Graduated senior, Eric Baxter is an outstanding example of the true values of the Gabelli School of Business at Roger Williams University and has demonstrated exemplary respect, drive, and leadership throughout his academic and professional endeavors. Eric graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a minor in Psychology within the AACSB Accredited Gabelli School of Business. During his time at Roger Williams University, Eric took full advantage of opportunities the Gabelli School of Business had to offer academically and professionally with his involvement in Dr. Michael Melton’s Center for Advanced Financial Education (CAFÉ.) As a decorated and accomplished student Eric also holds memberships within Beta Gamma Sigma, and the Alpha Chi National Honor Society representing his advanced academic capacities in his discipline of study.
Upon his acceptance to the CAFÉ program, Eric showed exemplary skillsets in collaboration, leadership, and analysis during his role as a Student Fund Manager. Eric excelled in managing four extensive portfolios, analyzing global market trends, and performing financial valuations. He was recognized for his commitment to the program and his expertise in financial analysis techniques and awarded a promotion to the role of Manager, which oversaw 14 Student Fund managers and provided direct communication with the Board of Directors, Alumni Donors, and University Administration. Eric carried his role as Fund Manager with pride, diligence, and responsibility. As a result, his extensive effort to establish himself in the financial industry through the CAFÉ program led him to extensive relationships with established RWU alumni in the financial industry and professional opportunities ahead. 
During the summer of 2022, Eric continued to strengthen his fund management and financial analytic skillsets further at MJX Asset Management as a Summer Analyst, an opportunity provided to him by Hans Christensen, a longtime sponsor of the CAFE Portfolio Management Program. Eric collaborated directly with the portfolio management team to evaluate loan and capital structures, created financial models to project investments for future earnings growth, and analyze comprehensive investment memorandums. Eric’s invaluable contributions to MJX Asset Management as an Analyst showed his commitment to his work, his team-oriented mindset, and his ability to be solution-oriented in a fast-paced, high stake, environment. Such skills will only aid Eric further on his professional journey into the financial industry.
In the Spring semester, the Financial Executives International Boston Chapter awarded Eric the 2023 Outstanding Senior Award, recognizing Eric as an industry leader in professional development, technical research, and public policy. Soon after being recognized for this accomplishment, Eric was provided the opportunity to integrate within SMBC as a full-time Analyst with the SMBC group within the Portfolio Management & Origination. Eric credits his success to the successful alumni network built with the CAFÉ program, receiving mentorship and guidance from RWU alumni Dan Walser, Chris Leach, and professor Dr. Michael Melton.
We cannot wait to see the incredible things Eric will accomplish at SMBC and look forward to connecting another accomplished individual to our expansive RWU Alumni network in the future!
