“In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety. — Abraham Maslow"
When we first met Dom, we weren’t entirely sure whether he was seeking a role at Founders Circle Capital or preparing to single-handedly row across the Pacific. Given his background, both seemed equally plausible. Growing up amidst the tech whirlwind of the Bay Area, Dom was the kid who saw every curiosity as a chance to innovate.
Dom’s journey to our team was anything but conventional, and I’m especially proud that he’s helped keep the intern-to-investor pathway alive. Sure, graduating with high honors from the University of Pennsylvania is impressive. Being a First Team All-American rower with national bronze and silver medals? Even more so. But his relentless drive and insatiable curiosity truly set him apart. While most of us consider balancing work and a social life a feat, Dom juggled academics, a grueling rowing schedule that demanded weekly weight cuts, and an internship with us—all with a smile (and maybe a protein shake).
He often credits rowing and athletics with teaching him the value of turning any competition into an infinite-sum game—a daily philosophy he brings to his work. This might explain why he seamlessly transitioned from helping manage the Wharton School’s OIDD department to diving headfirst into the world of tech startups at PURE Property Management. His stint in LA at Bellwether Asset Management confirmed what we’ve all come to know: Dom’s heart belongs in the fast-paced, innovative world of venture capital (and that LA’s sunshine wasn’t enough to keep him away from the Bay’s foggy charm).
When Dom isn’t busy automating our processes (saving us from yet another manual spreadsheet) or evaluating the next big investment, you might find him road biking for hours or perhaps adding to the 15 pounds of muscle he’s gained since his lightweight rowing days (yes, we’ve noticed). He’s also the only person we know who’s dead set on traveling to space and can discuss economics, health and longevity, and the latest tech gadgets all in one breath—and make it sound perfectly logical.
We occasionally joke about setting up a rowing rematch between Dom and Andrew (our resident Harvard rower), but we’re a bit worried Dom might actually take us up on it—and leave Andrew in his wake. We’re still trying to figure out when Dom sleeps, but as long as he keeps bringing that ambitious energy and love for the game, we’re not going to question it. As long as he doesn’t expect us to join him on those 3-hour bike rides, we’re all for whatever he’s got planned next.
by Owen Van Arsedale
