Nine students from Niagara University learned more about New Era Cap LLC, a global lifestyle brand founded in 1920 in Buffalo, N.Y., during Career Day on Nov. 3, 2023. New Era Cap’s DEI Council has implemented their career day program to connect with local colleges and universities reaching diverse student populations. The opportunity was made possible through a collaborative effort of the university’s Gacioch Center for Career and Professional Development and the Intercultural Engagement Center.
The students were greeted by NU alumna Jessica Turner, ’06, New Era’s director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion, as they began an afternoon that included a historical overview of the company; a panel discussion with representatives from five different business lines within the organization; and information about resumes, interviews, and potential internship opportunities. Featured speaker and NU alumnus Tony DeSimone, ’93, vice president of licensed sports, discussed his career pathway and the New Era business model.
Learning about the history of the company was a highlight for Isaiah Viverette, a senior supply chain major from Buffalo, N.Y.
“I never knew how impactful a company like New Era was to the culture of sports, as well as to our everyday fashion, and to think it came from the 716 (Buffalo) is just amazing,” he said.
Borna Juracic, ’20, an international management graduate and current MBA student from Kitchener, Ontario, said the visit changed his perception of the career opportunities available for business majors. He especially enjoyed learning about different jobs at New Era and the educational and professional backgrounds of the employees.
“It was nice to hear from the employees about their career paths, from where they graduated to what they are currently doing,” he said. “It gave me a better understanding of what fields I can pursue with my degree when I graduate and the importance of an internship and networking. The employees were so excited to talk about their experiences, their roles, and offer us advice.”
“We enjoyed hosting Niagara at New Era’s global headquarters in downtown Buffalo,” Turner said. “It’s an opportunity for our staff to share their insights and highlight for students the wide range of available career paths.”
“Career days give our students a unique way to learn about a company and its culture, and also provide a leg up for opportunities,” said Stephanie Morris, executive director of Niagara’s career center. “Students who applied for an internship with New Era were encouraged to mention that they attended this Career Day in their cover letter, because it would differentiate them in the application process.”