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The Leeds Professionalism Summit: Career Lessons that Stick

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 18:40:32 +0000

The Leeds Professionalism Summit: Career Lessons that Stick Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 04/21/2025 - 12:40

Jane Majkiewicz

Alex Freimuth (MAcct’19, Fin, Acct’18) and James Campbell (Mktg’22), both members of the Leeds Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) Board, shared candid career insights with a group of sophomores at the 2025 Leeds Professionalism Summit. Instead of a list of rigid “dos and don’ts,” they emphasized a refreshing theme: Enjoy college, take risks and be yourself.

“Classes were like a debate between me and my teacher,” Campbell joked, encouraging students to embrace the unique opportunities that college provides. “There will never be another time in your life where you’ll be in walking distance from all of your friends.”

Freimuth advised students to think broadly about their futures while staying grounded in the present. “Make connections and ask a lot of questions,” he said. He advocated for study abroad for growth beyond the classroom.

Kate Minnihan (Mgmt’18), now a senior employer relations manager at Leeds, reflected on her decision to become an au pair overseas before diving into a career. “When else am I going to do this?” she asked herself—reminding students that unconventional and nonlinear paths can still lead to success.

Campbell added a final insight: “Be your individual and authentic self. You are not like other people.” He summed it up powerfully: “The ladder of success starts at failure.”

All three shared their career trajectories that led to their current roles: Freimuth is a CPA, Campbell is a director of marketing and lead analyst at Trilateral, and Minnihan works at the Leeds Career Development Office as well as offering professional career coaching.

Build a personal brand that gets you hired

Creating & Deploying Your Personal Brand: A 5-Step Strategic Marketing Framework

Inventory foundational skills and experiences. These are your brand attributes.
Package the attributes in a way that reflects you. This is your brand narrative.
Research and prioritize areas of career interest. This is your target audience.
Craft a message that will resonate with your target. This is your brand positioning.
Deliver the message to your target. This is your marketing plan.

Source: “Branding Yourself for the Job Market: Tips from a Marketing Expert,” by Jamie Cheston. During the presentation, Cheston noted that many people think they can skip steps 1–4 and go directly to 5. Nope!

Assistant Teaching Professor Jamie Cheston’s session on personal branding opened with an unexpected question: “Describe me.” After a palpable silence, one student mentioned his beard. Another commented, “a plaid shirt like what my dad wears.” Laughter broke the ice, and Cheston had the room engaged.

“I’m passionate about applying all that I’ve learned along the way to help others navigate their own career paths,” Cheston said.

His workshop, “Branding Yourself for the Job Market: Tips from a Marketing Expert,” highlighted how a personal brand can set someone apart in a crowded job market. Among the insights: 80% of people report not feeling passionate about their jobs. One slide captured it: “No one ever dreams about a career in dissatisfaction.”

He encouraged students to overcome fear by reframing a job search through the lens of a strategic marketing framework. Instead of saying, “I’m not sure what I want to do with my life,” consider “There are so many directions I could take!” Such small shifts can lead to big impacts, shaping a fulfilling career vs. getting a job, he explained.

“You are writing your own story,” said Cheston. As with any strong brand, it starts with insight—an emotional connection that resonates with the audience. He closed with reassurance: “Realize that literally everyone gets rejected except one person."

Using AI in the job search—smartly

A session led by career advisor Elizabeth Ferguson addressed how to use AI tools in job searches. She explained how platforms like HireVue and applicant tracking systems rely on keywords and offered practical tips for improving resumes and cover letters accordingly.

Ferguson also cautioned that recruiters can often spot AI-generated documents and encouraged students to blend technology with authentic voice.

Dan Murray, founder of the Rocky Mountain AI Interest Group and real estate entrepreneur, emphasized a core truth: Networking remains essential, even in an AI-driven world.

Skills such as problem solving, critical thinking and creativity will never go out of style, he emphasized.

Boosting confidence through practice

Although attendance is mandatory, students resoundingly appreciate the value of the events. They get to practice real-world skills: mock interviews, networking, refining their career searches and learning how to present themselves.

Sophomore Lucy Treccia (BusAn’27) said she especially enjoyed advice from the GOLD Board and learning about Leeds' accelerated master's programs.

“My favorite session was the Business Analytics Roundtable. I put myself out of my comfort zone by approaching an empty table and had a really great conversation with a man who works in sustainability at FedEx. I talked to him about how much I enjoyed learning about integrating AI into business analytics, and he told me a lot about how companies are using AI in a secure way. He encouraged me to keep building this skillset, as it is becoming more and more applicable,” said Treccia.

“I was already aware that what I am learning at Leeds will apply directly to my future careers, but this conversation made me confident that I am taking all the right steps towards success in analytics.”

Experience the 2025 Leeds Professional Summit

More than 1,000 sophomores participate in the Leeds Professionalism Summit each year. The summit provides dozens of sessions throughout the day, covering a range of skill-building techniques, interview preparation and industry professional insights to guide students with practical how-to advice and expertise.

Explore the highlights from this year’s summit.

View the LPS Slideshow

The annual Leeds Professional Summit offers a full day of powerful tips and practical advice to set Leeds students up for success in their career journeys.

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Leeds' Supply Chain and Business Analytics Master's Programs Celebrate a Decade of Distinction

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 17:21:24 +0000

Leeds' Supply Chain and Business Analytics Master's Programs Celebrate a Decade of Distinction Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 04/21/2025 - 11:21

Jane Majkiewicz

Five alumni returned to share insights from their career paths during the Leeds MS in Supply Chain and MS in Business Analytics 10-year anniversary.

On April 10, 2025, members of the Leeds community—including faculty, alumni and current students—gathered to celebrate a milestone: Ten years of innovation, impact and excellence in the Leeds Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Master’s in Business Analytics programs.

These graduate programs were launched a decade ago in response to rapidly evolving industry needs and strong input from business partners, who forecasted growing talent gaps in data and operations. Since then, the programs have continued to evolve, meeting rising demand for professionals equipped with advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.

That spirit of evolution remains at the core of Leeds’ mission. This July, the MS in Supply Chain Management will transition to the new MS in Supply Chain Analytics, while an MS in Marketing Analytics will also debut—both designed to meet the shifting demands of a data-driven economy.

The celebration featured research presentations from Leeds faculty, illustrating the real-world application of analytics across industries and in society. Leeds’ reputation for research excellence continues to grow and gain recognition, as reflected in recent leaps in UTD rankings.

A highlight of the event was a dynamic alumni panel featuring five graduates who shared insights from their professional journeys. While artificial intelligence was a major theme of the discussion, panelists also emphasized the lasting relevance of core business concepts, known as the First Principles of Business.

Tanner Ryan (Mgmt’14, MSupCha’15), now a senior category activation manager at Danone, and Ziyi Zhong (MBusAn’18), a senior manager of performance reporting and analytics for Pfizer, spoke candidly about the importance of adaptability. Ryan, for example, joined Danone just as the pandemic disrupted global supply chains, requiring quick thinking, flexibility and resilience.

Navigating crises and unpredictable events is part of the job. To that end, the panelists unanimously agreed on one often-overlooked trait essential to long-term success: a great sense of humor.

Experience the Celebration

The Leeds community celebrated the shared purpose that defines Leeds’ forward-thinking vision in offering world-class master's programs.

View the Slideshow

The Leeds community gathered on April 10, 2025, to celebrate a milestone: Ten years of innovation, impact and excellence in the Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Master’s in Business Analytics programs.

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As 401Ks, College Funds Plunge and Spike, Expert Advises Patience Over Panic

Kelsey Cipolla — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 15:42:34 +0000

As 401Ks, College Funds Plunge and Spike, Expert Advises Patience Over Panic Kelsey Cipolla Thu, 04/10/2025 - 09:42

As U.S. financial markets continue their roller-coaster ride, Leeds' Shaun Davies shares his take on how worried we should be and and what’s to come.

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More Milestones to Celebrate: Leeds’ MBA Turns 60, Part-Time MBA Climbs in U.S. News Rankings

Jane Majkiewicz — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 17:35:40 +0000

More Milestones to Celebrate: Leeds’ MBA Turns 60, Part-Time MBA Climbs in U.S. News Rankings Jane Majkiewicz Tue, 04/08/2025 - 11:35

Jane Majkiewicz

Leeds’ MBA programs continue to shine in the influential U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings, reinforcing the school’s momentum on the national stage.

Leeds' part-time MBA programs, including the Evening, Hybrid and Executive MBA formats, are among the top in the country, advancing eight spots to No. 42 in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Graduate Schools rankings. Meanwhile, at No. 79, the Full-Time MBA program remains in the top 15 percent of 535 AACSB-accredited MBA programs in the United States.

U.S. News published the annual rankings following the collection of data from schools that includes figures on enrollment, job attainment, faculty and other critical quality indicators that help prospective students make informed decisions.

Carving out career paths

For Maggie Wellman (MBA’25), who is graduating this spring, the decision to come to Leeds for her MBA was motivated by the school’s supportive community in helping her pursue her dual career interests in business and sustainability.

“I changed the trajectory of my path a lot, and every time I did, I leaned on the career office, networking opportunities, and the incredible advice from others who had been through similar struggles. Through all of that, I found more clarity and direction. Leeds taught me a lot, through classes, but also through events and through the value of the community,” she said. She is now applying for roles in event management, marketing and brand management, confident in the skills she has acquired.

An MBA enabled Mary Boling (MBA’24) to more easily pivot from a career in education to the clean energy field.

“A master’s degree is one of many levers you can use to help shape your career,” she said. For her, pursuing an MBA helped craft a narrative around her career transition. It also created opportunities she knew would have been challenging to access or orchestrate without a program to offer resources.

Evolving programs, expanding impact

The Leeds community and its graduate programs is celebrating two major milestones this year: the 60th anniversary of the MBA program and the 10th anniversary of both the MS in Business Analytics and MS in Supply Chain Management. These anniversaries mark a long-standing legacy of shaping visionary leaders and fostering the entrepreneurial innovation needed to address a changing business environment.

Two new master’s programs in supply chain analytics and marketing analytics, launching this fall, will equip students with the data acumen to meet market demand and fill emerging roles. These demonstrate Leeds’ commitment to evolving its programs in response to today’s complex career landscape and providing impact-driven education.

Leeds on the global stage

For graduating student Deepali Agarwal (MBA’25), Leeds’ offerings compelled her to relocate from Lucknow, India, to 51�Թ�� to pursue her full-time MBA. Having built a small NGO in India to support women artisans, she wanted to grow her knowledge and expand her skillset to create a larger impact.

“At Leeds, my perspective on business has grown from personal passion to global purpose. I’ve learned how innovation, analytics and inclusive leadership can intersect to solve real-world problems,” said Agarwal.

In addition to individual student success, Leeds’ faculty excellence in research and innovation continue to earn recognition globally.

Vijay Khatri, Tandean Rustandy Dean of the Leeds School of Business, noted the strength of the school’s graduate programs and their broader recognition beyond the United States.

“Our MS degrees are recognized globally for their academic excellence and industry relevance,” he said, pointing to the QS Business Master’s Rankings for 2025, spanning multiple disciplines.

The MS in Supply Chain Management program is ranked No. 33 out of 85, placing it in the upper second quartile worldwide. The MS in Business Analytics ranks 51-60 out of 164, firmly within the second quartile, while the MS in Finance is 75 out of 222, also in the second quartile.

“These rankings highlight the consistent strength and competitiveness of our programs on the world stage,” said Khatri.

Why a master’s makes a difference

There's likely never been a more important time to pursue professional development from top-ranked business programs. The latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that workers with graduate degrees have the lowest unemployment rates and the highest earnings.

In addition to advancing a professional’s salary, a master’s degree can be a valuable tool for upskilling or reskilling in today’s competitive job market, helping professionals stand out.

“A master’s degree equips students with both the critical thinking and leadership skills to be able to adapt to changing business needs,” said Kristi Ryujin, associate dean for graduate programs at Leeds and special assistant to the dean for faculty diversity, equity and inclusion. “Advances in technology, geopolitical instability and other forces require agility, flexibility and creativity, as well as leadership skills and business acumen,” she added.

Agarwal summed up her experience: “Leeds hasn’t just taught me how to lead—it’s shown me why I want to lead.

Discover Graduate Journeys

Explore how graduate students with diverse backgrounds and goals have benefitted from their experiences in pursuing a master’s program at Leeds.

Leeds’ MBA programs continue to shine in the influential U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings, reinforcing the school’s momentum on the national stage. 

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Career Paths: How Matt Schottland Turned a Love of Numbers into a Dual Degree and a Startup

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 20:59:26 +0000

Career Paths: How Matt Schottland Turned a Love of Numbers into a Dual Degree and a Startup Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 03/31/2025 - 14:59

Jane Majkiewicz

Matt Schottland (Fin, Acct’25) is building Brain Buffs, an adaptive SAT prep platform, with a CU alumni/student team—while wrapping up undergrad, starting a master’s, and tackling tax season at KPMG.

Matt Schottland’s (Fin, Acct’25) love of numbers was sparked at age 12 when his dad sat him and his siblings down to explain the stock market. “I really liked it,” Schottland said, “because it taught me about the world around me and how companies work.” Two hours later, he was the proud owner of a single share of Domino’s Pizza.

Since then, there are other numbers that have stood out to Schottland. One is the 4+1 Bachelor’s Accelerated Master’s Program—a lure for coming to Leeds (and after a disappointing freshman year elsewhere, his family’s Buff legacy was also too compelling to overlook).

That defining event when he was 12 convinced Schottland that finance would be his future focus. At Leeds, he also discovered he loves the concrete rules associated with accounting. Blending that with the often unpredictable nature of finance led him to pursue a major in both.

A few more numbers have defined his time at Leeds. He has a 3.98 GPA, he has worked at three competitive internships (Medtronic, Lockheed Martin and KPMG), and last year, he launched his own startup, Brain Buffs, which now includes a team of nine CU students and alumni.

Brain Buffs is an AI-driven, adaptive learning platform designed to help students improve their SAT scores through personalized test prep. To date, the company boasts that students using the platform have improved their scores by an average of 150 points.

The benefits of real-world experience

This spring is no exception to Schottland’s desire to excel. He took the semester off to fully immerse himself in the “crazy busy tax season” at his internship at KPMG.

“My mindset has really been to try as many things as I can while I’m in a position where it’s acceptable to do so." He has intentionally sought internships to explore both the finance and accounting realms, in line with his dual interests.

“My mindset has really been to try as many things as I can while I’m in a position where it’s acceptable to do so."

Matt Schottland (Fin, Acct’25)

Now preparing to complete his senior year this fall, Schottland is especially excited about how the BAM program is structured.

“The program is run very well. … They’re really intentional in how they plan it. In my final semester of undergrad this fall, I have concurrent enrollment, with classes that apply both to my undergrad and to the grad school. That made the program compelling.”

Entrepreneurial momentum

The idea behind Brain Buffs took root in high school, but it was the entrepreneurial energy at CU that gave it momentum. Together with his brother, Logan (a 2024 CU alumnus now working as a software engineer at SpaceX), they launched the company with their team and began a yearlong development journey that resulted in partnerships with five Colorado schools and plans for expansion across the state and beyond.

As the team continues to refine their algorithm, they envision broader applications—preparing students for the ACT and many other types of learning. Despite the trend toward test-optional admissions, Schottland believes standardized tests like the SAT will remain important in states like Colorado, which still require the test to gauge proficiency levels.

Learning by doing

Even as he enters the master’s phase of his education, Schottland is doubling down on growing Brain Buffs. He sees a direct link between his coursework and the startup’s evolution—particularly experiences like the BCOR Applied Semester Experience (BASE), which he described as a critical turning point.

“You work with successful companies … You’re writing out financials, doing opportunity summaries, you’re looking at competitors … these aren’t just theoretical. It’s actually doing these things.”

A cycle of support

As Brain Buffs scales, Schottland has tapped into a wide range of resources offered through Leeds and 51�Թ��. At the time of publication, the company had applied to the New Venture Challenge and was awaiting results to see if they will qualify for the next round.

“If we went through the entire competition and didn’t win funding, I would still be happy,” he said. “It’s great connections, and you get to be part of a great community of startups. That’s amazing to be part of, and it’s great publicity for Brain Buffs.”

Brain Buffs also participated in Startups2Students—an initiative that led to hiring four CU students—and collaborated with the Entrepreneurial Law Clinic, a partnership Schottland said saved the company nearly $50,000 in legal fees.

“The more you get involved, the more impressive CU’s startup culture is. All these amazing people with all these smart ideas, and they’re just going for it. They’re making a real impact.”

“In Leeds and CU in general, there’s a sentiment that no idea is too crazy, and nothing is too hard to solve. It’s not ‘Can this happen?’ but rather, ‘How can we do this?’”

“There are so many resources to make you successful,” he said. That mentality, combined with programs like Peer2Peer Mentoring, has helped Schottland build meaningful relationships with fellow students and industry professionals alike.

“In Leeds and CU in general, there’s a sentiment that no idea is too crazy, and nothing is too hard to solve. It’s not ‘Can this happen?’ but rather, ‘How can we do this?’”

Matt Schottland (Fin, Acct’25)

“It’s worth it to get involved early because Leeds’ resources are well built-out programs. They’re really intentional and they pay a lot of dividends as you progress at Leeds.”

For Schottland, one major dividend has been the reward of knowing he is helping other students. “I’ve been working a lot, but it’s because I love it. It’s just so rewarding and fun for me. If I’m up at night working, I know there’s a student out there also working. The students really drive me to keep going.”

Want to get your entrepreneurial ideas off the ground? Connect with the Deming Center.

Matt Schottland is building Brain Buffs, an adaptive SAT prep platform, with a CU alumni/student team—while wrapping up undergrad, starting a master’s, and tackling tax season at KPMG.

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Leeds Builds Momentum in Faculty Research Excellence with Major Jumps in UTD Rankings

Jane Majkiewicz — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 20:48:57 +0000

Leeds Builds Momentum in Faculty Research Excellence with Major Jumps in UTD Rankings Jane Majkiewicz Wed, 03/26/2025 - 14:48

Faculty research across all business disciplines at the Leeds School of Business earned impressive recognition in the latest University of Texas at Dallas rankings, achieving the school's highest rankings ever.

Colorado’s top business school advanced from No. 40 to No. 31 on the latest University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) rankings for North American business schools, and from No. 49 to No. 39 worldwide, based on research published between 2020 and 2024. Significant leaps, particularly in accounting (No. 15, up 47 spots), management information systems (No. 29, up 39 spots), and operations management (No. 29, up 17 spots), reflect the caliber of Leeds’ world-class faculty.

UTD rankings by discipline showcase dramatic shifts, especially in accounting, management information systems and operations management.

“This improvement in our research ranking is a direct result of the dedication, innovation and collaboration across our faculty,” said Dan Zhang, associate dean for research and academics at Leeds. “We’re investing in the ideas, people and partnerships that will keep driving our research impact forward,” he said.

Tackling complex issues

Leeds faculty continue to tackle some of the biggest questions and challenges in business. From 2020 to 2024, they published an impressive 152 articles in The Accounting Review, Journal of Marketing Research, Journal of Financial Economics, Operations Research, Journal of Consumer Research, Information Systems Research and the Strategic Management Journal, among other leading publications.

Recent faculty research highlights include:

Fake news and stock manipulation: Assistant Professor Austin Moss co-authored a study uncovering how misinformation impacts stock prices, with serious implications for investor protection.
Breaking barriers for women entrepreneurs: Assistant Professor Ethan Poskanzer sheds light on the hidden barriers women face in mentorship networks.
Better ways to complete tasks: Assistant Professor Ying Zeng uncovers surprising behaviors when it comes to completing mundane tasks.
Bias in hiring practices: Research from associate professors David Hekman and Stefanie Johnson provides actionable strategies to address biases when hiring women.
The rental economy’s impacts: Associate Professor Stephen Billings’ work reveals the negative effects of institutional investors on American neighborhoods.
Different shades of ESG: Assistant professors Simona Abis and Andrea Buffa reveal ambiguities and mixed messages when it comes to ESG claims in mutual funds.

Zhang noted these examples demonstrate that research at Leeds isn’t just theoretical—it’s driving conversations in industry, policy and society.

Connecting academia and industry

Leeds’ faculty research plays an important role in shaping next-generation leaders. Through applied learning opportunities at Leeds’ Centers of Excellence, Leeds connects top academic minds with industry leaders to facilitate a powerful exchange. Recent examples, such as the Burridge Center Sustainable Finance Discussions and the Annual CU Real Estate Forum demonstrate the bridge Leeds creates to enable practitioners to benefit from cutting-edge research, while faculty gain insights into the pressing issues industries are facing.

Additionally, the school’s new Initiative for Global Business Impact, launching this fall, will further invest in Leeds’ world-class business research infrastructure to foster connections with global communities, said Vijay Khatri, Tandean Rustandy Endowed Dean of the Leeds School of Business.

"With this new initiative, we will collaborate with leading global partners and scholars to build trusted business research that addresses large-scale societal challenges," said Distinguished Professor John G. Lynch Jr., who will lead the new initiative.

A bright future

The UTD rankings, developed in 1990 by the Naveen Jindal School of Management, are widely adopted for evaluating the research productivity of business schools. By tracking faculty publications in the 24 most respected business journals, these rankings highlight institutions making foundational contributions to the business world.

“Our rise in research productivity is a direct reflection of the strength, ambition and impact of our faculty,” said Sarah Zechman, senior associate dean of faculty and professor of accounting.

“That reputation for excellence continues to attract top scholars from leading institutions such as Columbia, Michigan, Duke, MIT and the University of North Carolina—further enriching our academic community and reinforcing our momentum. Their work not only enhances our academic environment but also drives insights that shape business practice and enrich the learning experience for our students,” she said.

By continuing to invest in innovative ideas, cutting-edge research and strong partnerships, Leeds is poised to deepen its impact. As prime examples of propelling research innovation, Dean Khatri pointed to alumni investments in developing more than 30 Faculty Scholars, and the gift for the newly named Michael A. Klump Real Estate Center, which includes a faculty chair and professorship.

Shaping the Business Landscape

Leeds’ influence extends beyond research output, with faculty achieving prominent recognition for their contributions. Recent accomplishments include:

Prestigious honors: Distinguished Professor of Marketing John Lynch received the AMA-Irwin-McGraw-Hill Distinguished Marketing Educator of the Year for his exceptional scholarship, teaching and mentorship.
Top-tier editorial influence: Professor of Information Systems Jason Thatcher, who was ranked as the most prolific scholar in the top four journals by the 2024 Association for Information Systems research rankings, was appointed the senior editor of MIS Quarterly. Assistant Professor of Marketing Liu Liu was recognized by Marketing Science for her outstanding service as a member of their editorial board.
Policy impact: Finance professor Ed Van Wesep testified before the Colorado House Committee on Business Affairs and Labor concerning the Earned Wage Access Service Provider Bill, directly informing legislative decisions.
Community collaboration: David Gross, teaching professor and associate chair of the finance division, serves on high-impact boards like the 51�Թ�� Community Health Foundation and CollegeInvest.

In addition, Leeds faculty regularly lend their expertise to leading academic conferences. The school will host the Choice Symposium in summer 2026 and the 2027 INFORMS Revenue Management and Pricing (RMP) Section Conference.

Faculty research at the Leeds School of Business earned impressive recognition in the latest University of Texas at Dallas rankings for North American business schools and worldwide.

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The Rising Threat of Fake News in Financial Markets

Kelsey Cipolla — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:12:17 +0000

The Rising Threat of Fake News in Financial Markets Kelsey Cipolla Wed, 03/19/2025 - 10:12

A new study shows how misinformation is manipulating stock prices and harming investors, but greater transparency can help fight back.

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The Future of ESG: Insights from the Burridge Center's Sustainable Finance Discussions

Jane Majkiewicz — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 15:59:23 +0000

The Future of ESG: Insights from the Burridge Center's Sustainable Finance Discussions Jane Majkiewicz Tue, 03/18/2025 - 09:59

Jane Majkiewicz • Photos by Cody Johnston

With intellectual discourse as a foundation for enhancing knowledge, the Burridge Center’s Sustainable Finance Discussions held on March 13 provided a lively platform for experts to gather and share insights on the future of ESG.

At a time of uncertainty in the world of environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives, the Burridge Center's Sustainable Finance Discussions offered a unique opportunity for thought leaders from academia and industry to delve into the complexities of navigating sustainability in an ever-evolving financial world.

More than 100 attendees explored topics at the intersection of finance, climate and technology under the theme of “ESG: What does the future hold?”

A platform for exchange

Shaun Davies, Faculty Director of the Burridge Center

“Bridging the gap between finance academics and practitioners—theory to practice—creates a powerful exchange: Our finance research faculty gain insight into the real-world challenges facing the finance industry, while practitioners benefit from the cutting-edge research emerging from the Leeds School of Business,” said Shaun Davies, associate professor of Finance at Leeds and the faculty director of the Burridge Center.

“This collaboration drives innovation and ensures that research and practice evolve hand in hand,” Davies said. Nourishing relationships within the Leeds ecosystem of faculty, alumni, students and business partners promotes a thriving, forward-thinking business community.

Among the attendees was Amanda Krakauer, vice president of the Evergreen Team at Bow River Capital. "I work in the private equity industry and was invited to attend the summit by a colleague and 51�Թ�� alum," Krakauer said.

“The discussions on evolving ESG disclosure requirements highlighted the shifting regulatory landscape, while the deep dive into how investment managers are incorporating ESG principles provided a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities in sustainable investing. The event also provided a valuable opportunity to engage with students, professors and peers on the future of responsible investing,” she noted.

Research insights: Green facts from green fiction

Leeds faculty Asaf Bernstein and Simona Abis shared insights from their leading research and scholarship.

Leeds Finance faculty members (left to right):
Brian Waters, Asaf Bernstein, Andrea Buffa and Simona Abis

Bernstein, an associate professor of Finance and the co-director of the Center for Research on Consumer Financial Decision Making, shared key takeaways from his one-year tenure as a senior academic advisor to the Securities and Exchange Commission. He amused the audience with anecdotes about his career trajectory, which included navigating the subprime mortgage crisis of 2008 and the “flash crash” of 2010. These experiences, he explained, helped shape his ability to assess uncertainty and risk.

While the SEC disclosure rule approved in 2024 currently hangs in the balance, Bernstein reminded attendees that “Blue Sky laws”—state-level securities regulations—existed before the SEC ruling, and they will continue to play a role in ensuring that disclosures are not misleading or false. He further emphasized that “private stakeholder standards and preferences always matter.”

Abis, an assistant professor of Finance, provided a deep dive into ESG classification, revealing gaps between marketing claims and actual fund structures.

She, along with Assistant Professor of Finance Andrea Buffa, analyzed mutual funds using ESG terminology and found that only 20% of them truly qualify as impact funds. Their painstaking, manual review of prospectuses highlighted the inconsistencies in ESG labeling.

“It is crucial to make these distinctions to understand capital allocation preferences and the real impact ESG investments might have,” she said.

Industry perspective: Risks, rewards and resilience

Following the faculty presentations, Angela Bricmont, the CFO of Denver Water, brought an industry perspective on the financial risks posed by climate change.

Angela Bricmont, CFO of Denver Water

“Climate risks are absolutely playing out, and those are on top of historic underinvestment in infrastructure,” Bricmont said. She emphasized that “you can’t build anything if you don’t have water or energy,” cautioning attendees that “… preparing for climate risk in disclosures is absolutely sound business.”

Bricmont’s remarks underscored a key takeaway: The intersection of finance and sustainability requires not only compliance but also strategic adaptation for long-term resilience.

Future implications: the fate of ESG disclosures

As attendees asked questions during the Q&A session, one topic centered on the potential of XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language), a framework for creating structured communications. Abis highlighted XBRL’s potential for analyzing massive amounts of data. “When you think about it that way … XBRL is a huge, huge help.”

For Leeds alumnus Harris Cunningham (Fin’24), the managing director of 51�Թ�� Angels, the ability to engage in thought-provoking discussion was what made the event especially rewarding. "It was a rare opportunity to learn about and ask questions surrounding ESG/finance research at CU. I loved the diversity of attendees, including lobbying groups, wealth managers, municipal water facilities, angel investors, students, early-stage startups and others. It made for very stimulating conversation during dinner."

Events like the Burridge Center's Sustainable Finance Discussions ensure that academia and industry remain in dialogue—advancing knowledge, fostering collaboration and shaping next-generation leaders. Learn more about programs and events at the Burridge Center for Finance.

With intellectual discourse as a foundation for enhancing knowledge, the Burridge Center's Sustainable Finance Discussions provided a lively platform for sharing insights on the future of ESG.

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Live, Laugh, Lotus: Why Group Texting During 'The White Lotus' Feels So Good

Kelsey Cipolla — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:43:24 +0000

Live, Laugh, Lotus: Why Group Texting During 'The White Lotus' Feels So Good Kelsey Cipolla Wed, 03/12/2025 - 10:43

New research reveals that second-screening—using a phone, tablet or laptop while watching—can enhance your experience and boost social connections.

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The Annual CU Real Estate Forum: Helping Shape Careers in Commercial Real Estate

Jane Majkiewicz — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 03:15:31 +0000

The Annual CU Real Estate Forum: Helping Shape Careers in Commercial Real Estate Jane Majkiewicz Tue, 03/11/2025 - 21:15

Attendance at the Annual CU Real Estate Forum helps students unlock networking opportunities and gain important industry knowledge and connections.

For senior real estate major Jonah Duran (left), attending the 28th Annual CU Real Estate Forum this March “provided ample networking opportunities between classmates and industry professionals.” That momentum is invaluable as he prepares to launch his career as a broker for Unique Properties in Denver, focusing on industrial, retail, and office investment sales and leasing.

“I’m excited about a career in commercial real estate brokerage because it combines relationship building, market expertise and deal-making in a dynamic, results-driven environment,” he said. “The ability to directly impact businesses and investors while navigating complex transactions is both challenging and rewarding.”

The forum as a catalyst for career growth

“We emphasize that students should engage early and often in experiential education opportunities,” said Erin Penberthy, a Leeds career coach for real estate. Career treks, internships, student organizations, and events like the Real Estate Forum provide valuable networking and learning opportunities, she said.

“Networking is key to the job and internship process, and students who invest in it and research companies before applying tend to have positive career outcomes,” she said. “The Real Estate Forum gives students a fantastic opportunity to not only hear about current industry trends but also meet future employers.”

A premier industry event

“This year’s forum took the event to another level,” said Julie Gibson, Sherman R. Miller Executive Director of the real estate center. The event attracted “top national and local speakers, educating students, alumni and employers around top issues in the real estate industry.”

Among the 300 attendees, 72 were students eager to network and learn from industry leaders, including Willy Walker, CEO and chair of Walker & Dunlop, and Michael Klump, whose 2024 gift established the newly named Michael A. Klump Center for Real Estate.

Key takeaways from industry leaders

Duran echoed forum presenters’ insights about Denver’s growing market, seeing his role as having a prime opportunity to add value. Understanding emerging trends, such as water issues and AI in real estate, was another major draw.

He particularly valued Walker's keynote. As an executive who grew Walker & Dunlop from 46 employees in 2003 to a public company with more than 1,400 employees and recognized as a best place to work over consecutive years, Walker shared key career lessons.

“His inspiring success story and well-spoken nature made listening to his conversation a treat,” said Duran. “Having a good mentor, working hard and trying different things were the main themes he spoke about, all of which I plan on implementing in my career.”

Leeds senior and real estate major Kourtney Stetler (left) agreed. “The Willy Walker presentation was incredibly insightful, especially as a soon-to-be graduate. He shared how, after finishing school, he had the choice between accepting a full-time job or traveling to Paraguay to work with a family friend. Taking a leap of faith, he chose to travel, learn a new language, and gain a broader perspective—an experience that shaped his future career.”

Walker also highlighted the highs and lows of commercial real estate. “There are real estate developers in here that have taken massive risks,” he said, encouraging the audience to accept that as part of the process. He discussed his own experience with layoffs and falling stock prices, citing them as competitive pressures that inspire him to drive new goals.

His advice to students: “Create a career that doesn’t feel like work.”

The importance of mentors and internships

Michael Klump, who spoke about his career and generous gift to the center, also emphasized taking risks—one being time and knowing how to protect it. His early passion for real estate led to his success in acquiring and developing shopping centers. He emphasized the value of internships and mentorships.

Professional Mentors at Leeds

In 2024, the Leeds Professional Mentorship Program for juniors and seniors experienced record growth, with 773 students taking advantage of the program—a 32 percent jump—and a total of 867 mentors. Learn more about the program and the impact of mentors.

Internships played a significant role for Duran. “I interned at Northmarq on the Portfolio and Asset Management team and at Denver Angel Investments in investment due diligence, both of which helped me develop financial analysis skills and gain exposure to real estate and investment transactions.” He also cited the CU Real Estate Case Competition as a key learning experience.

“Collaborating with my team to build an acquisition model and presenting to industry professionals strengthened my analytical and communication skills, ultimately guiding me toward a career in real estate brokerage.”

Stetler has found mentorship equally valuable. “Being matched with someone who aligns with my interests has been incredibly helpful. My mentor has introduced me to real estate professionals for informational interviews,” she said. “I appreciate the strong relationships I have built with professors, mentors and career coaches, as I believe these connections will be instrumental in my career development.”

The rise of tech in real estate

The event also showcased two industry panels: “The Ripple Effect: Navigating Water Scarcity in Colorado’s Growing Communities,” moderated by Luke Runyon of The Water Desk, and “Real Estate Meets AI: Evaluating the Credibility of AI in Commercial Real Estate,” moderated by Calandra Cruikshank of Statebook International.

Leeds junior Yashwant Chapagain (left) found the discussions enlightening. “I learned so many things. The AI in Real Estate presentation was especially fascinating. I was relieved to hear panelists say they don’t believe AI will replace people and that this is an exciting time for the industry. One panelist noted that career trajectories are going to change vastly, which I also found interesting.”

Looking ahead: A bright future in real estate

“The center’s introductions to industry professionals made it easier to connect and increased my confidence,” said Chapagain. “The center has been supportive in giving us all the resources we need to be successful.”

As Duran looks ahead, he’s “eager to develop deep local knowledge, negotiate creative solutions and drive successful outcomes for clients.”

“On the horizon for the center is to keep serving students well, growing programs, attracting talent and creating a strategic plan to increase experiential and applied learning,” said Gibson.

Sponsors of the 2025 CU Real Estate Forum

Leeds extends its gratitude to sponsoring presenter Kirkpatrick Bank and the following sponsors (in alphabetical order) who helped make the forum possible.

ARES Industrial Management
Brownstein
Centennial Realty Advisors
CBRE
Colorado Real Estate Journal
Conscience Bay Company
East West Partners
Goldberg Properties Inc.

Hampton Yards
Holland & Hart
Lincoln
Nichols Partnership
Oakwood Real Estate Partners
Pennrose
Pless Law Firm
Trailbreak Partners
The W.W. Reynolds Companies

Students attending the annual CU Real Estate Forum get opportunities to network with industry leaders, gain insights into key trends, and carve out their career paths.

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