The Space at Smith Symposium launched a new initiative at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, uniting students, faculty and industry experts to explore opportunities in the growing space economy and the intersection of business, innovation and national security.

The University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business dedicated the Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program, honoring alumnus Steve Schanwald ’77 for his $18 million commitment. The program prepares students for leadership in the sports industry through experiential learning and mentorship.

More than 100 industry advisors and alumni gathered at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business for the fourth annual Advisory Council Day, sharing insights, mentoring students, and strengthening connections across the school’s undergraduate and graduate programs.

Smith’s MBA veterans benefit from strong community, mentorship, and dedicated programs. Students Alexandra Pogany and Charles Castelly lead initiatives, while alumni Ryan McCarthy and Jim Bell credit Smith with transforming military experience into leadership and sustaining a vibrant veteran network.

Lexy Kessler ’85, a partner at Aprio, was recently elected chairman of the AICPA. A longtime volunteer and leader in the field, she credits the Smith School with helping shape her career and encourages students to build strong peer networks.

Eight distinguished Smith School alumni shared diverse finance career paths with students during an April 4 panel and breakout sessions. The event offered real-world insights into finance roles, emphasizing flexibility, collaboration, and skills needed for long-term success.

Monisha Dabek, MBA ’06, credits the Smith School for propelling her into consumer products, starting at PepsiCo and leading to her current role as COO at Ocean Spray. She values the Smith network, career pivots, and supporting women in business.

Sara Carlson honors her father Robert L. Edwards ’39 by continuing the scholarship he founded, supporting students at the Smith School. Inspired by his love of learning and belief in education’s power, she proudly carries forward his legacy of giving back.

The Smith School’s 6th Annual Datathon welcomed 44 AU students and represented nearly 50 majors across both universities. Teams tackled a real-world Spotify challenge, with finalists earning cash prizes and career mentorship from Deloitte professionals.

Students gained global career insights from a panel of alumni across industries at the April 3 Careers Crossing Borders event. Hosted by the Center for Global Business, the panel emphasized relationship-building, cultural awareness, and passion as keys to international success.