from the office
of the dean
Picture of Lerzan Aksoy

Periods of change often precede moments of great progress.

In New York City, which is continually evolving, this is an axiom we see proven time and time again — from the challenges we’ve faced in the global spotlight to the wealth of social and economic activity we are experiencing in the current post-pandemic environment. It’s also a theme that is woven through the challenges and triumphs of the industries we serve and the lives and careers of the students we educate.

When I was appointed interim dean of the Gabelli School of Business in July, I was humbled and honored, yet deeply excited, to serve an educational institution that is so passionately committed to preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators for the changes occurring now and for those that lie ahead.

It is that same commitment to progress and to promoting the concept of “business with purpose” that has intrigued me most during my 14-year tenure at the Gabelli School. It has served as the underpinning for all that we do — from addressing the pressing issues of climate change to ensuring an uncompromised level of social and corporate responsibility.

This issue of Fordham Business illustrates many of the changes taking place at the Gabelli School, in the world of business, and in society at large. It highlights our numerous accomplishments and accentuates the incredible progress we are making despite the challenges of these difficult times.

This summer, our Executive MBA program, which educates aspiring leaders from around the world, was ranked #10 in the U.S. by Poets&Quants. A new partnership with Chartered Accountants Worldwide positioned the Gabelli School as a driving force in responsible and ethical business and accounting practices. And the school’s designation as host for the One Young World 2022 USA Hive in New York City amplified our enduring quest to advance social ethical leadership on a global scale.

What’s more, our two feature stories are proof points for the impact our graduates can have thanks to the global mindset they develop here. “ESG: Doing Business with Purpose” looks at alumni doing their part to drive societal accountability in the corporate world through environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices when we need it most. Our feature on the Fordham Foundry celebrates the ways in which Fordham’s hub of innovation and entrepreneurship empowers students and alumni with the creative, strategic, and financial support needed to bring their business ideas to life.

I hope this issue inspires you as much as it does me, and that it reminds you that a Gabelli School of Business education is the catalyst for change that will drive great progress ahead.

Sincerely,

Signature of Lerzan Aksoy
Lerzan Aksoy, PhD
Interim Dean, Gabelli School of Business