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Alumni Update Spring 2014

INNOVATOR: ALUMNI UPDATE • 5 The Balancing Act Phil Borst, Architectural Studies ‘97 “The secret to my success is my family,” says Philip Borst, principal and co-founder of a global construction management company, Scungio Borst & Associates— without a moment’s hesitation. Founded in 2003, the company has completed projects in the tri-state area, East Coast and abroad. “Balance is really important in life and in business,” said Borst. “I couldn’t be where I am today without my wife Alessandra and my children, Isabella and Ethan. Their support and belief in me help give me strength.” Started with only $500 from each cofounder, the company has now grown to completing over 70 million dollars of construction over the last two years. Still, the owners remain grounded and dedicated to holding a high level of integrity with their work, maintaining close relationships with their clients and always giving back to their community— which, for Borst, includes PhilaU. “Every year, we choose a handful of groups so that we can give back,” said Borst. “For example, we have helped with the Special Olympics of New Jersey and the YMCA for years.” Borst is also a member of the PhilaU Advancement Council, currently has two student interns and two graduates from the University working within his organization, and recently hosted an architecture class in his office. “I received great feedback from the class,” said Borst. “They liked the experience of seeing a real, working office in action, especially during an active competitive bid.” Scungio & Borst have worked on several area projects including renovations at the King of Prussia Mall, Montgomery Mall, and Quaker Bridge Mall, just to name a few; and abroad at places like the Yaohua Glass Manufacturing Facility in China. A new and exciting upcoming venture for Borst and his business partner Scott Scungio is a new affiliated company opening in Italy. Using software that tests how buildings will react to environmental hazards such as earthquakes, the company won a grant in Italy. “It is called Scungio Borst International, focusing on rapid response development and construction, both domestic and international construction and development consulting, as well as other unique facets of the construction industry,” said Borst. “We have been working on this with the Italian government pro bono for the past four years, so it’s very exciting for us.” This opportunity allows the company to follow its vision to grow in an international market. “It is important to see what is out there and be diversified,” said Borst, who has always wanted to open the company in Italy. “You will be the most successful if you truly love what you do.” All Star Alum Brian Lee, Marketing ‘94 Having passion for what you do is a valuable piece of wisdom for reaching fulfilment and success, and Brian Lee shows us exactly how far focus and dedication can take you in a career. After graduating from PhilaU with a degree in marketing, Lee was working in the admissions department when he started a basketball camp for local high school students to satiate his passion for the sport. One day, he was told about the global director of Reebok basketball position that was available. Lee referred to his marketing know-how, and did a lot of research on Reebok—he looked into their positioning, priorities and direction as a brand. “I also reached out to people in the same industry and asked a lot of questions,” said Lee. “And I did a lot of listening.” Lee’s plan worked, and he got the job— over 600 other applicants! Ever since, Lee has excelled in his position, traveling all over the world with some of the sport’s top players—all the while never forgetting where he came from. Last June, Lee came back to PhilaU to host the sixth Reebok Classic Breakout in the Gallagher Athletic Center. What keeps Lee coming back? “The people, without question,” said Lee. “During my few visits each year, I see the improvements and how the campus has evolved, yet I still see a lot of the same faces in faculty and staff and I think that’s one of the reasons I consider it a special place.” “You will be the most successful if you truly love what you do.” // Brian Lee working with Allen Iverson at a Reebok commercial shoot in Atlanta.


Alumni Update Spring 2014
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