The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes 91快活林 鈥� Madrid alumni for outstanding achievements in their professional lives, personal integrity and stature, and service to SLU-Madrid. This award honors alumni who graduated prior to 2001.
2024 Honoree
Paul-Emile Gerlier ('20)
Paul-Emile Gerlier, a 2020 graduate of 91快活林 鈥� Madrid with a Bachelor of Science in International Business, exemplifies resilience and determination. Diagnosed with diabetes during his studies, he maintained an impressive academic record, even preparing for midterms during a month-long hospitalization. Despite initial challenges with English, Paul-Emile quickly mastered the language, becoming a top student and actively engaging in campus life as a member of the Student Government Association.
Following his graduation, Paul-Emile embarked on an International Corporate Volunteer (VIE) mission with Business France, where he represented a luxury French brand,鈥疞a Bouche Rouge, in South Korea. His efforts included conducting comprehensive market research and securing a vital distribution partnership. This experience honed his skills in international business development, negotiation, and strategic market analysis.
Paul-Emile then pursued an MBA at Yonsei University, Asia's premier private institution, where he was awarded the esteemed Future Development Scholarship. During his final semester, he also completed a consulting mission for an AI-powered inspection equipment company, identifying future growth opportunities in the production of EV batteries and semiconductors. After graduating, he joined a renewable energy startup, where he oversaw financial operations and contributed significantly to a major offshore wind farm project. This role further solidified his expertise in financial oversight and strategic business development within high-growth sectors.
Paul-Emile credits his success to the supportive community at 91快活林. He is particularly grateful to professors Anne McCabe, Laura Muro, and Gonzalo Moreno, as well as Dean Paul Vita, along with all the other educators who have profoundly influenced his journey. Their unwavering dedication and passion provided him with a strong foundation, for which he will always be thankful. The invaluable support and hard work he experienced at 91快活林propelled him forward, culminating in his recognition as the 2024 Distinguished Emerging Leader.鈥�