Dean Jon Levin 2023 Spring Reunions School Update

TL;DR

A speech at a Stanford reunion focuses on the theme of possibility and renewal, highlighting the importance of connections, the success of the school's core programs, and its initiatives for staying ahead of rapid changes in business.

Transcript

[MUSIC] And I wanted to start, first of all, just by welcoming you and thanking you all for being here. We've missed a bunch of years of reunions over the last couple of years and it is so nice to have you all here in person and get you out on the campus. It really is just fantastic, I can't tell you how great it feels to have you all here. We had,... Read More

Key Insights

• 😯 The reunion speech centers around the theme of "possibility," emphasizing Stanford's commitment to expanding horizons and pushing boundaries.
• 🧑 The value of in-person connections and serendipitous interactions is reaffirmed as essential to Stanford's educational experience.
• 🧑‍🎓 Stanford's success in recruiting exceptional students and faculty is attributed to its reputation and the opportunity for meaningful engagement.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the significance of the story about President Biden and President Xi?

The story highlights the word "possibility" as a descriptor for America and Stanford, emphasizing the importance of openness and expansiveness in both contexts. It underscores the spirit of exploration and pushing boundaries.

Q: How has the COVID experience affected MBA education at Stanford?

The COVID experience has reinforced the value of in-person interactions and the serendipitous connections that happen on campus. It has reminded everyone of the unique advantages of physical presence and the dynamic mix of people that contribute to Stanford's educational experience.

Q: How successful has Stanford been in recruiting great students and faculty?

Stanford has been fortunate in attracting exceptional students from around the world, with representation from 65 countries. The school's success in student recruitment is reflected in the high percentage of admitted students who choose to attend. Faculty recruitment has also been highly successful, with a significant number of top candidates expressing a strong desire to join Stanford.

Q: What initiatives is Stanford undertaking to stay ahead of changing trends in business?

Stanford is actively engaging with topics like climate and sustainability through the Doerr School of Sustainability and partnerships. The school has also made investments in artificial intelligence with the establishment of The Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence Institute. These initiatives aim to define the future and ensure Stanford remains at the forefront of change.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker expresses gratitude for the reunion and emphasizes the theme of possibility, inspired by a story about President Biden and President Xi.

• The speaker discusses the importance of expanding horizons and the role of Stanford in fostering open-mindedness and pushing boundaries.

• The speaker expresses excitement about the success of the school's core programs, the value of serendipitous interactions, and the positive impact of the COVID experience.