Centers & Institutes

Exciting things are happening within our centers, institutes, and special program initiatives. Here’s a collection of recent stories and updates.

Split photo. Photo one on the left has two test tubes with a hand pouring liquid into one. Photo two on the right is an image of Wall Street building in New York City.

From Lab Bench to Wall Street: A PhD Student’s Journey into Equity Research

Michael Ahn PhD ’25 leveraged his molecular biology research skills to land a biotech research job at a top investment firm.

Couple looking at souvenirs
Johnson School

Tears and ticket stubs: the real reason we cherish mementos

New research from the Cornell SC Johnson College finds that collecting mementos is tied to the timing of when an experience ends.

a woman and a man standing next to each other, holding crystal awards and smiling.
Nolan School

Where Innovation Meets Impact: The Nolan Hotel School Celebrates Industry Luminaries

Tech pioneer Cindy Estis Green ’79 and Hyatt Hotels CEO Mark Hoplamazian redefine hospitality through innovation, strategy, and human-centered leadership.

Large group of students gather at the Westin at Times Square

Real-World Real Estate

In a New York City trek to six major firms, the Cornell Real Estate Club gets a backstage tour of the industry and face time with Cornell alumni.

A picture of Jacob Hyppolite in front of a NextEra backdrop.

Energizing the Future at NextEra

Jacob Hyppolite II MBA ’25 reflects on his internship at NextEra, where he applied classroom theory to enable pragmatic sustainable change.

A group of people seated in a room.

The Global Plasma Economy: A Multibillion-Dollar Industry

The global plasma industry is thriving. We discuss the role of emerging markets and the growth potential for industry leaders like Grifols.

Professional headshot of Jessica Rolph, smiling and facing the camera
Johnson School

Innovating for Impact: Pioneering Sustainability in the Toy Industry

The Center for Sustainable Global Enterprise celebrates 20 for 20 honoree Jessica Rolph ’97, MBA ’04, cofounder and CEO of Lovevery.

smiling young market vendor giving fresh coconut to female client at market stall at public market in Bahia, Brazil

Pix and Progress: Democratizing Financial Services

Business analytics grad student considers whether a new payment system designed for financial inclusion in Brazil is actually widening inequality.

Olivia Johnson poses on the roof of Castel Sant'Elmo in Naples, Italy.

A Journey Through Italy: Lessons and Landscapes

MBA student Olivia Johnson shares her experience in and insights from the 2025 Family Businesses in Italy Trek.