By Erica Schindler and Olivia Marceda
The Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University has unveiled its prestigious Dolan 30 Under 30 list, recognizing a select group of undergraduate and graduate students for their exceptional achievements in academics, professional development and societal impact. This year, 21 undergraduate students and nine graduate students have been honored with this distinction, which will be formally presented at a ceremony in April.
The Dolan 30 Under 30 award aims to recognize students who embody the Jesuit tradition of educating the mind, body and spirit. According to the announcement, the students selected for the list demonstrate achievements in these three key areas that are central to Fairfield University’s mission.
The Mirror reached out to some of this year’s honorees to learn more about their journey and what this recognition means to them. For many of the students, being selected is a tremendous honor and a reflection of their dedication to personal, academic and professional growth.
Catie Lapolla ‘25 said, “Being recognized as a Dolan 30 Under 30 member is an incredible honor, and it is great motivation to continue making a positive impact in all areas of my life.” Lapolla, who has demonstrated excellence across a variety of academic, professional and community initiatives, emphasized how this recognition encourages her to continue striving for success and excellence.
Another 30 Under 30 recipient, Nicholas Tapinis ‘26, emphasized the “whole person” approach to success.
“I’ve always believed that success isn’t just measured by personal achievements but by how much you can contribute to the world around you.” Tapinis said. “I’ve been fortunate to be involved in Horizons helping underprivileged children over the summer, where I’ve worked to create opportunities for others and support causes that matter to me.”
Other students demonstrated societal and engagement with their community through volunteering, club leadership and sports. For Elena Pearson ‘26, an on-campus job turned into “a piece of [her] identity” and allowed her to engage in the school community.
“ I am ingrained in the Stag community through campus connections and love of the community that developed through work. I have learned that having a purpose makes work meaningful.”
Dolan award recipients must hold a grade point average of at least 3.0 when applying and need to demonstrate strength in the area of academics. For some, this meant thriving in the business school and beyond.
“Academically, I’ve maintained a strong GPA while double majoring in Business Analytics and Film, earning university-wide recognition such as the Distinguished Work in Visual and Expressive Arts Award,” Justin Sabogal ‘25 said.
Maggie Bardwil ‘25 sees her study abroad experience as an experience that strengthened her academic journey as a student.
“One of the most transformative academic experiences I had was studying abroad at Maastricht University, one of Europe’s top institutions,” Bardwil said. “Immersing myself in tutorial-based learning challenged me to adapt, collaborate, and develop a deeper appreciation for global education methods.”
The third area of consideration for the award was professional development. Students reference both their prior experiences with internships as well as their passions for their areas of study within Dolan.
“I’m passionate about a career in finance that challenges me to make a real impact on others,” Brandon Ciarlo ‘26 said. “Whether that’s through investment management or corporate finance, my goal is to work on impactful projects while continuing to learn and grow.”
The students – particularly seniors, who make up the majority of the undergraduate award winners – also shared some of their plans for after graduation. Some have plans to join the workforce, while others will first continue their business education. Marianna Kalin ‘25 plans to do so at Fairfield.
“My future career plans involve continuing my education at Fairfield, where I will be pursuing my MBA,” Kalin said. “I’m excited to build on the foundation I’ve developed as a business student, especially in the areas of marketing, brand management and content creation.”
Tyler Siwiec ‘26 explains that his experiences at Fairfield have helped shape him. In the future, he hopes to one day start his own firm using the entrepreneurial skills he has acquired.
“I am deeply grateful for the education, mentorship and opportunities I have received through Fairfield Dolan,” Siwiec said. “The university has played a crucial role in shaping my skills, work ethic and values, and I look forward to carrying these lessons into my career.”
Despite having different majors, career plans and passions, Dolan students echoed the feeling that being selected for 30 Under 30 was an honor for them.
“It means a lot to have been selected,” Sarah St. Lawrence ‘25 said. “There are so many wonderful Dolan students who are involved in so many different organizations on and off campus. So, to be selected as one of them is very special.”
The 30 Under 30 award recipients will be celebrated at the Dolan Awards Ceremony in April. More information on the date and time of the ceremony will be announced.
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