This year, Hofstra University is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its recognition of the business school as a distinct entity within the University, hence “Zarb at 50.” One of the anniversary events comprised well-attended videotaped presentations by President Rabinowitz and five distinguished alumni, followed by a reception.
We are making the videos available in three ways: (1) We are posting 6 separate videos over the next couple of weeks that are divided by speaker. (2) At the Hofstra YouTube channel, a special playlist with each of the separate presentations is available. Click here. (3) At the Hofstra YouTube channel is the entire 1.5 hour event in one video. Click here.
Today, we are highlighting the presentation by Mr. Michael Venuti, a Hofstra MBA in Finance, who is president of Agua Brands – the maker of Agua Active Hydration and Agua Fruit Essence. With colleague and Agua Brands co-founder Dr. Carol Dollard, Mr. Venuti is leveraging his expertise to grow Agua Brands from the ground up. The Agua Active Hydration line is powered by guarana, a natural source of caffeine. Containing as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, each bottle contains only 25 calories. In his role as chief financial officer of Glaceau from 2002-2009, Mr. Venuti helped the Vitaminwater and Smartwater brands expand to create the fastest-growing company in the history of the beverage industry. Under his leadership, the firm developed into a $1 billion brand and was ultimately acquired by Coca-Cola for $4.1 billion. At Glaceau, Mr. Venuti oversaw all financial functions. He also oversaw major contracts, including marketing initiatives, distribution contracts, and celebrity endorsement deals.
It is interesting that Michael showed us some bottle in his speech. I have the same major of MBA in Finance like Michael Venuti. It is amazing that he brought Vitaminwater and Smartwater brands into popularity. The world is changing everyday. Technology is very important to company as marketing and other stuff. We have to know what we want, what we can do and gather information before we enter market to make sure that we will succeed!
Actually I am so proud to be an alumni in Hofstra University. Since I believe there are a lot of amazing students and professors here which make Hofstra a fantastic college. As a international student, I experienced a wonderful life with great environment, good facilities and impressive education experience here.
I’m sure I have made a comment on this article before, but I can’t see my comment. but it’s ok I would love to comment again:). I was there at the event, I was so inspired by all the alumnus, and Mr.Mike Venuti’s products really impressed my, I google his website and products at the event. The package is so attractive and very pretty. I think the target market for the products would be the young people like outside sports.
Hofstra Pride! I am always so proud to be a Hofstra student. Hofstra is doing a great job bringing all the faculties, students and staffs together. Hofstra creates a very good atmosphere which is positive, active and motivated for everybody. I love Hofstra!
Kathy Marinello was a Marketing MBA! Check out her clip.