Lubin offices reception area with round tables and chairs representing Dean's Roundtable events

Dean's Roundtable

Bringing the Boardroom to the Classroom

Each semester, Pace University's Development and Alumni Relations Office partners with the Lubin School of Business to put together a series of roundtable discussions between alumni and current students. This event series supports Lubin's mission of bringing the boardroom into the classroom and providing our students with active learning opportunities. Led by Dean Singleton and a group of Lubin's high academic standing students, the series is held via Zoom. Alumni share their experiences since graduating from Pace, and give industry advice for students. These roundtable discussions provide an opportunity for students to learn and ask questions, as well as provide alumni with an impactful and engaging experience.

What students are saying about the Dean's Roundtable

“One of the best event formats for Lubin students.”

“So interesting and cool to meet the Co-CEO of Century 21!”

“The Roundtable was very insightful and the perfect opportunity for students to meet with highly successful alumni.”

“The roundtable initiative was wonderful.”

“This is so amazing and insightful.”

“Keep it going!”

Nick Debellis '83

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Lubin roundtable speaker Nick Debellis

President/CEO - Elite Sampling and Media Group, LLC
Monday, February 5, 2024

12:10 p.m.–1:10 p.m.
Zoom

Nick Debellis has over 30 years experience in consumer packaged goods, advertising, and promotion services. He is a specialist in highly targeted consumer promotion and product sampling programs. He founded Elite Sampling and Promotion, a leading provider of targeted product sampling, promotional and sponsorship programs, in 2001. Formerly he was EVP/Partner at Whittle Communications and prior to that, the Sponsorship Director for the National Football League.

Ramona Hood

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Lubin roundtable speaker Ramona Hood

President and CEO - FedEx Custom Critical®
Wednesday, March 6, 2024

12:10 p.m.–1:10 p.m.
Zoom

Register for Ramona Hood

Ramona Hood is president and CEO of FedEx Custom Critical®, a leading North American transportation provider located in Richfield, Ohio. The company provides multiple transportation capabilities for expedite ground, temperature control shipments and industry-specific solutions.

Hood brings more than three decades of FedEx experience to her role. She began her career with the organization in 1991 in an entry-level position and worked her way up to hold various executive leadership positions at FedEx Custom Critical and FedEx Supply Chain. Hood has been recognized for her excellence in thought leadership, responsibility and passion-driven results. A few specific recognitions include Crain's Cleveland 2022 Power 150 list, Business Insider's powerful women leading top logistics companies in 2021 and service on the Brinker International Board of Directors noting her deep experience in sales, operations, supply chain, marketing and talent management to promote growth and brand differentiation. Most recently, she was appointed to the Knight Foundation Board of Trustees due to the impact she has made on the Akron-area community as a business leader.

Hood has played a critical role in maintaining the strategic vision of the business despite unexpected national and global crises. From her first days as president and CEO, she has led the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery as well as nationwide tensions regarding racial injustices. She continues to lead with courage, conviction and purpose to position FedEx Custom Critical for future growth.

With a genuine interest in understanding her team members, customers and independent contractors, Hood has developed culturally significant strategies for ongoing improvement while continuously driving the performance and strategic direction of the company. Hood earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Walsh University and an Executive MBA from Case Western Reserve University Weatherhead School of Management.

Ira Robbins '05

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Lubin roundtable speaker Ira Robbins '05

Chief Executive Officer - Valley Bank
Tuesday, March 19, 2024

3:25 p.m.–4:25 p.m.
Zoom

Register for Ira Robbins

Ira Robbins is CEO of Valley Bank and approaches his role from a unique perspective. He joined Valley in 1996 as part of the Bank's Management Associate Program and has grown along with the company. From college student to thought leader, his twenty-plus year career at Valley has seen him through several key positions where his invaluable contributions have helped shape Valley's growth and success. As CEO, Ira has led Valley into the future while keeping true to the company's roots as a local bank. In an ever- evolving digital and mobile world, Ira and the rest of Valley's leadership team strive to create a stronger, faster, more efficient and more responsive organization. His vision for success is building a purpose-driven organization which includes embracing innovation, being customer-centric, promoting social responsibility, and empowering Valley's associates.

Ira earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Economics from Susquehanna University, his MBA in Finance from Pace University and is a graduate of Stonier Graduate School of Banking. He is a Certified Public Accountant in New Jersey and a member of both the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Public Accountants. Ira serves on the board of the American Bankers Association, the New Jersey Bankers Association, the New York Bankers Association and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY). He also serves on the board of the Jewish Vocational Service of MetroWest NJ (JVS) and is on the Morris Habitat for Humanity Leadership Council. Ira takes great pride in community outreach and is an active supporter of several other philanthropic organizations in his community as well.

Cecilia Li '02

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Lubin roundtable speaker Cecilia Li '02

SVP, Chief Information Officer - Urban Edge Properties
Thursday, April 18, 2024

3:25 p.m.–4:25 p.m.
Zoom

Register for Cecilia Li

Cecilia Li is a highly accomplished executive with expertise in innovation, digital transformation, and cybersecurity. Her extensive industry engagement and leadership are evident through her involvement in various advisory and supervisory roles, as well as her frequent participation as a speaker and judge. Throughout her professional development, she has consistently pursued excellence and industry recognition, emerging as a distinguished figure. Born in Venezuela to Asian parents, Cecilia's background enhance her social understanding and appreciation. She brings valuable insight to her work through her unique aptitudes in multicultural perspectives, international experiences and being part of a family of entrepreneurs.

Currently serving as the Chief Information Officer at Urban Edge Properties(NYSE:UE), Cecilia leads all technology functions and IT operations with a strong emphasis on customer experience. Her role involves driving innovation, implementing advanced cybersecurity measures, and leveraging digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.