CEO Albert Scaglione Receives Honorary Doctorate from Central Michigan University and Delivers Commencement Speech
Albert Scaglione received an honorary Doctorate of Commercial Science from Central Michigan University (CMU) and delivered the commencement speech to the winter class of graduating seniors whose degrees included; bachelor of applied arts, bachelor of arts, bachelor of fine arts, bachelor of music, bachelor of music education, master of arts, master of fine arts, master of music and master of science in administration.
Albert Scaglione, founder and CEO of Park West Gallery of Southfield, which hosts fine art auctions, spoke to an audience of over 2,000 at the 1:30 pm ceremony on December 13.
He inspired students with what he described as “the four C’s” of recruiting and relationships for success: calling, character, chemistry and competency.
Scaglione also told the graduates about the “importance of having faith and believing in something bigger and more powerful than you.” He said it doesn’t matter which religion is followed but it’s important to have deep faith that can provide some guidance and strength every day and in difficult times.
Scaglione holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology and a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy from Michigan State University. He taught mechanical engineering sciences at Wayne State University and conducted aeronautical research funded by NASA early in his career before deciding to transition into art auctions.
“It is a great honor to be selected by Central Michigan University to speak to graduating seniors and help inspire them to pursue their dreams,” said Scaglione. “I also am deeply grateful to receive an honorary degree by one of Michigan’s premier educational institutions.”
A recent Central Michigan Life article reported the sentiments of CMU seniors. Grand Blanc senior Keith Flewelling expressed his gratitude for the incoming speakers. “It’s nice for them to take their time to come here and give us words of wisdom,” he said. “It’s cool that they’re really successful, but at the same time not all people are looking to be CEOs – just happy,” he said. Algonac senior Jeff Blevins said the speakers know the skills necessary to become successful after graduation.
