A Landmark Year for Graduate Programs

Goizueta Business School’s master’s diploma ceremony took place on Friday, May 9, marking a significant milestone for the school. As well as welcoming graduates from the MBA, Master of Finance (MF), and Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) programs, Dean Gareth James had the pleasure of introducing the inaugural class of the Master in Business for Veterans (MBV) graduates and Master in Management (MiM) graduates. 

In his address, Dean James highlighted the importance of taking risks, drawing inspiration from Roberto C. Goizueta’s legacy. He encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities that may seem daunting, sharing his own experience of moving from New Zealand to the U.S. for graduate school. “All my biggest successes have come from taking risks,” he noted, urging the Class of 2025 to dive in whenever opportunity comes knocking. 

The keynote speaker Adrian Tonge 02C 07EvMBA, Executive Vice President of Data & Analytics North America at Chubb, and a proud double Emory alumnus, shared insights from his career in data science and AI. He emphasized the importance of community in finding fulfillment and success. “While life isn’t linear—and its paths can be daunting—I encourage you to travel it with others. Build your network. That network will carry you farther than you imagined.”

Undergraduate Accomplishments Celebrated with Pride 

On Monday, May 12, the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) diploma ceremony was held at the Woodruff PE Center. Dean Gareth James addressed the Class of 2025 with a message of pride, challenge, and inspiration.

“Our programs are selective, our standards are high, and the path to this moment has required resilience, determination, and grit,” James said, recognizing the collective efforts of faculty, staff, and especially families and loved ones.

Graduates also received a special address from Rick Rieder 83BBA, Senior Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer of Global Fixed Income at BlackRock. Rieder, who is responsible for managing roughly $3 trillion in assets, shared the seven words that he lives by: “Work hard. Play hard. Give back. Reboot.”

After a series of inspiring moments, Dean James returned to close the ceremony with a reflection that emphasized the strength of Goizueta’s community—drawing a powerful comparison to the sport of competitive sailing and highlighting the enduring role of alumni like Rieder.

“The students are the water that we sail through—without them the race doesn’t even make sense. But our alumni—our alumni are the wind in the sails,” he said. “You now have the honor and privilege to call yourselves Emory Goizueta Alums.”

The BBA Honors & Awards Celebration on Saturday, May 10, 2025 recognized the achievements of Goizueta’s exceptional graduating seniors.

Honoring Doctoral Scholars 

In a more intimate but equally meaningful celebration, Goizueta honored its graduating PhD students during a send-off reception on Wednesday, May 7. Dean Gareth James described it as “a small handful of very special students” entering a “rare and privileged group — PhDs.” This year, nine doctoral graduates joined the ranks of over 120 Goizueta PhD alumni, heading to distinguished institutions as postdoctoral scholars and assistant professors. 

Reflecting on his own academic lineage, Dean James spoke about the continuity of scholarly knowledge stretching back hundreds of years — from Trevor Hastie and Peter Huber to names like Laplace, Euler, and Bernoulli. “You have that same accumulated knowledge,” he told graduates. “That is a privilege that few people ever experience. Now you have a duty to go out into the world and both add to, and spread, that knowledge.” 

“This is a very important success,” James concluded, “but also a stepping stone to even bigger and better things. Take a few minutes today to celebrate.”

“But of course, tomorrow — get straight back to finishing off that paper,” Dean James joked. 

Looking Ahead

As the Class of 2025 embarks on their next chapters, Dean James reminded them of the enduring support from the Goizueta community.   

“Ultimately, Goizueta will be judged based on the graduates we produce. Your successes and failures are also ours. But I know, with absolute certainty, that you will all experience many more successes than failures. Our school’s future is very bright.  As you set sail into this next phase of life, know that Goizueta will always be part of your crew—ready to support, celebrate, and steady the course when needed.” 

Congratulations to the Goizueta Business School Class of 2025! 

For more information on Emory University’s 2025 Commencement, visit the Commencement Hub.

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Which is why one might be surprised to learn that this all-star student-athlete didn’t make the cut in his first application to Emory.

“I took a unique path to Emory,” says Dinçman. “I didn’t get into Emory and went to Tulane University out of high school to play baseball. I thought that I would spend all four years of college there. However, I was cut from the baseball team at the end of my first semester there, and I immediately entered the transfer portal and landed at Gulf Coast State College for the following semester. I graduated Summa Cum Laude with my A.A. in General Studies and I was recruited by the Emory Baseball team as a transfer.”

Determination and adaptability are what carried Dinçman toward his destiny–skills he honed through his baseball career.

“Baseball has brought me some of the most valuable mentors and coaches in my life, and instilled values of diligence and devotion that can translate to any field.”

Dinçman also credits his homerun of an academic career to the collaborative and intimate environment of Goizueta Business School, the support of faculty and classmates there, and–especially–his family.

“I’m grateful for my parents Tolga and Holly, who gave me everything just to have the chance to be successful in my life.”

“Dinçman is quite extraordinary,” says Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education & Professor in the Practice of Organization and Management Andrea Hershatter. “His discipline, commitment, and engagement are unmatched. I don’t believe it is possible to do more than he has done as an Emory student.”

Post graduation, Dinçman is weighing a few offers, but will most likely be joining PNC Financial Services Group in Philadelphia, PA, as an Asset Management Group Development Program Analyst, where he hopes to make a tangible impact for societal good.

“The niche line of business I’ll be working with at PNC–called Institutional Asset Management–carries great societal impact in my eyes. Instead of being a strictly transactional business, we manage the relationships and investment accounts for Endowments & Foundations, Public Pensions & 401(k)s, and other private companies. For example, we get to see firsthand how PNC-advised investment growth leads to additional scholarship and grant opportunities for endowments and foundations, who often disburse funds to impactful social causes and exceptional individuals and students.”

Dinçman will miss his Goizueta community, and–surprisingly–finals week. Those grueling study sessions hunkered down alongside classmates with food and paperwork strewn across the table left him with some of his favorite memories. He credits both his Business Law grade and his close relationship with his senior baseball teammates to their hours-long roundtable review sessions before exams.

In the future, Dinçman dreams of founding a FinTech start-up, or managing a fund alongside his Emory Baseball teammates and Goizueta-peers Chris DiVito and Jonah Wronski.

“Given my upbringing in the Deep South and the emphasis placed on ‘Southern Hospitality,’ I hope to bring a unique perspective on relationship-building wherever I land.”

Ultimately, Dinçman hopes to be an involved alumnus and mentor who finds himself, one day, in a philanthropical position to help support the people and institutions that raised him.

“I took great pride in leading younger baseball teammates in all aspects of their college career, and I hope to become the kind of mentor that pushes others to realize their own potential. I always want to uphold a focus on service and social causes, as well as the importance of one’s family and faith in their life.”

For more Emory Commencement stories, updates, photos and videos, and celebration details, visit commencement.emory.edu.

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Against a backdrop of rapid technological transformation, a changing economic landscape, and evolving student and employer expectations, Goizueta fostered a collective space for business school leaders to discuss how their schools are innovating and changing to best prepare students for a world that is writing new job titles and forging new industries.

“Universities have the capacity to change in real time, if we seize this critical moment to share expertise and think creatively to respond to these challenges,” shared James. “I enjoyed hearing the perspectives of my business school counterparts from across the Southeast and learning how we can work together to serve our students even better.”

Fireside Chat with Truist Chairman and CEO Bill Rogers

What will tomorrow’s business school look like? This question remained at the forefront of conversation as participants moved between a rigorous agenda featuring panel discussions, institutional showcases, and a headline fireside chat with Truist Chairman and Chief Executive Officer William H. “Bill” Rogers Jr.

As a native of North Carolina with degrees from UNC Chapel Hill and Georgia State, Rogers has strong Southern roots. He has a deep commitment to purpose and believes purpose is key to performance. His commitment to the community is demonstrated by his participation on several boards, including the Emory University Board of Trustees. The conversation with Dean James offered a window into the intersection of academic innovation and industry leadership.

“Hosting Bill Rogers was both a pleasure and an incredibly insightful opportunity for those of us in educational leadership. Bill was able to offer us practical wisdom regarding how the industry is shifting, and what kinds of hires he sees thriving,” shared James.

Rogers and James engaged in a candid conversation around future-forward topics such as artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, strategic leadership in times of change, and the evolving expectations companies have for graduates.

During the session, Rogers emphasized the importance of deeper industry–academic partnerships to ensure students are prepared for modern workforce demands. Rogers also noted that when paired with an MBA, a hybrid skillset that includes technical skills like logistics or engineering gives students a competitive edge. He challenged deans to “think backwards from the client”—in this case, students and employers—to design more relevant, agile curricula. The conversation also explored opportunities for faculty research collaborations, industry-funded initiatives, and co-developed programming aimed at bridging the skills gap.

Throughout the day, the deans exchanged ideas on topics ranging from student preparation and curricular innovation to how business schools can support a data-driven economy. Sessions on AI integration, cross-sector partnerships, and new program formats highlighted the deans’ shared commitment to reinvention.

Goizueta’s Part to Play

Goizueta’s own AI initiatives were spotlighted in a dedicated session, showcasing how the school is embedding emerging technologies into both pedagogy and practice—solidifying its role as a hub for applied innovation in management education.

Goizueta has also already begun refreshing its program curricula. Developed through a faculty-led design thinking process that incorporated feedback from current students, alumni, and corporate recruiters, the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Program was recently redesigned to better prepare students for a data-driven world with complex business challenges. The MBA program is undergoing a similar treatment this year, with an emphasis on day-one career readiness. New developments are projected to include increased student agency in tailoring coursework, a quantitative data and AI bootcamp, Networking Fridays, a technology course that will update every year to capitalize on the moment’s biggest trends, and many other initiatives.

By convening this diverse and influential group of academic leaders, Goizueta demonstrated a timely vision: to lead not only in academic excellence, but in reimagining what business education can—and must—become in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

As Dean James noted in his closing remarks, “If we want to remain relevant, we have to stop solving yesterday’s challenges and start building tomorrow’s solutions—together.”

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The Emory Entrepreneurship Awards, established by alumni volunteers, recognize founders whose businesses have made significant strides in innovation, profitability, and industry influence. This year’s honorees are pioneers in fields ranging from finance and technology to healthcare and service industries, reinforcing Emory’s commitment to cultivating entrepreneurial excellence.

Building Businesses Through the Goizueta Executive MBA

The success of Ward, Ford, and Gandhi speaks to their visionary leadership skills and their intrepid pursuit of building better business communities. It is also a testament to the strength of Goizueta’s Executive MBA program, which provides professionals with the tools to lead and innovate across industries.

“The Goizueta Executive MBA program was transformational,” says Gandhi. “It gave me not just the business acumen to scale and sustain a venture, but also a powerful network of like-minded leaders who continue to inspire and support me.”

Designed for working executives, the Executive MBA program offers flexible formats, including on-campus, hybrid, and fully online options, allowing students to balance education with their careers.

“It is an honor to witness how our Executive MBA alumni excel in their work beyond the program,” says Associate Dean of Executive MBA & Evening MBA Programs Jaclyn Conner. “They inspire us through their curiosity, innovation, and perseverance to take on rewarding challenges. Our program provides a wealth of experience, knowledge, and insights into the entrepreneurial environment. It is delightful to see alumni bring these efforts to fruition.”

Their achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration for current and prospective students, demonstrating how Goizueta’s Executive MBA program provides the skills, network, and confidence to turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.

“As a faculty member who regularly teaches in the Executive MBA program, I’m not surprised that they are launching and leading impactful ventures,” says Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Organization and Management Robert Kazanjian. “Our alumni are uniquely positioned to leverage their years of experience along with what they learn in the classroom.”

“All three are highly deserving of this honor,” he adds.

Strengthening the Southeast Ecosystem

Brandon Ward, one of this year’s award recipients, never imagined that the dream he hatched at a kitchen table would become a business employing more than 100 people across 11 countries in less than a decade. He cites the business acumen and courage of character he learned at Goizueta as a crucial step in manifesting that dream.

“The Executive MBA program at Goizueta has been instrumental in providing me key frameworks, whether from Rob Kazanjian’s strategy course, Ed Leonard’s course, or Rob Gilkey’s organizational behavior perspectives,” he says. “Mostly, the program helped instill the confidence and integrity to be a principled leader in global industry.” 

“These awardees exemplify the dedication, creativity, and leadership that drive our thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. We celebrate their outstanding achievements,” says Managing Director of The Roberto C. Goizueta Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation Brian Cayce. Funded by a gift from The Goizueta Foundation in late 2019, the Center seeks to bridge the gap between vision and reality, theory and practice. The Center focuses on three pillars of activity: developing entrepreneurial skills and new venture creation; preparing for early-stage investing and growing an understanding of capital formation; and enhancing creativity and innovation capabilities for organizations of all types.

“The Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation proudly offers and collaborates upon a diverse range of programs—such as the Techstars Emory Founder Catalyst, the Emory Venture Mentoring Services, and the Emory Entrepreneurship Summit—that provide invaluable resources and support to our entrepreneurs at all stages. These initiatives are available to students at all levels, including our Working Professional and Executive MBA community, ensuring that entrepreneurial education and growth are accessible to all.”

Meet the Honorees

Rahul Gandhi 21EMBA – Founder & Managing Partner, RedGram Wealth Management

With more than 20 years of experience in information technology, retail, finance, and the service industries, Rahul Gandhi manages fiduciary accounts at RedGram Wealth Management and Quantum Capital. A recent executive MBA graduate from Goizueta Business School, Rahul has successfully led high-profile initiatives and start-ups with profit and loss responsibility during his corporate career. Previously, he consulted with KPMG, where he managed and advanced critical client accounts. Rahul specializes in delivering tailored financial advisory services. His expertise in financial services, combined with deep technical and strategic knowledge, allows him to craft optimal investment strategies. Rahul’s client-focused approach helps individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals with confidence and success.

“Honestly, I was both shocked and incredibly honored to learn about the award,” says Rahul. “When you’re in the trenches of building something, you’re so focused on the work that you don’t always take a step back to recognize how far you’ve come. This award is a reminder that the late nights, tough decisions, and moments of doubt were all worth it. And more than anything, it’s a reflection of the amazing people—mentors, peers, and the Goizueta community—who have supported me along the way.

In regard to getting started, Rahul’s advice is direct: jump in.

“Just start. Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready, because you never will. The best way to learn is by doing—put your idea out there, get feedback, and adapt.”

Another critical key is remembering that you are part of something larger and, when you excel, using your success to support others.

“Entrepreneurship isn’t a solo journey. It is about creating impact, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a community that values innovation and leadership. Awards like this are a reminder that success isn’t just about individual achievement—it’s about lifting others up and building something that lasts. The people you surround yourself with—your mentors, your team, your community—make all the difference. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of an ecosystem that values innovation, resilience, and collaboration.”

Alonzo Q. Ford 13EMBA – Chairman & CEO, Lowe’s Guardian Angel

Alonzo Q. Ford, chairman and CEO of Lowe’s Guardian Angel (LGA), is a transformational leader with expertise in strategic growth, mergers, and governance. A West Point graduate, Emory MBA, and combat veteran, Ford combines entrepreneurial vision with operational discipline honed at General Electric and in the U.S. Army. Under his leadership, LGA has quadrupled in size, expanded across Georgia, and increased cash flow by 588%. Since 2005, LGA has delivered 300,000+ hours of care annually to disabled adults, seniors, and veterans. A Georgia Titan 100 CEO and board member of the Goizueta Business School Alumni Association and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Ford channels his dedication to service and economic empowerment to drive LGA’s mission of enhancing 10,000 lives. Ford also serves on the board of the Goizueta Business School Alumni Association.

Brandon Ward 10EMBA – Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Palladin Technologies

Brandon Ward is the founder and CEO of Palladin Technologies, a Salesforce Summit Consulting Partner based in Atlanta. With 25 years of experience, he has grown Palladin into a global company with employees in 11 countries and a 118% compound annual growth rate over the past four years. Palladin ranked among the top 13% of fastest-growing U.S. companies in 2024. When not working, Ward enjoys analog large format photography, capturing sites of Atlanta like Oakland Cemetery and the iconic structures of the city’s skyline.

For Ward, winning the Emory Entrepreneurship Award was both validating and humbling.

“It’s a recognition of the hard work and dedication not just from myself but from everyone who has supported me along this journey, including the amazing team at Palladin,” says Ward.

Ward’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs focuses on the value of resilience.

“The inevitable setbacks nearly always follow Murphy’s law, and the line between perseverance and poor judgment can be extremely fuzzy in the moment. Thus, ‘staying the course’ was my decision to keep going in year four as Covid hit, but it also could have wrecked me. Not having many alternatives at the time certainly helped the decision-making!”

Being open to the unexpected can also transform your business for the better.

“Entrepreneurship is filled with highs and lows, but each challenge presents an opportunity to learn and grow. Making the time to learn is critical, as is hiring the best possible people at each opportunity. Don’t always be afraid to look past a prospective candidate’s resume or industry background—sometimes the best employees come from non-traditional backgrounds.” 

A degree from Goizueta Business School is also a great tool to have under your belt.

“I’m incredibly grateful and honored for this recognition, and knew at the time I made the right choice by entering the Executive MBA program. Thank you, Emory and Goizueta!”

Awardees will be honored Thursday, April 24, 2025, at the FORTH Hotel Atlanta.

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We’ve all seen actors playing these roles on screen, but that can only give us a glimpse into the lived reality of these professions. In any career, there is knowledge privy only to those people who have experienced them—muscle memories that can only develop from having walked the walk.

What does it feel, look, and sound like to pound the pavement of Wall Street on a frenetic weekday morning? To design the eyes of the Mars Rover and share visions of a foreign planet with the rest of the world? What does it feel like to be airborne in a vessel that can go 1,875 miles per hour? (Hint: sweaty).

In what is already a rarified collection of professionals, somehow Professor in the Practice and Research of Finance Tucker Balch can tell you what it’s like to be option E: all of the above.

From Space Dreams to Earthside Innovations

At their core, these disparate fields all push the boundaries of literal and figurative frontiers.

This fascination with frontiers began in childhood, when Balch watched live on a grainy black and white television as Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin hopped along the moon’s surface. The space race has a special place in his heart, having grown up in central Florida not far from Cape Canaveral.

“I saw the launch of Apollo 11, a Saturn 5. The ground shakes,” he recalls, his awe still palpable.

Witnessing humanity leaving the confines of earth left an indelible mark on Balch. He resolved that space exploration was the most compelling cause moving humankind forward, and he was eager to contribute.

Unlike other professions, opting to become an astronaut didn’t come with a cut-and-dried career path. In an early demonstration of his penchant for data analytics, Balch did his research, and noted that there were two key features that statistically improved one’s chance of becoming an astronaut: being a former fighter pilot and having a PhD.

So that is what he did. Balch was hairsbreadth from a life devoted to outer space, but in a final round of interviews for NASA, a minor health aberration ended his bid. Still, his case embodies the classic adage to “shoot for the moon—even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars:” while he did not physically make it to space, his handiwork did. His robotics prowess designed those optical systems used by the Mars Rover, allowing scientists—and everyone else—to lay eyes on Mars as well.

Meanwhile, earthside, Balch found a half dozen new frontiers to explore.

“Sense, Think, Act”

So what is it like to fly a fighter jet? On Balch’s LinkedIn profile, his cheeky description of his stint in the Air Force is characterized as “flying super fast with hair on fire, high-G turns, loops, rolls, upside down.” But he says some movies, like the second Top Gun, do capture the essence of the experience.

“A big difference between what people imagine and what is real is that it’s physical,” says Balch. “You’re sweating, your flight suit is wet, you’re worn out. It’s like football.”

While most of his other career pursuits might not be as physically draining as flying an F-15, there are psychological components to flying a fighter jet that do connect to the rest of his resume: the art of rapid decision making.  

As a fighter pilot, you may not always be going Mach 2, but you’re often going hundreds of miles an hour, and you have to make decisions very quickly. A key thing learned in aviation is that it’s not about a perfect decision, but a pretty good decision quickly.

Tucker Balch

“That same concept is used in robotics. The robot doesn’t have time to calculate a perfect decision; it needs to balance sensing the world, thinking about it and acting on it. I carry that ‘sense, think, act’ mindset into my work with AI and also in finance, in terms of investing. Observe the market, ponder it, and then act.”

Balch admits that if he could repeat any part of his career, he wouldn’t mind flying the F-15 some more—not just for the thrill, but for the mental clarity it requires.

“A lot of people are into transcendental meditation. They cultivate the ability to shut out the world, and their anxieties and worries are gone—that’s exactly what I’d feel when I sat in an F-15. I couldn’t think about my PhD when I sat in that plane. You have to focus 100 percent on flying. That was a separate and kind of magical feeling,”—although, Balch jokes, driving around icy Atlanta roads in this past winter’s storms gave him a run for his money.

Better Living through Artificial Intelligence

The landscape of innovation has changed considerably in the past several decades. After earning his PhD, Balch worked as an assistant research professor at Carnegie Mellon. Long before it was on the average person’s radar in the early aughts, artificial intelligence beckoned to Balch, luring him from the robotics lab to the business sector as he helped develop algorithms to improve investment strategies and eventually co-founded his own company, Lucena Research. He’s eager to finally have more people on board the AI train.

““I wish everybody would get an account on ChatGPT or something like it, and just try it. I use it to edit emails periodically, to make sure I’m nailing the right tone.”

Ask yourself, could AI do this for me? And you’ll discover how much it can do. Plan your day, schedule a trip. You don’t have to understand AI to use it. ChatGPT is 20 dollars a month, and I can’t think of any subscription more valuable.

Tucker Balch

Compared to frontiers like outer space and Mach 2 travel, Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT are far more accessible. Like amateur scientists in centuries past stumbling upon specimens in the wild and bringing them under the microscope to make critical discoveries, any curious person can move the lens of an LLM and uncover something interesting.

“I think the capabilities of AI are plateauing—it’s maybe 100 times better than it was two years ago, and two years from now, it’ll be 120 times better. But we’re just getting started on discovering the new and different ways we can apply the technology we already have. This is where people have the opportunity to change the world. People ask, ‘what problem do you want AI to have solved in ten years?’ but my first concern is solving the problem of everyone having access to AI. It will enable society to work better.  If you go to lesser developed parts of the world, there isn’t wired internet available or many home computers, but so many people have cell phones, which provides them a channel to AI. There’s lots of potential there.”

More than Making Money

Balch also believes that the intersection of AI and finance has the ability to contribute to the common good. While many dismiss finance as simply making money, the reality is that everyone on an individual level has a financial future whether they’re interested in it or not, and AI has the potential to help them change that future.

“It’s hard to find a wealth advisor who will work with someone who has 100k in the bank or less,” Balch explains. “And those people need this advice, maybe more than anyone else. Bringing AI to the table to help advise people can be a great benefit to them, and to society in general.”

AI is also a crucial weapon in the fight against financial fraud.

“At JP Morgan, we used AI in a number of different ways to detect fraud, especially in looking for signs of money laundering. You can do that by looking at data manually, but AI helps you make sense of that data a lot faster.”

Another way AI is transforming finance is by identifying manipulative trading behavior.

“Traders can manipulate the market in subtle and sophisticated ways, making it difficult to detect. AI can spot these patterns and prevent bad actors from taking advantage of the system.”

In the ever-evolving world of finance, AI is not just a tool for optimization—it can be a force for greater transparency and accessibility.

Those Who Can Do More, Teach

Teaching is one of the other threads connecting Balch’s storied career path and it was this—“the spark you see in someone’s eyes when they learn something,”—that brought him to Emory through the AI.Humanity initiative. Building on a strong base of faculty already at work, Emory’s AI.Humanity initiative has supported the recruitment of close to 50 faculty who, through teaching and research, contribute to world-changing scholarship in how AI impacts and serves humanity. 

“I love teaching,” says Balch. “I’ve been blessed to have good teachers. That moment when you suddenly understand something you didn’t before, how empowering that is; I want to pass that on to students as well.”

Balch has taught in corporate as well as academic settings, most recently at Georgia Tech. He brings back a valuable lesson for Emory students from his forays into emerging career paths.

“In a lot of cases, there’s no prescriptive answer. You have to build and test, and that’s how you discover things you wouldn’t have otherwise. I want to facilitate that for the students. I’ll give my students a problem to solve without all the details they need to solve it. I want to give them a framework, but I give them problems where they will discover something surprising. My goal is to help them discover something they didn’t expect to find.”

The classroom is no exception to AI’s ever-expanding reach. Balch is keen on preparing students for an AI-driven future; while he doesn’t believe AI will force many people out of work, those workers who don’t use AI will be replaced by the ones who do. As AI continues to evolve, Balch advocates for its responsible and widespread use while preparing the next generation to harness its potential.  As a teacher, he has also been required to adapt and embrace the acceptance of ambiguity that he preaches—in how to approach assessment, for example.

“Students are inextricably engaged in AI. I tell them, ‘if you don’t have a ChatGPT account, go get one; if you don’t, you’re gonna be left in the dust.’ We need to be responsible with AI use. It will lie to you, and it will lie to you confidently. I strive to have them discover that fact for themselves.”

You are ultimately responsible for the content that is attached to your name: in the past, a student may have gotten away by saying ‘my dog ate my homework,’ but these days you aren’t excused by saying, ‘AI lied to me.’

Tucker Balch

He also warns them that while AI is a powerful tool, it requires scrutiny.

“Questions of privacy and ownership will become more front and center,” says Balch. “AI can triangulate—it’s able to piece together a lot of disparate pieces of information in a way that makes people nervous. And the general public is catching on to the way that big companies are using AI.”

“We can look forward to a lot of interesting legislation,” Balch predicts.

Looking Ahead: Lessons from a Life of Exploration

At Emory, Balch finds himself among students who embody the adaptability and curiosity that the future demands.

“Emory’s business students are well rounded. They have a can-do attitude and broad interests. I love that.”

For those looking to forge their own unconventional paths, Balch offers simple but hard-earned advice:

When you’re thinking about career choices, think about what you love doing. People get tired of this advice, but it’s true: I’ve never done anything because I thought it would make me rich, but because it seemed fun. Hard work helps, but enjoyment helps a lot more.

Tucker Balch

And if the odds seem daunting?

“Don’t be deterred by some statistic, like ‘only 10 percent of people get this job.’ To quote my dad, ‘There’s always room at the top.’ Take risks, especially with things you enjoy.”

Whether in the cockpit or the classroom, Balch’s career proves that exploration isn’t just about where you start—it’s about staying open to every new horizon along the way.

Goizueta faculty are driving innovation, tackling today’s most complex business challenges. Through groundbreaking research and dynamic teaching, they go beyond conventional approaches—because that’s how lasting change happens. Learn more here.

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“We are incredibly proud of the Goizueta Master of Finance Class of 2024,” says Associate Dean and Executive Director of the Graduate Career Management Center Maureen Manion-Leone. “Their commitment to learning and growth, along with their resilience and adaptability, have distinguished them among our graduate programs. We have no doubt they will go on to make a significant impact in the industry.”

Sealing the Deal: Graduates Cash in on Career Success

The 2024 employment results underscore the program’s effectiveness in equipping students with the skills and connections necessary to thrive in finance. Notable highlights include:

• 100% Employment Rate: Every actively seeking graduate accepted a job offer within six months of graduation.
• Salary Growth: The median base salary rose from $74,000 in 2023 to $80,000 in 2024, reflecting increased market demand for Goizueta graduates.
• Diverse Career Paths: Students secured finance positions across multiple industries, including financial services, consulting, investment management, healthcare, and real estate.
• Top-Tier Employers: Graduates received offers from prestigious firms including Goldman Sachs, Houlihan Lokey, HSBC, Invesco, JPMorgan Chase, KPMG, Northern Trust, Rockefeller Capital Management, and Truist, among others.

From Peachtree to Park Avenue: Where Grads Are Landing

Goizueta’s Master of Finance graduates are making an impact across the U.S. and beyond:

• + 88% accepted jobs in the United States
• + 8% accepted positions in Asia
• + 4% secured positions in Europe

These figures highlight Goizueta’s strong regional presence while also showcasing its ability to launch careers on a global scale.

Fast-Track to Finance: A Curriculum That Means Business

Part of the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program, Goizueta’s Master of Finance program is designed to align closely with industry standards. The rigorous 10-month curriculum blends technical training, leadership development, and hands-on experience. This unique approach allows graduates to excel in roles such as investment management analysts, credit risk analysts, data scientists, and asset management wealth analysts.

“Our curriculum is quite focused on industry experience” says Tom Smith, professor in the practice of finance and academic director of Goizueta’s finance master’s degree. “We want our students to get as much ‘hands-on’ experience as possible. We do this through our New York City trip, off-sight visits to companies in and around Atlanta, and by having industry leaders provide guest lectures. I’m really focused on bringing industry into the classroom.”

Our students are sought after in the market—they are receiving amazing job offers and are working for some of the best companies in the world! I couldn’t be more proud of how well our students are doing.

Tom Smith

Smith acknowledges that employment and employability are not the only metrics that indicate a successful program but does note that this is a core objective of many students.

The program has made several changes the last few years by adding electives in real estate and corporate finance and continues to offer opportunities for students to learn new skills and modeling techniques consistent with the growing trends in AI and machine learning. “Our students are succeeding, but we’re not going to sit back and coast; the market is constantly changing, and we’re going to change with the market,” says Smith. “We have an obligation to our students to provide an education that matches the current needs of the market. Our award-winning faculty are constantly adapting to market needs — I know this is what makes our program special.”

The 2024 employment outcomes reaffirm Goizueta’s Master of Finance as a premier choice for aspiring finance professionals. With comprehensive career support, a dynamic curriculum, and a strong network of employers, the program continues to deliver exceptional opportunities for its graduates.

Whether you’re just starting out in finance or looking to elevate your expertise, Goizueta’s 10-month Master of Finance program equips adaptable minds for dynamic careers in sales, trading, investment management, FinTech, and investment banking. Explore the future of finance with us.

The post 2024 Career Report: Master of Finance Graduates Achieve 100% Employment Success appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

Danielle Donnelly 17EMBA and Ivan Aquino 17EMBA

As answered by Ivan Aquino

How did the two of you meet? Was it love at first sight or a gradual connection?

She definitely caught my eye from day one, but our relationship developed more naturally over time. As the program went on, we found ourselves spending more time together in group settings outside of school. Despite coming from very different backgrounds, we quickly realized that we shared similar goals and values, which brought us even closer.

Do you remember your first conversation or interaction? What stood out to you about that moment?

I sure do—it’s actually pretty funny. On the first day of class, a group of us was walking around campus when we came across a King of Pops stand. I was the only one who had cash, so I bought her a popsicle. It was a small gesture, but looking back, it feels like the first little moment that connected us.

Was there a specific class, event, or project at Goizueta that brought you closer together?

I wouldn’t say it was a single class or project that brought us together. It was more about the overall journey of the program. But if I had to pick a defining moment, the international trip to South Africa was definitely it—that experience truly brought us even closer.

Did either of you make the first move? If so, how did it happen?

She says I did, but I’d say it was mutual. After spending time together in group settings, I eventually asked her out to dinner. I made the move because I couldn’t help but notice her looking at me a lot in class and at events—so in a way, we both did.

How did your time at Goizueta influence your relationship?

In addition to meeting the love of my life, we built incredible friendships that will stand the test of time. Goizueta also provided a strong network that has opened doors and shaped our career goals and ambitions in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

How did you balance academics, career aspirations, and your budding relationship while at Goizueta?

Honestly, it wasn’t always easy, but I think that’s what made our relationship stronger. The program was intense, and we were both juggling academics, career goals, and everything else life was throwing at us. But instead of pulling us apart, it brought us closer—we leaned on each other, whether it was late-night study sessions, tough career decisions, or just venting about the day. Looking back, I think going through all of that together made us an even better team.

How has your relationship evolved since your time at Goizueta? Tell me more about where the two of you are now!

Well, for starters, we’re married now! Since our time at Goizueta, we’ve just kept growing together. We’ve built a life together, supporting each other through career moves, personal milestones, and everything in between. We have a beautiful dog and are raising an 11-year old. We’ve really learned how to support each other in ways that only get deeper with time.

Do you have a favorite memory as a Goizueta couple, whether on campus or beyond?

The international trip to South Africa will always stand out. It wasn’t just the adventure of being in a new place, but the way we experienced everything together—learning from each other, immersing ourselves in new cultures, and seeing the world through different lenses. It really deepened our connection and gave us a whole new perspective on life, both personally and professionally.

Who was the better student?

I had the better grades, but honestly, she’s always been the harder worker. She’s the type who puts in the effort no matter what, and that kind of dedication makes her the better student, hands down.

Ricardo Accioly 14MBA and Mariana Accioly 14MBA  

How did the two of you meet? Was it love at first sight or a gradual connection? 

We were aware of each other for at least 10 years before we were formally introduced. A mutual friend from our hometown requested that we connect to plan her visit to São Paulo/Brazil, as we both lived there. While discussing this friend’s visit and discovering the many acquaintances we shared, we realized how much we had in common. This conversation lasted five hours, leading to a scheduled date for the next evening. For Ricardo, it was an instant attraction. For Mariana, it was a bit more gradual.  

Do you remember your first conversation or interaction? What stood out to you about that moment? 

The biggest revelation from our first conversation was how much we already knew about each other even before we officially met. Ricardo’s best friend dated Mariana’s sister, and we both ran competing digital agencies in Fortaleza. We frequently crossed paths in potential client’s hallways without knowing it at the time.  

Was there a specific class, event, or project at Goizueta that brought you closer together? 

The MBA program brought us together. Before we met, Ricardo already had plans to get his MBA abroad and was studying for the GMAT. We realized that if Mariana was not on board with the plan, the relationship was not going to progress, and we would eventually go in different directions (Ricardo moving to the United States and Mariana staying in Brazil). Ricardo took Mariana to a few school presentations in Sao Paulo (Goizueta was one of them) and got her excited about the possibility of getting married and doing an MBA. He postponed his application by a year so they could study for the GMAT and apply together. Emory was Ricardo’s top choice, having lived in Atlanta as an exchange student, and his acceptance made the decision easy. Mariana joined the full-time one-year program in 2013, allowing them to graduate together in 2014.  

How did your time at Goizueta influence your relationship? 

Our time at Goizueta helped us understand each other’s work preferences, significantly contributing to our current success. We learned about each other’s weaknesses and strengths and realized that we complement each other very well. We learned how to best work together and now we are business partners at SEI, a management and IT consulting company. Although we may have many differences and sometime even disagreements when it comes to our approach to business, we are each other’s biggest cheerleaders and supporters. 

How has your relationship evolved since your time at Goizueta? Where the two of you are now?

Time flies! Since Emory, we’ve both changed jobs. Ricardo left Deloitte for SEI in Jan 2020, and Mariana joined SEI from Cognizant in July 2021. We have two sons: Nicolas (7) born in Sept 2017, and Thomas (5) born in April 2019. We have also became American citizens in 2024, which solidified the decision we made back in 2012 when we decided to move to the United States to pursue our MBAs and make this country our home.  

Do you have a favorite memory as a Goizueta couple, whether on campus or beyond? 

We hosted several parties and study groups in our tiny apartment at Post Briarcliff while in business school. We were together during KEGs, Mid-Semester Module trip to India, graduation and so many other events. It is great to share so many great memories.  

Who was the better student? 

Mariana! 

Who is more likely to show off their Goizueta pride? 

Ricardo. He still does with the Goizueta sticker at the back of the car. 

What’s your favorite thing about being a Goizueta couple? 

Constant support and being in it together were crucial. Sometimes, we had to study apart and needed to accept this separation. However, we also helped each other with topics, case studies, interview preparations and the uncertainties of the job search. This mutual support made going through the Goizueta MBA program as a couple much easier.

Daniela D. Dimitrova 22EMBA and Stephen (Steve) Kennedy 23EMBA 

As answered by Daniela Dimitrova

How did the two of you meet?  

We met at Goizueta Business School on the first-class weekend. My team was assigned to greet Steve’s team during the lunch break. It was a gradual connection over the fall semester of 2021.  

Do you remember your first conversation or interaction? What stood out to you about that moment?   

My first meaningful conversation with Steve happened while walking on the Beltline after my cohort’s usual gathering at Lady Bird. I had invited some of his cohort members to join us, and he happened to come along with a few of his classmates. What stood out to me most was how effortlessly we connected—our conversation flowed naturally, and I was amazed at how well he understood me from the very start. 

How did your time at Goizueta influence your relationship? 

From the start, Steve and I shared a common academic goal, which strengthened our bond. We built friendships across each other’s cohorts, forming connections that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise due to our different backgrounds and communities. Our time at Goizueta also gave us a mutual understanding of the challenges of balancing work and academics, further deepening our support for one another. 

Are there any specific places on campus that hold special meaning for your relationship? 

Lullwater Preserve and Patterson Green, along with the broader Emory neighborhood, hold special significance for us. Living between the Clairmont and Clifton campuses, we take daily walks through the area, making it a meaningful part of our routine. Patterson Green, in particular, is especially significant—it’s where we shared many events, got engaged, and where our journey together truly began. 

How has your relationship evolved since your time at Goizueta? Tell me more about where the two of you are now! 

We got engaged on April 27^th, 2024 in front of Goizueta on Patterson Green. The wedding is later this fall at the Miller-Ward House. 

Do you have a favorite memory as a Goizueta couple, whether on campus or beyond? 

One of our favorite memories is our global immersion trip to Barcelona and Lisbon. Our two cohorts switched locations mid-air, and after the trip ended, Steve flew back to Barcelona. We extended our stay, spending extra days exploring the city, visiting Gaudí exhibits, and touring the Sagrada Familia with my stepsister who flew in from Bulgaria. This was our first trip/vacation together and the first time Steve met anyone from my family. 

Who is more likely to show off their Goizueta pride? 

Without a doubt, it’s Steve! He sports the Emory logo on all his baseball hats, shirts, and even his rain jacket. My luggage tags also feature Emory branding, and when we travel, we frequently meet people who have children, nieces, or nephews who attended or are currently attending Emory. 

Do you have a favorite Goizueta connection story to share with us? Please complete a class note, update your information, and learn about ways to stay connected with your 23,000-strong Goizueta network.

The post From Classmates to Soulmates: Sharing Goizueta Love Stories appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

Do you know where your finances stand?

When it comes to building a retirement portfolio, many folks don’t know where to start. The reigning retirement narrative has urged citizens to invest in the “high risk, high reward” stock market while they’re young, and slowly allocate more funds to assets like bonds as they age, which are considered the more staid and sturdy option compared to stocks.

But before you trod this well-worn path, Assistant Professor of Finance Aizhan Anarkulova would like to have a word.

Aizhan’s most recent paper on lifecycle investing argues that while the stock market is often characterized as the “sprinter” horse in a race to wealth, it may actually be both the sprinter and steady horse to back in the marathon of long-term wealth accumulation. Her findings have turned heads in the financial sector (and even rubbed some fur the wrong way, as researchers grapple with this up-ending of conventional wisdom).

Aizhan emphasizes that this is still a working paper, and even after publication, people should consult a financial advisor before making any leaps. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach when it comes to financial planning, although Aizhan does have one piece of advice that should benefit everyone: whatever strategy you land on, save more.

The following interview has been edited for clarity.

Summarize your most recent research paper in six words.

You should invest more in stocks!

What inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and drew you to focus on long-term saving in particular?

My bachelor’s degree is in economics, which opened the door to my interest in finances. After that, I worked as an auditor in accounting, and found the part I liked the most was training the junior hires. Once I realized my passion for helping to create and pass knowledge, I left the corporate world to pursue a Ph.D.

The topics I’m looking at are ambitious; they’re such big economic questions, and the answers would affect almost everyone I know personally. We don’t have a lot of shots at saving for retirement. How many times can you save for 30 years, look at the outcome and say, “oh, that was wrong, next time I’ll change my strategy”? If you’re lucky, you might get two 30-year-windows in your lifetime. But this is why most people benefit from research and data-driven results. It’s a super high stakes question without much room for trial and error.

Your paper specifically uses the term “long term saving.” Does that only mean retirement savings?

My research is definitely relevant to retirement savings and that is likely the scenario most people are imagining when they hear about my research agenda. That said, there are other investments that have long horizons. An individual may be saving over decades to leave an estate behind for their children, or to purchase a business, for example. Or an institution may be looking to maintain an endowment.

This paper studies the optimal lifecycle investment, which also involves the other half of the equation: withdrawal or “desaving.” We study what kind of portfolio not just produces the highest returns, but is also less risky in the sense that it minimizes the risk of losses.

Your research challenges two widely accepted principles of retirement investing: first, that people should invest in both stocks and bonds. Second, that as they age, they should move more of their money into bonds/cash. Can you explain the rationale behind this conventional wisdom?

The first principle is about the general benefits of diversification. The idea is that stocks and bonds don’t operate in sync: bonds might do better if stocks don’t perform well, and vice versa. We do maintain an argument for diversification in our paper—the principle of “don’t put all your eggs in one basket” still holds true here—but we find you are better off diversifying with international stocks rather than bonds.

Regarding the second principle, I get a lot of questions about this, even in academia. One of the explanations for the second principle is human capital. Here’s what that means: when we’re young, most of us have capital in the form of future earnings because we will work for many years to come. Most likely, you can’t sell it and/or you cannot borrow against it, but it is a form of wealth. With these assumptions in mind, young investors are able to take on more risks with stocks. That human capital diminishes as you get older. That’s why you can afford a larger stock allocation while young— your salary will carry you through the whims of the stock market. You will save again, if something happens, and the stock market will mean revert in the long run. When people are closer to retirement, they may want something “safer” (read it as ‘less volatile’), because they aren’t going to work much longer, and can’t afford to lose their savings anymore.

Did something in particular lead you to question this conventional wisdom—a hunch, a personal experience?

Honestly,  we never planned to go against the status quo. We simply let the data speak.

Aizhan Anarkulova

That said, we provide explanations for why we’d gotten that result so I encourage you to read the paper. I’ve published an earlier paper that essentially argues that “stocks are  riskier in the long run” than conventionally thought. Then people wanted to follow up, ‘asking ‘if stocks are risky, where should I invest?’ To answer that, we started adding other major assets—bonds, bills, and international stocks—to the portfolios and found that the mix of domestic and international stocks outperforms in our lifecycle setting. So stocks are risky but hey, you have to hold them anyway as long as it is internationally diversified!

What did your paper find to be the most effective strategy in accruing wealth over time?

One third domestic stocks, two thirds international stocks. That is the most optimal ratio for the setting that we consider. We leave some room for how comfortable you are with those weights. The US stock market accounts for about half of the world’s stocks, so you can hold a portfolio that is 50/50 domestic stocks/international stocks. Can you deviate from that exact balance of 1/3 and 2/3? Yes. The point is to have both.

Why is this mix optimal? What should investors consider when adding international equities to their portfolio—what countries? What kinds of stocks?

Our research only considers well diversified portfolios. When we talk about holding international stocks, we are talking about stocks in developed countries. That is, stable markets that are all comparable to the United States and each other. And we’re talking about holding the whole market of a country—an index fund that includes every stock that is publicly traded within that country. When creating an international portfolio, the investments are weighed in proportion to the size or “value” of each country’s stock market relative to the world.

While picking and choosing individual stocks over others may be exciting, that is not the focus of our paper. However, we do imagine you’d need to rebalance your international and domestic periodically, maybe once a year, as the weight of those markets will shift. In our paper, the portfolios are assumed to be rebalanced monthly.

What limitations or uncertainties in your analysis should readers be aware of?           

Maybe this question is better for an editor or a referee, because I have a strong sense we did all of this right given our set of assumptions and the empirical setting in the paper. For example, in the base case, we assume investors save 10% of their earnings. But we considered lots (and I mean it) of variations of the base case for each of the assumptions and found that our conclusion holds true.

Our paper is a statistical analysis. What we show is what is most likely to happen, from a statistical standpoint. But we can’t put an exact number on what stock returns will be, say, in the next 30 years; we aren’t fortune tellers.

Can you give us a behind-the-scenes glance into the methodology, in layman’s terms?

In a nutshell, we follow a hypothetical couple in the United States, then we simulate different kinds of income scenarios that happen to people in real life—high income, low income, temporary unemployment, for example—and determine which investment portfolio accrues the largest retirement income and bequest.

We consider a lot of risks that investors face, including job income uncertainty, Social Security income, and the risk of outliving their savings. The model uses Social Security mortality data, calculates benefits based on 2022 rules, and draws on a comprehensive dataset covering returns on domestic stocks, international stocks, government bonds, and government bills from 39 developed countries. Labor income is modeled using findings from a 2021 study by Guvenen, Karahan, Ozkan, and Song, which analyzed real earnings data from millions of U.S. workers provided by the Social Security Administration.

We get to play god for this exercise. We simulate a couple’s life and let them “live” it several times from the beginning to the end.

Aizhan Anarkulova

In those repeat lives, the couple picks different lifecycle investment portfolios, while everything else stays the same. This couple is earning money, they’re saving a certain proportion, they retire at 65, start getting social security, and start taking money from their account. Across the simulated lives, the outcomes are driven by the portfolio that they chose. As mentioned before, we consider lots of variations of the base case and the results are the same. For example, instead of a heterosexual couple, we consider single female and single male, and we also look at same sex couples.

What are the drawbacks to this alternative investment strategy?

We also study what the maximal drawdowns look like for different portfolios. Basically, it’s the largest drop you experience in the value of your portfolio. Maybe the stock market crashes and your million goes to half a million, for example. We look at how that differs across the strategies. If you look at the average of that, then our all-equity optimal portfolios have a larger average maximal drawdown compared to a portfolio with bonds. But if you consider the maximum of the potential drawdowns, then our optimal portfolio is better than the bond-based portfolios. However, drawdown is an intermediate outcome; it’s not something that is affecting your actual wealth as long as you stay invested. If you withdraw money at that low point, you will be worse off. Our analysis assumes you don’t go and sell stocks when the market crashes, you just stay invested.

You have to be able to stick to the strategy you pick and hold it through good times and bad. Ultimately, in the end, it’s going to be better for you. But there’s going to be periods where it hurts.

Aizhan Anarkulova

If you could change one aspect of how people think about investing for retirement, what would it be?

Save more! Everybody should be saving more. At every age.  I have to tell it myself, too—I’m like, “you do this research, you know the answer, you know you have to save more.”

What challenges have you faced as a researcher in questioning well-established investment principles, and how have you addressed skepticism?

People have definitely been reactive. We have received a lot of comments and suggestions. “What if you change the retirement age? What if you change the percentage saved?” We have done a lot of additional analyses in this version of the draft to address those comments. I think we’re still facing lots of challenges because it’s an unpublished paper at the moment. When it is published, that’s when it will make the biggest impact and help people.

What questions remain unanswered in your research, and what areas are you most excited to explore next?

In research, the questions never get answered in such a way where it ends the discussion and we move on. When my paper is published, it will beget more questions. So in the future, I’m still likely going to explore the same questions in a sense— the big economic questions are still out there.

What do you find most rewarding about your work in this field?

It’s people. I enjoy building a network with professors across many institutions. I especially enjoy teaching, and my co-workers. Goizueta students are enthusiastic, and they’re really smart. I’ve been very impressed by them.

The post Keep Calm and Consider Staying in the Stock Market appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

All of these solutions—and more—were presented at the 2025 RAISE Forum (Retention and Advancement for the Southeast at Emory) this past November. This hallmark event of Emory University’s Goizueta Business School brought together a dynamic mix of entrepreneurs, investors, and students. Now housed under the Center for Alternative Investments, the annual forum continues its mission to catalyze the Southeastern startup ecosystem while providing Goizueta students with unmatched experiential learning opportunities.

Raising the Profile of Atlanta’s Business Landscape  

Now in its 11^th year, the RAISE Forum is going strong, says Professor in the Practice of Finance and Executive Director of the Center for Alternative Investments Klaas Baks. 

“My colleague Charlie Goetz has been a driving force in bringing this program to Emory—I consider this event to be Charlie’s brainchild,” says Baks “I would describe myself as the ‘finance guy,’ while Charlie is the ‘entrepreneurship guy.’”  

The RAISE Forum is not dissimilar to the setup of the show Shark Tank. Its focus, though, is on connecting Southeastern startups with investors who are equally committed to the region’s growth. This year’s event featured seven startup companies pitching to 39 investors. Their specialties ran the gamut of industries, including healthcare, software, logistics, and even food circularity and waste reduction, showcasing the Southeast’s entrepreneurial depth.  

“Most companies are pretty niche, and they’re working to improve all kinds of issues,” says Rowland Lewis 25MBA, one of the event’s primary student organizers. “For example, one startup created a simple minimally invasive way to disrupt scar tissue from forming when performing surgery with a unique tool that almost looked like a toothbrush.” 

This year’s forum showcased startups like Good Agriculture, offering scalable, tech-enabled platforms for farmers to manage back-office tasks and improve profitability; EVQLV, revolutionizing antibody discovery in healthcare with AI to reduce timelines and increase success rates; and TendoNova, a med-tech company developing micro-invasive tools described by Rowland above. Other standout startups included Goodr, a logistics-based solution tackling food waste and hunger, and Smart Response, which applies AI and patented communication tools to enhance emergency response and 911 call efficiency. 

From Probable to Pitch-Perfect 

The RAISE Forum’s impact extends beyond pitch day. The process begins with an intensive application review, during which selected companies receive hands-on support to refine their pitches. Those companies selected participate in a preparatory mini-course to hone their presentation skills, focusing on crafting concise, impactful messages for investors. 

“The presentations are only 10–12 minutes long, so every moment counts,” said Baks. “We help entrepreneurs build the strongest case for their company in a way that resonates with investors.” 

“The Southeast gets less attention than other parts of the country,” Baks noted, “but the energy and innovation here are undeniable. This event helps companies secure critical funding while giving our students exposure to real-world investing and entrepreneurship.” 

Experiential Learning in Action 

Picture medical students. We hold them to a high standard; when training future doctors, medical students engage in “rounds,” observing professionals in action as they treat real patients in clinic or perform surgery in an operating room.  

Goizueta sets a similar standard for their students with opportunities like the RAISE Forum. The forum is much more than just a simple simulation. RAISE provides a genuine opportunity for start-ups in the Southeast to find the funding they need and for investors to continue transforming the entrepreneurial landscape—while permitting students a golden experiential learning opportunity. 

“The startup scene is competitive and exciting. It’s a difficult area to transition to, and our goal is to help launch students into these careers,” says Baks. 

The forum is part of the school’s Entrepreneurial Practicum course, allowing students to engage directly with both startups and investors. Students assist in organizing the event, observe entrepreneurial training sessions, and gain access to exclusive investor discussions. 

According to Baks, “Students see the interplay between entrepreneurs presenting their visions and investors analyzing the risks and opportunities. They learn to ask critical questions: Is the market big enough? Is the product proven? Is this the right team to bring this to success?” 

Rowland echoed the excitement: “Being in the room with bona fide entrepreneurs and investors is exhilarating. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to network, learn, and observe the questions that really matter to investors.” 

Strengthening the Southeast Ecosystem 

The RAISE Forum remains committed to bolstering the Southeastern United States by requiring participating companies to remain in the region for at least five years if funded. This ensures that the innovation and economic benefits stay local, creating a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

Sponsors such as Trevelino/Keller, Warren Averett, and Thompson Hine continue to provide critical support, while Emory alumni investors like Sig Mosley 68BBA (Mosley Ventures) and Jason Kuo 19MBA (Tech Square Ventures) underscore the university’s deep ties to the startup community. 

For many involved, the RAISE Forum is more than an event—it’s a career-defining experience. Rowland highlighted the mentorship from president of the Keiretsu Forum Atlanta and co-founder of the RAISE Forum Barry Etra and the collaborative opportunities with peers like Patrick Latting 25BBA and Andrew Rothberg 26MBA as yet another asset of the program that just can’t be replicated in a traditional classroom alone.  

“We get to expose our students to the real world,” says Baks. “I love it.”  

Established in 2008, the Center for Alternative Investments drives innovation and collaboration in private equity, hedge funds, venture capital, and real estate. Explore how the center is shaping the future of finance and join the conversation here. 

The post How the RAISE Forum Powers Southeast Startups and Shapes Student Futures  appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

We are officially a quarter of the way into the 21^st century. 2025 will be the Year of the Snake according to the Chinese zodiac. Pantone has designated “Mocha Mousse” as the color of the year. 

This year promises to be an eventful one. Japan will host the World Expo in Osaka, a showcase of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and global cooperation. In July, the sun will be in the middle of a solar cycle in which it switches magnetic poles, resulting in sunspots that may produce stunning auroras while also posing risks to GPS, radio communications, and power grids. Over 175 countries are anticipated to sign a United Nations treaty committing to the reduction of single-use plastics and promoting a transition to sustainable alternatives. Meanwhile, India is set to overtake China as the world’s most populous country, with significant economic and geopolitical implications. 

On a smaller and more intimate scale, the Goizueta community shares what memories and wisdom they intend to carry with them through the new year, how they hope to grow, and what big events they have marked in their personal calendars for 2025.   

Dionne Nickerson: Assistant Professor of Marketing

What event had a big impact on your life this year?

Definitely moving back to Atlanta and starting my position at Goizueta. Moving is always stressful and tiring, but I’m glad to be back in the A!   

 What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year?

Say “no” more.  It’s taken me this long, but I would have to say I’ve learned (and am learning) to set healthy boundaries across all my relationships. It’s felt amazing! 

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year? 

Fortunate by Common. This song expresses how I feel every day, even on my worst days—fortunate. Also, the song just feels like summertime on the South side of Chicago, which is something you need to experience to understand.  

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why?

I took this photo at the Royal National Park outside of Sydney, Australia. I love this pic because I was really happy this day! I feel like my joy is reflected in the vibrant colors in the pic. 

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?

I’ve been learning Portuguese, and I look forward to continuing that in the new year! Shout out to the brasileiros! 

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year? 

I’m looking forward to prioritizing what’s important in life—taking care of myself, spending time with friends and family, honoring my ancestors, trying to understand how this world works, and, of course, listening to music.

Alan Pogue: Director, Operations, Facilities, and Events Management

What event had a big impact on your life this year? 

My wife and I celebrated our 30^th anniversary. Very blessed to have a wonderful partner through the years. Time flies! 

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year?

In March, I had a car rear end my car. I fractured a vertebra from this accident. Recovery was a time to reflect on all the blessings in my life. 

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year? 

Beyond Me – TobyMac

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why?

My wife and I biking in Kinderdijk, Netherlands on our Rhine River cruise.

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?

I am in year two of my doctorate in education at UGA, so I will be further fine tuning my research and writing skills.

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year? 

My kids will graduate—my daughter Emily from Kennesaw State University and my son Elijah from Oxford College (he then heads to Emory’s main campus next fall). 

Qazi Haq 25MBA

What event had a big impact on your life this year?

The inaugural session of “Taking Flight: A Goizueta Leadership Series” was a transformative experience for me. Conceived as a platform to connect students with industry leaders, it was incredibly rewarding to see our idea come to fruition. We had the honor of hosting Gardiner Garrard, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of TTV Capital, who shared invaluable insights on leadership, philosophy, and mindfulness. His perspectives deeply resonated with me, influencing my approach to both personal and professional challenges.

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year?

This year, I learned the importance of prioritizing and learning to say “no” to avoid burnout. I’ve often found myself running as fast as possible in all directions, but it’s simply not sustainable. Taking time to recover, set boundaries, and focus on what truly matters has been a game-changer, and I plan to carry this lesson forward into the new year to build a healthier, more balanced approach to life.

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year?

The song Gonojowar by Nemesis would be my soundtrack for 2024 as it has become an anthem for the Bangladeshi youth, symbolizing unity, resilience, and hope in light of the recent movements and calls for change in Bangladesh. Nemesis, one of the most iconic and popular Bangladeshi rock bands, has long resonated with generations through their powerful music and socially conscious lyrics.

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why?

My favorite photo from this year captures a painting I made during the recent revolution in my home country of Bangladesh. The artwork is a rendition of our national flag, where I infused my feelings of despair and hope amidst the turmoil. This painting now hangs proudly in my living room, serving as a daily reminder of the power of a united community driven by a shared vision. It embodies the spirit of the student-led uprising that led to significant political change in our country, highlighting the impact collective action can have in shaping a nation’s future.  

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?

I aim to cultivate the habit of daily reflection and meditation. Inspired by the discussions during the Taking Flight series, I believe that setting aside time each day to reflect on experiences and lessons will enhance personal growth and mindfulness.

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year?

I’m looking forward to fully recovering from ACL reconstruction surgery in January and finally returning to playing competitive sports. Being out in the sun, running around, and enjoying games with my friends has always been my favorite way to de-stress and recharge. This past year has been tough as I navigated the challenges of injury, but I’m excited to feel like myself again and embrace the joy of movement, competition, and camaraderie.

Alicia Sierra: Director, Human Resources and Diversity

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year?

I’ve learned many lessons this year, but I think the most important lesson I’ve learned is to prioritize self-care even when life is overwhelming or in the face of difficulty. It is easy to sacrifice taking care of yourself when you have a lot going on in your life. However, I’ve learned during those times, to double down on making sure I take care of my myself. It may look different for me depending on if I am physically tired or mentally exhausted. I have discovered that to be the best wife, mother, sister, daughter, employee, etc., this has to be a priority for me.

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year? 

My soundtrack for 2024 has to be the remake of “WildFlower” by Tyrese.  It has been remade many times, but I love Tyrese’s version.  It is a beautiful song that he dedicated to his mother. This year, I’ve been spending a lot of time caring for my elderly mother and this song makes me think about all of the sacrifices she has made for me, her love for our family, and the love I have for her. 

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why?

I love taking photos so choosing one is hard. However, I think my favorite photo is the one I took in Beverly Hills when we were celebrating my youngest son, Ian’s, 25^th birthday in LA. He loves travelling, and for me and my sister to go with him was a gift. I have been to LA many times, but never for leisure. We got to drive along the Pacific Coast Highway for the first time. The mountains and the sea together were so beautiful. We had lunch in Malibu and dinner on Manhattan Beach. We also visited the Getty Museum, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In this photo, we were on the way to Ian’s birthday dinner in Beverly Hills and when we saw the sign, we just had to get out and take the photo. It’s such a great memory!

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?

As I mentioned, I love taking photos and I want to get back in the habit of printing photos on a more consistent basis and putting them in a scrapbook or photo album. I love going through my old photo albums and want to be able to do that again. 

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year?

I am looking forward to going to Saint Luca on a girls trip with my Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. sorority line sisters this summer to celebrate our 40^th anniversary of pledging our beloved sorority. I also turn 60 in July, so that trip will kick off the celebration of this milestone birthday! 

Jared Scruggs: Post-Doctoral Fellow of Organization & Management

What event had a big impact on your life this year?  

Getting my PhD (finally!) and moving to Atlanta. The whole transition was a big shift for me, and I’m so grateful for these new opportunities.  

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year?

Your physical and mental health must come first in (nearly) every situation. There’s a cost to not prioritizing. 

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year?

Well—I have been listening to Cynthia Erivo’s rendition of Defying Gravity enough since Wicked came out that it would beat my number of listens for any other song this year. 

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why?

My favorite photo this year was of my nephew, who was born just in December. It was such a joy to be able to document his first days here.  

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?

I hope to learn how to “satisfice” more on work—that is, push work along even if it’s not what I think is absolutely perfect. 

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year? 

I spend some time in Brazil every year, and this summer I’m looking forward to seeing some new cities I haven’t been to before!

Lanero Hill: Senior Multimedia Developer 

What event had a big impact on your life this year? 

One of the biggest events that has impacted me this year has to be the ELP (Emerging Leadership Program). I was selected to participate in a six-month program, and I’m currently almost halfway through it and have learned so much. It has improved both my professional and personal life by equipping me with the tools that allow me to work through all types of day-to-day situations. I’m honored to know that my hard work has caught the attention of upper management, and excited to see my growth.  

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year?

My most important lesson I learned this year is to trust the process it takes to reach the goals you’ve set. Some days are setbacks, while others are a breeze. It’s also best to prepare yourself for falling short of those goals and evaluate what it will take to get that goal accomplished.  

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year? 

My song of 2024?! It’s definitely “Million Dollar Baby” by Tommy Richman. My son plays travel baseball and that was literally the most played “walk up” song, and my team sung that song all summer.  

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why?

My favorite photo this year is of my mom, nephew, and son. It was taken a few weeks before she passed away from breast cancer. It was a really good day for her that day and I am glad I captured it. 

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?

One thing I want to continue making a habit is being positive with myself improvement. I’m often very critical of myself, and it doesn’t help when I should be focusing positive results.  

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year?

I don’t have a particular thing that I’m looking forward to in the new year. I’m going on trips, I’ll attend events, some milestones will be reached, and I have a list of home projects to finish. So, I would have to say that it’s always a pleasure to see the memories I’ve made in the photos I’ll take throughout the year. 

Suhas Sridharan: Associate Professor of Accounting  

What event had a big impact on your life this year? 

My dad passed away earlier this year. He was, perhaps obviously, a huge influence on my life both personally and professionally, since he was also a professor and researcher. I’m grateful to have learned so much from him.  

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year? 

Sometimes you can do more by doing less. I love to say “yes” to requests (from colleagues, students, friends)—but I also strive to be really present and engaged in things that I do. Overcommitting often leads me to be less engaged than I’d like. 

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year?   

According to Spotify Wrapped, it’s “Good Luck, Babe!” by Chappell Roan—followed by approximately 200 Taylor Swift songs. I had the great fortune of attending the Eras Tour in the fall and it absolutely lived up to all the hype.  

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why? Feel free to attach it or describe it.  

My sons and I recently stumbled upon an art fair in Decatur, and they both loved participating in the street art demonstration. It was a great opportunity to slow down for a moment and appreciate the beauty around us. 

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?  

Patience—with others and with myself.   

And, perhaps relatedly, baking sourdough. I just acquired my first starter! I know, it’s about 4 years late relative to all the pandemic baking, but I’m still excited about it.  

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year?

I was fortunate to receive a research sabbatical for the 2025-2026 academic year. I haven’t yet figured out exactly what I’m going to be doing, but I’m excited for the opportunity to do more of the research I love. 

Szymon Mackala 26MBA

What event had a big impact on your life this year? 

An event that deeply impacted my life this year was achieving the title of vice-champion of Poland in the 4x100m relay among business schools. This wasn’t just another athletic accomplishment—it was a deeply personal goal I had been chasing for four years. While I’ve had the chance to win more prestigious competitions before, there’s something uniquely special about competing with other students. It’s always an amazing adventure that adds a sense of camaraderie and fun to the experience. 

The journey wasn’t easy—there were injuries and the constant challenge of balancing training with academic responsibilities—but overcoming these obstacles made the victory all the more rewarding. From this experience, I’ve learned the value of persistence and teamwork, as well as the importance of staying dedicated to personal goals, even when the path gets tough. It’s a reminder that the most meaningful achievements come from pushing through challenges with determination and a positive mindset. 

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year? 

The most important lesson I learned in 2024 is to approach every situation, person, challenge, or opportunity with an open mind—without rushing to judge or define it too soon. By giving things the space to unfold, I’ve discovered that life often surprises you in the most meaningful and rewarding ways. This mindset has reinforced the belief that even when outcomes feel uncertain, good things will come if you allow the process to run its course and stay optimistic. 

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why? 

My favorite photo from this year is from my first day of the MBA program at Goizueta. It marks the day I began pursuing my dream, a moment full of excitement and pride. I remember the sense of achievement and happiness I felt, knowing that I was taking a big step toward fulfilling my long-term goals. That photo captures not just the start of a new chapter in my life, but also the optimism and gratitude that came with it. It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come and how important it is to chase your dreams with determination and joy. 

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year? 

One skill I hope to cultivate next year is the ability to say “no.” It’s a crucial skill, especially when faced with countless opportunities. Learning to say no allows me to focus on the right direction, which ultimately helps me say yes to the things that truly align with my goals. This practice fosters discipline and ensures I dedicate my energy to what matters most, enabling personal and professional growth in the long run. 

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year? 

Next year, I’m most looking forward to my wedding. It’s a deeply meaningful milestone and one of the most significant decisions of my life. I’m eager to celebrate this new chapter surrounded by loved ones, creating memories that will last forever. 

Joshua Richey 25 MBA

 What event had a big impact on your life this year? 

Leaving the workforce and starting business school had a HUGE impact on my life. I moved back home to Atlanta after living in Indiana for ten years. 

What’s the most important lesson you learned in 2024 that you’d like to carry with you into the new year? 

“Nothing will work unless you do”—Maya Angelou. A fancy way of saying “your hard work will pay off, but you must put in the time first.” This mindset has served me well and I plan to continue it into the future. 

What song would you pick as the “soundtrack” of your 2024 year?   

There are two songs that come to mind: “You’re Gonna Go Far” by Noah Kahan and “I Get Up” by J. Cole.

What’s your favorite photo you took this year and why?

I like taking random photos of architecture when I’m on trips and while on our Global Experiential Module trip to Denmark I took this picture of the top of a building that I really like. I don’t remember much about the building though! 

What is one habit or skill you hope to cultivate next year?  

I am a good swimmer, but I don’t know how to dive and I really want to learn how to dive.

What is one thing you’re looking forward to next year?  (Trips, events, milestones, projects, etc.) 

GRADUATING! And moving to a new city. 

Happy New Year, Goizueta friends and family! 

Help keep the great Goizueta stories coming with a gift of support to Emory’s 2O36 campaign.

The post Goizueta Turns the Page to 2025 appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

Those eggrolls were distributed to a remarkably diverse clientele. Situated near Detroit’s red-light district and new Chinatown, it was literally and figuratively a cultural crossroads.

The restaurant remained steadfast through decades of frothing political and social tumult, Detroit being a textbook case of urban boom and bust and a prominent figure in the national conversation surrounding Civil Rights and race relations. It was also the landscape in which Chin—activist, filmmaker and author of his memoir, “Everything I Learned I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant“—grew up, formed his identity and learned to embrace his sexuality as a gay man.

For Hannah Chiou 26MBA, participant in this year’s “Read Watch Listen Experience Learn” program, all the big, important and political layers of the book hit in a more personal way.

“This book was so special to me. As a 30-something Taiwanese-American raised in the Southeastern United States, I grew up in an environment with almost no exposure to the stories and history of the Asian American community. I felt seen by the internal conflicts he had forming his identity while living amongst different communities—Black, Asian, conservative, and liberal. It was a representation of what it has meant for me to live in Atlanta for the last 10 years. Beautiful, in a pain-staking way of finding confidence in your identity when you don’t quite ‘fit’ into one box.”

A Welcoming Space for Difficult Conversation

Formerly known as “Common Read,” the “Read Watch Listen Experience Learn” program provides a forum for self-education and a welcoming space for honest dialogue for those seeking to be allies of marginalized communities. Through books, podcasts, videos and more, Emory faculty, staff, alumni, and students explore a range of topics, seeking to understand stereotypes and unconscious bias, become effective allies, and develop anti-racist mindsets.

“Read Watch Listen Experience Learn” began four years ago after the murder of George Floyd rocked the nation. In the wake of the news, Associate Dean of Full-Time MBA Programs Brian Mitchell spearheaded a campaign with the help of several Emory faculty and staff members to bring the issues of racism, prejudice and privilege to the forefront of conversation. When the Goizueta DEI council was formed a year later, the council took ownership of the program and elected to invite students to that conversation as well.

“I introduced the Common Read concept in 2016 with ‘Whistling Vivaldi’ by Claude Steele as a book that explored the concepts of stereotype threat and unconscious bias,” says Mitchell. “The discussions that emerged from that shared experience were deeply meaningful, and an example of the opportunities we have to make our community more than simply the place we come to work every day. Today, through the work of the DEI Council, the series has become more accessible and therefore more valuable because of the increased perspectives in the debrief discussions.”

Each year, a small group of faculty and staff within the “Read Watch Listen Experience Learn” community gather to brainstorm ideas for next year’s topic and media, which are then brought back to the DEI council for feedback.

In 2021, the cohort read “The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together” by Heather McGhee, which explores the communal, global benefits of coming together across race to build an equitable future. The group dissected Pamela Newkirk’s Diversity Inc.: The Fight for Racial Equality in the Workplace in 2022, which delves beyond well-meaning corporate buzzwords to illuminate what strategies are actually effective in improving access and opportunity for all. In 2023, the school unpacked the topic of poverty through Stephanie Land’s memoir Maid.

Building Community by Going Off Script

The “Read Watch Listen Experience Learn” program has two primary aims: The first is to further people’s understanding of DEI issues in society. The second is to build a sense of community across the school.

In small groups, students, faculty and staff get a chance to show up as more than just their job titles. The discussions around Curtis Chin’s memoir unpacked profound questions regarding childhood, identity, and the places we call home.

If you’ve ever wondered what your faculty and professors are really like, sit with them in these slightly existential musings about life. You’ll get to hear so many stories and build relationships with folks.

Hannah Chiou

“One of the most impactful parts of our program is the opportunity for members of the Goizueta community—staff, faculty, students from various degree programs—to share our experiences and learn from each other,” says Allison Gilmore, director of admissions and student services of Goizueta’s PhD Program and co-chair of the DEI committee.

“Too often, students, faculty and staff default to their respective silos,” says Assistant Professor in the Practice of Accounting Allison Kays, and co-chair of the DEI committee along with Gilmore. “Our discussion groups allow members of the Goizueta community to come together and bond over their passion to make the world a better place. I think it can be really powerful for members of our community to come together and interact in new ways. The panel also allows us to collaborate meaningfully with other departments at Emory.”

“I thought it was challenging at times to talk about some of the topics such as coming out and feelings related to family, but it was a safe space that allowed us to learn,” says Zoe Grotjan 26BBA, another participant. “The program allows for those with different backgrounds to participate in discussions together that foster community and allow for better understanding of each other’s standpoints. I especially love how my group had such different experiences that we were able to communicate about, culminating in discussions about how to improve Goizueta.”

Unraveling Injustice, One Thread at a Time

Narrative has the unique capability to build empathy in a way that almost no other form of communication can. While participants are connecting in a new way with each other, they’re also learning to connect with the stories of protagonists who look different from themselves—at least on paper.

“In reading Chin’s memoir, I thoroughly enjoyed learning about experiences and identities that do not match my own on the surface,” says Mitchell.

The great thing about reading books—or consuming any long-form media—is that you can get past the surface level differences and realize many aspects of our shared humanity. That is how I felt after reading Chin’s book. We had far more in common in our views of the world than I thought we would. And as we discussed it during our RWLEL debrief, that sentiment was shared by everyone.

Brian Mitchell

Although these discussions happen in small and intimate groups, the potential for impact reaches much farther.

“Goizueta faculty and staff know that what happens in the ‘ivory tower’ of academia is not insular from what’s going on in the rest of the world,” says Kays. “The conversations we have or don’t have around topics like equity and access shape the experiences of the students who walk our halls and their mindsets as they move into the real world. At Goizueta, we’re helping to prepare the next generation of movers and shakers; we want them to be aware of the lived experiences of others, and to be committed to building a better and more equitable society wherever their careers land.”

Many participants discover that unraveling injustice can begin on an even smaller scale by examining themselves and their internal dialogue.

“Chin had confidence in his heritage and pride in being the son of a restaurant owner,” says Chiou. “For me, there have been many times when I wished that I had the privilege of growing up in a wealthy home and afforded the privileges of my classmates. Having confidence in my racial identity came in my adulthood but I am grateful I found it! I hope that everyone who feels their identity is pulled apart by phrases like, ‘You’re not that (Chinese).’ or ‘You act like a (fill in the blank)’ can know that the version of your cultural identity is your own.

You will always be the fullest version of yourself that you can be.

Hannah Chiou

Learn more about Goizueta’s ongoing commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

The post Goizueta’s ‘Read Watch Listen Experience Learn’ Program Unpacks Identity through the Power of Narrative appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

For Selina Kao 27BBA, 48 hours over the course of a beautiful October weekend was the turnaround time afforded her team at the HackATL competition. Their mission? Transform a fledgling business idea into an actionable plan.

“HackATL is one of the largest business hackathons in the Southeast and supported this year in an inaugural collaboration with the City of Atlanta. It provides a unique experience for students to come together from across different universities, connect on shared passions, define a problem, and pitch actionable business solutions to a panel including angel investors and venture capitalists.” says Molly McDonald, Community Engagement Coordinator for The Roberto C. Goizueta Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. 

Hosted by Emory University’s Goizueta Business School, this year’s event—powered by a dynamic collaboration between InnovATL, the City of Atlanta and the center—brought together more than 300 students from across the Southeast. After two days of frenetic brainstorming, building, and pitching transformative start-up initiatives to a panel of judges, the top teams took home over $13K in prizes. The rest left with a broader network, a better sense of what it takes to build a business, and a wealth of resources to help them get started on their own.

HackATL: The Competition

HackATL is just one of over 35 events promoted by InnovATL from among its community partners.

Hosted by the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce annually in October, InnovATL serves as a hub for innovation, where innovators from across industries can come together to celebrate success from the past year and collaborate for continued success and momentum moving forward.

Brian Cayce, managing director of the center, states, “InnovATL provides a unique platform both to highlight the assets of our innovation ecosystem at Emory University as well as to plug our students, faculty, staff and alumni into invaluable opportunities with a range of our Atlanta collaborators. HackATL is a key piece of this for both ecosystems.”

Over the course of nearly two weeks, Emory and the center engaged in several events that spurred innovation forward in Atlanta and afforded students the chance to try their hand in the entrepreneurship scene. Some of those events include:

• – The Emory Entrepreneurship Connect Night: uniting the Emory community to exchange ideas and explore the future of entrepreneurship
• – Venture Atlanta: connecting Southeast tech companies to capital, and has raised $7.5 billion with $17 billion in exits since its founding in 2007
• – Avant South: a two-day event uniting Atlanta’s top leaders across industries to explore the future of innovation, technology, and culture, driven by the Mayor’s Office and local academic partnerships
• – The Atlanta Startup Awards: honoring the city’s top tech startups and pioneers.

HackATL is not just any hackathon. It is an experience centered on real-world business application, providing students with workshops, networking and mentoring opportunities. For Meher Jain 27BBA, the student director of HackATL, the hackathon represents a unique opportunity for students to engage in “a more holistic approach” to business.

“Unlike traditional hackathons that focus primarily on coding, HackATL emphasizes both the business and technical sides of entrepreneurship,” says Jain. “This unique approach is brought to life with a diverse mix of participants, mentors, and judges who converge on campus to turn ambitious ideas into reality.”

While the event is predicated on competition, the reality is that most students experience it as a crash course in collaboration. Kao, who has been on the first-place team two years running, met most of her teammates the day of the competition each year. The gamut of disparate specialties they bring to the table is yet another challenge—and opportunity—for their communication skills.

“Our team was comprised of pre-med, computer science, pre-law, and business students,” says Kao. “Our diverse backgrounds allowed us to come up with a solution that is meaningful and impactful. I really loved seeing how all our individual backgrounds contributed to bringing about the overall product.”

Providing a Launch Pad: From Concept to Reality

HackATL has evolved a bit each year since it began in 2013. This year, the competition aimed to inspire participants to move their ideas from concept to reality.

“It can be overwhelming to know where to start, and HackATL provides that launch pad,” says McDonald.

“This year, we set ambitious goals for HackATL and achieved a lot of firsts,” says Jain. “One of the most exciting changes was the significant increase in participation. We nearly doubled the number of participants compared to last year, drawing students from all across the Southeast.”

In addition to expanding our participant base, we made a deliberate effort to bring in a more diverse panel of judges. We wanted perspectives that represented various industries and areas of expertise, so we invited investors, entrepreneurs, professors, and even members of the City of Atlanta.

Meher Jain 27BBA

“This blend of judges allowed participants to receive well-rounded feedback that didn’t just focus on their technical abilities, but also on their ability to think critically about their ideas’ real-world application.”

The Prompt: “Smart Cities” Sparking Smart Solutions

Another innovation was the introduction of a prompt for the competition. This year, it was “Smart Cities.”

The prompt encouraged students to consider how their ideas could shape the future of urban spaces, making the hackathon not only a test of their creativity but also their ability to address real-world problems with technology and innovation.

The theme resonated for Kao and her teammates.

“One of our teammates, Briella, who comes from a pre-med background, noticed a problem after one of her visits to the doctor just last year: the hasty summary written by overloaded doctors had contradicting information about weight loss and was extremely confusing.”

Selina Kao 27BBA

“HackATL challenges you to think critically, not just about your idea, but about the real-world problems it could solve.”

A Visionary Partnership

The flourishing partnership between InnovATL and the center reflects a shared mission to foster innovation in Atlanta’s growing tech ecosystem.

We realized that millions of people struggle with these issues each year, and so to increase medical adherence, we developed MedRec, an AI software that generates concise, relevant, and easily-digestible takeaways from confusing after-visit doctor summaries.

The Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation launched in 2019 with a gift from The Goizueta Foundation, focuses on three key pillars: entrepreneurship, early-stage investing, and corporate innovation. “The center supports students and entrepreneurs by offering a range of programs and courses that guide them through the entire journey of venture creation, from idea development to securing investment,” shares Cayce.

HackATL represents just one part of a collaborative effort between the center, the City of Atlanta, and other Atlanta-area colleges and universities to empower. “These founders are poised to induce measurable, long-term positive social and economic impact,” says Cayce. “Over a weekend, participants experience an exciting, immersive foray into the world of startups.”

With a strong commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, center initiatives like the Peachtree Minority Venture Fund empower underrepresented founders. Meanwhile, other programs like the Techstars Emory Founder Catalyst Program (formerly the Startup Launch Accelerator) and Venture Atlanta Angel Edition help startups grow and thrive within their ecosystems. Through these efforts, the center bridges the gap between vision and reality, enhancing entrepreneurial and innovative capacity across various industries.

The center’s impact is powerful—within the University and reaching far beyond into the broader Atlanta community.

In the last academic year alone, the center was able to serve over 1,000 students with 15 unique course offerings, augmented by 10 student-led experiential learning programs with in-depth participation from nearly 25+ center student fellows. Additionally, the center has interacted with more than 350 startups from across the Emory entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem, including our alumni community. Of those, more than 150 startup founders engaged meaningfully with the center’s programs.

Elevating Atlanta’s Entrepreneurship Scene

Within InnovATL’s framework, HackATL became an integral part of a larger series of events aimed at driving excitement and engagement in Atlanta’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, including the Atlanta Startup Awards and Techstars Atlanta Demo Day.

While the Hackathon sponsors vary slightly year to year, this year the center secured a particularly new and exciting supporter: the City of Atlanta.

One of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens’ initiatives is to elevate Atlanta’s thriving entrepreneurial scene to land among the top five in the nation, placing it on the board with powerhouses like San Francisco and New York. A primary means of moving this goal forward is to foster favorable spaces for business stakeholders, including those affiliated with universities, to mingle and network.

“The City’s Office of Technology & Innovation—an office created by Dickens—launched the Atlanta Collegiate Entrepreneurship Syndicate (ACES), a consortium bringing together Clark Atlanta University, Emory University, Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, Morehouse College, and Spelman College,” says McDonald. “The goal of ACES is to create regular reports around the ecosystem’s growth and connect students across campuses. It is believed by improving collaboration amongst the universities and their entrepreneurial counterparts, the City of Atlanta will be better positioned to become a top five city.”

We believe the center is changing the landscape of business around Atlanta and beyond by providing opportunities and education to get involved no matter your level of experience or interest. There is something for everyone and a community of support.

Molly McDonald, Community Engagement Coordinator

Jain emphasizes how valuable the center is to Goizueta students.

“Emory students, through these initiatives, are gaining the confidence to start their own ventures, and they’re bringing fresh, diverse perspectives to the table,” says Jain. “In this way, HackATL and the center aren’t just changing the lives of individual students; they’re actively contributing to the future of Atlanta’s business community.”

A Legacy of Lasting Memories and Impact

With InnovATL and the center’s support, HackATL continues to be a transformative experience for students who are eager to make their mark in the world of business. Beyond the cash prizes, HackATL creates a lasting impact by fostering connections that last long after the weekend-long event. Many participants form networks that continue to support their entrepreneurial journeys long after the hackathon ends. “HackATL has connected me with peers from different backgrounds that I would never have met otherwise,” Kao remarks. “These connections are one of the most valuable parts of the experience.”

“It’s not just about winning,” Jain emphasizes. “It’s about challenging yourself, learning from others, and building something that could genuinely make a difference.”

I had countless opportunities to learn from others. These conversations weren’t limited to technical discussions; they were about the challenges students faced, their dreams, and how they viewed the world. It’s this kind of human connection that makes HackATL special for me—it’s about much more than just the event itself. It’s about the relationships and the sense of community we build over a shared passion for innovation.

Meher Jain 27BBA

For Jain, some of the most memorable moments from HackATL occurred late into the night.

 “During the late-night hours of the hackathon, the energy in the room at 2 a.m. was electric. Despite the exhaustion, everyone was so dedicated to their projects, whether they were furiously typing away at their laptops or bouncing ideas off each other.”

“My team and I spent the large part of the 48 hours completely together, and there’s definitely been a fair share of both work and fun,” says Kao. “One of my teammates, Raghav, fell asleep on the table.”

Experiential learning opportunities such as HackATL form an integral part of Goizueta Business School’s MBA programs. At Goizueta, students solve real-world problems for real-world business clients, take part in immersive global experiential modules, complete hands-on leadership training, and tailor their academic path to match their career interests. Learn more about the only top-20 full-time MBA that delivers an intimate learning environment in a global U.S. city.

To learn more about The Roberto C. Goizueta Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation view our 2023-24 Impact Report. If you are interested in joining our network and getting more involved with the center, sign up for our email newsletter or follow us on our social media channels: LinkedIn | Instagram. 

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