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Marketing executive and alumnus Richard Bourque draws inspiration for his creative process from his Art History degree, strong work ethic, and desire to make positive progress in the world.

You have had a highly successful career in marketing, spanning the areas of art, fashion, music, business-to-consumer (B2C), business-to-business (B2B), and, most recently, in education, first as vice president at Scholastic, and currently, chief marketing officer at Educational Epiphany.

What aspects of your professional life are you most proud of and why?

I am most proud of the fact that I created my own path and focused on the things that made me happy – which at many points in my journey felt challenging in many, many ways. However, I was willing to make that decision, work as hard as I could, and stay positive. I did not want to take traditional business classes; I loved to write and be creative, and I loved being in New York City. I was, and still am, passionate about art, architecture, food, photography, anything that involves the creative process.

As for my work in education, it’s the perfect industry for me because I can feed my passion for helping people and doing something that I know has a positive impact on society and the world at large. When I visit schools in 40+ states and internationally, I always leave feeling inspired and more knowledgeable about how we can help progress happen.

Is equity in education something you are passionate about?

Absolutely! Equity and access are critical to helping students become the thought leaders and innovators of tomorrow. If we do not provide access to ALL students – regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, zip code, or learning ability – then we are not doing our jobs as educators. Kids can do anything if we show them what’s possible and no matter what challenges they face. We can help just by providing them access.

You received a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Pace University. What attracted you to pursue this course of study and how did you get started in your career?

I love art and I love to read. I also discovered a profound sense of inspiration from the energy associated with what art and artists bring to the world; there’s a sense of urgency, beauty, and excitement. Plus, being in New York, I would spend hours at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Museum of Modern Art reading and learning. Whatever it is that excites you, you should do whatever you have to do to follow it and be closer to it!

Through Career Services at Pace, I obtained an internship at a famous gallery in SoHo named Artists Space. Through that internship, I met the team at Interview magazine. (Back in those pre-internet days, I always had a copy of my resume in my backpack. I would walk the streets of SoHo and drop it off in as many places as would let me). I got an interview – at Interview – and never looked back.

In your view, what meaning does the study of art of the past have to society?

Wow, this is a great question! In my opinion, the impact of the history of art is far and wide. It reaches every corner of the world and in every society. Artists have shaped many of the buildings we work and live in, created the vehicles and transportation systems we use, and have covered the sides and walls of the buildings we work and live in. So, the art of the past has a profound impact and influence on how we all live today.

That willingness to try, that willingness to work hard, to discover new things and put yourself out there, that’s what drives people like me, like us.

How has a degree in Art History prepared you for your career in marketing? Do you have any thoughts about the value of a liberal arts education?

Marketing is about learning. If you are not learning, you are not relevant in the marketing field. You must stay ahead of your customers and understand them and their buying patterns. My degree in Art History provided me with a different way of approaching situations and challenges at work. I was always able to come up with a good idea to support a sales team, to write messaging for a campaign, and to approach data in a unique way. This helped me stand out and get the attention of my managers over time.

I believe a liberal arts education has so much value when it comes to thinking outside of the box and solving problems in your career. Oftentimes in business, at least in my experience, there is often a need for a creative solution to a problem. If you can do this, and learn how to be proactive and hardworking, you can be successful.

Why did you choose to enroll at Pace University on the New York City campus?

I really wanted to be in New York, and I wanted to be at a school where I knew my classes would be smaller. I also liked the option of being in Pleasantville and/or the New York City campus.

Were there certain faculty who were instrumental in your academic and/or professional journey?

Professor Lisa Farber for sure. She is the person who influenced me the most, who pushed me to do my best, and who encouraged me to think differently. She taught about the value of hard work and how to navigate some of the challenges associated with being in a big city and entering such competitive fields as art and publishing.

College is a momentous time in a person’s life. As you look back at your time as a Dyson student, how did it influence you to become the person you are today?

My time at Dyson had a profound impact on my life. I met so many amazing friends and people, made connections, and learned so much from my professors. Being in the city is hard when you are 20 years old. I had three jobs and went to school like many of my friends. However, that willingness to try, that willingness to work hard, to discover new things and put yourself out there, that is what drives people like me, like us. We all had goals, and we did everything we could together as a group to achieve them.

What challenges, if any, have you faced along the way and how did you overcome them?

I face challenges in life and in work just like everyone does. I had folks around me with MBAs and business degrees that did not take me seriously many times, and I had to work hard to gain their respect. I got turned down for a lot of marketing jobs, but that just made me be more grateful and focus on whatever jobs I did get. I learned about the teams in cross-functional departments, I went out of my way to build relationships with internal and external partners, and I knew how lucky I was to get these opportunities, so I did not take them for granted. You are always going to have people that talk about you, that judge you for whatever reason; but if you remain focused on what really matters and focused on your goals and what is good for you and your family, then good things will come.

What advice would you give to our students, as they navigate their college life?

Do you! I know this sounds cliché, but I am telling you there is a place for you – for all of us – in this world, and you are unique and talented in your own way. Make friends, network, put yourself out there, and stay focused. Work as hard and as smart as you know how. And step out of your comfort zone; that’s when the magic happens, when you meet new people, discover, and learn new perspectives, and you will find that “thing” or that “idea” that will shape your bright future! You got this!

Maria Savino

Audit Associate, KPMG

Class of 2022
BBA/MBA in Public Accounting

Hometown: Long Island, NY

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After graduating from Pace University in the spring, Public Accounting graduate Maria Savino '22 learned she passed the final part of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam. In the fall, she'll join the team at KPMG, a Big Four accounting firm. She's now sharing her tips for success for other Lubin School of Business students looking to make a similar journey.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

I chose Pace University because of its accredited accounting program, prime location, and the opportunities available for students. I liked the smaller classroom setting, and the Pleasantville campus has the traditional campus feel I was looking for.

What has been your favorite opportunity at Pace?

My favorite opportunity has been working with the Lubin School of Business community—from the student run businesses and the Accounting Society, to working with Career Services and being a Lubin student aide. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many different people and was able to learn a tremendous amount through the years.

My favorite opportunity has been working with the Lubin School of Business community—from the student run businesses and the Accounting Society, to working with Career Services and being a Lubin student aide. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many different people and was able to learn a tremendous amount through the years.

You recently passed the final part of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. How did you stay focused to achieve this?

My professors encouraged all of their students to take at least one part of the exams before graduating. I met a lot of professionals who encouraged the same thing and explained that it only gets harder the longer you wait, emphasizing the difficulty of studying while working full time. With that, I made sure to prioritize studying and stuck to a plan that worked best for me. Being consistent and holding myself accountable was key.

What is your advice to other Public Accounting students working towards becoming a CPA?

The accounting professors at Pace are great. I would suggest that students try their best to really understand what they are learning in the classroom (beyond just getting a good grade in the class). Once you start studying for the CPA exam, it is much easier to refresh yourself, rather than having to reteach yourself.

In the fall, you're joining the team at KPMG. What motivated you to work towards this position?

I wanted to start my career off at a Big Four accounting firm and learn as much as possible. I was a member of the Accounting Society, and later on, became the VP. Through the years, I met with several professionals and saw what I needed to do to land a job at one of these firms. It was very exciting to learn about the resources, opportunities, and connections available as an employee. I connected with a variety of companies but felt KPMG would be the best fit for me.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife means taking advantage of the resources around you and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are endless opportunities with the Lubin School of Business and the professors truly care about student success. Lubin has a great balance between academics in the classroom and developing your professional skills/network. #LubinLife means setting goals that seem too far of a reach, and then actually accomplishing them.

Connect With Maria:

LinkedIn: Maria Savino

Joe Esner

Audit and Assurance Associate, Deloitte

Class of 2024
BBA/MBA in Public Accounting

Internship: Audit and Assurance Discovery Intern, Deloitte

Pronouns: He/Him

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Joe Esner is all about finding and capitalizing on opportunities to make his dreams come true. When he saw the opportunity to apply for an internship with Deloitte, he capitalized on it by taking advantage of the Lubin School of Business's resources to eventually land the position. He is also one of just 250 students nationwide selected to receive a prestigious scholarship. Joe's advice to other Public Accounting majors at Lubin? Don't wait to work towards your dreams.

How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

The Lubin School of Business has helped me realize that there are opportunities out there and that your dreams can come true when you capitalize on those opportunities. Lubin has helped shape me into a professional through developmental classes and strong business connections. Lubin has opened me to connections that I wouldn't have been able to achieve without being a Pace University student. I have gained a lot of experience from leadership roles to student employment opportunities and Lubin helped me formulate these experiences into a professional resume, which helped get my foot in the door at my internship.

Lubin has opened me to connections that I wouldn't have been able to achieve without being a Pace University student. I have gained a lot of experience from leadership roles to student employment opportunities and Lubin helped me formulate these experiences into a professional resume, which helped get my foot in the door at my internship.

What attracted you to this internship?

Deloitte, being the largest financial services company in the world and a Big Four accounting firm, holds high prestige. The opportunities at Deloitte are huge, and being surrounded by so many business professionals has helped me learn and grow into the person I am.

Describe what a typical day looks like as an intern at Deloitte.

My day typically starts at 9:00 a.m. I log on, check my emails, and get organized for the day. After getting situated, I conduct a meeting with my team to discuss the agenda for the day. Then we begin working on assigned projects and any client engagements there may be. Before I know it, 5:00 p.m. is near, and the day is over. During the first two weeks of my internship, my team and I worked on a cross business case simulation where we consulted on a client merger and acquisition. The rest of the internship is real business exposure through client assignments and business specific projects.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

I was flown out to Texas to attend an intern conference at what is called 'Deloitte University,' which is basically a five-star professional resort with all-inclusive food and activities. It was a great experience and a super fun opportunity to network and meet fellow interns.

How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

This internship is the steppingstone to securing a great career in accounting. The opportunity to learn from so many different business professionals across the country is really making an impact on where I want to be in the future. Hearing and seeing so many success stories firsthand really motivates me to push further and keep striving for more.

How will this experience impact your next semester at Lubin?

This experience showcases my hard work and ability to accomplish anything, even when hardships are thrown my way. My next semester will be more focused on learning and retaining information from my major courses, rather than worrying about securing my next internship. I will soon be preparing for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, so my classes are super important to me.

You are one of only 250 students nationwide to be named as a Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholar for the 2022–2023 academic year. What does this achievement mean to you? What motivates you to work hard?

Being a recipient of the PCAOB scholarship is one of my greatest academic achievements. It showcases my hard work and dedication to learning in the accounting field. It motivates me because it highlights the fact that others notice my diligence, including peers, professors, and family. This award is proof that I am heading in the right direction and that my work does not go unseen. I stay motivated by surrounding myself with successful people who give off positive energy and enthusiasm. I am beyond grateful to have received this award and it only further motivates me to keep striving for more. Greatness is near and I couldn't have done it without the help of my Pace professors and friends.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who would like to pursue an internship in the future?

My advice would be to get involved and take advantage of any opportunity you see because Pace and Lubin are full of them. There are so many student organizations and positions to take on in order develop your leadership and professional skills. Start the search for internships as soon as possible, especially as an accounting major, because the firms recruit early.

Connect With Joe:

• Connect with Joe on LinkedIn
• Follow Joe on Instagram

John Lettera is a 1999 magna cum laude graduate of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University and served as the Managing Editor of Law Review. He is the CEO and Founder of Fairbridge Asset Management, for­merly RealFi Financial LLC. Fairbridge is a leading, technology driven, alterna­tive investment management firm with expertise in real estate credit strate­gies. Mr. Lettera’s involvement with the law school has been tremendous. He is a member of the Law School’s Board of Visitors and an Adjunct Professor at Haub Law. Most recently, he made a generous donation to the Law School which will serve as a five-year grant to name its Investor Rights Clinic after Fairbridge Asset Management—Fairbridge Investor Rights Clinic. He has also been an adjunct pro­fessor at the Law School since 2010, teaching courses in Real Estate Finance, Corporate Finance, and Venture Capital. Mr. Lettera has also supported the Law School through hiring many alumni over the years, generously sponsoring alumni events, and volunteering with the Center for Career and Professional Development. In 2013 and 2022, he received the Distinguished Service Award as part of the annual Law School Leadership Awards Dinner in recognition of his ongoing support.

How did you end up choosing Pace to pursue your legal education?

Pace was a perfect fit for me, as I wanted smaller class sizes and the chance to establish close relationships with other students and my professors. I wanted a col­laborative environment, and I relished the opportunity to engage with other students and work together to complete projects.

You have an interesting professional background, can you speak about that briefly?

I’ve been investing in real estate since 1990, and as an attorney, I’ve specialized in this area for over 23 years, so I have a lot of insight and experience in handling complex transactions—bridge loans, equity and debt financing and investing, acquisitions, etc. Unlike a lot of global bankers or financiers, I like to think outside of the box, more like an entrepreneur than a banker. I learned very early on that this type of investing is very legal intensive so law school was a natural progression and one that has served me very well.

What impact has your legal education at Pace had on your career?

Pace gave me the knowledge and foundation to get recruited to Milbank while also instilling in me the intellectual passion to venture out on my own. Being a part of Pace continuously reminds me that the practice of law is a profession besides being a business and as lawyers we can do good besides just doing well. Thanks to Pace, that commitment is firmly embedded in the culture of its students and in the future of the legal profession.

You are also an adjunct professor at Pace—how do you find that experience?

I always enjoyed classes taught by adjunct professors. I liked learning about their experiences firsthand; it al­lowed the students to view the world they want to en­ter through their lens. As an adjunct professor myself, I speak directly to how theories learned in class apply to real life applications and point out the pros and cons of different scenarios that students may not be able to anticipate at their current level. My love for learning fuels my passion for teaching. I am addicted to the challenge of how to get students even more engaged in learning. I can’t teach every student in the world, but I can make a difference for the ones I teach. Knowing that the impact I can have on their lives can stay with them throughout their years of schooling and beyond is incredibly inspiring.

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You have been a generous supporter of Pace over the years—thank you. Why do you feel it is important to give back?

There are so many reasons including showing my ap­preciation for the education that Pace provided me and to give others a chance to have a similar experi­ence. Also, I compare my degree to having equity in a company; I have a personal interest in ensuring that Pace’s prestige grows. For my corporate finance stu­dents, it is like owning an investment where valuation changes based on reputation rather than earnings. The onus is on us, alumni, to bolster the reputation of our alma mater to protect and enhance our invest­ment over time. Giving back is also an opportunity for me to channel my passion and allow it to thrive on campus long after I’m gone. It is a way to invest back in areas I wish to see Pace flourish.

What are different ways, aside from financial, that you feel an alumni can and should support their law school?

Alumni often think that they are not ready to support Pace. This is usually on the premise that monetary contribution is the only way to give back. While finan­cial support is an important way to engage, contri­bution with your time can be an equally enriching experience, if not more. Volunteering to be mentors and guest speakers allows alums to stay current and engaged with bright minds of the future. Those inter­actions can lead to potentially hiring interns or future lawyers. Also, be sure to hire current and graduating students as this is the best way to promote Pace.

Over the years, I have hired countless students from Pace. Today, I am proud to say that several of my former students have top positions in my com­pany, including a partner with the asset management company, general counsel with the mortgage com­pany, counsel to the asset management company, and the list goes on. I also continue to support ex­ternship programs where several students work with my company for credits.

What advice would you have for a future or current law student?

I tell my students that the most crucial variable to your success in business is you. Experience has taught me that if we go to work every day on the internal, the external success we crave will undoubtedly show up along the way. The remarkable thing about working on ideas like inner passion and purpose is that your progress comes out so authentically in all manners of external interaction. When people can genuinely feel that you care about what you are engaged in, you are a persuasive salesperson, without actually trying to sell anything. It takes a lot of courage to work on the internal, but as Anais Nin so eloquently put it, “Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage”. Success, however you choose to define it, is a con­tinual work in progress. While many factors come into play when building a business, I believe that the most important ones have nothing to do with innovation, balance sheets, finance, or marketing. The most im­portant variable to your success in business is you. You are the author of your own life, and it’s never too late to replace the stories you tell yourself.