Adjunct Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Business and Chief Executive Officer of Urban Green Council, John Mandyck, recently published an article in The Economist discussing how city governments are pioneering climate action where national policies falter.
John is a new faculty member who will begin teaching in the fall, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the UConn community! He also recently spoke to our MSSRIB program through our hybrid speaker series, where he shared valuable insights about sustainability in urban development and the vital role of cities in shaping climate policy.
In his recent article feature in The Economist, Mandyck explains how climate action is facing significant setbacks as both governments and companies retract prior commitments. Despite this, cities are stepping up as a key driver of progress. With buildings accounting for nearly a third of global climate emissions, many cities are working to reduce carbon output by decarbonizing the built environment.
Cities like New York are leading the way with new and innovative polices, showing that, despite global challenges, cities remain a powerful and necessary force in combating climate change.
On April 8, 2025, Professor Rachel Chambers and graduate students Elizabeth Sullivan and Taylor Moran from the University of Connecticut’s Master of Science in Social Responsibility and Impact in Business (MSSRIB) program attended a landmark event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. The event marked the unveiling of a major new report by the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking.
Held in the iconic Trusteeship Council Chamber, the high-level convening brought together world leaders, advocates, policymakers, and experts for a full day of dialogue and action planning aimed at eradicating one of the most urgent human rights challenges of our time: modern slavery.
“Attending the launch of a new report from the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking was an incredibly inspiring experience,” said Professor Rachel Chambers. “The high-level opening session set a powerful tone, with distinguished speakers like Dr. Pierre-Justin Kouka (Executive Director of the Commission) and the Ambassadors of the UK and Bahrain to the United Nations emphasizing the urgent need for global collaboration.
Most impactful to us, however, were the testimonies of survivors of modern slavery. The networking session provided us with the opportunity to engage with experts like Professor Andrew Thompson, Professor of Global and Imperial History at Oxford University and Commissioner, whose words about the history of the Trusteeship Chamber at the UN caught our attention.”
For students in the MSSRIB program, the event served as a powerful bridge between academic study and real-world global policy. It also reinforced UConn’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of ethical and socially responsible business leaders — individuals prepared to tackle complex global challenges through a lens of human rights, sustainability, and justice. This event not only emphasized the importance of survivor-centered solutions but also spotlighted the critical role of ethical leadership and business accountability in ending modern slavery by 2030.
“The event offered a rare and powerful opportunity to hear from a range of influential voices—including successful politicians, academics, and business leaders. Most importantly, we had the privilege of listening to survivors of modern slavery share their lived experiences,” said graduate student Taylor Moran. “This experience left a lasting impact on me. It reinforced the importance of involving all stakeholders; especially those most affected by exploitative labor practices – in the conversation. True reform is only possible when every voice, particularly those on the front lines, is heard and valued.”
“The event was a very insightful experience. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity through the MSSRIB program and classes,” said graduate student Elizabeth Sullivan.
Robin Coulter, University of Connecticut Professor of Marketing, Voya Financial Fellow, and Marketing Department Head, with colleagues, Yuliya Strizhakova, and Linda Price have a forthcoming article, “ ‘Fresh Start’ Messaging, ‘Rebirth Associations,’ and Consumers’ Environmentally Sustainable Actions” in Journal of Business Ethics.
Their article introduces metaphoric “fresh start” marketing messaging as an effective tactic to engage consumers in environmentally sustainable actions, particularly donating used products for remanufacture or reuse. Their experimental studies find that metaphoric “fresh start” messaging is more effective (than “recycle” and “reduce waste”) in increasing used product donations and donation intentions for a variety of consumer goods, including for example, clothing and children’s toys. The effectiveness of metaphoric “fresh start” messaging is grounded in its activation of consumer abstract thinking, specifically around new beginnings, renewal, and new life. These “rebirth associations” engage consumers in the messaging and result in consumers engaging in environmentally sustainable behaviors. Thus, Coulter’s work has implications for firms’ environmentally focused communication strategies.
Panelists and moderators discuss the sustainable economy (Nora Broderick / UConn Photo)
“When it comes to making the transition to a more sustainable economy, investors should play a leading role,” State Treasurer Erick Russell said at The Dodd Center for Human Rights on Feb. 27, as part of the opening event for a two-day conference hosted by the Business and Human Rights Initiative at UConn.
“As investors, we can play a role in the battle against climate change that can be both vital and transformative,” said Russell. “Capital can fuel the transition to renewable energy, revolutionize agriculture, and drive technological innovation—and every investment decision helps contribute to that.”
Russell emphasized the importance of transitioning to net zero in a way that also protects human rights. He noted that sustainability goals must ensure no one is left behind. Companies can achieve this by focusing on labor during the transition, such as reskilling workers for green jobs. A just transition, which supports employees through the shift to a low-carbon economy, not only creates a green economy but also respects workers’ rights. “Just transition is critical. It’s a critical topic for investors to engage in, and while we have made strides on this, more transparency is certainly needed,” said Russell.
Russell’s address was followed by a discussion moderated by Associate Professor of Business Law Stephen Park and Assistant Professor of Business Law Rachel Chambers, the co-directors of the Business & Human Rights Initiative.
All levels of government are crucial agents in executing a just transition to a sustainable economy, the panelists said. This has been especially true at the state level, where policymakers have been active and innovative in crafting laws, policies, and practices that seek to address the roots of the problem.
“We believe as an investment firm that companies that responsibly manage those challenges over the long term will outperform,” said panelist Mary Beth Gallagher, an asset manager who invests in public companies as the Director of Engagement at Domini Impact Investments. “We are fundamentally trying to generate sustainable, equitable returns for our shareholders, but we believe thinking about managing human rights responsibilities as well is really not separate from that, but fundamental and critical to a company operating well.”
After the panel discussion, the moderators opened the floor to questions, fostering an active discussion among the panel members and audience. Students asked questions ranging from how they could get involved in promoting just transitions to how this can be achieved while protecting workers’ livelihoods.
“One of the premises of the Business and Human Rights Initiative is that ethical and socially responsible business practices should be informed by human rights,” said Park. “As part of our mission of engaged research, we brought together an amazing group of financial professionals, human rights practitioners, and academic researchers to explore the human rights implications of the climate transition. UConn was the perfect place for this convening.”
This event was made possible by the Business and Human Rights Initiative, a partnership program between Gladstein Human Rights Institute and UConn School of Business.
Earning a place in the 2025 Student Hall of Fame is a prestigious honor, and Social Responsibility & Impact in Business graduate student Arianna Landesbaum has rightfully earned this recognition. Established in 1993, the UConn School of Business Hall of Fame recognizes alumni and current students who have demonstrated exceptional career success, industry contributions, and community engagement. Arianna embodies these qualities, making her selection as a Student Hall of Fame Fellow a well-earned recognition of her dedication and leadership within the MS Social Responsibility & Impact in Business (MSSRIB) program.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Analytics and Information Management in just three years, Arianna will now complete the MSSRIB in one. She views this achievement as both an “honor and a blessing,” crediting her success to the unwavering support of her family, professors, mentors, and peers. Throughout her time at UConn, she actively sought to make a difference through leadership, service, and academics, particularly focusing on initiatives that align with social responsibility, and now, her contributions are being officially recognized.
Arianna’s selection in this highly competitive process stems from her exceptional leadership, innovation, and her strong commitment to social impact – principles that are central to the MSSRIB program. She represents the values and goals that the Social Responsibility & Impact in Business program fosters in its students through her achievements. As the former Vice President of Philanthropy for Alpha Chi Omega and an active participant in HuskyTHON, she left a profound mark on the UConn community. Her role in Alpha Chi Omega was particularly defining. She spearheaded efforts to raise awareness for domestic violence through initiatives such as “Walk a Mile.” Under her leadership, the event raised a record-breaking amount for the chapter and provided a platform for survivors to share their stories. Similarly, as a HuskyTHON leader, she helped her team set a new fundraising record for Alpha Chi Omega, raising over $42,000 for Connecticut Children’s Hospital. These experiences reinforced her belief that true leadership is about service, passion, and lasting change.
Arianna’s decision to pursue a master’s degree in social responsibility is driven by her passion for marketing, deep interest in business law, and lifelong commitment to philanthropy. She believes businesses have both the power and responsibility to drive positive change, not just through philanthropy but by embedding ethical practices into operations, marketing, and governance.
In her interview Arianna stated “This degree has shaped my professional goals by showing me that success in business isn’t just about financial growth. It is about making a meaningful difference in the world,”. This sentiment echoes Mahatma Gandhi’s words: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Arianna has embodied this philosophy throughout her journey. Her success is rooted in authenticity, a value instilled by her mother, who always reminded her, “Be yourself. Everyone else is taken.” She firmly believes that embracing one’s unique values, characteristics, and perspectives are key to making a meaningful impact.
Her advice to students is simple: “Believe in yourself and pursue your goals with confidence.” With her unwavering dedication and vision, Arianna Landesbaum has left an enduring legacy at UConn, and her future work promises to change the world for the better.
Graduate business students can join international travel courses blending business, culture, and sustainability.
Graduate Students in School of Business programs have the exciting opportunity to participate in international travel courses. These trips are more than just business visits; they incorporate cultural immersion, ethical leadership, and sustainability-focused professional experiences.
The MKTG 5893 international study trip extends classroom learning and allows students to engage firsthand in pressing social and environmental issues in global business. By immersing themselves in different cultures, students broaden their perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of how economic and social systems influence corporate responsibility and sustainable global business practices.
Before each trip, students research the country’s economy, companies, and business practices, including social and environmental impact initiatives. After returning, students complete the course requirements by presenting their findings in a final paper or presentation. This final step helps tie together what students learn in the classroom with practical, real-world insights that highlight the role of business in driving social change.
This past winter, MSSRIB Academic Director Gerlinde Berger-Walliser led a trip to France and Morocco, where students engaged with business leaders, faculty, and peers to explore global sustainability practices. These experiences help foster an international mindset and equip future business leaders with the tools to create meaningful and responsible change in our modern world.
“The MKTG 5893 international class trip was my favorite experience in the UConn graduate program. From touring businesses in France and Morocco and seeing their innovative approaches to solving sustainability issues, to tasting delicious French and Moroccan foods, to riding camels in the desert on our free day, this trip was an awesome experience with a great group of friends!” – Jacob Morgan, ‘25 MBA, France/Morocco, Winter 2025.
Interested in taking part in these trips in the future? Contact your program for more information about upcoming trips.
