The Power of UIC Business Student Organizations
Portfolio Management Team Alumni Night Highlights Career Readiness in Action
The Power of UIC Business Student Organizations
A look at how PMT’s annual Alumni Night brings together students, alumni, and industry professionals to build real-world skills, expand networks, and strengthen career confidence.
On November 12, the Portfolio Management Team (PMT) demonstrated the true impact and influence of UIC Business student organizations through its semiannual PMT Alumni Night, held in Lecture Center F, Room F6, with networking continuing afterward at Hawkeye’s Bar & Grill.
The event brought together over 25 PMT alumni representing a wide range of prominent firms—including William Blair, Bradford Allen, Deloitte, EY, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, Northern Trust, Citadel, and U.S. Bank—along with more than 100 current students. Faculty Advisor Justin Shea also welcomed several colleagues and industry partners, further reinforcing the strong connections PMT has built within Chicago’s financial community.
Alumni don’t just return to share advice—they return to invest in the next generation.
Showcasing Learning, Leadership, and Alumni Engagement
Throughout the evening, students had the opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals and see firsthand how PMT prepares them for future success.
The program included:
- A market recap highlighting PMT’s current portfolio and recent economic developments
- Overview of PMT activity, including portfolio changes and the team’s engagement with Chicago’s financial sector
- Alumni introductions, where graduates shared how PMT shaped their career trajectories
- A sector pitch, featuring a BUY recommendation for ASML from PMT’s technology team
- Q&A and member vote, giving students space to ask meaningful questions and participate in the investment decision-making process
- Networking at Hawkeye’s, where students and alumni continued conversations over pizza
A Community That Extends Beyond Graduation
Events like this remind students that the UIC Business community continues long after graduation.
In total, about 120 participants attended the on-campus session, with approximately 80 continuing the networking at Hawkeye’s afterward. This enthusiastic turnout underscores the enduring loyalty of PMT alumni and the powerful role student organizations play in fostering professional pipelines, mentorship, and a sense of shared purpose.
Why This Matters
PMT Alumni Night is a strong example of what happens when student organizations are empowered to build community, deepen applied learning, and cultivate long-term connections with industry. These experiences directly support student readiness, strengthen alumni engagement, and enhance the reputation of UIC Business across Chicago and beyond.