GreatAmerica Financial Services is sponsoring a new course on Commercial Equipment Leasing & Finance (CELF) at the University of North Texas (UNT), G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Michael Gallo, the program director and lecturer professor at UNT, created and is teaching this innovative course, which kicked off this spring semester. Early success led to course continuation with another class option in fall 2025; both offerings support and develop future finance professionals. A spring reception for the course was held the evening of Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the UNT college of business.
GreatAmerica, a leader in the finance industry providing leasing and other services to businesses across the nation, is committed to investing in the future talent of the sector. Several GreatAmerica leaders including Jon Fales, vice president and general manager of the Connected Technology Group, Linzey Brunton, director, sales support operations, Mark Windeknecht, large transactions credit leader, and Heather Friedman, vice president of marketing and communications, will serve as student mentors for the program. Jon will also continue to collaborate with Lecturer Professor Gallo as an advisor on the course.
“The involvement and contributions from GreatAmerica are instrumental in bringing this course to life and ensuring its early success; educating 25 enthusiastic students enrolled for the inaugural offering this spring,” said Michael Gallo, lecturer professor at UNT.
Jon Fales emphasized the commitment of GreatAmerica, stating, “At GreatAmerica, we believe in investing in the future of the finance industry and creating job opportunities for the next generation of professionals. This course is a testament to our dedication to nurturing talent and fostering growth in the sector.”
The Certified Leasing and Financing Professionals (CLFP) will award a Student Certificate to students who successfully complete the course based on the CLFP curriculum. The program also aims to develop internship opportunities and permanent job placements for students.
