Seton Hall University and Focal Point Coaching Host Dynamic Networking Event for Professionals

Seton Hall University, in collaboration with Focal Point Coaching, recently hosted
an impactful networking event that brought together students, SHU Faculty, professionals,
local businesses and major corporations. Held at Seton Hall University’s Bethany Hall
on October 17, 2024, the event aimed to empower participants from various industries
with opportunities for interactive networking and professional development.

Designed to foster meaningful connections across sectors, the event featured local
businesses located in South Orange, NJ; larger corporations like ADP, Provident Bank,
and the NJ Chamber of Commerce were also present. The Department of Continuing Education
and Professional Studies at Seton Hall led the initiative, offering attendees insights
into emerging industry trends, career development and innovative educational programs.

“Networking is a vital part of my business and an important skill for any professional.
I found the event to be supportive of all the participants and I appreciated the unique
speed networking approach. It was apparent that all those in attendance enjoyed it
too. I walked away with positive interactions and look forward to one-on-one meetings
with a number of people I met. And, as always, I was happy to be home at The Hall.”
said Helen Lawler, founder and chief executive officer of Finspiration LLC.

Attendees experienced the excitement of color-coded focus groups, where they introduced
themselves through one-minute elevator pitches around their table before moving to
another. This unique approach allowed participants to refine their business narratives,
gain new perspectives and network effectively across industries.

As Chris Malarkey, relationship manager, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce stated,

I had the distinct pleasure of attending a great networking event hosted by Seton
Hall University and their collaboration with Mr. John Brennan of Focal Point Business
and Executive Coaching. It was an electric room filled with entrepreneurs, business
owners, non-profits, legal experts, academic leaders/administrators and veteran professionals
that provided a warm atmosphere to organically connect. This engaging event inspired
everyone to participate in color-coded groups introducing themselves through a series
of one-minute pitches that allowed many of us to expand and refine the way we think
about our businesses and share how we impact through our businesses. Both Seton Hall
University and Mr. Brennan are valued and active members of the NJ Chamber of Commerce,
which functions to provide our members with opportunities to connect and share with
other members across various industries. Thank you to Seton Hall and Mr. Brennan for
a valuable morning of networking and insight.

John Brennan of Focal Point Coaching, the organizer of this event, reflected stating,
“The networking event was successful on multiple levels. It brought business owners,
community leaders, and Seton Hall faculty together to explore shared opportunities.
On a personal level, it helped people across various sectors of business and education
establish meaningful connections. Lastly, it introduced many business owners to new
ways of expanding their networks and partnerships, ultimately supporting their business
growth.”

Seton Hall’s Department of Continuing Education and Professional Studies played a pivotal role in organizing the event, reinforcing its mission to provide
high-quality educational programs and professional development resources. The event
also strengthened Seton Hall’s ties with the community, offering participants a valuable
opportunity to foster relationships that could lead to future collaborations.

For more information about upcoming events and programs at Seton Hall University’s
Department of Continuing Education and Professional Studies, please click here. 

Categories:
Business, Education