January 24, 2007 Mario Marini, Joseph Scarpitti, Professor David Miller, Professor Gary Witosky Joseph Scarpitti '80, speaker Regional Vice President American Funds, Cleveland, Ohio Joseph Scarpitti, from the Cleveland, Ohio area, has worked for American Funds since 1994. American Funds is the third largest mutual fund family in the U.S., with more than $700 billion in investments and over 35 million shareholder accounts. He is a 1980 Thiel graduate with degrees in mathematics and business administration. He later earned an MBA with an emphasis in finance from Bowling Green State University in 1982. He currently serves as a member on the Thiel College Board of Trustees and the Alumni Board of Directors. “The presentation given by Mr. Scarpitti was one of the best lectures I have ever heard.  It seemed to have a lot to do with what time period I am in my life right now.  I was actually just updating my resume right before I came to that lecture and what he said hit me hard:  he said all he had over everyone else was his heart and spirit.  That made particular sense to me.” ~ Curtis Lykins, senior “Joe gave the attendees a very interesting presentation on his success at ‘creating a real life appropriate for you.’  The six ideas are: Prepare/plan – think things through then follow through. Read – self educate, expand your mind. Attitude -  be positive, it’s all about how you look at the world. YES! – we will hear “no” frequently, continually say “YES!” Enthusiasm – if you don’t have it, find someone who does. Respect – 1st for yourself, and then for others.” ~ Bess Moran, senior   “My favorite quote from Joe was when he said, ‘You must incorporate laughter in your life somehow, and most of all laugh at yourself.’” ~ Allison Illar, junior “After everything was done, I went up to thank Joe and I made a promise to him and myself.  I would never forget what he told us tonight because I believe in my heart that these six simple steps are going to help me ‘follow my heart’ and have a ‘successful life.’  On that note, I would like to say thank you, Professor Miller, for making it possible for us to meet Joe.” ~ Stacey Harvey “His speech made me think about what is really going to make me happy in a career and in life.  Although this cannot be done overnight, I am going to remember his wise words of advice when choosing my career field.  Joe Scarpitti was a wonderful speaker to start off the semester.” ~ Sarah McCoy, senior “In the end, Joe’s six ideas spell PRAYER – end your day with it and have a great life.” ~ LeAnna Barnhart, junior