What's Happening?
The Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship celebrated the graduation of its inaugural class on August 15, marking a significant milestone since its opening two years ago. The institute offers a professional certificate in Business & Entrepreneurship, an accelerated program designed to provide students with practical business skills and real-world experience. The program includes opportunities for internships with regional businesses and weekly sessions with business leaders. The tuition for this program is $8,900 per year. The graduation ceremony was attended by approximately 250 people, including students, their families, staff, faculty, and business partners. Institute President Ian Mortimer and Founder Tom Golisano delivered remarks, while Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver gave the commencement address. Graduates received custom blazers designed by Adrian Jules, featuring Tom Golisano’s name and motto, 'Built not Born,' instead of traditional caps and gowns.
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Why It's Important?
The graduation of the first class from the Golisano Institute represents a new approach to business education, emphasizing affordability and practical experience. This initiative aims to equip future entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to succeed in the business world while providing regional employers with talented graduates ready to contribute immediately. The institute's focus on real-world experience and direct engagement with business leaders sets it apart from traditional business education models. This could potentially influence other educational institutions to adopt similar approaches, thereby impacting the landscape of business education in the U.S. Furthermore, the institute's success may encourage more investments in non-traditional educational programs that prioritize practical skills over theoretical knowledge.
What's Next?
As the Golisano Institute enters its third year, it is expanding its offerings with a new one-year AI & Business certificate program launching this fall. Registration for the programs is open through August 28, with classes beginning in September. This expansion reflects the institute's commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the business world and providing students with cutting-edge skills. The introduction of the AI & Business program indicates a recognition of the growing importance of technology in business, preparing students for careers in increasingly tech-driven industries. The institute's continued growth and adaptation may lead to further innovations in business education.
