Boehly Center Hosts 2nd Annual Alumni Networking Cruise in NYC
On July 20, celebrating the Raymond A. Mason School of Business's tight-knit finance community, the Boehly Center for Excellence in Finance welcomed nearly 300 alumni for the second annual networking cruise on the Hudson River. Held on a picturesque summer evening, the three-hour voyage provided an opportunity for alumni, faculty, and industry leaders to connect and build relationships in the heart of the world's financial capital.
The event set sail from Pier 16 in Manhattan, offering attendees a stunning tour of iconic New York City landmarks. The cruise passed notable features like the Statue of Liberty, ventured under the Brooklyn and Williamsburg bridges, and navigated up the East River to the United Nations before returning to the departure point. The evening was enhanced by live music from James Crafford '20 and his band, adding an upbeat and memorable soundtrack.
The diverse guest list included almost 300 alums currently working in finance, several members of the Boehly Center Board of Advisors, and faculty and staff members such as Julie Agnew, Katherine Guthrie, Amy Xia, Brett Hammond, Glenn Crafford, Terry Hinders, and Dean Todd Mooradian. The presence of these guests highlighted the event's significance as a pivotal networking opportunity and a celebration of the community brought together by the Boehly Center and the Raymond A. Mason School of Business.
"The range of individuals on the cruise makes it special," remarked Charlie Unice, BBA Finance '25. "It's a great opportunity to connect with younger students who may be new to the Boehly Center, see classmates and professors from school, and meet alumni who've had incredible experiences in the industry."
Miguel Abradu-Otoo, BBA Finance '25, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the event's role in fostering meaningful connections. "Building community is one of the best aspects of the networking cruise. Regardless of your goals, whether finding friends in your city, looking for mentors in your industry, or strengthening your relations with alma mater, the cruise gives you the environment to build those bonds organically."
Greg Melich '92, CFA and Board Member, reflected on the event's success and future potential, saying, "Lots of momentum around the cruise in only its second year, a uniquely William & Mary and Wall Street event. It is a fun and informal way to connect with friends, colleagues, and generations and even find some great recruits for our business. I can't wait for next year…we might even need a bigger boat!"
The Boehly Center and the Raymond A. Mason School of Business look forward to hosting another memorable event next summer. The annual networking cruise continues to be a crowd favorite amongst the community and a great way to reaffirm the Mason School's commitment to cultivating lasting connections within the finance industry.
Stay tuned for more details about next year's event and how you can participate in this annual excursion.
