Stories of Leadership: Kurt Cecconi

Kurt Cecconi graduated from San Diego State University in 1985 with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration.

Today, Cecconi is a senior financial representative with Principal Financial Group, where he helps others plan for their financial success. He is currently the fund drive chair for the Aztec Club which is the fundraising arm of SDSU Athletics.

Tell us the highlights of your professional career. What are your proudest achievements?

After I graduated I got an internship with the United States Border Patrol, but that was cancelled at the last second, and I made a career change. 

After working at SDG&E for nine few years, I settled into my current career as a senior financial representative for the Principal Financial Group. I really enjoy my current career. I get the opportunity to help other plan for their financial success.

What is your favorite college memory?

There were so many things about SDSU that I enjoyed it is hard to name one. Living in the residence halls, I experienced so many wonderful opportunities. I remember watching concerts at the Open Air Theatre and Aztec Bowl (where Viejas Arena is now) where I saw the band Police.

Who was your favorite professor and/or what was your favorite class?

The two professors that stick out in my mind are Paul Sutton and Thomas Gitchoff in the School of Public Affairs. These two were very important to my education.

If you were to give current SDSU students some advice, what would you say?

I would recommend declaring your major early; be flexible; stick with your program; start job hunting in your junior year; get into an internship and find a job sooner than later.

What is your passion?

I enjoy my family, cooking, reading, working out and helping people.  I really enjoy seeing the fruits of my labor.

What is your motto?

Good things happen to those who work hard.

If you won the lottery, what would you do with your winnings?

After finishing up paying for my children’s future college tuition and future weddings, I would donate some to charity.

Any other comments?

I really thought that the quality of the education at SDSU is really worth the value. Although it is much tougher to get into SDSU than when I attended, I would encourage others to apply to SDSU.