Honoring John Sengenberger: A Legacy of Alumni Connection at Tepper School

John Sengenberger has epitomized the Tepper School of Business' commitment to its alumni for more than two decades. This September, however, the Executive Director of Alumni Relations will retire after 23 years with the school.

Sengenberger arrived at GSIA in 2001 as its inaugural director of alumni relations, then part of the Career Center under Associate Dean Jen Eisel. During his tenure, he implemented numerous pivotal programs, events, and organizations, including Tepper Reunion Weekend, Summer Welcome Receptions, Tepper Student Treks, the Webinar program, and the Tepper School Alumni Board. His efforts to connect with alumni globally have led him to attend more than 1,000 events.

Like many, Sengenberger’s path to his current role was unconventional. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Studies, and Environmental Sciences from the University of Albany in 1978. Initially, he began his career as a public high school social studies teacher in upstate New York, where he also coached football and led a youth ministry program, teaching at his alma mater.

After completing his master’s degree at Franciscan University of Steubenville in 1982, Sengenberger played active roles in several non-profits before transitioning to higher education. His experience included organizing large conferences and travel programs before briefly working at an internet start-up prior to joining GSIA.

In his early years at GSIA, Sengenberger laid the groundwork for the school’s alumni network, enhancing engagement across various career stages. He oversaw the launch of the first online alumni directory, the establishment of regional chapters in key cities, and the introduction of alumni receptions featuring faculty speakers and panels. He pioneered student career treks and summer welcome receptions held nationwide and internationally. In 2008, he spearheaded the formation of the Tepper Alumni Board, comprising 24 dedicated volunteers, and in 2013, he initiated the annual Tepper Alumni Awards.

Sengenberger cherishes the opportunities he’s had, including traveling globally with esteemed deans and faculty members like Lester Lave, Allan Meltzer, Marvin Goodfriend, and Tom Kerr. He witnessed milestones such as the naming of the Tepper School, the inauguration of the Tepper Quad, and the celebration of its 75th Anniversary. He also valued the chance to connect with exceptional alumni and collaborate with outstanding colleagues.

“I have too many fond memories to count,” he reflected.

However, his greatest satisfaction has always come from seeing alumni enthusiastically connect personally and professionally.

In 2006, his passionate efforts in alumni engagement earned him an Andy Award, named for Andrew Carnegie and Andrew Mellon, recognizing teamwork and dedication at Carnegie Mellon University. A longtime leader at the Association for Business School Alumni Professionals (ABSAP), he served as Board President and received the organization’s Outstanding Service Award in 2015.

To honor John’s tenure, the Tepper School, alongside current and former Alumni Board members, is establishing the John Sengenberger Alumni Engagement Endowed Fund to recognize his exceptional contributions. To contribute, visit tepper.cmu.edu/honorJohn.

For more information on the fund, please contact Dawn DiBartolo at dawnd@cmu.edu.