2025 Awardees Announced for Fairfield Dolan’s 30 Under 30

Victoria Apostolico is a senior at Fairfield University, double majoring in finance and business analytics with a minor in mathematics. At Fairfield, she is a member of multiple clubs including being an Alpha Sigma Nu Honor Society member, co-founder of the National Society of Leadership and Success, and a math tutor for her peers. As team captain, Victoria led Fairfield University’s team to victory at the regional level of the Deloitte 2023 FanTAXtic competition, earning them a spot at the firm’s national finals representing the university on a larger stage. Victoria completed her last summer internship at KeyBanc in New York City where she plans to return upon graduation in May and is excited to apply her skills and experiences as she embarks on her professional journey in finance.

Margaret Bardwil is a senior at Fairfield University, majoring in accounting with minors in accounting analytics and aconomics. On campus, she is actively involved as a student officer for Beta Gamma Sigma and is a proud member of Alpha Sigma Nu and Beta Alpha Psi. She has gained valuable experience through two summer internships at Withum Smith+Brown, where she developed her skills in auditing, financial analysis, and data-driven decision-making. Margaret looks forward to continuing her education in the Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program at Fairfield University upon graduating in May 2025. She is eager to explore opportunities in the accounting industry and is excited to see where her career will take her.

Isabelle Brinster is a junior at Fairfield University, double majoring in finance and accounting from Annapolis, Maryland. On campus, she is an analyst for the Student Managed Investment Fund and VP of the Startup Club. Currently, she is interning with Gemspring Capital, a private equity firm in Westport, CT. This summer, she will join Deutsche Bank in New York City as an Investment Banking Summer Analyst in their capital markets division. Outside of academics and professional experience, she recently completed a half marathon in Como, Italy, while studying abroad and coaches figure skating.

Brandon Ciarlo is a junior at Fairfield University, double majoring in finance and accounting. Originally from Woodbury, CT, he is deeply involved in both academic and service-driven initiatives on campus. As President of the Fairfield Student Managed Investment Fund, he leads a team of 40 members in actively managing a portion of the University’s endowment, while coordinating community service events such as beach cleanups and food drives. Brandon is also engaged with Fairfield’s Campus Ministry, where he is helping to lead the Kairos retreat. Professionally, Brandon has gained experience through an internship at Franklin Templeton, working on their Retirement and Insurance Strategic Accounts team. He will join Vanguard this summer, working in their Corporate Finance program in Malvern, PA. Outside of school, he enjoys playing the guitar, working out, and dedicating time to volunteering with the Special Olympics, particularly through The Dream Ride event.

Olivia Conkling is currently a senior at Fairfield University. She is a member of the Honors Program and is pursuing a double major in finance and marketing. Olivia is a Dolan Ambassador and has been an elected Class of 2025 Senator for the past four years, three of which she has led the Facilities, Auxiliary Services, and Technology committee. She is also a member of Women in Business and was inducted to Beta Gamma Sigma. Additionally, she was also a Fairfield New Student Leader for two years and participated in the study abroad program in Barcelona, Spain. Olivia completed a summer internship in Management Consulting at PwC and will continue working there following graduation. She is looking forward to enjoying her last days at Fairfield as well as her post-graduate plans.

William Gatward is a senior at Fairfield University’s Dolan School of Business, double-majoring in finance and marketing. Beyond the classroom, he has gained business experience through internships at Freedom Capital Markets and Dolan’s Career Center. He has been involved in various community service organizations, including helping individuals with disabilities through ECLC of NJ’s P.R.I.D.E. program, becoming a street leader for The Summit Luminary Fund, which raised over $136,000 for local charities, and finally, volunteering with various organizations throughout New Jersey. Additionally, he is an active member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) club. From overcoming learning challenges throughout his academic journey to developing a strong knowledge of business academics, William has demonstrated resilience, and determination that has better prepared him for his future.

Melanie Heller is a master’s student at Fairfield University in the business analytics program. She completed her bachelor’s at Yale University with a double major in Economics and Humanities while working in several professional newsrooms as a sports journalist. Now focusing on analytics instead of sports media, she is currently working for The Hartford as part of a one-year internship in its Performance Analytics department. Upon receiving her degree in winter 2025, she hopes to continue working in analytics and data visualization.

Olivia Jaccoma is a 2024 graduate of Fairfield University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and is currently pursuing her MBA at the university. She gained valuable experience through internships at USA Today’s Gannett Media, Jonathan Y. Designs, and Westchester Magazine, where she learned how strategic marketing campaigns enhance brand identity and engage consumers. Olivia is now a Client Service Associate at Morgan Stanley, managing virtual communications for her team and serving on the Marketing and Events Committee for the Her Way initiative, which empowers women through financial education. At Fairfield, she demonstrated leadership as a Dolan Ambassador, a Build-a-House program contributor, and a Marketing Club member. Passionate about giving back, Olivia supports organizations like Best Buddies, Next for Autism, and Autism Speaks, raising awareness and funds for individuals with special needs. Olivia is committed to using her skills to make a positive community impact.

Marianna Kalin is a senior at Fairfield University, double majoring in management and marketing with minors in graphic design and Italian studies. She is a coxswain for the Women’s Division I Rowing Team and serves as a Senior Admission Fellow. Marianna is committed to community service, supporting initiatives like the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation and Al's Angels. She is a member of the Alpha Mu Gamma and Gamma Kappa Alpha honor societies, the Glee Club’s Graphic Designer, and an active participant in the Pep and Concert Bands, as well as the club soccer team. Currently interning with Chloé Productions, Inc., she collaborates with top global advertisers and agencies to provide expertise in talent business affairs. After graduating in May 2025, Marianna plans to pursue an MBA with dual concentrations in Management and Marketing at Fairfield University.

Christopher Kenney is a resilient and determined professional making a significant impact in communications and social advocacy. Currently at L'Oréal USA, supporting the Chief Corporate Affairs and Engagement Officer, he contributes to impactful initiatives like Essence Festival of Culture and For Women in Science. Prior to L'Oréal, Christopher honed his skills at The Estée Lauder Companies and AB InBev, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion. An active advocate for LGBTQ+IA rights, he serves on the Advisory Board for Equality New York and volunteers with SAGE USA. Christopher is pursuing his MBA at Fairfield University in Marketing (Class of 2025) driven by a passion for positive change.

Catherine Lapolla is a senior accounting major with minors in accounting analytics and English. On campus, she is an Honors Program student, a Writing Center Tutor, a Beta Alpha Psi member, a Beta Gamma Sigma member, a peer mentor for both the Honors Program and Dolan Partners Program, the Best Buddies Friendship Walk Coordinator, and a Best Buddies Peer Buddy. In summer 2024, she completed an audit internship at PricewaterhouseCoopers in New York City and was offered a full-time position. Upon graduation in May 2025 with 150 credits, she will begin her career as an audit associate at PwC and take the CPA exam. Catherine is excited to join the PwC community and is grateful for all she learned from her peers and professors at Fairfield University.

Dang Le is a senior from Hanoi, Vietnam majoring in business analytics with minors in accounting and applied statistics. On campus, he has demonstrated his commitment to fostering meaningful and lasting campus community engagement during his tenures as a Dolan Partners Mentor, Finance Coordinator for the Council of Student Organizations, and Peer Notetaker for the Office of Accessibility. Beyond the classroom, Dang has leveraged his analytical skills in meaningful ways through three impactful internships in the tech industry. In his most recent professional work, he helped the team drive strategic execution and decision through innovative business intelligence and big data solutions. Graduating this May, he seeks to continue his journey of growing professionally by tackling real-world challenges and creating lasting positive changes.

Dominick J. Lombardi is a Dean’s List student at Fairfield University’s Dolan School of Business, pursuing a B.S. in finance. He has excelled in both finance and politics, playing a key role as the youngest top finance committee member for President Donald J. Trump’s 2024 campaign. Dominick helped secure critical funding and assisted in organizing high-level donor events at Mar-a-Lago and Trump Bedminster In 2024, he served as a legislative intern for Rep. Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02) in the U.S. House of Representatives, contributing to policy initiatives on financial regulation, artificial intelligence, and economic development. As Chairman of the Orange, CT, Republican Party, he spearheaded fundraising efforts that increased the party’s treasury by 300% to support political campaigns. With a strong background in finance, policy, and leadership, Dominick is committed to advancing conservative values and ensuring economic prosperity for future generations.

Evan Mansfield is an MBA candidate specializing in analytics and became the 2025 Conlisk Irish Scholar after graduating from BBS Accounting and Finance at the University of Limerick. At UL, he was the youngest ever president of the Economics and Investments Society, volunteering ambassador, accounting tutor, and student government elect at UL and UT Austin, where he completed an academic exchange. At Fairfield, he sits on the Graduate Student Advisory Board, won the StartUp pitch competition, is on the MiniMinds StartUp team and worked as a Professional Development GA. Evan was diagnosed with ASD at three after significantly delayed speech onset, and now works with AsIAm on the Autism Friendly University Accreditation Panel and assists the MoveMuse chatbot project, which encourages physical activity amongst Autistic adults. He has completed internships at PwC, DMI, and Synchrony and starts at Castleton Commodities International as an Operations and Finance intern in June.

William McKee is a graduate student in Fairfield University’s Master of Science in Accounting program (MSA). He has successfully completed several internships in both public and private accounting, gaining hands-on experience that has shaped his career trajectory. Upon completing his MSA, William will join PwC as an International Tax Associate, marking an exciting step in his professional journey. William also worked as a Career Readiness Graduate Assistant at the Dolan Career Development Center, assisting students and facilitating professional development opportunities. Outside of academics, William served as a Dolan Partner and the President of Fairfield University's Men's/Women's Club Golf Team, showcasing his leadership and teamwork abilities. His diverse experiences and dedication to his career make him well-prepared for the next phase of his professional life.

Meghan Morrissey is a graduate student at Fairfield, currently pursuing a Masters in Science of Accounting. Meghan received her undergraduate degree from Fairfield last spring of 2024 with a major in Accounting, and minors in Finance and Communications. On campus, Meghan was involved in the Liturgical Ministry, Office of Admissions, and Accounting Honor Society. Upon completion of her graduate program, she will start full time employment at PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) next fall in New York City, as an Audit Associate within their Assurance practice.

Khoi Nguyen is a senior at Fairfield University, majoring in finance, accounting, and economics. On campus, he is a Chief Risk Officer of SMIF, and a Resident Assistant. He has completed a summer internship at Deloitte in Stamford. Upon graduation in May 2025, he will continue to working with Deloitte and is excited to see what the future holds.

Class of 2026 student, Elena Pearson, embodies the Stag spirit. An accounting major with minors in management and accounting analytics, Elena’s leadership in the community has been connected with campus work in the Office of Conference & Events Management at Fairfield. Supporting the positive mission of the school is a source of joy, as she has forged connections with peers, staff and the community. After staying on campus to work full-time during the summer of 2023, Elena earned a supervisor role at the Barone Campus Center and became a building manager during her sophomore year. She is a current member of Beta Alpha Psi, an accounting honor society, and will be completing her 150 credits in four years to pursue her CPA licensure. Elena was awarded a forensic accounting internship at Travelers Insurance in 2024 and is looking forward to interning for KPMG this summer.

Julia Principe is a graduate student at Fairfield University pursuing an MS in Marketing Analytics and Strategy with a concentration in product management. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications and a minor in Communication. Julia has gained experience through internships at Morgan Stanley, Hello Neighbors LLC, and The Mise Method, working in wealth management, content strategy, and brand development. She has conducted pricing and promotion analyses for brands like Henkel and is currently working on a capstone project with Bose Corporation. Beyond academics, Julia values leadership and community engagement. She spent eight years at Englewood Field Club, earning a promotion to Assistant Manager, and coached young swimmers at the Fairfield YMCA. She is involved in Women in Business, the Marketing Club, and held leadership roles with Fairfield Club Swim. She also volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and mentors underclassmen as a Dolan Partner and WIB mentor.

Mishal Qureshi is a junior at Fairfield University, double-majoring in accounting and finance with a minor in accounting analytics. She is the founder and president of First Gen Stags, which has grown to over 100 members in just one semester. On campus, she also serves as the Vice President of the Muslim Student Association, Secretary of the South Asian Student Association, and a mentor in the Cura Personalis program.

Beyond campus, Mishal is passionate about education and DEI initiatives. During the summer, she worked with the nonprofit Help Inc., using her voice to advocate for marginalized communities and collaborating with different community partners to provide support where it is needed. This upcoming summer, she will be interning at Ernst & Young, gaining valuable experience as she prepares for her future in the accounting field.

Justin Sabogal is a senior at Fairfield University, double-majoring in business analytics and film, TV & media arts with a minor in marketing. On campus, he serves as Co-President of Beta Gamma Sigma, is a campus ambassador for the FUTURE NOW Media Foundation, and is an active member of the Marketing Club. He has interned at Datacolor, where he analyzed industry trends to enhance content strategy, and at Global Fairfield, where he contributed to the creation of the "Global Stagbook" virtual magazine. He co-directed the short documentary "Johana," which won the Best Film Award at Cinefest. Upon graduating in May 2025, he aims to pursue a career in the media and entertainment industry, combining his business expertise with his passion for storytelling.

Luka Silva is a Brazilian-American senior at Fairfield University, double-majoring in international business and finance. He is a Magis Honors Scholar and has earned Dean’s List recognition nearly every semester. On campus, he has been actively involved as ex-President of the National Society of Leadership and Success and ex-Vice President of the Distinguished Gentlemen. Luka has gained professional experience through internships at Intapp, Inc. in NYC and CFO Worx while studying abroad in Sydney, Australia. Beginning in June, Luka will work full-time at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford, CT as part of Cohort 10 in their Commercial Engine Leadership Development Program.This is a graduate rotational program where he will garner domestic and international experience in various facets of the commerical engine business. Passionate about finance, global markets, and aviation, he looks forward to leveraging his skills in the industry.

Tyler Siwiec is a 2026 student at Fairfield University, double majoring in finance and international business. A dedicated student-athlete, he balances the demands of being a Division I rower with academic excellence, earning a spot on the 2023/2024 Dean’s List. Beyond the classroom, Tyler is actively involved in clubs such as the Accounting Club, Economics Club, Startup Club, Real Estate Club, and the Investment Banking Society. Professionally, he has interned at Rich Products Corporation, AML RightSource, and KAPWA Solutions, gaining experience in sales planning, revenue management, financial compliance, and business consulting. He is also committed to community service, volunteering at Friends of the Night soup kitchen and participating in Leadership Buffalo to develop solutions for local challenges. Additionally, he founded a landscaping business, mentoring young employees in leadership and entrepreneurship.

Sarah St. Lawrence is a Senior at Fairfield University, double majoring in accounting and marketing. She is an active member of Beta Alpha Psi, Beta Gamma Sigma, and Alpha Sigma Nu where she serves as the Chapter’s Secretary. On campus she has been involved with both the Sophomore’s Give Back and Build-A-House programs where she was able to participate in community service and charity fundraising. Additionally, she is also a current Dolan Partner Mentor to underclassmen and has been a peer accounting tutor. Over the summer she interned in Boston at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in their audit practice and is excited to return in the Fall of 2026 as an Assurance Associate after the completion of her Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) at Fairfield University.

Brady Strough is a graduate student at Fairfield University with a concentration in finance. He previously earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance at Fairfield, graduating magna cum laude. Brady has gained experience in investment analysis through his internship at Tourmalet Advisors and has real estate experience as a licensed sales associate with Compass Real Estate. A former Division I student-athlete on the Fairfield Men's Lacrosse Team, he balanced a demanding academic and athletic schedule while earning CAA All-Academic Team honors. After passing the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam, he looks forward to leveraging his skills and experiences in new opportunities. With a strong work ethic, a commitment to personal growth, and a passion for finance, he is excited to continue expanding his knowledge, developing new skills, and contributing to a dynamic environment.

Megan Swanson is a senior at Fairfield University, majoring in marketing with minors in English and graphic design. She is a dedicated student, leader, and friend who inspires those around her to be the best versions of themselves. On campus, Megan mentors sophomores through the Ignation Residential College program and supports academic growth as a Writing Center tutor. She is also an active member of Alpha Sigma Nu Honor Society, Women in Business, and Marketing Club. Megan’s internships at Kerri Rosenthal and HyAxiom have strengthened her understanding of how to build brand equity, develop effective campaigns, and connect brands with their audiences. She is eager to apply her leadership, creativity, and strategic insights following her graduation in May.

Nicholas Tapinis is a Junior at Fairfield University, majoring in accounting with a minor in accounting analytics. He is a dedicated member of Beta Alpha Psi, Treasurer of the Private Equity and Venture Capital Club, and part of the Men’s Rowing Team. Nicholas has completed two summer internships at About Profit and an international internship with FHP Advisory. This upcoming summer, he will join Andersen as a Summer Tax Advisory Intern. With a passion for learning and growth, Nicholas is eager to expand his skills and embrace new opportunities in the accounting and financial services industry.

Sara Wentland is a junior at Fairfield University, double-majoring in finance and business analytics and a minor in English. She is the President of the Fairfield Investment Group, Co-President of the Fairfield Finance Club, and a member of the Dolan Student Advisory Board. Sara gained industry experience while interning at MONECO Advisors during both the fall and spring semesters of her sophomore year, and later at Vanguard during the summer. This summer, she will join Bank of America's Debt Capital Markets Team in New York City. She is also a participant in the CFA Equity Research Challenge at Fairfield, further strengthening her analytical and valuation skills. Sara is eager to continue developing her knowledge of the financial markets and looks forward to the opportunities ahead.

Colby Zelano is a graduate student at Fairfield University, pursuing a Master of Finance degree. His academic journey has been shaped by Fairfield’s Jesuit values, emphasizing leadership, service, and intellectual growth. As Vice President of the Student Managed Investment Fund, he enjoys mentoring peers and working collaboratively to manage a portion of the university’s endowment while supporting community initiatives like food drives and environmental cleanups. He also volunteers as a youth mentor at the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, an experience that has reinforced his commitment to service. Professionally, he works as a Staff Accountant I at Lowers Forensics International, where he continues to develop his skills in forensic accounting and financial analysis. He is grateful for the opportunities he has had, whether through academics, work, or service, and looks forward to learning from others and making a positive impact in the future.

Rebecca Ziobro is a senior at Fairfield University, double majoring in accounting and finance with a minor in mathematics. She is an active member on campus, proudly serving as the Finance Coordinator of Stagathon, Fairfield’s dance marathon supporting a local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Additionally, assisting Dolan students as an accounting tutor and Dolan Partner, being a member of Beta Alpha Psi, and having worked as a New Student Leader with the Office of Student Engagement, Rebecca enjoys engaging with her Fairfield community. This past summer, Rebecca completed an internship with Deloitte, working with the Business Tax Services group in Stamford, CT. She will remain at Fairfield University upon graduation in May 2024, where she will earn her master’s in accounting while pursuing her CPA license. Rebecca looks forward to her remaining time at Fairfield and is excited to begin her career with Deloitte Stamford in 2026.