Today, the Kogod School of Business at American University received the 2024 Inspiring Programs in Business Award from Insight Into Diversity magazine, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The Inspiring Programs in Business Award honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter the field of business.  

Inspiring Programs in Business Award winners were selected by Insight Into Diversity based on efforts to inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in business through mentoring, teaching, research, and successful programs and initiatives.  

“We are honored to receive this distinguished recognition made possible by our extraordinary faculty, staff, and incredible student body,” said Stacy Merida, Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Kogod. “Their commitment to excellence in teaching, scholarship, service, and innovative support mechanisms assures our commitment to nurture and expand our efforts in advancing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture.” 

Kogod’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is embedded into the ethos and programming of the school. School leadership makes a concerted effort to attract and engage diverse candidate pools for open roles on both staff and faculty. Moreover, Kogod regularly engages students in DEI initiatives and events to celebrate, honor, and learn about different cultures, customs, and perspectives. 

“We know that many business programs are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship for underrepresented students,” says Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of Insight Into Diversity magazine. “We want to honor the schools and organizations that have created programs that inspire and encourage young people who may currently be in or are interested in a future career in business. We are proud to honor these programs as role models to other institutions of higher education and beyond.” 

A call for nominations for this award was announced in November 2023.  

For more information about the 2024 Inspiring Programs in Business Award and Insight Into Diversity magazine, visit insightintodiversity.com.  

ABOUT INSIGHT INTO DIVERSITY

Insight Into Diversity magazine is the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education today and is known for its annual Insight Into Diversity Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award, the only award that recognizes colleges and universities for outstanding diversity and inclusion efforts across their campuses. Insight Into Diversity magazine presents timely, thought-provoking news and feature stories on matters of diversity and inclusion in higher education and beyond. Articles include interviews with innovators and experts, as well as explorations of best practices and profiles of exemplary programs. On our Career Center, readers will also discover career opportunities that connect job seekers with institutions and businesses that embrace a diverse and inclusive workforce. Current, archived, and digital issues of Insight Into Diversity magazine are available online at insightintodiversity.com.  

ABOUT KOGOD SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

American University's Kogod School of Business, established in Washington, DC, more than 60 years ago, aims to equip and empower its community to use business as a force for meaningful change. Kogod graduates are leaders on Wall Street and in the corporate world, but also work for non-profits, government agencies and social-service organizations. Washington, DC, serves as a laboratory for learning through work, internships, and other forms of experiential education. Kogod is the oldest accredited business school in Washington, DC The school is accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), which represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide.  

ABOUT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

American University leverages the power and purpose of scholarship, learning, and community to impact our changing world. AU’s faculty, students, staff, and alumni are changemakers who shape the future from sustainability to social justice to the sciences. Building on our 129-year history of education and research in the public interest, we say ‘Challenge Accepted’ to addressing the world’s pressing issues. Our Change Can’t Wait comprehensive campaign creates transformative educational opportunities, advances research with impact, and builds stronger communities.