By Teresa Chan, Director of the M.P.S. in Insurance Management, School of Professional Studies
As of the first day of their first residency, students in the Master of Professional Studies in Insurance Management program realize that their experience is going to be relevant, immersive, and expansive in many ways. Beyond the curriculum, they will have access to 150-plus industry professionals who make up IM's Corporate Advisory Network (CAN). This growing network of insurance executives and professionals, including program and SPS alumni, has been a critical pillar of the program, reinforced by their enduring commitment and support of the students since the program's inception almost seven years ago.
CAN members enthusiastically participate as keynote speakers during in-person residencies and as subject matter experts on panel discussions. Many attend IM events to welcome new students, engage with them, and provide invaluable advice about business best practices, innovation, and leadership. During residencies, CAN members also attend receptions and networking gatherings, giving students the opportunity to interact with industry leaders in person and build relationships that extend well beyond the classroom.
In their very first courses, students meet CAN members as guest lecturers who share insights and expertise while engaging beyond the lecture itself as part of a global professional community. These connections often continue throughout the program, creating opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth.
During our most recent residency, students delivered 21 independent applied research project presentations to complete the program and were impressed that over 40 CAN members volunteered as panelists to listen, provide verbal and written feedback, and in some cases, assist students in taking their proposals to the next level. Several offered to introduce students to additional resources to help them realize their project goals.
“Working with Columbia as a panelist for their graduate presentations is where I get to give back to the insurance community by listening to students and offering advice on various issues they may face in their careers,” says Michele Martincich, a CAN member. “I am a 40-year veteran, and I get to meet someone who may be starting out in their career or just enhancing their career and studies. This is rewarding for both the student and the panelist.”
The ability to convene a diverse group of experts to opine on a spectrum of solutions spanning climate change, small business development, new markets, and the myriad of possibilities for AI applications in compliance, operations, sales, distribution, etc. exemplifies the industry's keen interest and investment in our students' success.
The Corporate Advisory Network members have proven the impact and power of partnerships between industry and education. It is based in significant part on their generous contributions that we continue to see Insurance Management students and alumni exceed their own expectations and flourish. For all of this, we cannot be more grateful.
About the Program
The Master of Professional Studies in Insurance Management is for career professionals who want to accelerate their advancement to leadership positions or broaden their expertise in the industry. It accommodates both professionals already working in insurance and those looking to make a career change. The program is part-time, online, and instruction is asynchronous to accommodate working professionals.
Applications are reviewed and candidates are accepted on a rolling basis for the M.P.S. in Insurance Management program. Learn more about the program here.
