2007-2008 LaPorte Torch Fund Manager Profiles

Karthik Prnesh Arangaraju

Karthik Prnesh Arangaraju is originally from India and is currently studying for MBA at the University of Tennessee in order to enhance his knowledge in finance and logistics.  He came to the University of Tennessee after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in engineering and working as a software analyst for a multinational software services firm for 3 ½ years. During his association with the company, he gained experience in developing software for financial and credit management firms and providing IT solutions for business management . He also worked in some of the client’s onsite locations in Sweden and England as a regional coordinator providing technology solutions to their financial management needs. Karthik will receive the MBA in December 2008.

Ravi R. Chirravuri 

Ravi has lived on three continents and speaks three languages fluently.  Ravi has worked in sales, marketing, advertising, and finance.  Ravi thinks that being a part of the LaPorte Torch Fund portfolio management team will provide invaluable experience towards the goal of working in finance as an investment manager.

Abhijit Naravane

Abhijit is originally from Mumbai, India where he received an undergraduate degree in Chemistry. He has Ph.D. degree in Organic Chemistry from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. During his Ph.D. degree he worked on development of novel compounds for alternate cancer therapy. He has worked with one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in Mumbai, India where he helped the company build strong customer relationships. Currently he is working on his MBA and intends to make career in investment banking.

Maxim has a background in mechanical engineering and more than 10 years of analytical and numerical research in fundamental science.  Maxim also has a strong interest in finance and would like to learn more about financial valuation and gain experience in active portfolio management.  He holds a PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering from Brown University, is currently working towards an MBA in Finance, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship at UT and plans to pursue the CFA designation.

Ryan has an undergraduate degree in biology from UT, an MS in Public Health from East Tennessee State, and is currently pursuing an MBA in Finance and Logistics at UT.  He has the goal of becoming a financial executive in a large health system. Towards that end, Ryan is grateful for the opportunity to work in the LaPorte Torch Fund and to gain a firm understanding of financial markets, valuation, and research through the experience.