Mentoring program benefits students, alumni

Alumnus Rob Siracusano is
mentoring CoBA students.

Nick Lareau, an SIU College of Business senior majoring in finance, describes Robert J. Siracusano, a senior financial advisor and branch manager with Wachovia Securities Financial Network in Naperville, as “a motivational coach, a mentor and someone I look up to.”

Lareau and Siracusano were paired in spring, 2006 when Lareau participated in an externship at Wachovia. “I realized this guy had built a very successful business because he is energetic, motivated and driven,” said Lareau. “During the externship, I learned from Rob what it takes to compete at that level.”

Since that time, the two Salukis have continued to communicate. “Rob gives me great advice on how to build a career and he tells it to me straight,” said Lareau. “I really appreciate that he’s been open and honest in sharing his experiences with me. He’s not afraid to share his secrets for success so I will continue to go to him for advice. I feel lucky to have Rob as a mentor.”

At the College of Business, Siracusano serves as vice chair of the Marketing External Advisory Board and as a member of the Dean’s External Advisory Board. Siracusano and other members of the Marketing Board are mentors to College of Business students who are thrilled to be paired with accomplished professionals.

Siracusano received his bachelor's degree from SIU College of Business and currently owns his own branch of Wachovia Securities, and as a full service financial advisory firm, specializes in conservative investing for individual and business retail clients throughout the country.

While at SIU, Siracusano was one of the world's top divers on the 1- and 3-meter boards, and holds school points records in both events. He was a member of the U.S. National team for springboard and platform diving through 1996, and is a member of the SIU Hall of Fame.

In 2005, Siracusano delivered the College of Business commencement address and received the Alumni Achievement Award.

It’s no wonder Lareau admires Siracusano and hopes to follow in his footsteps. Right now, Lareau is looking for a job a financial advisor in the Peoria area.

Siracusano says the mentoring program has benefited him as well. The relationship with Nick “meant so much to me both personally and professionally. We all know we are making a difference in the lives of these kids,” he said.