UC Riverside’s School of Business is strengthening the advancement of women in business through a growing partnership with the Forté Foundation, a national nonprofit committed to advancing gender equity in business leadership.
By becoming an affiliated member of the foundation this year, School of Business joins a network of leading business schools and global companies that open new paths to leadership for women in the workplace.
Last month, five women from UCR’s incoming MBA class attended the 2025 Forté MBA Women’s Leadership Conference in Denver, Colorado—an event that connects top MBA talent with Fortune 500 companies and senior female executives for two days of immersive learning and professional development.
“This event brought together an inspiring community of future business leaders and changemakers, all committed to driving equity and impact across industries,” said Steve Chen, director of admissions and recruitment at UCR’s School of Business. “Our students are returning energized and ready to lead.”
The conference featured executive-led workshops, individualized career coaching, and mentoring opportunities with prominent women across the business world. Participants engaged in hands-on leadership training while gaining exposure to high-profile recruiters.
MBA students Sarah Eduave and Benita Cledomy found conference experience to be invaluable.
"For two days, I felt inspired, and it was truly empowering to be surrounded by so many remarkable women leaders,” said Eduave, who plans to complete her degree in 2027.
“I left Denver feeling empowered with renewed purpose and a strong commitment to always lead with heart," added Benita Cledomy.
UCR’s partnership with Forté also gives MBA students access to year-round benefits—including career expos, mentorship programs, and exclusive fellowships designed to support women as they rise into senior roles across sectors such as consulting, finance, healthcare, technology, and entrepreneurship.
The School of Business partnership with Forté is part of a broader effort to expand in business education.
The UCR School of Business, home to the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management, continues to grow its footprint as a nationally recognized institution focused on shaping diverse, principled leaders for today’s global economy.
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Header image: UC Riverside AGSM at Forte Foundation Conference in June 2025. From left, Simran Kaur ’27, Xintian Zhong ’27, Director Lori Babigian, Sarah Eduave ’27, Director Steve Chen '05, '07 MBA, Benita Cledomy ’27, and Celia Rivera ’27