Marsh McLennan is partnering with the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) and Fisk University to announce the launch of RISE– a global MBA fellowship program.
The RISE program, which stands for racial inclusion and social equity, will provide second-year Black MBA candidates and graduates in the U.S., UK, and Canada with an enlightening curriculum focused on practical business knowledge and tools for advocating for social justice within a business environment.
The program is being launched in celebration of Marsh McLennan’s 150th anniversary. The first classes will begin this September, with a completion date set for March 2022.
Marsh McLennan CEO Dan Glaser said in a release that the RISE program would boost diversity efforts in an industry that’s struggling with it.
“We’re committed to the principle of responsible capitalism and doing business in ways that generate a more just and compassionate world,” Glaser, President & CEO of Marsh McLennan, said. “RISE will help us form a more diverse, inclusive and vibrant Marsh McLennan and professional services industry.”
Additionally, Marsh McLennan’s Executive Committee will participate in an intensive social justice module at Fisk University. Fisk is one of the oldest colleges in Nashville and one of the oldest HBCUs in the country.
Fellows in the program will participate in an immersive social justice program through the John Lewis Center for Social Justice at Fisk. An eight-month paid fellowship incorporating thought leadership and mentorship from Marsh McLennan executives, and NBMBAA leaders will follow the social justice program.
Joe Handy, president and CEO of NBMBAA, said the program would help Black MBA candidates bring their skills and experience to boardrooms across the country in the future.
“Our young prospective members are among the sharpest business minds in the country, and any organization that invests in their success is sure to see an impressive return,” Handy said. “We are grateful to Marsh McLennan and Fisk University for their cooperation in making this program a reality and excited to see the benefits it produces.”
“Black MBA candidates have a rich set of experiences to bring to the professional services sector,” said Vann Newkirk, Sr., president of Fisk University. “It will be exciting to see how these cohorts of fellows implement a social justice agenda within their careers and beyond. It is wonderful to see companies like Marsh McLennan taking a leadership role and partnering with Fisk University to address the next generation of diverse C-suite and executive leaders.”