A message from Dean Pat Hopkins

Posted on June 4, 2025 by Lily Williams

Dear Partners,

I am delighted to connect with you in my new role as Dean of the Kelley School of Business, and I greatly look forward to collaborating on our common goals and initiatives. Your efforts enhance the Kelley School’s impact on business education and research, and we are, as always, immensely grateful for your engagement, partnership, and counsel.

Some remarkable initiatives and events have taken place recently at the Kelley School, thanks to your generous support.

On IU Day, more than 25 corporate partners joined us in sharing our message, resulting in 137 gifts to support the Kelley School.

The ACE etiquette dinner, hosted by AbbVie, provided 50 students with an invaluable opportunity to hone their networking and dining skills. Held at the Indiana Memorial Union, the evening featured a six-course meal and guidance from a professional etiquette consultant. The event supported the goals of Compass 1, Kelley’s professional development course focused on personal branding and career readiness. I’m pleased to say that AbbVie representatives were highly impressed with the students’ professionalism and expressed interest in continued engagement.

In February, we also hosted a Corporate Partner Recognition Reception to honor our valued partnerships with 91 distinguished companies. This event was a collaborative effort between Employer Relations, the Office of Development and Engagement, and Kelley Executive Education Programs.

Additionally, Schwab Foundation’s recent generous gift to our Wealth Management Workshop will enable the development of new financial planning courses, the purchase of financial planning case studies, and the support of FPA student member fees annually for the next five years. In addition, our Indiana Business Research Center received a grant from the Cummins Foundation to support bilingual coaching for small business owners in greater Indianapolis in partnership with the Indy Chamber.

In terms of the Kelley School, our future is bright, and I am pleased to share some major updates.

We recently reimagined several online MS degrees to better serve professionals seeking advancement. We relaunched the MS in Finance and the MS in Business Analytics to great demand. In Fall 2025, we will also start our first cohort of MS in IT Management candidates, and in Spring 2026, we will launch an MS in Marketing. These degrees offer unprecedented flexibility with the ability to complete the courses in asynchronous format, allowing professionals to adapt their course schedules to their lifestyle. We are also planning to introduce a blended Executive DBA, for which we’ve seen great demand, with marketing set to launch this fall.

This year, Indiana University also announced the Launch Accelerator for Biosciences (IU LAB), a groundbreaking academic-industry initiative aimed at positioning Indiana as a national leader in bioscience discovery. Supported by a $138 million Lilly Endowment grant, IU LAB is set to leverage Indiana’s extensive resources in bioscience to drive significant advancements in human health. The facility is expected to open in the 16 Tech Innovation District in 2027.

The Kelley School is also establishing a space in Indianapolis for Kelley Executive Education Programs, Indiana Business Research Center, and Enterprise Corps. We’re excited to leverage the unique strengths of both our campuses in one vision and contribute a portfolio of complementary education opportunities and research endeavors to our state and to all its connections across the world.

Recognizing the future of business education’s close ties with generative AI, we have also established the Virtual Advanced Business Technologies Department, which is dedicated to integrating generative AI throughout our curriculum, ensuring that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that they can apply immediately within their careers. Kelley Direct, always ahead of the curve, is also offering a new Generative AI for Business Leaders course for alumni, reflecting the growing demand for AI skills.

Thank you, as always, for your unwavering support. Your contributions are vital to our continued success and to the development of future business leaders both in Indiana and across the world.

Warm regards,

Pat Hopkins
Dean and James R. Hodge Chair of Excellence

A message from Vice Dean Julie Manning Magid

Posted on June 4, 2025 by Lily Williams

During the 2024-2025 academic year, we celebrated a milestone that’s both meaningful and energizing: the 50th anniversary of the Kelley School of Business Indianapolis.

For five decades, we’ve been more than an urban business school. We’ve been a cornerstone of Indiana’s capital—shaping business in the city with innovative programs that fuel the talent pipeline, translational research that addresses grand challenges, and alumni of influence who lead top companies and drive economic growth. It’s a position we couldn’t take on without your support.

Investing in access and impact

We know talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. That’s why we’re grateful to multiple donors who funded a new Student Emergency Fund, expanded our scholarship offerings, and fortified the Business Connect Program, which offers mentoring and coaching to help students navigate their first year at Kelley Indianapolis. These initiatives aren’t just about finances—they affirm potential, remove barriers, and open doors to futures students may never have imagined.

We also expanded access to our Evening MBA Program through a new partnership with the Orr Fellowship. This collaboration provides emerging leaders with a $2,000 scholarship and program credit, streamlining their path into our top-ranked MBA. It’s one more way we’re adapting to the evolving needs of professionals who want to grow without pausing their careers.

Business Plus: A head start on success

This January, we launched Business Plus with eight first-year Direct Admit students placed in paid internships at Elanco and KSM. The experiential learning program gives undergraduate students a meaningful head start on career exploration and development, and it offers leading employers early access to emerging talent, fostering relationships for long-term hires. It’s a high-impact model for early career engagement, and it reflects our belief that career readiness starts on day one.

Partnership with Lilly

IU Indianapolis announced in February a new co-op partnership with Eli Lilly and Company that will give Kelley students real-world experience in multiple departments, including finance, human resources, and information technology. Additionally, the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP) and 16 Tech Innovation District will join IU Indianapolis and Lilly with enhanced programming to build more place-based learning and networking opportunities that connect students to life in Indianapolis and increase their likelihood of staying in Indiana for the long term, a shared priority for IU Indianapolis, CICP, and CICP members.

Real-world learning that moves the needle

Business Plus is the latest, although not last, addition to our immersive curriculum that combines active learning and entrepreneurial thinking. We’ve strengthened our commitment to real-world learning that moves the needle with the appointment of Barb Cutillo, lecturer in management, as our first Director of Experiential Learning. Barb is orchestrating hands-on opportunities across all Kelley Indianapolis programs, ensuring every Kelley student has access to real-world experience that aligns with their goals and contributes to the city’s talent pipeline.

Fueling life sciences in Indiana

Kelley Indianapolis is playing a strategic role to accelerate Indiana as a global leader in the biosciences. This spring, we introduced the Master of Science in the Business of Biotechnology, a program tailored for professionals with science or technology backgrounds who aspire to ascend within the health and life sciences industry. It is the only degree of its kind in the state and will begin enrolling students in fall 2026.

Additionally, we are proud contributors to IU LA B, a university-wide initiative that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration to solve some of the most pressing health and technology challenges of our time. Our faculty bring expertise in healthcare operations, strategy, and entrepreneurship, providing the business foundation that accelerates lab-to-market pathways.

Leading Indianapolis for 50 years and counting

Fifty years ago, we planted our flag in Indianapolis to build something enduring. Today, that vision continues—not just as a business school, but as a catalyst for opportunity and a driver of economic prosperity.

Our next 50 years begin now, and your investment in the Kelley School of Business Indianapolis empowers us to dream big and lead with impact.

Thank you,

Julie Manning Magid
Vice Dean
Executive & Academic Director, Tobias Leadership Center
Kelley Venture Fellow

Celebrating a year of corporate engagement at Kelley

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Lily Williams

With the conclusion of the 2024–2025 academic year, we are reflecting on an exceptional year of collaboration with corporate partners who are advancing student success and bringing real-world impact into the classroom. We want to take the opportunity to share just a few highlights from a year full of industry engagement.

National Diversity Case Competition (NDCC)

Kelley proudly hosted the 14th Annual National Diversity Case Competition, welcoming 23 teams of students from across the country to tackle a business case focused on increasing access and belonging in the field of accounting.

Corporate representatives from seven partner organizations provided mentorship, insights, and networking opportunities. Our partners often remark on what a rewarding experience it is to connect with the students during the weekend, and this year was no different.

“Connecting with the students during NDCC was such a rewarding experience, and I’m genuinely honored to have been part of it. I absolutely look forward to any future opportunities to return to campus and share more about career paths at Nucor,” said Mitchell Newell of Nucor.

Congratulations to Emory University’s team for earning first place.

Global Sales Workshop dinner

In April, students from the Global Sales Workshop came together with corporate partners from Kelley’s Center for Global Sales Leadership to celebrate a year of accomplishments and partnership. The event recognized students’ achievements and honored the vital support of corporate partners.

Highlights included reflections on success in sales competitions, insights from corporate partner meetings on building a personal brand, cold-calling strategies, mentorship, and fostering workplace community. Students also shared takeaways from visits to partner offices throughout the Midwest. This year, 35 students from the program take the next step in their careers, joining these partners in internships or full-time roles.

Kelley Partner Recognition and Impact Celebration

In February, Kelley honored 91 corporate partners during a joint reception hosted by Kelley’s Employer Relations, the Advancement team, and Kelley Executive Education. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, music from a Jacobs School of Music jazz trio, and reflections on the year’s impact. Special thanks to Dean’s Circle partners, alumni, and top employers who continue to drive Kelley’s mission forward.

Student organization engagement

More than 20 student organizations were supported by 35 corporate partners this year, contributing to professional panels, industry workshops, and networking events, helping to empower student leaders and create hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

Investment Management Workshop: NYC experience

In January, 48 members of Kelley’s Investment Management Workshop visited 23 firms in New York City. The trip culminated in an alumni reception attended by more than 150 Kelley alums. Special thanks to Liz Weikes of J.P. Morgan Wealth Management for sponsoring the event and to the alumni who hosted students and shared their career insights.

As we look ahead, Kelley remains committed to expanding these partnerships, driving student success, and preparing future leaders for the global business world.

Thank you to all our partners for an incredible year of engagement and impact!

Get in front of future business leaders: Corporate branding opportunities at Kelley

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Lily Williams

At the Kelley School of Business, we believe in shaping not only the next generation of business leaders—but also in forging strong connections between our students and the corporate world they’re preparing to lead.

If your company is looking to build early brand recognition, develop meaningful student relationships, and recruit top-tier talent, we invite you to partner with us through several impactful programs designed to support and engage Kelley students. These opportunities offer both high visibility and the chance to make a lasting difference in the student experience.

Kelley branding opportunities

Kelley Kickstart: Connect early with 100 of our top Direct Admit students during a high-impact, week-long, on-campus experience before the fall semester begins. Optional case competition involvement allows for deeper engagement and talent scouting.
Academic Success at Kelley (ASK): With over 2,000 peer mentoring appointments each year, ASK is a vital student support program. Sponsor recognition in this space connects your brand to academic excellence and student success.
Kelley Common Read: Reach 2,200 incoming Direct Admit students (plus the broader Kelley student body) through a school-wide shared reading experience. This program promotes reflection, critical thinking, and leadership development—and offers high-visibility branding throughout orientation and beyond.
REACH (Resources, Education, & Campus How-To’s): Support a series of leadership sessions designed for student organization leaders and aspiring campus influencers. These sessions focus on leadership development, communication, and involvement—perfect for companies looking to connect with high-potential student leaders.
Kelley’s Closet: Make a difference while promoting your brand by supporting our initiative to provide 1,000+ pieces of free professional clothing to students. Help students put their best foot forward—at interviews, career fairs, and internships—while aligning your company with inclusion, equity, and career readiness.
Student Support—Mental Health & Wellness: Be part of the momentum behind over 200 student support appointments and 50+ annual trainings. Kelley-to-Kelley mentoring alone connects nearly 3,000 participants, and our Balance Week wellness initiative serves over 1,200 students. Sponsorship here demonstrates your company’s commitment to holistic student well-being and leadership development.
Professional Fraternity Council (PFC): Support a network of 850 members across 10 professional fraternities. Events such as Professional Fraternity Night (1,200 attendees) and New Member Education (400 participants) offer premier branding opportunities. New in 2025: IU will host a national gathering for PFC chapters across the U.S.—a first-of-its-kind branding platform.

Let’s build the future together

Each of these programs represents a unique way for your company to connect with highly engaged, motivated students. Sponsorships can be tailored to your goals—whether that’s recruitment, brand visibility, or strategic engagement in key areas like leadership, inclusion, or mental health. Join us in supporting the student experience—and shaping the future of business.

To explore partnership options, please contact Jill Storm @ jilstorm@iu.edu

Celebrating innovation and career exploration: 2025 Kelley Challenge

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Lily Williams

The 2025 Kelley Challenge, wrapped up with an exciting capstone event on the IU Indianapolis campus, showcasing the creativity, confidence, and business savvy of participating high school students.

This year’s Challenge brought together 18 teams from Ben Davis High School and the McKenzie Center for Innovation & Technology (representing Lawrence North and Lawrence Central high schools), that took on a real-world corporate case developed by Rolls-Royce. The task: decide whether a key component should be manufactured in-house or outsourced—analyzing the decision through the lens of supply chain logistics, cost efficiency, scalability, and quality control.

Rachel Jones, partner and educator at Ben Davis High School celebrated “noticeable growth in students’ public speaking and communication skills and a powerful chance to engage directly with business professionals and learn from real-world insights.”

The culminating event featured polished team presentations, a networking session with professionals from OneAmerica and Rolls-Royce, and a celebratory luncheon. Congratulations to this year’s winners:
First Place: Ben Davis High School
Second Place: McKenzie Center

Over the four-week program, students build critical business skills, gain exposure to workplace expectations, and forge connections with Indiana-based employers. Nearly 70% of Kelley Challenge alumni over the past three years have reported discovering new career interests because of the program.

A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated alumni and Rolls-Royce professionals for their mentorship, guidance, and insight. We’re also grateful to Rachel Jones (Ben Davis) and Brandon Shipp (McKenzie Center) for preparing their students so thoroughly.

The Kelley Challenge exemplifies the Kelley School of Business’s commitment to preparing the next generation of leaders—equipping students with the tools, confidence, and professional exposure they need to thrive in a global economy.

Want to learn more or get involved? Visit: Kelley Challenge Program or contact us at ksbcorp@iu.edu

ACE students sharpen professional skills at etiquette dinner with AbbVie

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Lily Williams

The Academic and Career Excellence (ACE) program recently hosted an etiquette dinner supported by global biopharmaceutical company AbbVie. Held in the historic Federal Room at the Indiana Memorial Union, the event brought together 50 ACE students, AbbVie professionals, and Kelley School of Business faculty for an evening of professional growth, networking, and polished dining.

Throughout a six-course meal, students were guided by a professional etiquette consultant who shared practical tips and best practices for navigating corporate dining settings. From mastering formal place settings to confidently engaging in conversation, students had the opportunity to apply professional skills in a real-world context.

This signature event is an integral component of Compass 1, the first course in Kelley’s three-part Compass professional development series. In Compass 1, students begin to shape their career identities by identifying their strengths, building a personal brand, conducting informational interviews, and developing LinkedIn profiles that reflect their goals and aspirations.

AbbVie’s partnership and active participation were instrumental in making the event a success.

“The event was incredible,” said Logan Akers, a representative from AbbVie. “Our AbbVie team was unanimously impressed by the students and the event. I’ve already received a few connections on LinkedIn—their profiles look great. It was truly a touching and impressive experience.”

We extend our sincere thanks to AbbVie for their continued support and for investing in the future of Kelley students. Events like the ACE etiquette dinner are vital to bridging the gap between academic learning and professional success—helping students gain the confidence and skills needed to thrive as future business leaders.

Kelley Indianapolis welcomes eight new Corporate Partners to strengthen regional talent development

Posted on December 20, 2024 by Lily Williams

The Kelley School of Business at IU Indianapolis is excited to announce the addition of eight distinguished organizations to its growing Corporate Partners Program. These new partnerships are a testament to Kelley Indianapolis’s dedication to bridging the gap between academia and industry, fueling workforce development and economic growth across Indiana.

The Corporate Partners Program serves as a vital platform for collaboration between students and employers. Through mentorship, personalized educational experiences, and innovative branding opportunities, the program equips Kelley students with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to thrive in their careers while driving success for their future employers.

This year, Kelley Indianapolis is proud to welcome Rexel, KSM, CBIZ, DOZ, Sherwin-Williams, Forvis Mazars, BGBC, and Enterprise Mobility as new corporate partners. Each of these organizations shares a commitment to building a robust talent pipeline by offering internships, full-time positions, and mentorship opportunities designed to provide real-world experience and foster professional growth.

Partners have expressed enthusiasm to increase collaboration with Kelley Indianapolis to help shape the next generation of business leaders. The program’s focus on student success aligns perfectly with their values of innovation and professional development. The addition of these eight organizations marks a significant milestone in strengthening Indiana’s talent pipeline, with partnerships that provide students with invaluable access to industry insights and opportunities, preparing them for lasting success in the business world.

The impact of these collaborations is already being felt, as many of the new partners actively participate in career fairs, networking events, and customized student engagements. These interactions not only give students practical exposure but also open doors to meaningful relationships that can shape their professional journeys.

Kelley Indianapolis extends its heartfelt gratitude to all corporate partners, whose generosity and commitment to workforce development inspire the school’s mission to provide transformational experiences for both students and employers.

Interested in joining the Kelley Indianapolis Corporate Partners Program? Learn more about how you can collaborate to shape the region’s future workforce by contacting Brenda Espinoza at bespino@iu.edu.

Together, we’re building a brighter future for Indiana—one partnership at a time.

Abbott Case Competition: Transforming financial planning and analysis at Kelley

Posted on December 20, 2024 by Lily Williams

Participants for the case competition sit at tables in a room, while they are listening to someone speak.
The Kelley School of Business celebrated a significant milestone with the inaugural Abbott Case Competition held on September 27. Sponsored by Abbott and organized by the AFP Corporate Financial Planning and Analysis Workshop, the event brought together 26 student teams for a high-energy day of problem-solving, innovation, and strategic thinking.

winners of the abbot case holding a big check - their winnings! yay

This groundbreaking competition marked the first-ever event at Kelley focused exclusively on Financial Planning and Analysis. It offered students a unique platform to address real-world business challenges, requiring them to develop creative and analytical solutions that reflect the complexities of today’s corporate finance landscape.

After a rigorous round of competition, eight finalist teams showcased their innovative strategies before a distinguished panel of judges. Their presentations highlighted creativity, analytical rigor, and strategic vision, culminating in $3,000 in prizes awarded to the top-performing teams.

However, the Abbott Case Competition was more than just a contest. It served as a transformative experience for participants, equipping them with hands-on expertise in FP&A and enhancing their readiness for future careers in finance. Students not only honed their problem-solving skills but also engaged in experiential learning that bridged classroom concepts with industry expectations.

a close up photo of a few people who worked the case competition. This event underscored the importance of Kelley’s partnerships with leading organizations like Abbott, which play a critical role in enriching student opportunities and fostering innovation. Through initiatives like this, the Kelley School of Business continues to exemplify its commitment to preparing students for success in an ever-evolving business environment.

As Kelley advances its portfolio of innovative Workshops and experiential learning opportunities, the Abbott Case Competition stands as a testament to the school’s dedication to student excellence and industry collaboration.

For more information about the AFP Corporate Financial Planning and Analysis Workshop and other opportunities, visit the Workshop website.

Nucor Joins the National Diversity Case Competition as new partner

Posted on December 20, 2024 by Lily Williams

the nucor team dressed business professional in a very nice team photo

The Kelley School of Business is thrilled to welcome Nucor Corporation as a new partner for the National Diversity Case Competition (NDCC). This partnership highlights Nucor’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion while creating transformative opportunities for Kelley students.

As the largest steel producer in the United States, Nucor is renowned for its innovation, sustainability, and dedication to building strong relationships with academic institutions. Their support of Kelley is not new—over the past eight years, Nucor has been a key partner of the Kelley Center for Global Sales Leadership supporting initiatives like the National Team Selling Competition, Global Sales Workshop, Sales Club, and professional sales courses. Their investment has been instrumental in preparing Kelley students to excel in the competitive world of sales.

nucor representatives talking to students at a kelley event.

Nucor’s involvement in diversity initiatives has grown steadily. Earlier this year, they participated in the Indiana University Diversity Case Competition (IUDCC), where their representatives served as judges and mentors, providing students with valuable industry insights. Now, as a partner for the NDCC, Nucor deepen its engagement by sending a team of professionals to the event, including a keynote speaker to inspire and connect with students on a larger scale.

This collaboration reflects a shared vision between Kelley and Nucor to cultivate inclusive environments that empower students to thrive. By combining Kelley’s dedication to experiential learning with Nucor’s industry leadership, this partnership is set to create impactful experiences for students while promoting the values of diversity and equity in the business world.

a nucor representative talking with students, at their table during a kelley event.

“We were thrilled to welcome Nucor to NDCC and deepen our collaboration. They understand the value of diversity, and it is obvious in their company culture. They provided invaluable mentorship and connection to the student teams this year,” said Kara Hieser, Senior Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at the Kelley School.

To learn more about the National Diversity Case Competition and its partners, visit the NDCC website or reach out to the Kelley Office of Access and Community Enhancement at kace@iu.edu.

Corporate Partners propel experiential learning at the Center for Brand Leadership

Posted on December 20, 2024 by Lily Williams

The Kelley School of Business Center for Brand Leadership (CBL) is redefining how future brand leaders are prepared for the ever-evolving marketplace. With its commitment to fostering innovation and bridging the gap between academia and industry, the CBL has become a hub for dynamic collaboration between students and corporate partners.

This fall, the CBL has reached new heights in its mission, offering students invaluable hands-on learning experiences and exposure to industry-leading professionals. Through partnerships with top-tier companies like Procter & Gamble, Conagra, Kellanova, Mattel, and Eli Lilly, students have been immersed in real-world brand management scenarios that sharpen their skills and expand their perspectives.

Highlights from the fall semester include engaging guest lectures, interactive case studies, and exclusive site visits during Consumer Marketing Academy (CMA) Week. Students had the chance to hear from Jason Horowitz of Mattel, who shared insights on navigating today’s fragmented media landscape, and CMA alum Antonia Collins from Eli Lilly, who discussed the evolving field of direct-to-consumer healthcare marketing. These events brought students face-to-face with industry challenges, providing a firsthand look at what it takes to thrive in brand management today.

Professor Keith Niedermeier, director of the Center for Brand Leadership, said he is excited about the program’s trajectory. “We are committed to strengthening our corporate relationships to create meaningful, lasting impacts for our students. These partnerships are vital to shaping the next generation of brand leaders.”

Corporate partners play a pivotal role in the CBL’s success, offering mentorship, internships, and career opportunities that help students envision their future as marketing professionals. By facilitating experiential learning and sharing industry expertise, these partners contribute to the development of versatile, market-ready leaders.

As the CBL continues to grow, it invites additional organizations to join its mission of shaping the future of brand leadership. For more information or partnership inquiries, visit the Center for Brand Leadership’s website or contact Keith Niedermeier at knieder@iu.edu.

With a strong foundation and a commitment to innovation, the CBL is set to deliver even more transformative experiences in the years to come. Together with its partners, the center is preparing students to lead with confidence in a rapidly changing world of marketing.

The future of brand leadership starts here — Bring On Tomorrow.

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