WMU ranked by TIME as a ‘Best College for Future Leaders’

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—TIME has once again ranked Western Michigan University in its list of colleges and universities that produce top leaders, citing WMU alumni among influential high achievers and noting the Haworth College of Business specifically. 

TIME and Statista analyzed a diverse sample of 4,000 of the most influential leaders in U.S. society in a range of industries and fields, resulting in the Best Colleges for Future Leaders and Best Companies for Future Leaders lists. 

Ivy League schools continue to top the list, with many public and private universities making strong showings, including WMU, which placed in the top four in Michigan. The survey results are proof that Bronco alumni are making their marks in leadership roles across the country, with a variety of experiences and expertise.

“TIME’s designation of WMU as a premier institution where leaders are formed and giving special recognition to the Haworth College of Business, affirms what we already know: Broncos don’t just enter the workforce; they thrive and shape its future,” says WMU President Edward Montgomery. “We’re overjoyed with the national recognition. It gives evidence of the success of Western’s commitment to embracing and providing a holistic, experience-driven education."

Dr. Satish Deshpande, dean of the Haworth College of Business, says, “We are delighted that WMU Haworth has once again been recognized for fostering future leaders. Our faculty and staff put significant time and effort into developing students who stand out as leaders on campus and go on to provide exceptional leadership in their careers and communities.”

The ranking is recognition of the work that WMU is doing to prepare students to hit the ground running in their chosen careers. With a focus on experience-driven learning and making connections within industry, it’s not surprising that 95% of WMU graduates working full time have a job related to their degree, according to the 2023-24 Career Outcomes Report.

At WMU, opportunity abounds for students to learn how to be leaders. Whether it’s taking part in a classroom exercise that calls on them to play the role of CEO, or serving on the leadership board for a registered student organization, the University places great emphasis on equipping students with the knowledge and skills to lead effectively. 

WMU Haworth even offers a major in leadership and business strategy as well as a Center for Principled Leadership and Business Strategy, giving students specific training in qualities that are highly valued by top organizations: leadership, teamwork and strategic problem-solving. And the success of the program is shown by the fact that 100% of leadership and business strategy graduates are working full time quickly after earning their degree, according to the 2023-24 Career Outcomes Report.

“WMU Haworth alumni should feel proud their college has been recognized as a top college for future leaders," says Dr. Doug Lepisto, associate professor of management and co-director of the Center for Principled Leadership and Business Strategy at the Haworth College of Business. “This recognition reflects the excellence of our graduates and generates excitement about the future leaders who will come from WMU.” 

Learn more about the Haworth College of Business.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.