Spartan Spark
Collage of student in Career Center President Daly speaking in class and Bloomberg Lab

Friends,


At St. Thomas Aquinas College, innovation is not just something we teach—it is the foundation of a personalized career ecosystem designed to help every student thrive in a rapidly changing world. Guided by the leadership team in our new Career Center, this ecosystem seamlessly integrates academics, experiential learning, and professional development—connecting discovery with career success from day one and throughout every student’s time at STAC and beyond. 

Student in Career Center

Career Center

From the moment they arrive, students embark on a journey of exploration, preparation, and achievement that defines the Spartan experience. Our world demands leaders who think critically, adapt quickly, and act with purpose—and our Spartans rise to that challenge every day. Whether conducting research in our labs, presenting at the Ignite Exhibition, analyzing markets in the Bloomberg Lab, or gaining hands-on experience through internships, our students engage fully in learning that is immersive and prepares them for the future.

 

Igniting Passion. Driving Innovation. Launching Careers of the Future.


Through our Spartan Pledge, every student is guaranteed:

  • An Internship Opportunity — applying classroom learning in real-world settings.
  • A Professional Interview — connecting with Spartan alumni who guide their growth.
  • Ongoing Career Development — through workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities that open doors.
    

Our personalized, innovative career ecosystem is powered by dedicated faculty and staff mentors, strong industry partnerships, and an active alumni network that ensures every Spartan can explore their passions, gain experience, and launch a meaningful career.


From every freshman STAC 101 class that is personally visited by me and our career team … to STAC 102: Introduction to Career Exploration and Life Planning … and STAC 201: Career Communication and Professional Development, students sharpen leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills that employers value most.


The Aquinas Leaders program is a premier four-year scholarship cohort that integrates leadership development with career preparation, empowering students to apply their skills through experiential learning and service-driven projects. Advisory Councils across our Schools ensure every academic program stays aligned with emerging industry needs, keeping our curriculum relevant, rigorous, and ready for the future.


Beyond the classroom, “STACchats” bring CEOs, entrepreneurs, and innovators to campus for engaging “fireside” conversations about leadership and the future of work—bridging inspiration and real-world application. Through our Skills Immersion Program and STAC Your Future career weeks, students connect directly with employers and alumni who help turn ambition into achievement. The addition of the Lower Hudson Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) on campus provides unparalleled opportunities for students to engage directly with real-world business and community initiatives.


Igniting Futures: From Spark to Success

  • 96% of graduates are employed or pursuing advanced degrees within one year of graduation.
  • 17% higher median earnings than the national 4-year college average (U.S. Department of Education Scorecard).
  • Spartans like Meghan Ruane ’23, MPA ’24, now pursuing her J.D. at Notre Dame Law School, and Miles Fisher ’24, now working at Citi as a Securities and Derivatives Analyst, show how personalized preparation leads to powerful outcomes.
Miles and Meghan photos with image of commencement in center

As we look ahead, our focus is clear—to ignite the spark within every student, empowering them to pursue their passions, achieve their career goals, and lead with confidence in an ever-changing world.


Together, we are not just preparing students for tomorrow; we are shaping the leaders who will define it.


Together — We lead. We innovate. We serve. We ignite the Spark!


Regards,