Alumni News

Why do you love doing what you do?   

My work is to problem solve for my clients and understand the complexities of each state and local tax jurisdiction. It is like a puzzle that is constantly changing. When I provide clear and concise answers for my clients regarding topics that are extremely complex, it feels good to know I helped them and brought clarity to a difficult matter.

Why are you involved with UC/Lindner and what do you get out of your involvement?   

I was fortunate to receive a Lindner Honors-PLUS scholarship, which introduced me to many people who I still value as close friends and exceptional professionals. There was a community of people that I went through UC with who challenged me and with whom I grew close. I hope my involvement can give that experience to someone else, especially in the LGBTQIA community. The friends and colleagues you meet through Lindner will continue to be your best friends and best advisors in your professional life!

What advice would you give to other LGBTQIA business professionals?

Be open and genuine in all of your interactions. It took me a while to realize that, as an LGBTQIA person, my perspective is not only different, but a needed viewpoint to solve problems for my clients. That’s why diversity matters. Everyone is looking for that friend, colleague or boss who might have a different perspective — so don’t feel like you need to be quiet.

Charles Rinehart, CFA, CAIA, was promoted to Chief Investment Officer for Johnson Investment Counsel on May 31, 2022. In this role, Rinehart will manage the firm’s overall investment policy on behalf of its clients. 

“Charles is a true talent. He will continue to build on the success we’ve had in making prudent investment decisions that build wealth for our clients," said President Jason Jackman, CFA, who previously held the role. "He is also a great example of how we cultivate a culture of growth for our employees — he started here as a student co-op from the University of Cincinnati in 2007 and now is one of the firm’s owners. He’s been a key part of our investment team the entire time he’s been here, and it was so natural. It became very apparent it was time to turn the reins over and he’s ready to take the firm’s investment prowess to the next level.”

Saxena is a member of Lindner’s Executive Cabinet, and was previously the co-founder and CEO of VNDLY, which helps companies manage external workforce personnel. VNDLY was bought by Workday for $510 million in late 2021. Prior to founding VNDLY in 2017, Saxena held multiple executive positions at Kroger and Citibank.

Why do you love doing what you do?

“I love doing what I'm currently doing because it gives me the opportunity and flexibility to spend more time with my wife and family and get more involved with the community — locally and nationally — as well as to give back as much as possible. I don’t have much to give, but the little that I can, I hope it can enrich someone else in a tremendous manner for them and their family.”

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

“I don't necessarily celebrate the month because I celebrate Black history 365 days a year. Growing up in rural Alabama, I've seen and witnessed a lot, so I try to enjoy life and the various people I encounter. I have a painting in my house that's entitled 'From Whence I Came,' which basically means understanding the struggles and adversities one might have gone through to get where they are today. So, be humble and know where you started and don't let anyone steal your joy!”

Your favorite quote for Black History Month?

“If there is no struggle, there is no progress” — Frederick Douglas.

Why are you involved with UC/Lindner and what do you get out of your involvement?

I believe UC and Lindner gave me the opportunity and network to get my dream job, and I hope that all students get the same experience I received. My position is traditionally one that is filled with an engineering background. What I brought to the table is a different perspective and skill set that have benefited my career and my working relationships. Never be discouraged to go after something, even if you don't check “all the boxes” under the qualification section. 

What advice would you give to other AAPI business professionals?

Leverage your heritage, nationality and ethnicity! Being half-Japanese, this has really helped working at a Japanese company. Not so much from a day-to-day aspect, but when I go to different suppliers and I work with the other engineers from Japan, there is a clear language barrier. Although my Japanese is not the best, it really helps with the working relationship for them to see I am making an effort. Even if you don't speak the language, there is power in understanding different cultures and incorporating it into the workplace! I used to be embarrassed when speaking another language in the U.S., but now I take pride in it.

What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you?

It is not just a month for me, it is my life. This is applicable for all Heritage months, but we need to embrace, learn and understand other people's lived experiences, and from that create a more inclusive society. There is power in diversity and if the first step is to understand other people's experiences, I think that is a step in the right direction.

Why are you involved with UC/Lindner and what do you get out of your involvement?

The university has given so much to me in helping me find purpose, passion and vocation. Giving my time and talent to the student organizations I advise is another opportunity to teach, learn and grow with the students. More than anything, I strive to help my students find their passion and interests.

What advice would you give to other AAPI business professionals?

We are qualified to sit at the table of leadership. While finding a mentor is helpful, find someone who can also become your advocate to help you reach your goals. That person should not only invest in your professional growth, but must be willing to support you, role model the path to success and empower you to find your voice.

If you could give advice that your future self could hear later, what would you say to encourage yourself?

Continue to be humble and praise the successes of your collaborators. Recognize your contemporaries before yourself.

What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you?

Recent events have shown me that I am always celebrating, commemorating and remembering what it means to be of Asian-American Pacific-Islander heritage. During this month, it’s become important for me to share my narrative with my children, including my lessons learned have influenced my identify as a Filipino-American.

Why do you love doing what you do?

“At B the Keeper, we work with businesses and landowners to install pollinator habitats across the city. It's the perfect blend of connecting with people while getting your hands dirty putting plants in the ground. My favorite part is putting my sales background to work by helping others build more mindful connections with the environment, one step at a time.”

Why are you involved with UC/Lindner?

“Staying involved with UC's student body keeps my teeth sharp, as I'm constantly interacting with the next generation of big thinkers who challenge the status quo. Believe me: it's a heck of a lot easier to ‘walk in your purpose’ when you are surrounded by others doing the same. Being a Bearcat has its perks!”

Why do you love doing what you do?

“I get to take complicated operational and financial problems and propose innovative solutions. Furthermore, the technology world is always growing and evolving, so there is a lot of white space to create and make your mark. When I go to work, I have a lot of autonomy, too, which is liberating.”

Lass works closely with Fortune 500 companies and is responsible for leading large-scale transformation programs leveraging digital technologies in the cloud and powering organizations with data and analytics. Lass also actively leads recruiting efforts on behalf of Accenture at UC, reflecting his commitment connect high-performing Lindner students with opportunities post-graduation.