As dean of Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business, I am frequently asked what makes the Fisher experience unique. For us, success is defined by the character of our people and the opportunities for success we create. The Fisher learning experience involves supporting our students in developing a sense of community as well as self. Ours is a learning-by-doing environment where collaboration and competition are equally important. As a result, our graduates are able to add immediate value to their organizations and to the world.
Our emphasis on honesty and accountability was demonstrated in a unique way this past year when our MBA students committed to high ethical behavior within the college and workplace by publicly signing Fisher’s first honor code. Our students also reflected a commitment to public service by facilitating statewide fund-raisers, hosting charity drives and partnering with national companies on volunteer activities.
This community-minded leadership is something I see demonstrated every day and reinforces the fact that Fisher students create and execute innovative ideas. They are self-motivated leaders who affect positive corporate change. They enjoy challenging our equally motivated professors and take advantage of our faculty’s groundbreaking research. Most importantly, they are risk takers who are not afraid to stand out and make a significant impact on the world.
Our drive for progress is carried over into Fisher programs as well. This year, we implemented an MBA military initiative, increased global study opportunities, developed new partnerships fostering entrepreneurial leadership, and expanded executive programs that serve national and international audiences. We also hired some of the country's most dynamic faculty and strengthened our connections to graduates, students and recruiters through redesigned web sites, online communities and new alumni events. Our new Initiative for Managing Services helps companies succeed in the growing service economy, as does our student-run Clinic for Professional Leadership, which educates MBAs while providing thought leadership for organizations.
Our search for better ways to enhance business education has not gone unnoticed. According to U.S. News & World Report, we are the 5th-ranked public business school in the country. Our MBA program ranks 19th in the nation, and our undergraduate program ranks 17th. The Economist places us among the top 25 management schools in the world.
These accolades point to Fisher as a school continuously gaining momentum and international recognition for our ability to produce leaders who reshape the world of business. Intelligence, intensity, collaboration, community involvement and impact—to me, these qualities not only define the Fisher experience but the students, faculty, staff and alumni who embody the Fisher community.
Joseph A. Alutto
Dean and John W. Berry Sr. Chair in Business
Fisher College of Business