In its sixth consecutive year participating in the Positive Impact Rating, the Grossman School of Business maintains a 4-star distinction as student feedback and global benchmarks underscore continued leadership and future opportunity 

The Grossman School of Business is one of 87 business schools across 32 countries included in this year’s rating, which reflects 19,789 validated student responses globally. In 2026, the Grossman School of Business is also among just seven U.S. schools to receive a 4-star rating. 

The PIR is uniquely created by students, for students, measuring how learners experience their school’s impact on society. This year, 186 Grossman School of Business students participated, contributing both ratings and candid feedback that helped shape the school’s continued evolution. 

“This recognition reflects the strength of our community and the intentional work happening across our programs to prepare students to lead with purpose,” said Dr. Barb Arel, Associate Dean of Grossman School, “Just as important, the feedback we receive helps us continue to evolve—strengthening how we connect learning to real-world impact.” 

From Student Voice to Institutional Action 

The 2026 PIR theme, “Closing the Implementation Gap,” highlights a shift from commitment to execution—calling business schools to fully embed sustainability, responsibility, and impact into how they teach, operate, and engage. 

At the Grossman School of Business, student feedback reinforces this direction. 

Through the PIR’s STOP-START analysis, students identified clear priorities for strengthening both their experience and the school’s impact. These priorities reflect global PIR findings, where students consistently call for business education that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world challenges. Areas being addressed at Grossman School of Business: 

  • Moving away from lecture-heavy or outdated teaching models 

  • Addressing cost and accessibility concerns 

A Global Benchmark for Progress 

Now in its seventh edition, the Positive Impact Rating continues to expand its role—from a student-led rating to a broader platform for evidence, dialogue, and institutional improvement. 

In 2026, PIR also included 1,189 faculty responses, providing participating schools with additional insight into how faculty and students perceive impact—and where opportunities for alignment and action exist. 

Prof. Thomas Dyllick, PIR Founder and Member of the Supervisory Board, stated: “While future students now have an alternative source to select their business school, schools refer to the PIR primarily to measure and communicate their transformational progress. The voice of the student has become a true source of value.” 

Institutions at Level 4 “Transforming” are recognized for having well-developed systems, culture, and practices that support measurable positive impact across multiple dimensions. 

Building What Comes Next 

Participation in the Positive Impact Rating reflects the Grossman School of Business’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. 

The 2026 results provide both recognition and direction—offering a clear roadmap to expand experiential learning, deepen sustainability across programs, and strengthen the student experience. 

We are proud to see this recognition once again—and to continue building a community where business is a force for good.