AltFinance CEO Marcus Shaw Talks Wall Street Access and Opportunity at FAMU SBI Forum
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University’s School of Business and Industry (SBI) welcomed Marcus Shaw, CEO of AltFinance, as the keynote speaker for its Spring 2026 Forum at Lee Hall.
The forum, a signature component of the SBI experience, serves as a professional development requirement for all students. Attendees are expected to dress in business attire and engage with guest speakers through thoughtful, research-driven questions. The series provides students with direct exposure to industry leaders and valuable insight into potential career paths.
Florida A&M University students exit Lee Hall following the School of Business and
Industry forum, a professional development experience connecting students with industry
leaders. (Photo Special to FAMU)
Shaw leads AltFinance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing representation in the alternative investment industry.
“The industry is competitive. If you want to succeed, you have to take advantage of every opportunity in front of you — like the opportunities we are presenting,” Shaw said.
During the forum, Shaw introduced students to the landscape of alternative finance, highlighting both career pathways and the broader financial implications of the industry. He emphasized the importance of preparation, exposure and strategic relationship-building for students seeking to enter competitive fields.
“You have to be aware of your situation your freshman and sophomore years and be prepared to go after opportunities your junior and senior years,” Shaw said.
Students arrive at Lee Hall for Florida A&M University’s School of Business and Industry
forum, where industry leaders engage students in professional development and career
insights. (Photo Courtesy: Jaleza Washington)
Students in attendance described the session as both informative and inspiring, particularly for those unfamiliar with alternative investments.
“Mr. Shaw helped me understand the pathways that people of color have to being successful in alternative investments,” said Sola Odewole, a junior business administration scholar. “He provided resources and opportunities to help us get our feet in the door, and I really appreciated his advice.”
Shaw also discussed AltFinance’s partnerships and initiatives designed to equip students with industry knowledge, including collaborations with institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. These programs provide specialized training and early exposure to the expectations of the field.
Reflecting on his own journey, Shaw emphasized that his commitment to the organization is deeply personal.
“My passion for the work that we’re doing at AltFinance is rooted in my experience as an HBCU student more than 30 years ago at Morehouse College and from my time in the industry,” Shaw said. “I did not have the level of awareness or exposure that many of our students are gaining today. I want to bring that experience earlier to students in their undergraduate careers so they are prepared to perform at a high level in their first job out of undergrad.”
He encouraged students to begin building both skills and networks early in their academic careers.
“The most important thing for students, especially at HBCUs, is to be prepared for action when it is called upon,” Shaw said. “You have to be ready to do the work, have the skills, and develop the knowledge and relationships that will allow you to succeed.”
Through his visit, Shaw gave students insight into a growing sector of finance and
reinforced a mindset centered on preparation, access and long-term success.
The School of Business and Industry at Florida A&M University stands as a cornerstone for developing future business leaders through experiential learning and industry engagement. (Photo Special to FAMU)
AltFinance supports students at historically Black colleges and universities through
scholarships, fellowships and career development opportunities. To date, the organization
has awarded more than $6 million in scholarships and established a fellowship program
with more than 100 participants, including several FAMU students.
For more information on AltFinance and opportunities within the alternative investment industry,visit https://www.altfinance.com
Media Contact:
Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu
