Entrepreneurship Alliance to Host Speed Mentoring: A New Approach to Student–Mentor Connection

On Monday, April 27th, the Entrepreneurship Alliance at St. John’s University (EASJU) will host one of its most innovative and impactful events yet: the Mentor Networking Panel & Workshop, taking place during common hour from 1:50 PM to 3:15 PM in Tobin 201.

Designed to break away from traditional networking formats, this event introduces a “Speed Mentoring” model—a dynamic, student-focused experience that prioritizes real conversations, meaningful guidance, and direct access to accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders.

A New Kind of Networking Experience

Unlike standard panels where students passively listen or feel pressure to speak in front of large audiences, this event is intentionally structured to foster comfort and authenticity.

The program will begin with a short opening panel, followed by the centerpiece of the event: a rotating one-on-one mentoring workshop.

Students will:

• Rotate through 5-minute one-on-one sessions with each mentor
• Engage in personalized, direct conversations
• Gain targeted advice tailored to their interests and goals

This format was carefully designed to:

• Eliminate the intimidation of large-group Q&A
• Encourage genuine dialogue
• Create a low-pressure environment where students can confidently ask questions and build connections

As outlined in the event planning framework, the goal is simple: deeper mentorship, not surface-level networking .

Featured Mentors

The event brings together a diverse group of entrepreneurs, each representing a unique path to success:

Gerri Domenikos, MBA — CEO, Airlogix

With over 25 years of experience across industries including construction, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and hospitality, Gerri Domenikos leads Airlogix with a client-first philosophy. As a trusted partner to her clients, she ensures operational excellence and delivers what she calls the “Airlogix Advantage”—a commitment to proactive problem-solving and results-driven service.

Albert Bateh ’16TCB — Founder, EZ-Net Hair Care

A graduate of St. John’s Tobin College of Business, Albert Bateh represents the entrepreneurial spirit in action. Coming from a fourth-generation textile business, he launched EZ-Net Hair Care during his senior year—an innovative product born from a simple, everyday problem. His journey highlights the power of identifying opportunity, executing ideas, and leveraging education to bring concepts to life.

Rene Matos — Founder, City Island Pizza Company

Rene Matos is a local entrepreneur who built his business around quality, community, and authenticity. As founder of City Island Pizza Company and head of food and beverage operations at the City Island Yacht Club, he has grown a loyal customer base by focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a strong connection to his community.

A Collaborative Effort Across Campus

This event is a joint initiative, with the Entrepreneurship Alliance proudly joined by several leading student organizations at St. John’s University:

• St. John’s Real Estate Club (SJREC)
• Financial Management Association (FMA)
• European Business & Networking Club (EBNC)
• Bulls & Bears Investment Club

Together, these organizations are creating a unified, cross-disciplinary networking experience, bringing students from finance, real estate, entrepreneurship, and business development into one shared space.

Why This Event Matters

In today’s fast-paced and competitive landscape, access to mentorship can be a defining factor in a student’s success. This event is built on the belief that:

One meaningful conversation can change a student’s direction.

By shifting the focus from passive listening to active engagement, the Entrepreneurship Alliance and its partner organizations are creating an experience where students don’t just hear advice—they receive it directly, personally, and in real time.

Event Details

• Event: Speed Mentoring – Mentor Networking Panel & Workshop
• Date: Monday, April 27
• Time: 1:50 PM – 3:15 PM
• Location: Tobin 201, St. John’s University

Students are encouraged to come prepared with questions, ideas, and an open mindset.

Join Us

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a business student, or simply looking for guidance, this event offers a rare opportunity to connect with professionals who have built, led, and innovated across industries.

No crowds. No pressure. Just real conversations.