Och Initiative for Women in Finance Celebrates a Decade of Impact

The Och Initiative was designed with a clear mission: to elevate awareness and opportunities for women choosing careers in finance and investment management. This program has successfully woven practical coursework with mentoring and cross-disciplinary studies, providing a robust platform for undergraduates interested in these fields.

Jane and her husband Dan, who have each built notable careers in finance and entrepreneurship, have made an incredible impact on students through this initiative. Their commitment is driven by a vision to inspire and prepare the next generation of female finance leaders.

I knew that I was drawn to finance, but I wasn’t sure where my professional aspirations would lie. Going on a trek with the Och Initiative allowed me to speak with professionals at Ares, Bloomberg, Citi, and Goldman Sachs. This was incredibly influential for me to understand what roles were out there and may align with my interests and skills. Now, I enthusiastically recommend the Och Initiative.

 Paige Atkinson, BBA ’26

The Och Initiative has helped to achieve several milestones over the last ten years, including a 150 percent increase in female students pursuing finance careers. Also, 34 percent of all Ross students choosing finance in 2023 were women—up from 21 percent in 2014. Finally, investment banking has remained the number one career choice for women for the past six years. These successes represent a proven track record in attracting more young women to business school and finance careers.

"The Och Initiative offers excellent opportunities for young women at Michigan Ross aspiring to redefine what it means to be a business leader,” said Olivia M. Langston, assistant director for undergraduate student programs. “The program amplifies women's voices while strongly encouraging learners to explore various roles within finance, which our students find crucial for any career they choose. I continue to be impressed and share much appreciation for this diverse community of women who have shown enthusiasm and drive and go above and beyond to achieve the many things that are possible.”

The initiative integrates with student clubs such as the Society of Women in Finance and Michigan Business Women and enriches the academic experience with various co-curricular activities. These include workshops that delve into various finance sectors, events featuring prominent industry leaders, and treks to major financial hubs like New York City and Chicago. These treks, offered virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic, often involve interactions with Ross alumni, presenting invaluable insights and networking opportunities.

“I knew that I was drawn to finance, but I wasn’t sure where my professional aspirations would lie within the field,” said Paige Atkinson, BBA ’26, who will join Morgan Stanley next summer as a wealth management analyst. “Going on a trek with the Och Initiative allowed me to speak with professionals at Ares, Bloomberg, Citi, and Goldman Sachs. This was incredibly influential for me to understand what roles were out there and may align with my interests and skills. It was particularly meaningful to hear from women working in finance to fully understand the culture, challenges, and opportunities that come alongside that experience. The Och Trek provided me with invaluable perspectives, connections to mentors, and lasting friendships. Now, I enthusiastically recommend the Och Initiative to every undergraduate who may be a good fit, and I’m excited to hear about their experiences this fall.”

The Och Initiative also emphasizes career development with personalized support from dedicated recruiting managers. These resources assist students in exploring diverse finance areas, including commercial banking, insurance, investments, financial services, and venture capital.

As the Och Initiative celebrates its 10th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the generosity and foresight of the Och family. This program not only prepares women for successful careers in finance but also champions their advancement in a field traditionally dominated by men. The impact of the Och Initiative will continue to resonate for years to come, shaping the future of finance and empowering countless women to excel in this dynamic industry.