Graduate Diversity at Smeal

This page contains information about the Diversity Programs available to Graduate students, both Masters and Doctorate, at the Penn State Smeal College of Business.

Group Photo Fall 14

The Penn State Smeal College of Business Office of Diversity Enhancement Programs assists in the development of a diverse, pre-eminent graduate learning community through the establishment of programs aimed at the recruitment and retention of underrepresented populations, as well as creating a welcoming climate for all graduate students, faculty, and staff.

The Smeal graduate student population is rich in diversity and is represented by men and women from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community and the military. Today’s business world is diverse in thought, action, and philosophy, so it is important for the college to create an inclusive environment, where all students can be accepted.

Student Organizations and Events

Through the Office of Diversity Enhancement Programs and the Penn State Smeal MBA Office, students are provided with an alumni mentors, have access to mock interviews, resume reviews and case study practices. Students have access to these resources along with the following clubs and national organizations which seek to increase awareness and empower diverse candidates at Smeal and beyond.

  • Diversity MBA Association (DMBAA) The DMBAA is an autonomous association that works to enhance the career development, community belonging and leadership practices for all Smeal Professional Graduate Program students; domestic and international, online and residential. DMBAA ensures that all Smeal graduate students are equipped with the tools to become successful leaders in a diverse working environment by focusing on the intersectionality of a wide array of topics that include but are not limited to: race, ableism, ageism, and socioeconomic status. In addition, DMBAA works to advance the standards and practice of inclusive behaviors and language by students, faculty and staff. We also proudly support the Penn State Smeal Women's MBA Association (WMBAA) as they tackle issues of gender equity, gender identity and a host of other issues. LinkedIn: Penn State Smeal Diversity MBA Association: About LinkedIn Email: DMBAA@psu.edu
  • National Association of Women MBAs (WMBA) - Smeal: The WMBA Smeal Chapter is dedicated to enhancing the personal, professional, and economic development of graduate business women and promoting professional, philanthropic, and social networking opportunities. We want to serve as a catalyst for the advancement of women in their respective fields.
  • Smeal MBA Military and Veterans' Association: The Smeal Military Veterans Association provides admissions, student, and veteran support for recruiting, professional development, and leadership service throughout the academic year in order to create and sustain a mutually beneficial relationship between the college and its veterans.
  • National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA): Comprised of MBA students and business professionals, the NBMBAA hosts an annual case competition and career expo. Support and preparation for these events includes mock interviews, resume reviews, case preparation, and company networking sessions.
  • National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA): The NSHMBA is a national organization made up of MBAs and business professionals whose goal is to increase the number of Hispanic master's business degree graduates through scholarships, professional development, and mentorship. The group hosts an annual career expo and conference.
  • Reaching Out MBA Conference (ROMBA): In addition to hosting an annual career fair, ROMBA's goal is to empower LGBT MBA students to become professionals who will lead the way to equality in business education, in the workplace, and throughout society. 
  • College Scholarships for LGTBQ Students: A guidebook that includes a full list scholarships for LGBTQ students, advice on applying for these scholarships, and that highlights additional financial aid opportunities for these students while attending college.

Partnerships

  • Forté Foundation: The Forté Foundation's mission is to launch women into fulfilling, significant careers through access to business education, professional development, and a community of successful women. As part of the partnership, Smeal residential, online and executive MBA students can attend exclusive Forté events, gain access to the organization’s job posting and resume database, and tap into Forté’s extensive network of women business leaders.