SCHOLARSALTMAN ’ 26 BIOBOOK in StudiesInternational&Business ALTMAN PROGRAM
in International Studies & Business A LT MAN P ROGR AM August 2022 T he Altman Program in International Studies & Business is a special fouryear interdisciplinary undergraduate course of study that integrates advanced language training with a business and liberal arts education. Altman Program Scholars earn two degrees – a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from the School of Liberal Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Management (B.S.M.) from the A. B. Freeman School of Business – combining practical and theo retical knowledge of global economies with deep cultural and linguistic competency. Altman Scholars specialize in an area of the world in which their chosen target language is spoken and will graduate with a nuanced understanding of the political, economic and cultural complexities of our contemporary world. The Altman Program is excited to welcome its newest cohort and proudly presents their stories here! Table of Contents 2026 PROGRAM SCHOLARS Maria Avila 2 Rebecca “Becca” Bollich 3 Catharine “Cate” Cannon .................................. 4 Ian Carstairs .......................................................... 5 David Dubovy ....................................................... 6 Emily Eckerman .................................................... 7 Cameron Garbutt 8 Dominga Guerra 9 Carmella “Ella” Guglielmi 10 Ava Gutierrez 11 Mary Kate Johnson 12 Madeline “Maddie” Nowack .......................... 13 Keona Patel ........................................................ 14 Logan Pilaro ....................................................... 15 Mateo Proaño 16 Alec Riley 17 Benjamin “Ben” Siegal 18 Jacqueline Soals 19 Mitchell Spector 20 Morgan Veal ....................................................... 21 PROGRAM DIRECTORS & STAFF .................... 22 ABOUT JEFFREY ALTMAN 24
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Target Language: French Email: mavila@tulane.edu
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Legal Studies in Business
Three Words to Describe Maria: Determined, persevering, compassionate.
Community Service: I was the Outreach Coordinator for the Aurora Chapter of Letters for Rose. Letters for Rose is an organization created during the pandemic in order to help senior citizens living in nursing homes feel less alone through artwork and letters. As the Outreach Coordinator, I coordinated with the nursing homes for resident information and details regarding the letters. I also gave presentations around my community regarding the importance of the organization. As a member of the National Honor Society, I participated in several community projects, including helping clean up parks on Saturday mornings, running the Coin Wars, volunteering at the elementary school every Wednesday, and helping with other events.
Fun Fact: I used to tell people I was allergic to watermelon so I wouldn’t have to eat it at picnics.
International Experience: I was born in El Salvador, and I moved to the United States when I was ten years old. Coming from a different background and experiencing new cultures when I moved ignited my desire to learn more about different cultures and travel to new countries. I have visited El Salvador and Guatemala, and had the opportunity to travel to Puerto Rico, Italy, France, and other countries. Additionally, my family hosted an exchange student from France a couple of summers ago.
Maria Avila Aurora, Ohio “Determined,persevering,compassionate”
Academic Achievements: High Honor Roll; National Honor Society; National Hispanic Recognition Award; Outstanding Global Language Student Award.
Extra-curricular Activities: I was a member of the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus, where I performed several times a year with the ensemble and the Cleveland Orchestra. Additionally, I belonged to three choirs in school: Emerald Ensemble, Chamber Singers, and Unaccompanied Minors. I was part of Aurora Buddies Club, where I met with kids with special needs and played games with them. This year I was part of a committee that organized a district-wide trick-or-treating event.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love singing, especially classical music. I also love to dance, play volleyball, hang out with my friends, travel, watch movies, and read.
Target Language: Spanish Email: rbollich1@tulane.edu
caring,“Thoughtful,being”
Extra-curricular Activities: I was on varsity cross country and track all four years of high school and served as cross country captain my senior year. I was a member of my school’s Mixed Race Affinity Group leadership board all four years as well, serving as vice-president my junior year and president my senior year. I founded the Meditation Club and was active in my school’s Political Education Club and East Asian Affinity Group. I was on the founding leadership board of my school’s Pre-Law Club and participated in the ACLU’s National Advocacy Institute. I have been working two jobs since my junior year at the Rothko Chapel and a cycling studio.
International Experience: One side of my family is from Thailand, and I have had the opportunity to visit the country and my relatives there many times growing up. One summer, my family and I visited Japan and Cambodia as well. I have also traveled to France, Germany, Italy, and Peru. I’m grateful to be a part of a program like Altman that allows me to explore the world through language and travel.
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Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love being outdoors, running, walking, or meditating. I enjoy film, food, and music. I am passionate about social justice issues such as racial justice, climate change, gun legislation, and immigration reform. I love learning about history and other cultures through documentaries, movies, and books. In general, I enjoy getting to know the places I am in and people around me.
Academic Achievements: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar.
Community Service: I volunteered at the Children’s Museum of Houston assisting with exhibits and programs. I worked with the organization Techo in Peru constructing housing. I designed multiple series of digital infographics for Pure Water for the World, an organization that partners with rural and underserved communities in Haiti and Honduras to provide water, sanitation, and hygiene education programs. During the pandemic, I provided online tutoring to children who could not access educational assistance over the summer. In addition, I established a card donation project for a local bereavement center during the height of COVID-19. One of my most valuable experiences was volunteering for three years at the Houston Teen Municipal Court where I worked to represent and prosecute juveniles with minor offenses.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Development and Finance
Three Words to Describe Becca: Thoughtful, caring, being. Fun Fact: My mom told me I was allergic to soda when I was little, so I never drank it and still never have.
Rebecca “Becca” Bollich Houston, Texas
Academic Achievements: National Merit Commended Scholar; Cum Laude Society (Top 10% of Class); AP Scholar with Honor; National Honor Society; Spanish National Honor Society; Science National Honor Society; Mu Alpha Theta National Honor Society; High Honor Roll; National Spanish Exam two-time Gold Medalist; Sobresaliente Recognition at Florida State Spanish Conference; Excellence in AP Macro/Micro Economics; Excellence in AP Spanish.
Community Service: I founded and lead the Gainesville “Beats for Babies” Music Festival, a virtual rock music benefit concert for March of Dimes. My senior year I was a buddy to a kindergarten student which included reading, crafting, and playing games. I participated annually in Mulch Madness, a fundraiser where students deliver mulch to donors. I was a counselor for Winshape Camp, a Christian youth camp. I participated in a tutoring/mentor program for elementary students.
International Experience: In March 2016, I traveled with my family to Ocho Rios, Jamaica where we spent a week exploring the city and spending time on the coastal harbor. In July 2017, we went to London, England and Paris, France. In March 2019, we stayed in La Romana, Dominican Republic which was absolutely stunning. I look forward to my future international experiences through the Altman Program and the time I will get to spend with my cohort.
Gainesville, Florida “Authentic,devoted,zealous”
Extra-curricular Activities: Gainesville March of Dimes Chain Reaction Youth Leadership Council (Vice President); Oak Hall March of Dimes Club (President); Mu Alpha Theta Club (President); Fellowship of Christian Athletes (President); Aerie Yearbook (Editor-in-Chief); Varsity Volleyball and Lacrosse (Captain); Gainesville Juniors Club Volleyball; Oak Hall Honor Council (Vice President); Kode with Klossy Summer Program; YMCA Youth in Government; Spanish Conference Team; Girls Overnight Leadership Development.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I like to explore different cultures and learn about local customs and traditions. I am a huge reader, especially Young Adult, Romance, Fantasy, and Historical Fiction. I enjoy coding and graphic design. I run an online Christian ministry called Joyful Visions Co, including a podcast called Cate’s Corner, Instagram, and TikTok. I am fueled by music of many genres and love live performances. I have played volleyball since I was 8 years old and hope to continue while at Tulane.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Finance
Three Words to Describe Cate: Authentic, devoted, zealous. Fun Fact: I love to eat snails, alligator, tofu, and brussels sprouts… but I don’t like pizza!
Catharine “Cate” Cannon
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Target Language: Spanish Email: ccannon7@tulane.edu
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26 Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Political Economy and Legal Studies in Business
Academic Achievements: Graduated with honors; completed my school’s advanced business management track; Junior Achievement Competition of San Diego Finalist; teaching assistant for two classes including AP psychology and weightlifting.
Community Service: I completed many hours of volunteer service during high school including 500 hours of volunteer work for a local youth non-profit theater company, where I was both a musician and led the stage crew. Additionally, I volunteered at health fairs at our local children’s hospital in support of children with complex medical conditions and health disparities.
I volunteered as a clinical trial study participant in two Pfizer/ BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine trials. The first trial beginning in 2020 contributed to finding a safe and effective vaccine and most recently in 2022 the second trial will study the incidence of myocarditis in teenagers after receiving the vaccine.
Three Words to Describe Ian: Independent, resilient, curious.
Ian Carstairs San
Target Language: Spanish Email: icarstairs@tulane.edu
International Experience: I am fortunate enough to have been able to travel to nearly twenty countries in four continents, gaining a wide appreciation for different cultures and languages. Both of my parents served in the Navy. Their time away from home and their experiences caused me to gain an appreciation for the world and the vast interconnected global atmosphere.
resilient,“Independent,curious”
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Extra-curricular Activities: I was involved in club swimming for eight years, I played in our rock band program as a guitarist throughout high school, and did peer tutoring at my school where I was a teaching assistant for both an AP Psychology class and a physical education class. I was also Chief Financial Officer of Hand in Hand, a youth-run jewelry company which raises money to benefit cancer survivors.
Fun Fact: Despite living in San Diego, I do not know how to surf. Diego, California
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love to play guitar, both acoustic and electric, I stay fit through activities such as hiking and weightlifting, I love to travel the world to learn about other cultures, and I also have a passion for cooking.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I enjoy listening to music, cooking, keeping up with politics and news, watersports, playing through the Assassin’s Creed franchise, and reading.
Three Words to Describe David: Ambitious, genuine, resourceful.
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Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Legal Studies in Business
Academic Achievements: AP Scholar with Distinction; National Speech & Debate Association Honor Society Special Distinction; National Society of High School Scholars; Ransom Everglades Honor Roll.
Target Language: Spanish Email: ddubovy@tulane.edu
David Dubovy Miami, Florida “Ambitious,genuine,resourceful”
Extra-curricular Activities: I competed in Debate competitions throughout High School, being ranked First in Florida’s district 5 in Congressional Debate and participating in National competitions, which culminated in an award for presiding at the National Tournament. I participated in athletics as a member of my school’s varsity sailing team. The team won a National Keelboat title during my junior year. I was elected President of my school’s Jewish Student Association, boosting membership and participation in the club after dwindling activity due to the pandemic. I was selected to become the Principal French Horn, earning a Superior rating at both the Solo Festival and District Music Performance Assessment. Finally, I founded and served as the Co-President of the History of Ransom Everglades Club, an organization dedicated to chronicling school events and maintaining school archives.
Community Service: I have volunteered at a nonprofit organization called Team Paradise in Miami for multiple years. It aims to give back to the community through making the sport of sailing accessible to all. I originally worked as a skipper, but eventually began to help modify adaptive equipment, became fully certified as a youth instructor, created new social media content and managed the organization’s accounts, invented a new sailing curriculum, and supervised other volunteers.
Fun Fact: While at a friend’s house playing tag indoors with socks on, I slipped and hit my head against a dresser, nearly slicing my earlobe off completely. Luckily, the doctors were able to reattach it, and I still have the scar to this day.
International Experience: In the Summer of 2021, I was fortunate enough to attend the Alexander Muss High School in Israel. It combined core classes and trips all throughout Israel, using the land as a classroom. In a non-academic setting, I have been lucky to travel to France, Belgium, Canada, and briefly to Guatemala. I look forward to immersing myself further into different cultures as a part of the Altman program!
Target Language: French Email: eeckerman@tulane.edu
Emily Eckerman Saratoga, California
Extra-curricular Activities: For over ten years, I have done competitive cheerleading, and placed top three twice in international competitions! In the summer, I coach at Athena Camps, an all-girls arts and sports camp. I was also a part of my school’s Media Arts Program Student Leadership, helping develop recruitment strategies and engagement; I was part of Freshmen Recruitment, Link Crew, and Co-Head of Activities. I competed with my school’s Mock Trial team as a prosecution and pre-trial attorney. I was also a marketing intern at a local healthcare company.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love baking and cooking (you must try my brown butter chocolate chip cookies), being active, and spending time outside hiking, running, or walking my dog, Nola. I’m always up for a coffee run or trying out a new restaurant!
Three Words to Describe Emily: Charismatic, persistent, ambitious.
Fun Fact: I’ve had three bones removed from my foot, but they keep growing back…
Community Service: After having to stop competitive cheerleading due to ankle injuries, I became an aid for Team Gemini, a special needs cheerleading team. I conducted virtual social nights during the pandemic and aided practices and workouts. I was a volunteer intern at Athena Camps before becoming a coach. I also volunteered at community events such as Benefit Fashion Show and Bombay in the Bay.
“Charismatic,persistent,ambitious”
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International Experience: I visited London and Scotland with my family and am excited to have more international experiences in the future!
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Political Economy and Finance
Academic Achievements: High Honor Roll; Community Service Award; Scholar of Distinction; Foothill Club American Heritage Award; President’s Education Award; Smith College Book Award; Media Arts Program Documentary Award.
Community Service: I was fortunate enough to participate in two virtual student exchange programs over the summer of 2020. In these two programs, I got to meet and talk with students from Morocco, Iraq, and the United States. Together, we all reviewed U.N. Sustainable Development goals and different opinions as well as strategies to achieve them.
Target Language: French Email: cgarbutt@tulane.edu
Academic Achievements: Recipient of silver medal on Le Grand Concours exam in both tenth and eleventh grades. Medaled in the national Spanish exam in tenth and eleventh grades. Led independent historic research into past US elections in order to uncover what it takes to win a presidential election.
Extra-curricular Activities: President of my school’s Debate Club. Oral Proficiency Intern, leading younger French-language students through a variety of exercises that taught conjugating in an engaging manner. 4-year member of varsity soccer and captain.
“Charismatic,motivated,positive”
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love being active. In my free time, I surf, ski, and play soccer. I also love traveling and often visit my family in South Africa.
Three Words to Describe Cameron: Charismatic, motivated, positive. Fun Fact: I only have a South African passport even though I never lived there and grew up in France and the US.
International Experience: I was born in Paris and lived there until I was ten years old. Both my parents are South African, so I typically visit my family in Cape Town and Johannesburg every year or two.
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Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Legal Studies in Business
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26Cameron Garbutt Rye, New York
Academic Achievements: College Board National Hispanic Recognition; National Honor Society (ARISTA); Regents Advanced Designation with Mastery in Science.
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26 Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Legal Studies in Business
Three Words to Describe Dominga: Passionate, determined, open-minded. Fun Fact: I met David Harbour from Stranger Things and Hayden Christensen from Star Wars.
Dominga Guerra York City, New York
open-minded”determined,“Passionate, 9
Target Language: Italian Email: dguerra2@tulane.edu
New
Extra-curricular Activities: As a musician, I spent these past 11 years attending a music school outside of my performing arts high school. I am equally passionate about leadership, community service, and discovering more about my personal interests. Therefore, I took part in creating a club at my school that focused on how to help those in need in NYC. Additionally, I was a member of an entrepreneurship club with a focus on women empowerment. Finally, I’m all about school spirit, so this past year I joined the “Big Sib Lil Sib” club to provide guidance for the incoming freshmen.
Community Service: Much of my community service was through the National Honors Society at my school. I discovered many ways of doing service online due to the pandemic. These included writing letters to children in hospitals, online guidance for incoming freshmen, and online tutoring through zoom sessions. I mainly tutored students in music history, Spanish, and physics.
International Experience: I was born in the capital of Chile, Santiago, and am a Native Spanish speaker. I moved to the states when I was 5 years old. Many of my family members reside in Chile so I have had the wonderful opportunity of visiting frequently. I am most excited to travel to other countries to learn more about other cultures.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: Music is one of my greatest passions. I play the flute and love listening to all genres of music such as K-pop, jazz, and R&B. I love to drink coffee and binge-watch shows on Netflix with my family.
Community Service: I primarily spent my time working with the Mid-Peninsula Boys and Girls Club (MPBGC) in San Mateo. My favorite way of involvement was teaching a class of K–2 graders how to read, comprehend, and play music on the recorder.
Carmella “Ella” Guglielmi Burlingame, California
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Extra-curricular Activities: I interned for California Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore, Kevin Mullin, and was also a part of his congressional campaign. I worked for Burlingame Aquatic Club as a water polo coach, summer swim team coach, and swim instructor. I was on the Teen Advisory Board and Leadership Board for Girltelligence, a start-up app focused on creating virtual sisterhood. I worked for Half Moon Bay media, managing local business’ social media platforms and tracking growth. At school, I was an Italian tutor, primarily working one-on-one, and a Leora Trust Correspondent, working virtually with elementary students in India on their conversational English. I played water polo and was on the swim team all four years and was honored to be elected captain for both teams. I was the principle chair euphonium in my high school’s concert band, marching band, and wind ensemble.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love to spend time with my friends! Whether that’s blasting all kinds of music in the car, going to concerts, or even just movie nights at home. I seriously love music, both listening to and playing music. You can also find me outdoors or staying active. Some of my favorite activities are surfing, skiing, hiking, long walks, and going to the beach.
Target Language: Italian Email: cguglielmi@tulane.edu
“Empathetic,collaborative,confident”
MPBGC asked me to work as a summer camp counselor and as a homework tutor during the school year. I loved working with the students in my local community and could truly see the impact of my volunteering. Through my hours of service at the MPBGC, I was able to earn the Presidential Service Award (Silver).
Academic Achievements: National Honors Society; California Scholarship Federation; AP Scholar with Honors; Foreign Language Excellence Award in Italian; Scott Miller Award for Wind Ensemble.
Although I was not able to participate in my Italian study abroad experience in high school due to the pandemic, I am thrilled to gain more global experiences in my studies abroad and future travels.
Three Words to Describe Ella: Empathetic, collaborative, confident. Fun Fact: My parents named me after my great-great-grandmother but intentionally misspelled the name to nickname me Ella.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Management
International Experience: My family loves to travel, and I have been fortunate to travel internationally three times to such wonderful places as Australia, Canada, Great Britain, France, and Italy!
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Political Science and Finance
Academic Achievements: Paul Tulane Award Recipient; AP Scholar with Honors; Presidential Service Award (Gold Level); Outstanding Achievement in Music for Orchestra; National Honor Society; National Spanish Honor Society.
International Experience: I have been fortunate enough to have traveled with my family to Mexico, Spain, Morocco, and Ireland over my childhood. I have been on service trips to China (2019), engaging with youth and teaching English, and Peru (2021), focusing on a reforestation project.
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Fun Fact: When I was eight, I got to frost a cupcake with my childhood idol, Buddy Valastro, the owner of Carlo’s Bakery and Hoboken celebrity who stars in the hit TV show Cake Boss. Texas “Witty,spunky”driven,
Ava Gutierrez San Antonio,
Community Service: I volunteer at organizations such as Brookdale Retirement home, playing bingo and engaging with the residents, and Snack Pak 4 Kids, organizing snack bags to be distributed for children among food insecure communities. I found a passion for Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP) Camp, a summer camp that caters to individuals with intellectual and/ or physical disabilities. I spend multiple weeks of my summers volunteering as a counselor. I serve as the volunteer coordinator for Music on Mission, an organization of musicians that preforms for various groups/charities.
Extra-curricular Activities: Soccer (Varsity Captain); Water Polo; Violinist; Orchestra Council (Vice President); Junior State of America; UIL Literary Criticism.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love to cook and explore all things culinary. I have a deep love for my two pugs whom I spend quite a bit of time with. Live music has a special place in my heart, so I frequently attend concerts and music festivals with my friends and family. Three Words to Describe Ava: Witty, driven, spunky.
Target Language: Spanish Email: agutierrez1@tulane.edu
Target Language: French Email: mjohnson26@tulane.edu
Three Words to Describe Mary Kate: Optimistic, extroverted, fun-loving. Fun Fact: I have a twin brother who has pale skin, red hair, and blue eyes. He is literally the polar opposite of me looks-wise.
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26Mary Kate Johnson Lookout Mountain, Tennessee
Academic Achievements: National Honor Society; Beta Club; French National Honor Society.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love playing tennis, wake surfing, baking, traveling, and spending a lot of time with friends.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Legal Studies in Business
International Experience: This summer I was able to travel to San Miguel de Allende for a week and a half with my best friend who lived there for most of her childhood. I also got to travel to Paris, London, and Felixstowe for two weeks with my tennis team and our families. For Senior Spring break I also went to Punta Cana but all I was able to see was the resort.
Extra-curricular Activities: I was voted Student Council President where I planned various school-wide events and advocated for student interests. I was editor and chief of the school newspaper where we released an edition each month. I also was a member of Intersection, a council which worked to harness a safer environment for students to express themselves. Along with those I was a part of my school’s spirit organization, the May Day committee, JSA, an ambassador, and other activities.
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“Optimistic,extroverted,fun-loving”
Community Service: As a part of the National Honor Society, I tutored underclassmen covering a wide array of academic topics during my study halls. I was an ambassador, which meant I led families and potential students on tours around school, attended admissions events, and spoke at incoming student panels. I worked closely with the Chattanooga Food Pantry through my church and went to sort food as often as I could.
Fun Fact: I was adopted from China when I was 8 months old. Brunswick, New Jersey easygoing,fun”
Target Language: Spanish Email: mnowack@tulane.edu
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love working out/fitness, food, cooking, traveling, and listening to music. I have spent all my summers at sleepaway camp, and working as a lifeguard, swim instructor, and counselor.
Community Service: In high school I volunteered for Buddy Soccer, worked in an industrial kitchen, participated in Stevens Institute’s Experimental Digital, and babysat. I received a service award for gaining over 50 hours of service in one year.
Three Words to Describe Maddie: Driven, easygoing, fun.
Madeline “Maddie” Nowack East
International Experience: My mom is a camp director, so I grew up traveling with her both abroad and domestic. I traveled to England, Israel, Mexico, Costa Rica, and I was born in China.
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Academic Achievements: My school did not give out academic awards.
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26 Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Communications and Management
Extra-curricular Activities: In high school I played soccer, basketball, and lacrosse for all four years. I was captain of the varsity soccer team, and in sophomore year I was captain of my lacrosse and soccer JV teams. Junior year I was the grade athletic representative for my school, and senior year I became athletic representative for the entire student body. I planned two years of powder puff games, pep rallies, and other seasonal athletic events. I participated in national diversity conferences and programs where I discussed current events with international students. I am a published blog writer for Jewish Women’s Archive through the Rising Voices fellowship.
“Driven,
Three Words to Describe Keona: Confident, empathetic, ambitious.
Keona Patel Weston, Connecticut
International Experience: Growing up South Asian, I have spent quality time with family in the state of Gujarat in India with visits to Bengaluru, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. The diversity of cultural, linguistic, (and gastronomic) experiences I have had there have kept my aperture for cross-cultural learning wide. I have also visited Italy, Costa Rica, France, Mexico, Aruba, Spain, and along the way have discovered a love for exploring and understanding new places.
Extra-curricular Activities: I was Principal Clarinetist at Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras, playing advanced orchestral pieces for audiences of more than 1,000 people. I served as Varsity Girls Golf Captain, earning the Rookie of the Year Award in 2018 and the Coach’s Award in 2022. I have served in various club leadership positions, including Vice President of National Honor Society, President of French Honor Society, Secretary of Music Honor Society, President of Science Olympiad, President of Academic Decathlon, and President of Girls Who Code.
Fun Fact: I taught myself to play the banjo in a week but stopped after it fell on my face and cut open my lip.
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Academic Achievements: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Distinguished Scholar; RPI Medal of Excellence in Math and Science; John Philip Sousa Band Award.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: Off-trail hiking; trying multi-cultural dessert recipes; reading; weightlifting; painting; and photography. I’m passionate about technological inclusion and political issues around civil rights.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Political Economy and Finance
“Confident,empathetic,ambitious”
Target Language: French Email: kpatel9@tulane.edu
Community Service: I have volunteered as the Children’s Activities Chair at my local Lachat Town Farm for 6 years, helping to revive a 45-acre farm. I founded and ran a non-profit, CombatCOVID, leading 30+ students and volunteers to aid local healthcare workers, homeless shelters, and food kitchens by sewing more than 1,000 masks and raising over $2000 in donations. I ran the Music Mentors program, giving free music lessons to local student musicians. I also provided free academic tutoring and worked to transport food between food kitchens and bakeries to improve safe food access. Overall, I earned the US Presidential Volunteer Service Gold Award in 2021.
Academic Achievements: AP Scholar with distinction. Extra-curricular Activities: Varsity Basketball and Lacrosse. Co-Founder of an online learning startup called LyveUp.com focused on accessible live classes taught by self-motivated and reliable teachers. Model UN and Business Club. Have worked full time construction, restaurant, and party rental service (setting up weddings etc.) jobs.
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Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Political Science and Finance
Pilaro
passionate,“Curious,incisive”
Target Language: Spanish Email: lpilaro@tulane.edu
Fun Fact: I was born on Friday the 13th.
Community Service: Help with the local senior connection. Chopping wood for local elderly.
International Experience: I was lucky enough to have parents who greatly valued travel. I have been to many countries and have been immersed in their cultures as my parents always opt for local houses and towns off the beaten path instead of resorts. I am very excited to have more focused international experiences through the Altman Program!
Logan Ketchum, Idaho
Three Words to Describe Logan: Curious, passionate, incisive.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I have been surfing and skiing my whole life and recently have been getting into rock climbing. I play guitar as well as sing. I am interested in politics and business. My favorite pastime is spending time with friends.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Finance
Three Words to Describe Mateo: Enterprising, ambitious, charismatic. Fun Fact: I had a fear of flying but went sky diving to help with it.
Academic Achievements: I was awarded a distinction in Business Management Testing from Florida DECA and placed 2nd in DECA Financial Team Decision Making in Florida. That same year I was an international finalist in DECA Financial Team Decision Making. I was in the National Honor Society and received the Spirit of the Bay award my senior year for outstanding spirit and involvement in student government.
Extra-curricular Activities: I was involved in both student government and DECA holding leadership positions. I also sat on the Student Advisory council for my high school. I was a senator in the National Honor Society in which I coordinated both member engagement and community service projects.
Community Service: I was heavily involved in my school’s harvest drive which helped feed over 1000 families in our local community. I also worked with a non-profit throughout high school called Mujeres Latinas which helped connect vulnerable Latin women and children to essential resources. As a leader in Student Government, I was constantly involved with our community service projects that ranged from supply drives to camps for underprivileged kids.
International Experience: I have been fortunate to travel through South America and Europe. Naturally being from Ecuador I have traveled that country extensively and am familiar with its culture. I also interned for 3 weeks during my junior year summer at an Ecuadorian-based financial institution with operations across South America.
“Enterprising,ambitious,charismatic”
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26Mateo Proaño Weston, Florida
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I like to go for runs and play basketball. I enjoy traveling to new countries and cities. I’m also an avid skier and enjoy spending time with friends and family. I’m interested in geopolitics and I enjoy listening to music and meditation.
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Target Language: Spanish Email: mproano@tulane.edu
International Experience: I was an exchange student to Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town, South Africa, in the summer of 2019. I attended summer classes, lived on campus with other students during the week and with a host family on weekends; I hosted my exchange partner at home and school in the fall of 2019. I also frequently visit family on a dairy farm in County Cavan, Ireland, and have traveled through Europe on vacation.
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26 Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Political Economy and Legal Studies in Business
Three Words to Describe Alec: Friendly, reliable, adventurous.
Alec Riley Malvern, Pennsylvania adventurous”reliable,
Fun Fact: I have a twin sister named Fiona.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love baseball, I enjoyed my time playing from little league up to high school, and am an avid Philadelphia Phillies (and Eagles) fan. I also enjoy skiing in the winter, and going to the Jersey Shore in the summer with friends.
Target Language: French Email: ariley5@tulane.edu
Extra-curricular Activities: I served for 4 years as Class President, and served on the Model UN Leadership Board. I played double bass in my school’s orchestra, and served as baseball team captain senior year. In my senior season I was awarded the Straub Memorial Prize, and was an All Delco Honorable Mention. I have been employed by Acme Markets, Megna Health, and Waynesborough Country Club.
Community Service: I organized food and clothing drives through service in student council, as well as various teacher appreciation projects. I volunteered as a poll worker for the Chester County Board of Elections in 2020. I was a student leader and mentor for a year-long 10th grade seminar on character and leadership. During a student exchange, I participated in weekly community service at an orphanage in Cape Town, South Africa (summer 2019).
“Friendly,
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Academic Achievements: Cum Laude Society; Richard S. Cross Jefferson Scholar Award; Esse Quam Videri Society; National Merit Commended Scholar; Spanish Honors Society; Maxima Cum Laude National Latin Exam.
Three Words to Describe Ben: Thoughtful, proactive, adventurous. Fun Fact: I hate fruit and refuse to eat it on any occasion (other than bananas).
Target Language: Spanish Email: bsiegal@tulane.edu
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Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love staying active through basketball, swimming, and weightlifting. I love watching movies (my favorite movie right now is Everything Everywhere All at Once) and listening to music (my favorite artist is Tyler, The Creator). I also love playing chess and learning about Greek mythology.
Extra-curricular Activities: Held the position of Social Action VP for two years and President for one year in Jewish Youth Group. My History Bowl team qualified for the national competition 3 years in a row. Member of the Congressional Youth Cabinet in which I was selected to sit on an advisory committee with a congressman and I had the opportunity to influence and understand policymaking.
Benjamin “Ben” Siegal
Academic Achievements: AP Scholar; Capstone Diploma; National Honor Society; National Merit Commended Scholar; Magna Cum Laude, Social Science Honor Society.
International Experience: I have been to Israel 4 times on 2 educational teen trips and 2 family trips, through which I began to love travel and exploring foreign culture. I have also visited Costa Rica with my family, which sparked my interest in studying Spanish.
“Thoughtful,proactive,adventurous”
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Finance
Community Service: I was a peer health educator for the Health Information Project, which involves teaching important societal topics to high school freshmen, allowing them to understand and relate to the information in a more effective manner. I was a counselor for Camp Jenny for 3 years, which gives children from an urban school in Atlanta opportunities to grow as students and people and experience a 4-day camp every Memorial Day weekend. For the last 5 years I have been involved with Better Together, which are monthly meetings between members of a retirement home and younger people to converse on topics and bridge the generational gap.
Miami, Florida
Extra-curricular Activities: Starting in elementary school through my junior year of high school I was the team captain and starting setter on my club volleyball team. Furthermore, I was part of USA Volleyball’s Pipeline to the Podium for two years. I have also been in martial arts since I was three years old and earned my blackbelt from the Shaolin monks when I was 11. Additionally, I have won the women’s championship in sparring in every age division I have competed in. Last but not least, I played the Bassoon and the Trombone in my school band. (If you don’t know what the bassoon is just picture a giant foghorn).
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love martial arts, Korean dramas, Korean pop music, anime, dancing, weightlifting, go-kart racing, playing Halo with my dad, and studying ancient history. I am also attempting to teach myself Japanese and Korean. Three Words to Describe Jacqueline: Sarcastic, ambitious, independent.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Economics and Finance
independent”ambitious,“Sarcastic,
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Community Service: I interned for a Santa Clara County circuit court judge for two summers where I got to take notes on legal cases which gave me an in-depth look at the various courts of law and how the system worked. While interning I was inspired to continue my language studies as I watched two men win a civil trial despite not knowing how to speak English because they were able to follow the proper legal framework. I also volunteered to teach self-defense at my dojo to women and children who were not fluent in English. Finally, I rescued 2 cats during my junior year of high school. International Experience: TBA
Target Language: Mandarin Chinese Email: jsoals@tulane.edu
Academic Achievements: AP Scholar with Honors and California Scholarship Federation member.
Fun Fact: I started taking Mandarin in middle school because our Spanish teacher was known as “la Diabla”. California
Jacqueline Soals Hillsborough,
“Resourceful,genuine,kind”
International Experience: I participated in a two-week service trip to the Dominican Republic working with the community of Cuesta Barrosa at a youth summer camp, teaching English, doing crafts, and playing sports with the children there. I also helped build a volleyball court at their school. I also love to travel and have been fortunate to go with my family to places like Israel, Mexico, Rome, Barcelona, and London to name a few.
Community Service: For the past five years, I volunteered in the religious school at my synagogue. I was teacher and mentor to the children as they developed their knowledge about their religion, values, and identity. We did activities, lessons, and community projects. I also enjoyed volunteering at our local food bank in Orlando sorting food to create meals for families that were struggling with food security.
Three Words to Describe Mitchell: Resourceful, genuine, kind. Fun Fact: I have a love-hate relationship with tomatoes. I find them absolutely disgusting on their own but totally delicious when on a sandwich!
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ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26Mitchell Spector Orlando, Florida
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love music, and my Spotify playlist is extremely diverse including Classic Rock, Billy Joel, Country, Classical and Salsa/Merengue. I am a huge sports fan and look forward to going to Pelicans and Saints games.
Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: Sociology and Marketing Target Languages: Spanish and Portuguese Email: mspector2@tulane.edu
Academic Achievements: IB Diploma Candidate; National Honor Society; National Spanish Honor Society; AP Scholar; Orange County Seal of Biliteracy; Debate Team and Lincoln Douglas Tournament Champion; Quiz Bowl Vice President; AP Psychology Tutor.
Extra-curricular Activities: I was a Character Lab representative for my high school in their research and analysis focused on the character and well-being of teenagers today. This research is used to advise schools on creating environments where teens can thrive. I also participated in the Leaders for Tomorrow through the American Jewish Committee. This is an education and advocacy program that enables young leaders to advocate on behalf of the Jewish people, Israel, human rights, as well as to serve as positive change agents for their peers and community.
Extra-curricular Activities: Mock Trial Attorney and Witness; Talented Drama Club; BETA Club Treasurer; Mock Trial Vice President; Freshman Mentor; Rollins Place Elementary Tutor.
Morgan Veal Zachary,
Community Service: I see community service as a way to help others grow, so I try to involve myself with as many organizations as possible, including NHS, BETA, Freshmen Mentors, and after school tutoring. In these programs, we organized donation drives that provided sanitary products to women’s shelters, tutored failing students, and even walked foster dogs!
unconventional”compassionate,“Spontaneous,
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Academic Achievements: AP Scholar; TOPs Recipient; Thompson Cup Winner; NHD State Finalist; Louisiana Girls State Senator.
Personal Interests/Hobbies: I love to thrift, hang out with friends and family, and watch reality television. Three Words to Describe Morgan: Spontaneous, compassionate, unconventional.
Fun Fact: I have traveled to almost 15 countries, including Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia, the UAE, Amsterdam, Singapore, Thailand, England, Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, and of course the U.S. Louisiana
ALTMAN SCHOLARS ’26 Intended Liberal Arts and Business Majors: International Relations and Management
Target Language: Spanish Email: mveal1@tulane.edu
International Experience: My family has just started to travel internationally, and it has been the most enlightening experience of my life. This summer, we traveled across southeast Asia and western Europe. I think my favorite part of every trip is being able to talk with the locals, specifically the taxi/ uber drivers. I know that might sound weird, but after talking with the drivers, my brother and I learn what to do, where to eat, and what to see. By talking to them, I feel more connected with the culture of where I am staying, and I am also able to learn some of their wisdom and advice for traveling within their country.
Casey Love, Ph.D.
In addition to serving as co-director of the Altman Program, Dr. Love is the Associate Dean of Global Education and a Senior Professor of Practice in the Department of Political Science. She is a proud Tulane alumna with three degrees from Tulane: a doctorate in political science (2005), a master’s degree in Latin American studies (2000), and a bachelor’s degree in political science and Latin American studies (1997). Dr. Love teaches courses on Mexican politics, U.S.Latin American relations, U.S. immigration policy, comparative politics, and political and economic development. She has directed study abroad programs in Mexico (Guadalajara and Mérida), Costa Rica, Vietnam, and Thailand, has developed four international service-learning programs. She is the recipient of multiple awards for teaching and service at Tulane, including the Mortar Board Excellence in Teaching Award (2018), School of Liberal Arts Outstanding Service Award (2016), the Center for Public Service’s Barbara E. Moely Service Learning Teaching Award (2013), and the Stone Center’s Simon Rodriguez Award for Best Undergraduate Teacher (2012). In addition to her academic pursuits, Dr. Love is is a founding leader of a 501c3-designated female-identified Mardi Gras performance troupe. Myke Yest, Ph.D., CFA Myke Yest, a Senior Professor of Practice in Finance at the A.B. Freeman School of Business, teaches both graduate and undergraduate classes in such areas as Risk Management, Corporate Finance, Private Equity, Venture Capital, and Cases in Finance. Outside the classroom, Myke acts as program director for Tulane’s Partnership Program with CFA Institute and faculty adviser to several organizations on campus. Myke also consults for a local investment advisor firm that helps high-net worth individuals prepare for retirement. He holds a BBA in Business Man agement from Stetson University, an MBA from the University of South Florida, and a PhD in Finance from Tulane University, in which he focused his research on mutual fund management structures.
Program Co-Directors 22
Having spent over 25 years in the finance industry allows Myke to integrate both practice and theory into his finance courses. His dynamic approach toward teaching has earned him numerous awards, including the Freeman School Student Government Teaching Excellence Award, the James T. Murphy Award for Teaching Excel lence, and twice-winning the Howard J. Wisner “Professor of the Year” award at the Freeman School. In 2019, he was awarded the inaugural Peter R. Ricchiuti Professorship in Finance.
Natalia is originally from Russia. In the last twentyfive years she has lived and worked in Europe, Brazil, Ecuador and the US and has been in New Orleans since 2004. She earned her Masters in Pacific and International Affairs with a regional specialization on Latin America from the Uni versity of California, San Diego. Natalia is cur rently completing The Emerging Leaders Program through the Tulane Leadership Institute (TULI).
Jamie Montelepre Jamie joined the Altman Program in October 2017. Born and raised in New Orleans, she most recently worked as an Access Coordinator for the Goldman Center for Student Accessibility at Tulane. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama and Communications from the University of New Orleans and a Master of Professional Studies in Health and Wellness Management from the Tulane School of Professional Advancement. Jamie is also a Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). As the Administrative Program Coordinator for the Altman Program, she assists the Altman Team with the day-to-day oper ations of the program including recruiting efforts, course coordination, event planning and execution, and website maintenance and development.
Program Staff 23
Natalia Daar Natalia Daar joined the Altman Program team in April 2012 having previously worked in such institu tions of Tulane as Stone Center for Latin American Studies, Cuban and Caribbean Studies Institutve and Center for Inter-American Policy and Research. As the Program Manager, she administers the logistical aspects of the program and is responsible for student advising and internship placement.
“In an increasingly global business environment, international study is a must. There are very few business programs in the entire country that offer a dual degree with an international com ponent such as this,” said Jeffrey Altman, a 1988 graduate of Tulane, founder and managing partner of Owl Creek Asset Management LP and founder and director of the Jeffrey A. Altman Foundation.
The new dual degree will require students to complete coursework in Tulane’s A.B. Freeman School of Business and its School of Liberal Arts. “This combination of disciplines with an emphasis on the understanding of foreign cultures is crucial to preparing students to excel in today’s global economy,” said Altman.
About Jeffrey Altman
Upon the creation of the program, Tulane Pres ident Emeritus Scott Cowen said, “If I were an undergraduate now, this is the course of study I would pursue. With an ever-increasing amount of economic growth coming from outside the United States, this is the best way to prepare students for the future. This is definitely a program for the 21st century, and we are most grateful to the Altman Foundation for making Tulane one of only a handful of universities in the country to offer such a unique undergraduate program.”
The Altman Program in International Studies & Business is the focus of a major gift from the Jeffrey A. Altman Foundation. The Jeffrey A. Altman Foundation has pledged $10.3 million to Tulane University to establish this dual-degree program. Similar programs are available at only a handful of select universities nationwide.
“After the incredibly rewarding experiences I had as a student at Tulane, I feel fortunate to help the university develop this four-year program. Graduates will be even better prepared to excel in an increasingly interconnected world economy.”
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"This combination of disciplines with an emphasis on the understanding of foreign cultures is crucial to preparing students to excel in today’s global economy."
