The Rubel School of Business (RSB) and the Preston Area
Business Alliance (PABA) have announced a collaborative effort to support and strengthen the local business community and RSB business students. This strategic partnership aims to enhance community engagement, advance economic growth, and foster business
development.
PABA, which boasts a diverse membership including Spain’s Here, Lucky Shaker, Sugar Diva, El Mostruo, Toro Fitness, and more, is committed to driving community advancement. Norma Molestina, Executive Director of PABA, stated, "By joining forces
with Bellarmine University, the Preston Area Business Alliance empowers small business owners with the knowledge and resources essential for achieving entrepreneurial success. Together, we bridge communities, cultivate opportunities, and pave the
way for thriving enterprises."
Similarly, Haleh S. Karimi, Assistant Professor of Business at Rubel School of Business, added, "We're thrilled about our partnership with PABA, enabling students to engage in real-world business projects. Through PABA's connections, students can apply
their soft and technical skills to create products that meet local business needs, supporting the economy and their career readiness. This is a win-win for the community, businesses, and our graduates!"
As part of this initiative, RSB students have been actively engaging in community projects that support entrepreneurship. They have connected with local small businesses, many of which have visited RSB classrooms to share their entrepreneurial experiences.
These interactions have provided students with valuable insights into how these businesses are run, including aspects such as business planning, operations, and strategies for growth. This hands-on experience is instrumental in helping students understand
the practicalities of entrepreneurship and apply their academic learning to real-world scenarios.
Dr. Jorge A. Pazmiño, Director of Graduate and Executive Education Programs at the Rubel School of Business, emphasizes that our impact extends beyond educating future business leaders. “We actively engage with small business owners who are
the backbone of our local economy. They create jobs, generate tax revenue, and provide essential products and services for our city. We also extend our gratitude to the Community Foundation of Louisville, particularly Angelica Sanchez-Vega, for their
crucial role in bridging Bellarmine University and the Preston Area Business Alliance (PABA). Their generous micro-grant provided the initial support that enabled this collaboration to flourish.”
Through various initiatives and joint events, the partnership will focus on creating networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and resources to help RSB students and local businesses thrive. This alliance represents a significant step towards building
a stronger, more interconnected business community that benefits everyone involved.