From Mexico City to the World: How Alumni Elevate Engagement Beyond Borders

In the heart of Mexico City, Jose Maria Zertuche (MBA ’00) and Markus Kritzler (MBA ’04) have built not just careers, but a thriving community of supporters for the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Zertuche is managing director at BlackRock and head and chief investment officer of its Latin America Infrastructure Investment Group, and Kritzler is managing director at Ingenia Capital, a mergers and acquisitions and private equity advisory. They recently orchestrated a two-day, four-event series in Mexico City, bringing together Darden faculty, alumni and prospective students. In this conversation, they talk about how their commitment to Darden continues to shape their lives and the future of the School.

What inspired you to host a series of Darden events in Mexico City?  

Markus Kritzler (MBA ’04)

Kritzler: We were really driven by the desire to strengthen the Darden brand outside the U.S. and maintain a strong connection back to the School. When you’re based internationally, it’s easy for that connection to fade unless you actively nurture it. Jose and I wanted to bring the energy of Darden to Mexico, not just for ourselves but for our entire alumni community here. We knew it would be a lot of work, but seeing the excitement and engagement from everyone involved made it all worthwhile. 

Jose Maria Zertuche (MBA ’00)

Zertuche: For me, it was about continuing the engagement with Darden. The School had such a transformational impact on my life that staying involved feels like a natural extension of that experience. When Markus and I discussed the idea, it quickly became clear that this was a perfect opportunity to re-engage our local alumni and showcase the Darden experience to prospective students. Plus, it gave us a chance to relive a bit of that classroom magic with faculty like Yiorgos Allayannis and Felipe Saffie leading discussions. 

What keeps you connected to Darden, especially from so far away? 

Zertuche: It’s the relationships and the culture that keep me connected. Darden isn’t just about the education — it’s about the people you meet and the values you share. I’ve been fortunate to stay in touch with classmates and professors who have become lifelong friends and mentors. Being involved in the Mexico alumni chapter and the Alumni Association Board of Directors allows me to contribute to the School in meaningful ways, whether it’s helping recruit top talent or supporting initiatives that align with Darden’s mission. 

Kritzler: I agree. For me, it’s also about the continuous learning that comes from staying engaged. The Darden experience taught me to think from multiple perspectives and never stop learning. By staying involved — whether through events, the alumni board or even just attending reunions — I feel like I’m constantly adding to that foundation. Plus, there’s a sense of pride in being part of something bigger, something that’s making a difference both at the School and in the world. 

Why do you give back to the School through the Darden Annual Fund? 

Zertuche: It goes back to my time at Darden. I received support when I needed it most, and that’s something I’ll never forget. Giving back is my way of ensuring that future students have access to the same transformative experience I did. It’s about paying it forward and helping Darden maintain its reputation for academic excellence and a supportive community. 

Kritzler: I see it similarly. Supporting the School financially is a way to help bridge the gap in funding and continue offering top-tier education. Especially for international alumni, where donations aren’t always tax-deductible, it can be a challenge. But I view it as an investment in the future of Darden and its ability to continue attracting the best students and faculty. It’s also about setting an example — if we want the School to thrive, we all need to do our part. 

What advice do you have for alumni outside the U.S. who want to stay connected? 

Kritzler: It’s definitely harder when you’re outside the U.S., but it’s not impossible. The key is to establish a regular cadence of events — whether they’re small meet-ups, webinars or larger gatherings. Once you have that, people start to see the value in staying connected. It’s also important to be proactive in reaching out to new graduates and making them feel welcome in the local chapter. The Darden network is incredibly supportive, but you have to take that first step to engage. 

Zertuche: I’d add that leveraging technology is essential. During the pandemic, the webinars and virtual events that Darden organized were a great way to stay connected. It’s also about being creative — finding ways to bring the Darden experience to wherever you are, whether through local events or even just catching up with fellow alumni over a virtual coffee. 

What would you say to someone on the fence about getting involved or giving back?  

Zertuche: I’d say think about the impact Darden has had on your life. For most of us, it was a transformative experience, and staying involved is a way to keep that momentum going. Whether it’s through volunteering, attending events or making a financial contribution, every little bit helps. 

Kritzler: Exactly. The Darden experience doesn’t end when you graduate — it’s something that stays with you. By staying engaged, you not only give back to the School, but you also continue to grow as a person and a professional. It’s a two-way street, and the benefits are mutual. So, take that first step — whether it’s attending a webinar, joining a reunion committee or simply reaching out to fellow alumni. You’ll be amazed at the value you get in return. 

Get Involved With Darden 

There are many ways to make an impact, whether you’re near or far. Fill out the Alumni Interest Form. For tailored guidance on how you can help, contact Jen Oliver at +1-434-982-3696 or OliverJ@darden.virginia.edu.