - 13:09 Lucas Quintana ‘26 Steps into Big Shoes as Social Media Intern at Bleacher Report Kicks September 4, 2025

New Rochelle, N.Y. – This summer, Lucas Quintana ’26 brought his passion for digital media and marketing to life through an exciting internship with Bleacher Report Kicks.

As a social media intern, he dove into the fast-paced world of sports and sneaker culture, managing content for major platforms like TikTok and YouTube while learning how to engage audiences and track trends in real time.

Backed by a supportive Iona community and a hands-on education that emphasizes creativity, communication and leadership, Quintana stepped into his role with confidence. From Midnight Run service nights to managing campaigns for student organizations, his Iona experience prepared him to thrive in a competitive industry while staying true to who he is.

Read on to learn how Quintana is making moves in marketing, growing personally and professionally, and building a future rooted in purpose at Iona!

Name: Lucas Quintana
Hometown: Yonkers
High School: Stepinac High School
Major: Digital Media
Minor: Marketing
Favorite Spot on Campus: Hynes Lower Gymnasium

Why did you decide to attend Iona?
I chose to attend Iona because of the community and environment. Everyone was so engaging and welcoming when I first checked out the school. The people were charismatic and made me feel like Iona could really be my second home.

What interests you most about your chosen course of study?
What I enjoy most about my course of study is the constant change and challenge. There’s always something new to learn, and my major keeps evolving every day. Whether it’s finding new ways to market to people or staying up to date with trends on social media, my coursework pushes me to keep growing and adapting.

What distinct advantages have you gained from your Iona experience?
One of the biggest advantages I’ve gained is growing in my personal well-being. I’ve learned how to communicate with people professionally while still being effective and true to myself. I’ve also gotten to know myself better and understand how to work in the real world and make an impact.

Tell us about your plans for the future. In what ways has Iona prepared you for the next step you'll be taking?
My future plans are all about chasing what I’m passionate about, and Iona has truly prepared me for that next step. They’ve taught me to prioritize myself and showed me that dreams really can become reality when you stay focused. There’s no goal too small or too big, anything is possible if you put your mind to it.

What clubs, organizations or service projects are you involved with beyond the classroom?
I’ve been involved in so many different clubs, organizations, and service projects beyond the classroom. Every Thursday night, I take part in Midnight Run with Campus Ministry to give back to the homeless and serve our community. I’m also part of the esports team, Gael Guide Eboard, Iona Players, Iona Performing Arts, Residential Life, and more. All of these experiences have helped me grow as a person, build my character, and taught me the importance of giving back and being grateful for everything I have.

What were your responsibilities during your internship with Bleacher Report Kicks?
My internship responsibilities include covering sneaker news the moment it drops. Whether it’s an athlete, player, or designer releasing a new sneaker, it’s my job to cover it with captions, titles, photos, videos, and more to make sure the post hits. I also manage the TikTok and YouTube pages to keep engagement steady and growing. It’s important for me to stay on top of my game and stay connected with the sneaker community so I know how to post effectively and keep everything relevant.

What were the most valuable skills you gained during your internship?
One of the most valuable skills I’ve gained is confidence. In this industry, it can be nerve-racking, making sure you have all the right info, knowing the shoe, and staying on top of what’s going on. But I’ve learned that it’s okay to make mistakes. What matters is being confident in your work and staying true to yourself, no matter what people think or say. Another key skill I’ve developed is effective communication. I need to stay consistent, open, and honest with my managers and the people I work with, especially when things come up.

How did Iona prepare you for this opportunity?
Iona prepared me for this opportunity by giving me hands-on experience both inside and outside the classroom. From working on real marketing campaigns to creating content for student organizations, I learned how to think creatively, meet deadlines, and communicate clearly. The professors challenged me to push my limits, and the support I got from the Iona community gave me the confidence to step into a professional setting and thrive. Whether it was leading a group project or speaking up in class, Iona helped shape me into someone ready to take on this kind of role.

How will this internship experience impact your future career goals?
This internship is going to have a big impact on my future career goals because it gives me real experience in sneaker and sports marketing. I’ll get better at making content, managing social media, and keeping up with what’s trending – all skills I need for what I want to do. Working with athletes and people in the industry will help me meet new people and open up more chances down the road. Overall, this experience is setting me up to go after a career in marketing and media in the sneaker and sports world.

Iona University’s Connor Murray ’25 Shapes His Path Through Real-World Impact (News 5362)

ptascio@iona.edu — Thu, 22 May 2025 20:30:47 +0000

Iona University’s Connor Murray ’25 Shapes His Path Through Real-World Impact (News 5362) ptascio@iona.edu Thu, 05/22/2025 - 16:30 Iona University’s Connor Murray ’25 Shapes His Path Through Real-World ImpactA double major in criminal justice and political science, Murray completed four internships and two fellowships during his undergraduate career May 22, 2025

New Rochelle, N.Y. — From serving as a Campus Minister and an executive board member of the Student Government Association to performing at Mass with Music Ministry and courtside with the Pep Band, Connor Murray ’25 is seemingly everywhere, all the time – all while embodying the values of presence, compassion and liberation that the Christian Brothers fostered within him.

As a double major in criminal justice and political science, the Andover, Mass., native has always been driven by a deep desire to make an impact.

During his time at Iona, he has also completed an impressive four internships and two fellowships, each centered around public service and politics. While these internships helped to pave the way toward a bright future, the lessons he learned at Iona have also played a crucial role in preparing him for the path ahead.

“Iona taught me that real change happens through relationships — whether with a professor, a peer or someone in the community,” he said. “The close-knit environment here has laid the foundation for me to pursue a career where I can make a real impact. I’m eager to continue applying everything I’ve learned.”

Heeding Iona’s call to learn outside the lines of the classroom, Murray’s internships at the New Rochelle Police Department, WESPAC Foundation, Massachusetts House of Representatives, and with a local attorney and judge have helped him connect his academic studies to real-world experiences.

“Through these internships, I have learned the power of community involvement and how policy and advocacy directly shape people’s lives,” he said. “They’ve shown me the importance of service and leadership in creating lasting change.”

Beyond this, he has also participated in two fellowships during his time at Iona. The first was the Rising Leader Fellowship with GreenFaith, an interfaith organization focused on environmental advocacy from a spiritual perspective.

Most recently, he participated in the Presidential Fellowship at the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress (CSPC). As part of the fellowship, he conducted research on how political divisions in foreign nations influence voting trends across the United States, ultimately attending a prestigious leadership conference in Washington, D.C.

“My trip to Washington, D.C., for the CSPC Presidential Fellows Leadership Conference was genuinely unforgettable. From our internal conversations about the current state of politics in America to our meetings at the State Department and Supreme Court to nightly dinners with famous diplomats, every minute of every day was spent expanding our personal networks and knowledge of the U.S government,” Murray said.

“I am especially honored to have been selected to represent the Presidential Fellows at the CSPC Awards Dinner,” he continued. “My time with the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress has left me profoundly inspired and motivated to continue my pursuit of a career in public service.”