Seniors Celebrated at Annual Senior Dinner

(PITTSBURGH, Pa.) - The Carnegie Mellon Department of Athletics hosted its annual Senior Dinner on Tuesday, February 24, as coaches and administrators honored the athletes for outstanding contributions to the athletics program and university community.

For the seventh consecutive year, industry expert Roger Roble made a presentation regarding the importance of personal financial planning. A 1985 Carnegie Mellon graduate, Roble was a football student-athlete and founded the wealth management firm Roble, Belko & Company in 2000.

Joining Roble was recently retired head cross country and track and field coach Dario Donatelli. A 1981 graduate of Carnegie Mellon, he spoke to the senior class about the importance of being a mentor.

Senior Associate Dean of the Tepper School of Business Michael Trick shared his lessons from sports. Dr. Trick oversees the scheduling for Major League Baseball.

Part of the athletics department’s Excellence Forum, the Senior Dinner is not only a chance to celebrate, but also an opportunity to provide the impending graduates with practical information and tools for their post-college lives.

“The past four years have gone by very fast and the banquet was a nice way to reflect on our hard work and accomplishments as a class,” said men’s basketball player Seth Cordts. “It was invaluable getting to hear from three different people that all have a connection to us through the school, through sports, and through their experiences.”

“I thought the program was very inspirational as well as very humbling,” added women’s track and field athlete Sasha Spalding. “We need to be thankful for the opportunity to participate in athletics at a prestigious school, remember we can have an impact on youth and be ready to understand the importance of investing and saving our money for the future.”

Following the presentations, the three speakers answered a number of questions from the audience. The students took advantage of the chance to learn more about their financial futures.

Director of Athletics Josh Centor opened the program by recognizing the senior class for all of their achievements and followed with thoughts for the seniors regarding their relationship with Carnegie Mellon post-graduation. Centor thanked the seniors for their commitment and dedication to the university and athletics program during the past four years.