Patrick Pallentino, who died in October, left a significant mark on students, alumni and colleagues as a beloved mentor, supporter and pioneer in the college’s professional sales program.

Known as “The Godfather of Sales” for his raspy Brooklyn accent and perpetual presence, leadership and service to students, Pallentino redefined the role of a specialized faculty member. He founded and directed the FSU Sales Institute, developed and launched the college’s undergraduate sales major and played a key role in the marketing program’s rise into the Top 20 among public schools.

He founded, supported and managed the International Collegiate Sales Competition, the nation’s largest intercollegiate sales event. He mentored thousands of sales students, financially supported students in need and won a 2016 Faculty Seminole Award for an exemplary attitude toward students. He also served as the principal professional sales liaison to college alumni.

Pallentino earned a degree in electrical engineering from Pratt Institute in New York City.