This year, Hofstra University is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its recognition of the business school as a distinct entity within the University, hence “Zarb at 50.” One of the anniversary events comprised well-attended videotaped presentations by President Rabinowitz and five distinguished alumni, followed by a reception.

We are making the videos available in three ways: (1) We are posting 6 separate videos over the next couple of weeks that are divided by speaker. (2) At the Hofstra YouTube channel, a special playlist with each of the separate presentations is available. (3) At the Hofstra YouTube channel is the entire 1.5 hour event in one video.

Zarb at 50 (6): Presentation by Michael Venuti, Distinguished Alumnus

Today, we are highlighting the presentation by Mr. Michael Venuti, a Hofstra MBA in Finance, who is president of Agua Brands – the maker of Agua Active Hydration and Agua Fruit Essence. With colleague and Agua Brands co-founder Dr. Carol Dollard, Mr. Venuti is leveraging his expertise to grow Agua Brands from the ground up. The Agua Active Hydration line is powered by guarana, a natural source of caffeine. Containing as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, each bottle contains only 25 calories.

In his role as chief financial officer of Glaceau from 2002-2009, Mr. Venuti helped the Vitaminwater and Smartwater brands expand to create the fastest-growing company in the history of the beverage industry. Under his leadership, the firm developed into a $1 billion brand and was ultimately acquired by Coca-Cola for $4.1 billion. At Glaceau, Mr. Venuti oversaw all financial functions. He also oversaw major contracts, including marketing initiatives, distribution contracts, and celebrity endorsement deals.