Hofstra University is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its business school as a distinct entity within the University, hence “Zarb at 50.” One of the anniversary events comprised well-attended videotaped presentations by Hofstra University President Rabinowitz and five distinguished alumni, followed by a reception. This video is a presentation by Michael Venuti, a co-founder of Agua Brands, former CFO of Glaceau (maker of Vitaminwater and Smart Water), and a Business School Alumnus.

1. This year, Hofstra University is celebrating the 50th anniversary
of its recognition of the business school as a distinct entity
within the University, hence “Zarb at 50.” One of the
anniversary events comprised well-attended videotaped
presentations by President Rabinowitz and five distinguished
alumni, followed by a reception.
We are making the videos available in three ways: (1) We are
posting 6 separate videos over the next couple of weeks that are
divided by speaker. (2) At the Hofstra YouTube channel, a special
playlist with each of the separate presentations is available.
(3) At the Hofstra YouTube channel is the entire 1.5 hour event
in one video.
Zarb at 50 (6): Presentation by Michael Venuti,
Distinguished Alumnus

2. Today, we are highlighting the presentation by Mr. Michael Venuti,
a Hofstra MBA in Finance, who is president of Agua Brands – the
maker of Agua Active Hydration and Agua Fruit Essence. With
colleague and Agua Brands co-founder Dr. Carol Dollard, Mr. Venuti
is leveraging his expertise to grow Agua Brands from the ground up.
The Agua Active Hydration line is powered by guarana, a natural
source of caffeine. Containing as much caffeine as a cup of coffee,
each bottle contains only 25 calories.
In his role as chief financial officer of Glaceau from 2002-2009, Mr.
Venuti helped the Vitaminwater and Smartwater brands expand to
create the fastest-growing company in the history of the beverage
industry. Under his leadership, the firm developed into a $1 billion
brand and was ultimately acquired by Coca-Cola for $4.1 billion. At
Glaceau, Mr. Venuti oversaw all financial functions. He also
oversaw major contracts, including marketing initiatives,
distribution contracts, and celebrity endorsement deals.