Rowland School of Business Hosts Inaugural Michael P. Pitterich Sales and Innovation Summit at Point Park University Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Gretchen Meyer, executive director of Love Lazorchak, poses with Hagen Starz, Esq., at the Michael P. Pitterich Sales and Innovation Summit at Point Park University on March 20, 2026. Meyer was this year's winner of the Michael P. Pitterich Emerging Impact Award.
"Students have an opportunity to see themselves as emerging leaders, engage in direct conversations with decision-makers, enhance their confidence in networking and build sales skills."
A new tradition is hoping to highlight the constantly evolving world of sales and give Point Park University students a chance to network with local business leaders.
The Rowland School of Business hosted the inaugural Michael P. Pitterich Sales and Innovation Summit on March 20, 2026. A mix of workshop sessions, panels and an award ceremony, the experience brought together leaders of local businesses and the Point Park community for a day dedicated to sales and remembering the legacy of Michael Pitterich in the Pittsburgh region.
"Mike believed deeply in relationships, mentorship and the power of sales to create opportunity," said Dorene Ciletti, Ph.D. "This Summit reflects the legacy he built — one of innovation, generosity and impact, advancing sales education and innovation-driven leadership at Point Park. The summit is an opportunity to connect and celebrate Mike’s enduring influence."
Michael Pitterich was an attorney and entrepreneur, known for his portfolio of companies that included Col-Fin Specialty Steel, Union Drawn Steel and Beaver Valley Heat Treating. He also founded Altar Bar, a concert venue that operated until 2016, which is how he first became familiar with Point Park. Throughout his time working with the university, Pitterich demonstrated his devotion to the Pittsburgh area by supporting rising entrepreneurs and Point Park's efforts to expand its support for local businesses.
This devotion led to Pitterich being immortalized within the Rowland School of Business, with the summit unveiling a new bronze bust of the entrepreneur that will be displayed in West Penn Hall. The bust was a gift from Brian Long, chairman of Seubert and Associates, and a close personal friend of Pitterich.
"While Mike did not go to Point Park, he invested in us and believed in the mission of the Rowland School of Business,” said Stephen Tanzilli, J.D., dean of the Rowland School of Business.
Throughout the day, summit attendees enjoyed several workshops and panel discussions on the industry and its changing trends. Topics included changes in sales driven by the rise of artificial intelligence, ways to improve sales through creativity and ensuring revenue as businesses grow.
"The summit is not just an event, it’s a career accelerator," Ciletti said. "Students meet and learn from leaders, gaining insight into how sales and innovation operate in today’s marketplace beyond textbooks and case studies. They sit at tables with professionals. Not in the back of a ballroom but at the table. Students have an opportunity to see themselves as emerging leaders, engage in direct conversations with decision-makers, enhance their confidence in networking and build sales skills."
As a part of the summit, two awards were distributed to individuals who serve as successors to Pitterich's legacy:
- Michael P. Pitterich Sales & Innovation Award Winner: Troy Schooley, CEO of P3R
- "Troy Schooley, CEO of P3R, is best known for organizing the acclaimed annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon along with high-quality races and health and fitness programs throughout the Pittsburgh region. Troy is being recognized for his instrumental role in selling the city and bringing awareness, recognition, and economic impact to Pittsburgh through these innovative events, including the 2026 NFL Draft — underscoring Mike Pitterich’s understanding of the power of sales to create opportunity."
- Michael P. Pitterich Emerging Impact Award Winner: Gretchen Meyer, executive director of Love Lazorchak
- "Gretchen Meyer, executive director of Love Lazorchak, is an entrepreneur and Point Park University graduate who founded a nonprofit dedicated to fostering connection and healing for individuals facing mental health challenges. She is focusing her efforts on providing comfort, hope, and a sense of connection, reminding people that they are seen, valued, and not alone in their journey — work that embodies Mike’s spirit of care and community."
As the Rowland School of Business continues to honor Pitterich's legacy in the region, they plan to make the summit an annual event that brings local businesses, alumni and students together.