I am here today to tell you about an aggressive business environment and the poor decisions I made in those conditions. However, by no means is this an excuse for what I have done. The justice system did not allow me to make any excuses, nor will I make any here. I also, realize that many of you may have been victims of my crime and as victims you deserve to hear that I am sorry for what I have done and I do deeply regret my actions. Second, as victims you deserve to know that I was punished for my crime and have paid a significant price through incarceration, financial losses, and strained personal relationships. Thirdly, you all should know that I am a better person and have learned from my mistakes. I took a great deal of time to reflect on what I did, why I did it and how to avoid such actions in the future. Lastly, I want everyone to know that I have found a way to give back through speaking openly about my experience. My hope is that I can put you in my situation so that you can learn...without the consequences.
Walt Pavlo
Lecture at the Columbia School of Business, 2004 |