Wayne France has dedicated the past nine years of his career to helping students gain real-world experience through transformative learning opportunities at Simon. From international immersions to project-based courses and case competitions, he has seen firsthand how experiential learning can broaden perspectives, build confidence, and prepare students for lifelong success. A proud Simon alumnus, Wayne is also deeply committed to giving back to the Simon community, supporting scholarships, programs, and initiatives that foster student growth.
What motivates you to give back to Simon?
I enjoy seeing the tangible impact of my giving. Being a charter member of the George Eastman Circle and now on the Simon Giving & Engagement Council, I can watch how contributions fund new programs, initiatives, and scholarships. It just makes sense for me to give forward to Simon, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see students benefit directly from those contributions.
Can you share examples of how experiential learning has transformed students?
There are so many, but a few stand out. One is an immersion in Dharavi, India. Walking through a two-square-kilometer community producing $2 billion in GDP, students observed incredible productivity and innovation—like sustainably turning discarded plastic bottles into usable thread for clothing. Experiencing this firsthand challenged the students' assumptions and expanded their understanding of global business.
Beyond immersions, Simon’s project-based coursework and case competitions provide authentic, real-world experiences for real clients. Students analyze and recommend risk-managed solutions to problems or opportunities, present their analyses to clients or judges. Through these opportunities, their public speaking, analytical skills, and confidence grow dramatically. I have witnessed non-profits being transformed during COVID, health providers being able to increase the number of patients helped, and large and small businesses increasing profitability and sustainability from student recommendations. Experiential learning doesn’t just teach knowledge, it allows students to use it, reflect on it, and internalize intentional and authentic lessons for life.
What originally drew you back to Simon after your undergraduate studies?I was a University of Rochester undergrad. After earning my BS in mechanical engineering, I worked for a chemical company in Wallingford, Connecticut. When my role shifted more toward finance, I decided to pursue an MBA at Simon. I valued the small class sizes, the chance to build strong relationships with fellow students, professors, and the thriving alumni-student community. I have a group of amazing friends from my time as a student at Simon who are like my personal board of directors. We are consistently at each other's houses and in constant contact. What began at Simon has only grown over 31 years. | 
"I enjoy seeing the tangible impact of my giving … it’s incredibly rewarding to see students benefit directly from those contributions."
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How has your career evolved since?
I started at the Bank of New York at One Wall Street, creating a new product and helping expand offices internationally. Later, I got married, moved to Rochester and joined M&T Bank. I always volunteered with Simon, and eventually, I had the opportunity to join Simon’s Career Management team, where I spent seven years before moving into private equity and consulting for six years. I later returned to Simon as Executive Director of Experiential Learning. My work now allows me to guide students through impactful learning experiences and connect them with real-world opportunities.
What advice would you share with alumni who want to stay engaged?
Raise your hand. Every time I’ve volunteered for panels, interviews, admissions, or clubs I’ve enjoyed giving back,but I also gained so much. Engaging with students allows you to share your insight, experience, and connections—and to witness their growth. Giving your time is incredibly rewarding, and giving financially, consistently through programs or monthly contributions helps the school plan and sustain initiatives throughout the year. Whether donating to the Annual Fund, George Eastman Circle, or sponsoring an immersion, a case competition, or a consulting project, there are countless ways to make a meaningful impact.
Why do you, personally, give back financially?
I choose to give monthly to Simon and other University initiatives because it provides peace of mind and supports programs continuously rather than once a year. Steady contributions make a difference for students and faculty while allowing me to stay connected to the school’s ongoing mission.