Leighton School alumni, who returned to campus to attend their first-ever alumni reception on Wednesday evening, September 28th, found a lot of reasons to be proud of their alma mater.

After alumni, students, and faculty received a warm welcome from Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Jann Joseph, P.N. Saksena, Leighton School interim dean, shared some highlights and accomplishments of the school. Since 1989, the Leighton School has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)—an endorsement only five percent of business schools world-wide have earned. In addition, 70 percent of Leighton School graduates remain in the area, contributing to every sector of the region’s economy. Furthermore, 80 percent of the Leighton School’s faculty are immigrants, bringing a much-needed global perspective to business education. And when students graduate, they are prepared to succeed through real-life classroom experiences, such as successfully competing in national marketing competitions and the All-American Student Investment competition, as well as earning important investment credentials.

South Bend Mayor Pete Buttiigieg, the keynote speaker, shared his focus on local economic development and the critical role IU South Bend Judd Leighton School of Business and Economics graduates play in its success. “Leighton School graduates remain in the area and continue to help the economy,” he noted. “They supply the talent and skills we critically need to continue to help our economy to grow.” In addition to a talented workforce, the area needs to unite regionally, think globally, stress innovation, be inclusive, and recognize the importance of place to continue to grow, Mayor Buttigieg said.

Interim Dean P.N. Saksena concluded the evening with a few remarks about upcoming events at the Leighton School, including the Leighton Career and Internship Fair on October 12, 2016, from noon-3:00 p.m., which alumni are also welcome to attend. “As we move forward,” said the interim dean, “we want to continue to build strong connections with our alumni and provide meaningful opportunities for them to engage and connect with the Leighton School.”