Penn State's Smeal College of Business has welcomed one of its distinguished alumni, Curran McCready, to its prestigious Finance Advisory Board. McCready's appointment signifies the college's commitment to leveraging the expertise and insights of industry leaders to enhance the educational experience for its students and drive innovation in the field of finance.

Empowering the Next Generation of Business Leaders

Guiding the Strategic Direction of the Finance Department

The Finance Advisory Board comprises esteemed alumni who have made their mark in the finance and investment communities. These individuals provide invaluable guidance to the Smeal faculty and administration, advising on the strategic direction of the department. Their expertise and industry connections help ensure that the curriculum and programs remain relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the business world.

Fostering Mentorship and Internship Opportunities

Beyond their advisory role, the board members actively engage with Smeal students, both in the classroom and through mentorship programs. They work closely with students, sharing their experiences and insights, and facilitating internship opportunities that allow students to gain practical, real-world experience. This hands-on approach helps bridge the gap between academia and the professional realm, preparing Smeal graduates for success in their future careers.

Driving Research and Collaboration

The Finance Advisory Board also plays a crucial role in fostering research and collaboration between Smeal's faculty and students. By leveraging their industry connections and expertise, the board members help identify areas of research that are relevant and impactful, and they facilitate partnerships and funding opportunities to support these initiatives. This collaborative approach ensures that the college's research and innovation efforts are aligned with the evolving needs of the finance and investment sectors.

Investing in the Future of Smeal

In addition to their advisory and mentorship roles, the board members make a financial commitment to the college, supporting innovative programs and services that benefit both students and faculty. This investment in the college's future helps to ensure that Smeal remains at the forefront of business education, providing its students with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in the ever-changing business landscape.

Curran McCready: A Shining Example of Smeal's Alumni Success

Curran McCready, the latest addition to the Finance Advisory Board, is a prime example of Smeal's alumni success. After earning his degree in finance from Penn State Smeal in 2011, McCready embarked on a remarkable career, honing his skills in prestigious financial leadership programs at General Electric, PayPal, and the London Stock Exchange Group. His diverse experience and proven track record of strategic leadership have now led him to his current role as the Chief Financial Officer for Enterprise Engineering, Cyber, and Technical Operations at NBCUniversal.

Leveraging Smeal's Strengths to Shape the Future

As a member of the Finance Advisory Board, McCready is poised to make a significant impact on the college's future. He recognizes the unique strengths of Penn State and the Smeal community, and he is committed to leveraging these assets to prepare the next generation of business leaders. By tapping into the university's expansive alumni network and the wealth of research being conducted on campus, McCready aims to help Smeal students develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence

Corey C. Phelps, the John and Karen Arnold Dean of Smeal, expressed his enthusiasm for welcoming McCready to the Finance Advisory Board. "Curran's experience in financial leadership, strategic oversight, and global operations will bring invaluable insights to the board," Phelps said. "I am looking forward to the perspectives he'll share with us as a young and highly successful alumnus as we work to advance excellence in business education and strengthen our engagement with industry leaders."McCready, in turn, is honored to be a part of this esteemed group, stating, "I'm excited to engage with Smeal students and to help influence the education of the next generation of business leaders. Penn State is such a special community, and to continue to be a part of it in a way that is directly impacting Smeal students and their futures is a tremendous honor and responsibility. I am looking forward to getting to work."As the Finance Advisory Board convenes for its next meeting on the University Park campus, the Smeal community eagerly anticipates the insights and guidance that Curran McCready and his fellow board members will bring to the table. Together, they are poised to shape the future of business education, empowering the next generation of leaders to navigate the complexities of the finance and investment sectors with confidence and innovation.