Impact
Scholarships
Investing in Generations of Wildcats
From work-study student to leadership donor, Leonardo “Leo” Mayer ’00 stays rooted in the Northwestern community, opening opportunities for a new generation.
Leonardo “Leo” Mayer ’00 remembers how transformative his time at Northwestern was—from the opportunities that helped spark his career in finance to the Purple Pride that continues to inspire him.
Now based on Long Island, Mayer stays closely connected to the University as a member of the Northwestern University Leadership Circle (NULC) New York regional board, Alumni Admission Council co-director, committee member for his class’s 25th Reunion, gold-level member of NU Loyal, and supporter of Northwestern scholarships. Through his mentorship and philanthropy, Mayer helps ensure that future students have plentiful opportunities to thrive.
What originally drew you to Northwestern?
I went to high school in the Chicago area, and I was looking for a college that had academic rigor and also a lot to offer in terms of opportunities for growth. Northwestern excels in that intersection. That unique proposition was a big draw, and I was fortunate to end up there. It was one of the best things that has happened to me.
What experiences at the University helped shape your career?
I learned just as much from the students I met at Northwestern as I did from the classroom work. It was an enriching experience for me, being surrounded by smart, ambitious classmates.
I worked at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago during college, which was a great experience.
Also, one night, I saw Professor Robert McDonald, the Gaylord Freeman Distinguished Chair in Banking at the Kellogg School of Management, talking on TV about financial derivatives. I called him out of the blue and asked if I could use some of my work-study hours to work with him. It was a turning point for me. That was my first introduction to financial derivatives, and it helped launch my 25-year career in trading.
What areas do you contribute to philanthropically at Northwestern?
My wife, Jill, and I support a Northwestern scholarship. It’s been a pleasure to give back. The University assisted me financially when I was a student and gave me so many opportunities. Now it’s exciting for us to open the door for future students. I look forward to being involved through this capacity for some time.
You’re also a member of the Alumni Admission Council (AAC). What has that experience meant to you?
I have been meeting with prospective students here on Long Island, and it’s such an energizing experience. I’ve heard admissions officers say the decision to attend Northwestern isn’t just a four-year decision—it’s a 40-year commitment. That really resonates with me.
In 2021, I became co-director of the New York AAC and found an amazing team equally passionate about Northwestern. The group has hosted events for prospective and admitted students in New York City and on Long Island.
Now we are offering ’Cat Chats—optional 30-minute alumni conversations before students apply. Interacting with prospective applicants has been incredibly rewarding.
What other ways have you stayed involved with the Northwestern community?
It was my 25th Reunion this past year, and I was involved with my Reunion committee. It was great to reconnect with classmates during Homecoming and Reunion Weekend.
I have three boys. We’ve been back almost every year for a football game. This past summer, my oldest son, Sebastian, took a Northwestern IN FOCUS business seminar for high school students. It’s always thrilling to share Northwestern memories with my kids. It was even more exciting to have my son be able to experience campus life and learn, both in the classroom and from fellow students, in the program.
What makes you the proudest to be a Northwestern alum?
The alumni body. Their accomplishments in business, research, and thought leadership are inspiring. I keep Northwestern Magazine on my desk—I love reading about what fellow Wildcats are doing. And I love how strong the alumni network is. I’ve hired Northwestern grads because I know how well the school prepares students.
Do you have advice for alumni who want to feel more connected to local alumni?
Giving back can also mean volunteering your time. Talking with prospective applicants for the AAC is a great way to contribute—also, becoming involved with a Northwestern Alumni Association club near you. I meet so many alumni who want to contribute to the school. They feel that Purple Pride.