Some of the most valuable lessons happen outside the classroom. At BNY’s INSITE 2026 conference in Aurora, Colorado, students in the Columbia University M.P.S. in Wealth Management program stepped into the conversations shaping the future of finance—hearing directly from industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and building connections that extended well beyond the conference sessions.
For members of the fall 2025 cohort Dalton “Tommy” Pierce, Fatima Naqinia, and Tina Grant, along with incoming fall 2026 student Allison Petrell, the experience offered new perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the future of wealth management.
Here, they reflect on the moments, insights, and conversations that left the greatest impression.
Student Perspectives from BNY’s INSITE 2026 Conference
Dalton "Tommy” Pierce (Fall 2025 Cohort, Wealth Management)
Attending INSITE 2026 with my Columbia Wealth Management cohort was incredibly meaningful. Being immersed in content we’re passionate about created space to reflect on our growth and explore career transitions. Most importantly, it reinforced a community committed to supporting one another well beyond the program.
Fatima Naqinia (Fall 2025 Cohort, Wealth Management)
INSITE 2026 was a powerful reminder that transformation is not a destination; it’s a daily commitment to growth, leadership, and preparation. One of my biggest takeaways came from keynote speaker and former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, who emphasized the importance of “doing common things uncommonly well” through consistency, discipline, and intentional preparation.
The conference reinforced that as the “quarterback” for our clients, leadership is expected: Be the first one in and the last one out, learn from mistakes without repeating them, and stay committed under pressure. I also loved the emphasis on knowing your superpower, using AI strategically to prepare smarter, and recognizing that the future of wealth management will be driven by great advice, great technology, and human magic. I left inspired to become a better advisor, leader, and lifelong learner.
Tina Grant (Fall 2025 Cohort, Wealth Management)
Attending INSITE 2026 came at a pivotal moment in my career. It not only expanded my perspective but reinforced the importance of filtering signals from noise in an increasingly complex industry. Hearing from leaders like keynote speakers Eli Manning and Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice emphasized that self-awareness, preparation, and the willingness to operate with incomplete information are essential to effective leadership. I was especially struck by the importance of asking better questions, inviting constructive criticism, and understanding when to inform, seek consent, or build consensus.
Beyond the sessions, the experience reinforced the value of surrounding yourself with the right people. Building relationships with my cohort, especially outside the classroom, added a layer of connection and collaboration that exceeded my expectations of an online program. I left more confident, more focused, and more intentional about how I lead and serve.
Allison Petrell (Fall 2026 Cohort, Wealth Management)
One of the biggest takeaways from INSITE 2026 was the balance between AI and leadership. While AI can accelerate analysis and idea generation, it cannot replace judgment, accountability, or the ability to lead others with clarity and conviction.
Another consistent theme was the importance of human connection. Leaders like keynote speakers Harvey Schwartz, CEO of The Carlyle Group, and Ranjit Samra, Chief Technology and Product Officer at BNY, demonstrated that relatability, transparency, and trust are what truly differentiate us in a relationship-driven industry.
Ultimately, the conference reinforced that while technology will continue to shape the future of wealth management, trust, relationships, and personal leadership will remain at the core of how we create value for clients.
A Shared Experience
Beyond the keynote speakers and breakout sessions, INSITE 2026 created space for something equally valuable: connection. With the support of M.P.S. in Wealth Management Senior Program Director Tracy Schwartz, students continued conversations outside the conference, shared perspectives on their experiences in the program, and built relationships that will extend well beyond their time at Columbia.
Those moments—over meals, between sessions, and throughout the week—reinforced the collaborative spirit of the cohort and the strength of the Columbia community. Together, their reflections tell the story of more than a conference. They capture a shared commitment to lifelong learning, meaningful relationships, and the future of wealth management leadership.
Views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Columbia University School of Professional Studies or Columbia University.
About the Program
Columbia University’s Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management program is a 16-month online program with asynchronous instruction specially designed to accommodate working professionals. It is taught by distinguished faculty with deep applied experience in their respective fields. Additionally, it is a CFP Board Registered Program designed to help students meet the educational requirement for CFP® certification.
Learn more about the program here.
