Maxwell Pastoria named Student Trustee

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has appointed Maxwell Pastoria to serve as a Student Trustee to the University of Akron (UA) Board of Trustees. His term will run through July 1, 2026. He will fill the vacancy of Luke D. Smith, whose term ended July 1.

Pastoria, a native of Akron, is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Financial Management, Financial Planning and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. A member of the Drs. Gary B. and Pamela S. Williams Honors College and the Beta Gamma Sigma Honorary, he has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, earning the prestigious Outstanding Student Award.

In addition to his academic achievements, he is an active leader on campus and in the community. He currently serves as the senate chair for the Undergraduate Student Government's legislative branch, vice president of finance for Beta Gamma Sigma Honorary and president of the Honors Civics Club. He is also a leader within the College of Business Leadership Institute.

Pastoria currently serves as investment controls intern with Valmark Financial Group and is the founder and part owner of MP Lawn Services, LLC. He is a graduate of Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy and is the son of Luke and Jennifer Pastoria.

"Max Pastoria brings a strong commitment to representing the student body and advocating for the University's continued growth and success," said Lewis W. Adkins Jr., chair of the UA Board of Trustees. "We look forward to his insights and contributions as we work together to advance the University's mission."

"I am honored to be appointed as a Student Trustee to the University of Akron Board of Trustees," said Pastoria. "This is a unique opportunity to serve my fellow students and contribute to the future of our University. I look forward to working with the Board to ensure that the voices of students are heard and that our University continues to thrive."

"Max will be an excellent addition to the Board of Trustees," said President R.J. Nemer. "In addition to his excellence in the classroom and leadership on campus, he demonstrates an overall commitment to growing this institution."

Media Contact: Cristine Boyd, [email protected], 330-972-6476