Real world lessons: Business students attend investment committee meeting

Lundy Fetterman School of Business

Five Campbell Business students recently had an unusual educational opportunity when they were invited to participate in a meeting of the Board of Trustee Investment Committee. Held to review endowment investment results and chart future decisions, this quarterly meeting provided a behind-the-scenes glimpse of a university that few students ever see.

The idea for the students’ participation was suggested by Bob Barker, investment committee chairman, and approved by Campbell President Bradley Creed and Jim Roberts, vice president for business and treasurer.

The morning began with a breakfast reception with the Trustees on the Investment Committee, senior Campbell officials and representatives from First Citizens Bank, the investment firm managing the endowment. First Citizens’ Chief Investment Officer Brent Ciliano outlined recent results, addressed market changes with suggestions of appropriate adjustments and described the involved process of selecting individual fund managers to manage specific portions of the endowment.

For students majoring in finance, the meeting had particular relevance. Senior Matt Moore reflected, “Being able to participate and learn about Campbell’s financials and investments was a unique and rewarding opportunity. For a business student, nothing has a higher intrinsic value than seeing how the information learned in the classroom is put to practical use.”

An informal lunch after the meeting gave the students an extended opportunity to engage with the Trustees. “Attending the Investment Committee meeting allowed me the opportunity to gain invaluable insights into how the knowledge gained through traditional coursework can be connected to the business world. The experience was eye-opening, and I’m thankful I was able to participate,” said senior Lilli Severenchuk.

A decision was made after the meeting to allow students to participate in future Investment Committee meetings. Marin Goodwin, senior Trust major, summed up the experience: “The board’s passion for Campbell University, dedication to growing our school, and inclusiveness of student representatives embodies the kind of leadership every school needs. It is this attitude that maintains a healthy and constantly improving institution.”

Attending students were: Cody Alford, Trust & Wealth Management/4+1 MBA; Jack Fendrick, Trust & Wealth Management/4+1 MBA; and seniors Marin Goodwin, Trust & Wealth Management major; Matthew Moore, Finance and Business Administration major; and Lilli Severenchuck, Finance and Economics major.