Iona's LaPenta School of Business Earns Premier Accreditation

Iona University’s LaPenta School of Business (LSB) is proud to announce it has received a six-year extension of its prestigious AACSB accreditation. Awarded by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) – the premier global accrediting body for business schools – this distinction reaffirms Iona’s commitment to academic excellence, faculty scholarship and student success. Fewer than 6 percent of the world’s business schools earn AACSB accreditation.

“AACSB has long been considered the gold standard in business education accreditation. This achievement underscores the transformative experience Iona students receive at the LaPenta School of Business, as they graduate prepared to lead in today’s evolving business landscape,” said Iona President Seamus Carey, Ph.D. “My thanks to Provost Tricia Mulligan, Dean John DeMelis and all the faculty and staff who are dedicated to Iona and its mission."

The rigorous, multi-year accreditation process evaluates strategic direction, faculty qualifications, curriculum development, student engagement and other factors. Extension of accreditation is granted following a comprehensive review process conducted by an external review team of global business education leaders. AACSB initially accredited Iona in 1999.

A Legacy of Excellence in Business Education

With state-of-the-art resources, a forward-thinking curriculum and deep industry partnerships, LSB stands out as a leader in business education. Key highlights include:

• Strategic Vision & Innovation: LSB’s industry-aligned curriculum ensures that students graduate career-ready and equipped with the latest business insights.
• Student Success & Career Readiness: LSB provides strong academic advising, hands-on experiential learning, and alumni engagement programs. Highlights include Gaels Go Further Mentoring, Career Chats and corporate visits.
• Excellence in Teaching & Learning: LSB faculty conduct outstanding research and academic scholarship. In addition, faculty development programs foster innovation and incorporate AI-driven pedagogy into business education.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities & Technology: LSB has state-of-the-art learning facilities, including Bloomberg Terminals, that provide students with engaging, hands-on learning opportunities.
• Industry & Alumni Partnerships: The Executive Advisory Council and Advisory Board play a pivotal role in curriculum development, mentorship and career preparation. In addition, Iona’s proximity to New York City paves the way for internships, corporate visits and job opportunities.

“This accreditation extension reaffirms the LaPenta School of Business as a leader in business education,” said Dean John DeMelis, MBA, CPA. “It reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff and students to excellence and innovation. We are excited to continue preparing future business leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to make a meaningful impact.”

The LaPenta School of Business offers undergraduate, graduate, MBA and advanced certificate programs designed to equip students with real-world skills, hands-on experience and a strong professional network. At the same time, Iona also continues to gain recognition as one of the best universities in the nation.

Most recently for 2025, Iona has been recognized by The Princeton Review, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes and others as one of the nation’s best colleges. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report recognized Iona as one of the top colleges for social mobility in the country, while Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW) ranked an Iona degree in the top 5 percent nationally for long-term return on investment.