This spring, the Hammack School of Business at Oglethorpe University brought alumni back to campus to share their expertise and experience as part of the inaugural Business Careers Community series. Designed to show students that careers in business aren’t limited to any one major, the events gave attendees an up-close look at a variety of professional paths—all through the lens of successful alumni.
The series began in March with a Wealth Management Career Panel, which brought in industry experts like Charlotte Disley ’19, Frankie Vascimini ’16, Chad Smith ’13 and Jill R. Czaplinski ’20 to answer questions about this career field.
“It was great to come back to campus and be able to talk with students on the wealth management career path—as a student who studied psychology at Oglethorpe, it is refreshing to be able to share the endless options the degree can take you post-college,” said Charlotte Disley ’19.
A Marketing Career Panel featuring Amari Holmes ’19 and Kiera Chiapperini ’18 was also held for interested students. This offered students the opportunity to gain valuable insights into real-world career paths, hear personal experiences from alumni, and learn about the skills and strategies that helped them succeed after graduation.
In April, the Human Resources Career Panel brought together four outstanding alumni: Debbie Aiken ’12, Stephanie Croston ’13, Alexia Ruiz ’24 and Maya Inman ’22. They offered a wide-ranging conversation on how HR professionals shape company culture, develop talent, and help organizations grow. Students appreciated hearing how each panelist carved out a unique path in a field that continues to evolve with the times.
Later that month, the Real Estate Career Panel featured Drew Luzzatti ’21, Walter Slaton ’11 and Richard Hibbets ’97. These alumni returned to share their journeys into real estate—whether through investment, development, or residential sales—and helped students understand the many roles and entry points in the industry. Their candid advice and personal stories brought clarity to a complex and exciting field.
“The panels at HSB are a top-notch experience for both the students and alumni,” said Frankie Vascimini ’16. “It was an awesome chance for students to get real-world insights into the wealth management industry and learn firsthand from folks who were once in their shoes. Can’t wait for the next one!”
Co-hosted with the Oglethorpe Business Club and the Office of Alumni Engagement, the Business Careers Community series highlighted the strength of the Oglethorpe network and the lasting impact alumni can have on current students. As the Hammack School continues to grow its career-focused initiatives, alumni will remain essential partners in helping students to make the most of their careers.
