FDU ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Theresa Alesso, '90, '94

Theresa Alesso, BA’90, MA’94, serves as president of imaging products and solutions, Americas at Sony Electronics, where she oversees imaging, professional display, healthcare solutions, and sports businesses. She is the first woman to hold this role worldwide, following a career that began in an administrative position and progressed through multiple leadership roles.

Theresa’s foundation was formed at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Metropolitan Campus, where she earned a BA in Corporate Communications in 1990 and an MA in Corporate and Organizational Communications in 1994. As an undergraduate, she structured her academic schedule around full-time employment, attending classes in the mornings and working weekday afternoons. The experience required tradeoffs but reinforced time management, accountability, and goal setting; skills she continues to rely on in executive leadership. “Education wasn’t something I fit in when it was convenient,” Alesso said, “it was something I committed to.”

While pursuing her graduate degree, Theresa balanced a growing career at Sony with evening coursework. She recalls driving directly from Sony’s Teaneck office to class, often arriving minutes before the start time. Many of her classmates were also working professionals, and the shared experience created a collaborative and supportive learning environment. That sense of peer accountability reinforced the value of community in achieving long-term goals.

A key influence during her graduate studies was Professor Michael Goodman, PhD, then director of the Graduate Programs in Corporate and Organizational Communication. As Theresa navigated thesis requirements alongside professional responsibilities, Goodman’s accessibility and guidance provided structure and continuity. The mentorship reinforced the role faculty support plays in student persistence and success.

Theresa’s progression within Sony from an administrative role to North American president reflects her leadership approach: viewing every assignment as a learning opportunity. In her current role, she is a vocal advocate for women in technology, mentoring emerging leaders and supporting Sony’s employee networks focused on empowerment and advancement. 

Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Theresa remains committed to community and student engagement. She has volunteered locally, including leading her daughter’s Girl Scout troop and supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Professionally, she has helped lead strategic partnerships between Sony and universities nationwide, connecting students with industry expertise, technology, and career insight. These collaborations also inform Sony’s innovation pipeline, incorporating student perspectives into product development and future planning.

As a mother of two young women navigating college, Theresa brings both professional and personal perspective to her advocacy for students. She understands the importance of access, mentorship, and preparation as students navigate academic and career decisions.  

Theresa remains engaged with Fairleigh Dickinson University through Alumni Relations and Career Development. Her advice to students is direct: set clear goals, plan intentionally, remain adaptable, and continue learning. She encourages students to raise their hands for opportunities, do the preparation required to succeed, and lead authentically. 

Reflecting on her time at FDU, she points to moments of quiet reflection along the river as a reminder of where she started.