About AltFinance
Students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities exploring a future in finance should have clear pathways and guidance available to help turn their ambition and potential into a rewarding career.
Alternative investment firms Apollo, Ares, and Oaktree are investing $90 million over 10 years so HBCU students interested in finance can gain exposure, mentorship and hands-on experience to jumpstart a career in alternatives.
Initially in partnership with Clark Atlanta University, Howard University, Morehouse College and Spelman College, and Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT), AltFinance is building opportunity at every step of the pathway from college to career in order to create meaningful and lasting impact for HBCU students, the financial industry, and our shared future. We are excited these HBCUs in the launch of AltFinance and anticipate that our partnerships will grow as we continue this initiative.
AltFinance Staff
Marcus Shaw
CEO & President
As the CEO & President of AltFinance, Marcus leverages his 20+ years of experience in investment management, technology, and nonprofit leadership to develop strategies for growing diversity in the alternative investment industry through mentorship, partnerships, and financial support.
Leslie Espy
Vice President of Strategy and Operations
Leslie serves as the Vice President of Strategy & Operations. She is responsible for helping scale and grow the organization. Leslie works closely with the CEO to lead special projects, business development, vendor relationships, communications, and board management.
Rachel Ward
Vice President of Programs & Partnerships
Rachel is responsible for managing program delivery of the AltFinance Fellowship and Institute. Rachel works closely with partners to develop and deliver content and curriculum that will build the pathway from college to career for HBCU students preparing to enter the alternative investments industry.
AltFinance Fellowship & Institute Partners
José Guzmán
AltFinance Fellowship Director at MLT
AltFinance Board of Directors
Michelle Armstrong, Managing Director and Head of Philanthropy at Ares Management Corporation
Heather Berger, Partner, Co-Head of Institutional Client and Product Solutions at Apollo Global Management Inc.
Milwood Hobbs Jr., Managing Director and Head of North American Sourcing & Origination at Oaktree Capital Management
Jerilyn McAniff, Managing Director and Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Oaktree Capital Management
Trey Pruitt, Partner and Head of Corporate Finance at Ares Management Corporation
Jonathan B. Simon, Managing Director and Global Head of Leadership Development and Diversity at Apollo Global Management Inc.