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Alumni Community
Junior Andrew Daigneau bounces back from traumatic motorcycle accident
Alumni Community
Tracy Graham on the importance of supporting diverse and inclusive perspectives, essential for creating equity.

Features
Father Ted Hesburgh's vision for coeducation at Notre Dame in 1972 emphasized the importance of gender equality, yet the journey toward true equality continues across various sectors. As the university marks half a century since its first female students enrolled, women connected to Mendoza reflect on their experiences and the ongoing challenges they face in business, politics, and academia. Despite strides made, they highlight the need for systemic change within organizations and greater representation of women in leadership roles to inspire future generations.

Family
Michael Carroll, an Executive MBA student at Notre Dame, left an indelible mark on his family and classmates before his tragic passing last summer at age 46. Known for his unwavering support and leadership, Carroll stepped into roles that uplifted his siblings and friends, embodying the values of showing up, bringing joy, and staying grounded. In his memory, his classmates established a memorial fund that reflects his spirit, furthering his legacy of mentorship and community even after his untimely death.

Family
Stephanie Jackson is making history as USA Hockey's first director of diversity and inclusion, a role that expands the organization's commitment to making hockey more accessible to everyone. Watching the U.S. women's team at the Beijing Olympics, she emphasizes the importance of reflecting diverse communities within the sport. Under her leadership, USA Hockey is deepening its focus on equity and inclusion across various dimensions, aiming to create an environment where all players, fans, and employees feel valued and engaged. Jackson's previous experience at Nike and her education at Mendoza have equipped her with a strategic perspective on integrating diversity efforts into organizational goals.

Family
Football star Jerome Bettis is back at Notre Dame 30 years after leaving to pursue a successful NFL career, aiming to finish his business degree. A surprise announcement by his daughter on social media caught him off guard, revealing the challenges he faces with modern technology as he navigates online classes. Despite the hurdles, Bettis emphasizes the importance of completing his education, not only to fulfill a promise to his mother but also to set an example for his children.

Features
Mendoza College of Business is celebrating its 100th anniversary by reflecting on its journey and future. A new edition of "O'Hara's Heirs: Business Education at Notre Dame" is set to release in fall 2021, capturing the College's complete history while acknowledging challenges it faced, such as doubts about its place within the University and among top business schools. The narrative reveals a transformation from an underestimated program to one that embraced its unique identity and mission, with contributions from various stakeholders who have shaped its success over the years.

Family
Cory Rellas, a finance alum from the University of Notre Dame, co-founded the e-commerce platform Drizly, which revolutionized alcohol delivery after launching from a simple text suggestion among friends. Beginning as a side project while Rellas worked at Bain Capital, Drizly grew into the leading on-demand alcohol marketplace in the U.S. and was sold to Uber Technologies for $1.1 billion in February 2021. Rellas reflects on the challenges faced during the startup's journey, including early launches and the invaluable support from mentors and local businesses.
Family
Mendoza College of Business has introduced the ND Business Briefings, a new online column that shares updates on the careers of its alumni. Each month's edition includes a mini-profile of a Mendoza graduate, news on alumni achieving notable career milestones like landing executive roles or board appointments, and personal honors. This month, the column features Cory Bailey (MBA '18), whose startup SecurSpace was recently acquired by Envase Technologies, and Adrianna Stasiuk (MBA '12, BBA '08), who has made a significant career move in wealth management. Alumni are encouraged to share their own career

Family
Myla Patterson-Smith, along with her daughters Stephanie and Samantha, has turned their shared love of fashion into a successful online boutique for girls' clothing called SASS-E Todds. Launched last year, the business not only showcases the girls' sketches but also involves them in every step, from design to sales. Their budding entrepreneurship has gained attention both locally in Chicago and on national platforms, including a segment on NBC's "Megyn Kelly Today."