Antonio Paganelli, a Business Management major from Redondo Beach, California, is making an impact both in and out of the classroom at Walsh University. As President of the student-led Business Club, Antonio played a key role in the revival of the club’s annual Scholarship Luncheon in April 2024, an event that had been on hiatus since the pandemic. His leadership has reinvigorated the club, creating new opportunities for students to connect with business leaders, engage in community service, and develop their professional skills.
But Antonio’s contributions to campus life go beyond the Business Club. As a scholar-athlete on Walsh’s soccer team, a student in the Honors Program, and a Resident Assistant (RA), he’s taken every opportunity to grow as a leader.
“I’ve taken Walsh’s mission as a daily challenge to be my best, individually, and learn as much as I can,” Antonio said. “The mission here is lived out every day, and it pushes you to pursue your goals with confidence.” For Antonio, Walsh has been more than just a place to earn a degree—it’s been a transformative experience that has shaped him both personally and professionally. He credits the university’s values-based education with helping him grow into a confident leader ready to tackle the business world.
During his time at Walsh, Antonio has been deeply impacted by the commitment he sees from both peers and Walsh personnel. “It’s rare to see an institution where everyone, from President Tim Collins to every professor, is so dedicated to the same mission,” he explained. “The professors here genuinely care about your development, not just as a student but as a person. That level of support has been incredibly inspiring.”
Antonio’s decision to major in Business Management was also influenced by Walsh’s mission of service. “I wanted a degree that would allow me to make a positive change, whether big or small, in the lives of the people I interact with,” he said. Initially undecided on his concentration, Antonio quickly gravitated toward management after recognizing the importance of strong leadership. “I’ve seen firsthand how impactful good leadership can be, and that’s what inspired me to pursue it further.”
With future plans to attend law school and eventually run his own business, Antonio is confident that Walsh has prepared him for the next steps. “The skills and experience I’ve gained here, along with the mentorship and support, have made me more than ready to succeed after graduation.”
Antonio’s advice to prospective students reflects his own journey: “Get involved and step out of your comfort zone. College is a place to grow, learn from your mistakes, and push yourself. The hard work you put in will be rewarded.”
