The School of Business community recently came together to celebrate achievement, connection, and resilience across several events.
Celebrating Courage at the 2026 Lending Hearts Gala
Members of the School of Business community recently attended the 2026 Lending Hearts Gala, which honored Chip Ganassi (B’82) cancer survivor and Owner and CEO of Chip Ganassi Racing.
The evening also celebrated the remarkable story of Penelope Byler and her family. Diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at just 2½ years old, Penelope endured 42 weeks of chemotherapy, 24 weeks of maintenance therapy, and four surgeries. Now 10 years old, she is cancer-free.
The event highlighted the mission of Lending Hearts, whose vision is to bring hope, strength, and support to everyone impacted by cancer. Through powerful stories and community support, the gala served as a reminder of the resilience of patients and families and the importance of coming together to make a difference.
Alumni from Waldron Private Wealth Share Insights
On February 26, 2026, members of the Asset Management Group @ Duquesne (DAMG) welcomed alumni Matthew Helfrich (B’03), CFP, CEO and Partner, and Nikolas Higgins (B’22), Client Service Specialist, for a discussion on careers in wealth management.
During the session, Helfrich and Higgins shared insights into their work advising
clients, discussed trends shaping the wealth management industry, and reflected on
how their Duquesne education helped prepare them for their careers. Their visit provided
students with valuable perspective on
the profession and an opportunity to learn directly from alumni working in the field.
A Dukes Win: On & Off the Court
On December 21, 2025, Duquesne and Pitt’s women’s basketball teams met at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse for the 43rd annual City Game. With a final score of 84 to 69, the Dukes celebrated the win—creating the perfect backdrop for a day of school spirit and connection.
During the game, School of Business hosted an alumni family reception in the MFA Club. Guests enjoyed a catered lunch with snacks and drinks available. The event provided a relaxed setting to reconnect and celebrate the school’s community. President Gormley, the Duke, and Women’s Basketball Head Coach Dan Burt made appearances for photos and conversation. Stay tuned for future alumni engagement opportunities.
News Information
Celebrating Courage at the 2026 Lending Hearts Gala
Left to right: Adam Viers, Dr. Dean McFarlin, Martin Black, and Mike LaFrankie
Celebrating Courage at the 2026 Lending Hearts Gala
Left to right: Penelope Byler and Chip Ganassi
Alumni from Waldron Private Wealth Share Insights
Helfrich (back row left) and Higgens (back row second from left) with members of DAMG along with faculty advisors.
A Dukes Win: On & Off the Court
Left to Right: Alyssa Short (HS’20); Nicholas France (B’19); Kathia Kennedy (A’88); Chuck Kennedy (B’88); Coach Dan Burt; Dr. Karen Donovan (Sr. Associate Dean, Academic Programs & Executive Education; Associate Professor of Marketing); William Donovan (B ’80; JD ’94)