Alternative Investments Club celebrates another stellar year
Undergraduate | May 18, 2016 | Gabelli School of Business
From left, James Costabile, BS ’97, stands with Kevin Mirabile, director of Fordham’s alternative investments program.
The Gabelli School of Business Alternative Investments Club remains as hot as its subject matter.
Since its creation just a few years ago, the club has implemented a speaker series with alumni, created a mentorship program, and participated in the new Fordham Initiative in Real Estate (FIRE). More than 100 alumni have graduated from the alternative investments program over the past four years, many of whom continue their involvement by helping current students.
That dedication has paid off. At a recent awards night, students and alumni once again showed their dedication to the program and were recognized for their efforts.
Rebecca McSween, FCRH ’16, was given the Student Leadership Award for her involvement with the club as its head of research. This year’s alumni recognition award went to James Costabile, GABELLI BS ’97, of Merrill Lynch, in recognition of his commitment to the program and the AIC students over the past four years. Costabile is the head of portfolio solutions and investment experience at Merril Lynch.
The interest in the program and club is understandable. Hedge funds, real estate, commodities, and private equity are fast-growing fields.
And Fordham students are making their mark. Eight students each earned $1,000 scholarships from the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association.
Before the awards, several seniors had the opportunity to give short presentations on their research into exotic alternative investments – space exploration, fine wine, collectible sneakers and others.
“Our senior presentations this year show the creativity and passion our students have for both traditional and the more exotic forms of alternative investments,” said Kevin Mirabile, clinical assistant professor of finance and the director of the alternative investments program.
