February 28, 2007 Dr. Mark Nordenberg, '70, speaker Chancellor University of Pittsburgh "Dr. Mark A. Nordenberg has been the Chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh for 12 years.  He received his BA in Mathematics from Thiel College in 1970, then his law degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1973.  He served in the navy, practiced law, and became a visiting professor at the University of Pittsburgh.  Dr. Nordenberg has been at Pitt for 30 years and believes that it is unique to move up in one place.  He has enjoyed working up the ladder to the position of chancellor and CEO." ~ Sarah Berkey, junior "Dr. Nordenberg told us his six observations in management: 1.  Getting others to follow you and be completely committed to you. 2.  No substitute for hard work and careful preparation. 3.  Must have competence to inspire confidence. 4.  Have good character qualities that leave people feeling good and that things will get done. 5.  Accurately look at strengths and weaknesses and acknowledge them. 6.  Be proficient in the English language; communicate well." ~ Abby Ritter, junior "Lessons Learned: 1.  There is no substitution for hard work and perseverance. 2.  Always get yourself involved. 3.  Set high goals for yourself." ~ Travis Matson, senior "I find it an honor to have met Mark Nordenberg.  He is well known and well respected for his devotion and the time and heart he puts into his activities.  I also like that he made sure to talk to everyone about themselves at dinner.  It seemed like he wanted to know just as much about us as we did about him." ~ Stacey Harvey, senior "Mark stated that people you lead need to know that their contributions are valued by you.  Mark told a story about when they were building the Pitt Cathedral of Learning.  A man was walking past the construction site and saw two stone masons working on a block of stone.  The man approached the first mason and asked what he was doing.  The mason explained exactly how he was rounding the corners, shaping the stone and such.  Asking the second mason the same thing, he replied, 'I am building a cathedral!'  That story stuck in my mind because I believe it's true!  You must be passionate about what you do." ~ Allison Illar, junior