Welcome Message From Dean Lerzan Aksoy

Dear Students,

Welcome to a new academic year at the Gabelli School of Business! Whether you are joining us for the first time or returning to continue your studies, we are delighted to welcome you to our vibrant and inspiring community.

We live in one of the most exciting and challenging periods in history. Artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and rapid global change are transforming every industry and redefining the future of work at an unprecedented pace. At the Gabelli School of Business, we are committed to ensuring that you are prepared to navigate this future and help shape it.

As a school at the forefront of innovation, we are continually evolving our curriculum, creating new learning opportunities, and partnering with leading organizations to ensure that your education reflects the realities of today's business world and anticipates the opportunities of tomorrow. From AI and analytics to entrepreneurship, sustainability, and global business, you will engage with the ideas and technologies that are transforming industries and society.

At the same time, we believe that the most important qualities of successful leaders will always be deeply human. While technology can provide remarkable capabilities, it cannot replace sound judgment, ethical decision-making, critical thinking, creativity, empathy, or the ability to inspire others. These enduring qualities rooted in Fordham's Jesuit tradition will distinguish you throughout your career and enable you to lead responsibly in an increasingly complex world.

For our new students, no matter where you are from New York City, across the country, or around the world, you are now part of a globally connected community that will open doors, broaden your perspective, and help you discover your potential.

For our returning students, welcome back! You have already contributed to our community, and we look forward to seeing how you continue to grow as scholars, leaders, mentors, and innovators.

As you begin this academic year, I encourage you to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Ask bold questions. Challenge assumptions. Build meaningful relationships. Explore new ideas. Learn from different perspectives. Most importantly, develop the wisdom and discernment to use your knowledge and talents in ways that make a difference and matters to our world.

On behalf of our faculty, administrators, staff, and alumni, thank you for choosing the Gabelli School of Business. We are honored to be part of your journey and look forward to celebrating all that you will accomplish.

I wish you a successful, fulfilling, and inspiring academic year.

Sincerely,

Lerzan Aksoy, PhD
Dean and George N. Jean PhD Chair
Fordham University
Gabelli School of Business