UASBIG - History

The founding of the University at Albany School of Business Investment Group (UASBIG) marked the beginning of a new chapter for the University at Albany, creating an unprecedented and unique learning experience for students interested in security analysis and portfolio management. Matthew Alfieri, Vincent Cisternino, and Michael Reynolds (then business majors enrolled in the Financial Analyst Program, Class of 2008), drafted the initial business plan for the group. With their dedication and unbridled ambition to make the idea come to fruition, and with the help of then School of Business Dean Paul Leonard, as well as notable alumnus and University at Albany Foundation Director Gary Jacobson, the group received a $100,000 endowment from the University at Albany Foundation.

The founders of UASBIG

(L-R) Michael Reynolds, Matthew Alfieri, Vincent Cisternino

The founders set the bar high: the first UASBIG analyst class selected was made up of nine of the thirty candidates who applied for membership. The group has grown enormously and now consists of over thirty members. The members come from many different age groups, backgrounds, and academic concentrations. However, all members seem to share some common traits: passion for the field of finance, strong academic track record, desire to learn about equity markets, security analysis, and the broader economy, as well as a strong desire to succeed.

The aim of current Co-Presidents James Fowler and Ed Warner is to greatly build upon what Mike, Matt, and Vinny created. Among their goals before they graduate in May are:

• Create a comprehensive handbook for members
• Create an efficient and complete training program for new members, including seminars from practitioners, faculty, as well as professional alumni.
• Mentor a new Executive board to ensure a smooth transition come May
• Continue to beat the group’s benchmark, the S&P 500 Index