Smith Profiles
Alumni Profile
Alumna’s Entrepreneurial Spirit Helps Generations of Smith Entrepreneurs
Elana Fine ’97
Elana Fine ’97, CEO of VWG Wealth Management, exemplifies an entrepreneurial mindset through her career and leadership. As a former director and current board member of the Dingman-Lamone Center, she champions student entrepreneurship and supports next-generation business leaders.
Alumni Profile
Becoming a Risk Taker
Jitin “Miki” Ahuja ’97, MS ’02, MBA ’02
Jitin “Miki” Ahuja credits the University of Maryland for shaping his outlook on risk-taking and success. As founder of SpaceJet Media and London Lane Capital, he champions alumni engagement and entrepreneurial exploration.
Alumni Profile
‘Hustle Your Tail Off, But Do it With Kindness’
Manpreet Singh ’03
Manpreet Singh ’03, co-founder of Singh Capital, emphasizes success with kindness, selflessness, and community service. From launching startups like TalkLocal to fostering philanthropy for minority communities, his values guide his ventures, including mentoring through Smith’s Dingman-Lamone Center.
Alumni Profile
Why I Give: Gifting Inspired by Rudy Lamone’s Tireless Mentorship
Ish Dugal ’05
Ish Dugal ’05 and his wife, Priya Atur Dugal ’05, established the Dugal Impact Fellowship to support aspiring entrepreneurs. Administered by Smith’s Dingman-Lamone Center for Entrepreneurship, the fellowship provides stipends for University of Maryland students interning with startups, fostering hands-on experience and entrepreneurial grit.
Alumni Profile
Impact Of A Scholarship: Jimmy Santa
Former Terp linebacker... Musician... Championship boxing referee... Proud Smith School alumnus... Hall of Famer... Boundless enthusiasm...Meet Jimmy Santa.
Alumni Profile
From Smith to EY: A Strategic Career Journey
Shubham Arora MSIS ’22
Early planning and networking helped Shubham Arora secure a summer internship that transitioned to a full-time role at EY. Smith's MSIS program, career services, and alumni network provided invaluable support, bridging technology and management for career success.
Alumni Profile
From Intern to Analyst: Charting a Career in Data Analytics
Deepak Dhole, MSIS ’23
Deepak Dhole, MSIS ’23, leveraged Smith's career resources, cutting-edge coursework, and a strategic internship to secure a full-time role at Navy Federal Credit Union. His journey exemplifies innovation, resilience, and the power of networking.
Alumni Profile
Volo Sports COO’s Passion For Sports Helps Everyone Get In The Game
Nayla Bautista ’07
Nayla Bautista ’07 turned her passion for sports and community-building into a career as COO of Volo Sports, leading national operations and expanding access to recreational opportunities. She previously grew Volo Kids, providing free sports programs for underserved youth.
Alumni Profile
Alumnus Credits Online MBA as “Instrumental” in His Professional Success
Thura K. Aung, MBA ’20
Thura K. Aung, MBA ’20, credits the Smith School’s Online MBA with equipping him for his journey from retail banking to Wealth Planner at Rockefeller’s Atlantic Group. The program’s flexibility, diverse cohort, and mentorship accelerated his career in financial planning.
Alumni Profile
From Internship to Full-Time at FedEx: A Journey of Perseverance
Shashank Patil, MSIS ’23
Shashank Patil, MSIS ’23 and now Senior Analyst at FedEx, leveraged his Smith School analytics training in a pivotal internship. Despite initial setbacks, his perseverance and impressive final presentation to senior VPs turned his internship into a full-time role.