Each fall, Goizueta alumni return to campus to reconnect with classmates, faculty, and friends—and to celebrate the memories and milestones that make our community special. This year’s Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, held October 24–25, brought together hundreds of alumni for two days filled with laughter, learning, and lasting connections.
The festivities began Friday evening with the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program’s 20th and 25th Reunion Celebration where Dean Gareth James, Andrea Hershatter, Libby Egnor, Allison Burdette, and other Goizueta leaders welcomed graduates back to campus. Alumni reminisced about their time at Goizueta, shared stories of career and family, and reflected on how the school’s close-knit community continues to shape their lives.
The energy carried onto the quad for Emory’s Alumni Reunions & Kickoff Party, where all classes came together under twinkling lights and Eagle banners. Music, food, and familiar faces created the perfect setting for rediscovering old friends and forging new memories.
Saturday’s celebrations continued with gatherings across campus and around Atlanta celebrating full-time MBA, Executive MBA and Evening MBA milestone reunions. Each event reflected the vibrant diversity and shared spirit of Goizueta alumni.
“Homecoming is more than a celebration—it’s a reminder of the lifelong community Goizueta provides,” said Lindsay Topping, senior director of alumni engagement. “Each year, we’re reminded of how strong these bonds remain, no matter where our alumni’s paths take them. It’s a joy to see generations of Goizueta graduates come together and celebrate the shared experiences that define our school.”
Back to Class: Lessons Worth Coming Home For
Between the celebrations, alumni returned to the classroom for Back to Class educational sessions that showcased Goizueta’s thought leadership and commitment to lifelong learning.
The morning began with AI @ Goizueta: Transforming Business Education through AI, featuring Professors Rajiv Garg and William Mann. Attendees explored how faculty are integrating AI across teaching, research, and student engagement—through innovations like AI-powered learning tools, ethical algorithm design, and research that redefines how business leaders approach technology.
In The Future of Finance Through AI, Professors Tucker Balch, Wei Jiang, Gonzalo Matura, Rajiv Garg, and William Mann discussed the transformative role of artificial intelligence in financial markets, risk management, and regulatory contexts. The session highlighted real-world applications, cutting-edge research, and the ethical considerations shaping AI-driven strategies in investing and financial operations.
In The Economy & Me, Professor Tom Smith joined Kai Ryssdal 85C, host and senior editor of “Marketplace,” for a lively discussion on the economic forces shaping daily life. Together, they broke down rising tariffs, inflation, and global market dynamics, helping alumni make sense of how national and international trends impacted their personal and professional worlds.
The final session, Reflections on Leadership, featured a fireside chat with Brian Mitchell 00EvMBA 00PH and Brandon Smith 05MBA, two distinguished Goizueta leaders celebrating reunion milestones. The conversation offered an honest and inspiring look at leadership—from navigating change to building authentic teams and careers rooted in purpose.
The weekend also included the Julie Barefoot Retirement Celebration and Emory’s Food & Music Festival, where alumni, students, faculty, and families gathered to enjoy food, entertainment, and the unmistakable spirit of Eagle pride.
As Goizueta continues to grow and evolve, Homecoming remains a beloved reminder of the enduring connections that define our community.
Want to get involved? Engage with fellow alumni, mentor students, and help shape the Goizueta community. Learn about how you can remain connected with your nearly 25,000-strong Goizueta Network.
