Business School celebrates centennial

The A.J. Palumbo Donahue School of Business began its yearlong centennial celebration Saturday admist homecoming festivities.

A mimosa brunch held in the Africa Room for alumni kicked off the celebration.

Founded on October 6, 1913, the business school was first known as the School of Accounts, Finance and Commerce. Since then, the school has come a long way starting with only 13 students and four professors.

Business school Dean Alan R. Miciak said 2012 was a record freshman enrollment in the School of Business. Enrollment has made a gradual increase over the years with in the school.

“Growth has allowed us to provide a better quality educational experience and a broader complement of programs because we have more financial resources,” Miciak said. “However, we remain committed to the personalized approach that has been a hallmark of a Duquesne education since 1913.”

The school is compiling a book on the centennial to document the 100 years of “business education from a higher perspective,” Miciak said.

The book will reflect the history, personal experiences and accomplishments of alumni that have graduated from the school’s programs over the many years.

“I see the anniversary as a point of reflection of what it actually means to look back on a century of experience. It allows us to achieve a future vision for the school, in terms of where we want to see it go,” Miciak said.

Miciak said not many institutions reach 100 years old. It shows the adaptability of the Business school to survive in an ever-changing environment.

An MBA program was founded within the school in 1954. A teacher-scholar approach was a dominant method from the 1980s until now which emphasizes global reach and expanding influence nationally and internationally. This approach allows for a balance between being a teaching institution and research.   

Students feel that the business school is giving them a worthwhile experience while preparing them for the working world.

Kiran Thokachitchu, a senior information systems and finance major, said he appreciates the business reputation Duquesne has created for itself.

“The name Duquesne has created for them in the nation and because of that we have a great opportunity in the business world,” Thokachitchu said.

Mike Rucinsky, a senior accounting major, said he likes that the school’s professors can meet with students independently.

“The ability to talk with teachers and meet with your professors is convenient,” Rucinsky said. “They are able to make time to meet with you and it is more helpful.”

Alex Olon, a junior accounting major, said the business school has given him insights into how business work.

“The entrepreneur program is a newly introduced major to the Business School, said Taylor Coniglio, an entrepreneurship and corporate communication major. “I think it is important to introduce these new programs and majors that are relevant to how the business world is changing.”

The School of Business will hold eight more events celebrating its centennial, capped off by a centennial gala next October.

A cocktail reception will continue the festivities Oct. 27 with a performance by Johnny Angel and the Halos. The reception will be held in the Student Union Ballroom at 7 p.m.