There has never been on more exciting time to be dean of a graduate school of business— particularly one in the heart of New York City—the world's business capital. Technology has spawned communication that is global and instantaneous. Researchers are discovering new commercial possibilities that read like science fiction. The magnitude of opportunity and the pace of change is unparalleled in human history. The Fordham Graduate School of business is changing as well. Driven by a mandate to offer value to our constituents, we recently launched an initiative to redefine the institution—establishing a new mission and vision for the school that will carry us through the first decade of the 21st century. Committees and Task forces linking faculty, administrators and other stake holders—students, alumni and corporate executives—worked tirelessly through the 1995 academic year on this monumental project. What emerged was a set of institutional priorities. They include a global focus, strong ties to New York, emphasis on lifelong learning and a commitment to offering first-rate, innovative part-time programs. Each is founded on a commitment to values linked to our Jesuit heritage. Our challenge at the Fordham Graduate School of Business is to meet the rapidly changing needs of students, alumni and of American business, while maintaining a rigorous commitment to quality research and the fundamentals of classroom instruction. We intend to remain a unique educational resource for New York's business community—a local partner serving as a bridge to the world of global commerce that will characterize the future. Fordham has what it takes to make these aspiration a reality. Our community of faculty, students, alumni and other professionals represent the intellectual, spiritual and technical resources needed to reach the highest aspirations that we hold for our institution. It is a great honor to be dean at this moment in our institution’s history, in a year when we celebrate 25 years of accomplishment and set a course toward the unknown— toward the promise of tomorrow. Our success rests on the commitment, talents, integrity and energy of many. I look forward to working with all of you as we undertake this wonderful journey together. |
