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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.