Explore Simon's longstanding commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.


Five students-two men and three women--walk down steps on campus laughing and talking on a sunny day


Diversity has always been championed and celebrated at Simon. In 1968, we were the 4th school to join The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, and today we have one of the most diverse student bodies among US business schools. In fact, our MBA program was recently ranked the No. 2 most diverse among top-fifty business schools by U.S. News & World Report (2022). We also recently updated our EDI action plan, which underscores our collective commitment to focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in everything we do.

Simon’s dynamic student body represents cultures and ideas from all over the world. Consider the following ways students get involved and have an impact during their time at Simon:

  • Just a few weeks ago, MBA students in the Class of 2024 participated in the sixth-annual David Reh ’67S (MBA) Day of Service Habitat for Humanity build during MBA Orientation week. Our incoming MS students also lent a hand in with several local organizations during a Simon Serves volunteer event.

  • Diversity and educational clubs are designed to celebrate and educate the Simon community. Broaden your worldview and get involved through Latin American Students of Simon, Asians in America, Simon Black Student Alliance, Simon Women in Business, and more!

  • Simon Volunteers' Secret Santa Program is a beloved and longstanding tradition. The community initiative provides gifts for children and families in the Rochester area each year during the holiday season. In 2021, the program supported 189 children with the more than $16,000 raised at Simon's annual Fall Ball fundraiser.

  • Simon’s Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence—which includes several student clubs and organizations—exists to foster a community atmosphere of mutual respect by promoting cultural awareness, leading responsible dialogue, and inspiring social change. It plays an important role in the student experience by encouraging the entire Simon community to come together to celebrate individual and cultural differences and giving students a chance to walk in each other’s shoes.

  • Simon MBAs worked with 65 6th graders in the Rochester City School District (RCSD) through P.I.E.C.E.S., an educational equity program created by Simon MBAs that provides students with contexts for meaningful learning and focuses on three main lessons: Growth Mindset, Finance, and Entrepreneurship.

Simon’s annual Diversity Conference is October 7–8. This signature event gives prospective MBA candidates the chance to learn more about the opportunities available at the school, as well as meet with students, alumni, staff, and faculty. If you can join us in Rochester this fall, register with the links below based on your program of interest:

    - Full-Time MBA
    - EMBA or PMBA

Learn more about our Full-Time MBA and Full-Time MS programs by reviewing recent webinar recordings—and be sure to check out upcoming webinars as well! They are a great way to keep in touch with Simon and get a feel for our close-knit community, regardless of your proximity to Rochester. Remember, if you attend a webinar live, you will receive an application fee waiver ($90 value) to use when you apply.

Don't hesitate to contact the Admissions Team with any questions you have!

Related Blogs

  • Trista Blog
    Are you considering business school for 2025? With the Round 4 – March 31 application deadline for our full-time MBA and MS programs fast approaching, now is the perfect time to seize the opportunity and set yourself on a path to success. Whether you're looking to advance your career, pivot to a new
  • MBA_2024
    We are excited to share information about our employment results for the MBA Class of 2024 and internship outcomes for the MBA Class of 2025. The results reflect our ongoing desire and commitment to facilitate excellent career outcomes for all of our graduates. The data include both domestic and
  • Trista's Tips
    We get it—seeing a large scholarship offer is exciting. It’s a well-earned validation of your hard work, your potential, and your future. But before you commit, let’s talk about what those numbers actually mean for your finances and your career. At Simon Business School, we work with admitted
  • Temitope Ishmael
    My day begins with the gentle hum of my alarm, nudging me awake before the world fully stirs. The first moments of my morning are sacred. I start with a quiet prayer, a quick review of my calendar on Notion, and a crafted to-do list after reviewing my calendar. Journaling comes next, a ritual that
  • ADM Blog_2
    Deciding to pursue an MBA is a major commitment. For many working professionals, it can feel overwhelming to dive into a full program with a significant investment of time and money. But what if you didn’t have to choose all or nothing? What if you could take just one class, explore a topic you’re
  • ADM 4
    In Simon Admissions & Programs, we share the same goal: for you to submit a standout application. In order to do that, it's important that you submit a complete application. This will ensure your application is evaluated in the round you applied in and will keep you on track to receive your
  • Simon Games
    If you're considering pursuing a business degree at Simon Business School, here’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss: Simon Games! This business simulation competition lets you showcase your skills, compete for a scholarship, and experience real-world business decision-making. Still on the fence
  • Karthik_Muthuselvam_Campus_Shot
    I’m Karthik Muthuselvam '26S (MBA), a first-year MBA student at the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School, gearing up for a career transition into strategy roles. Before jumping into the MBA world, I spent four years in the IT industry, leading teams and working on innovative projects
  • MBA Blog
    Simon’s Full-Time MBA offers the option to pursue STEM designation in any specialization. The majority of MBA students elect this option (89% from the Class of 2023 and 82% from the Class of 2024), which can be achieved by completing 50% of coursework in STEM-designated credits. Hear from three of
  • MS_1
    January 24, 2025 | Simon Admissions Team If you’re considering business school, it’s likely you’re not only thinking about your short-term success but also your long-term career goals. If you’re an early career professional, start your Simon journey with one of our newly enhanced specialized master