Creating an enriching student experience often involves encouraging students to open their eyes and see futures greater than they ever imagined. The Business Leadership Fellows program began in 2018 as a learning-based offering for leadership-focused students. Developed by MarySheila E. McDonald, J.D., Dean of the School of Business, and supported in large part by Edward J. Fierko, ’63, the program sets fellows apart from the rest of the workforce from day one. 

More than 40 fellows have been paired with a mentor based upon personality and career path to work with them throughout their time at La ­Salle. Their mentor then becomes a personal cheerleader, a guide, and an example of the endless possibilities for a prosperous future. 

Tristan Musho, ’13, and Genesis Perez, ’22

Tristan Musho and Genesis Perez, both marketing majors, were matched for a shared love of their field. The two have bonded over softball and a mutual escape from the pressures of everyday life. When asked about her experience as a mentor, Musho remarked, “My experience has been so rewarding. [Perez] is an inspiring person and to be able to be part of her journey at La ­Salle is something I will never be able to put into words. This program has given me a friend for life, and I cannot wait to see the woman she becomes.” But Musho isn’t in the business of waiting and watching. She continues to help Perez become the best person and business woman she can be. “The best piece of advice Tristan has given me is to continue to be an aggressive go-getter,” Perez said. “She reminds me that in today’s world, that is exactly what companies are looking for; not a perfect GPA, not a perfect resume, but the will to work hard.”

Anthony Kimsal, ’94, and Andrew Chiaradonna, ’21

Andrew Chiaradonna, a student in the four-year Accounting BS/MBA program, matched with Anthony Kimsal, a graduate of the accounting program and Vice President of Finance at DocuVault Delaware Valley, LLC. 

“Getting to know a person like Mr. Kimsal has given me a sense of reassurance that I am on the right track when it comes to navigating college, and that it will work out great for me at the end,” Chiaradonna said. For each other, they provide an insight into the future. For Chiaradonna the experience provides a glimpse of a flourishing career that he could love, and for Kimsal, a view of the next generation of the workforce. “I have realized even more what a great place La ­Salle is for students who want to succeed in both business and life,” Kimsal said. “If even just a tiny part of what I have learned in life is passed along to Andrew and it helps him, I feel that I have succeeded as a mentor.”

As the program continues to grow, student mentees are offered the opportunity to step into the role of mentor. Once each class graduates, they become the newest set of mentors available to the current fellows, continuing the cycle of Explorers giving back to one another.