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Women and the MBA

At Smith School of Business, we recognize the need to enable more women to ascend to the senior ranks of management. An MBA can help break down the barriers that exist for women looking to advance their careers. Smith is making a concerted effort to address this issue. In addition to hosting Women and the MBA events across Canada, we have also implemented a number of initiatives to attract and support women within our programs.

Motivational Events and Networking Opportunities

Smith School of Business is a proud supporter of the Women of Influence Luncheon Series. These events, featuring high-profile speakers, serve as motivational and inspirational networking events, allowing women to share strategies for achieving success in their careers while maintaining life balance.

Learn more about Women of Influence.

Kate Dinham

“My MBA has equipped me with the confidence and skills that will be invaluable as I build my career. I now work in an area that I'm passionate about and have the ability to chart my own course and make a difference.”

Kate Dinham, MBA’19
Group Marketing Manager, Bayer

Forté Foundation

Smith School of Business is the first Canadian business school to join Forté Foundation. This group of major corporations, top business schools and influential non-profit organizations is dedicated to directing women towards business education and business leadership roles, as well as working with corporations to more effectively attract and retain female talent. Each year, Smith awards numerous Forté Foundation Fellowships to highly qualified women entering the MBA program. These Fellowships include a significant scholarship.

The Foundation hosts educational and networking events, provides scholarship and intern opportunities, and provides a wealth of relevant research and online resources, all helping women to achieve success in their careers. Learn more about the Forté Foundation.

Forte Logo
Cessidia De Biasio

“Smith’s commitment to diversity and partnering with groups such as The Forté Foundation impacted my decision to pursue my MBA at Queen’s University. Being a Forté Fellow allows me to learn from inspiring female leaders; it empowers me to think innovatively, holistically, and impact the world through service, leadership, and academics.”

Cessidia De Biasio, MBA’22

Scholarships

30% Club Scholarship

In addition to numerous academic scholarships, each year Smith School of Business is pleased to offer the 30% Club Scholarship to a highly qualified woman entering the EMBA Americas Program. This scholarship – which covers 50% of the program tuition – is offered in partnership with the 30% Club, a global organization dedicated to accelerating the representation of women at senior levels in business. Its name is derived from its overarching goal, which is to see 30% of S&P/TSX 60 company board seats occupied by women.

The scholarships will be awarded on the basis of academic excellence and proven leadership skills. Selection will be made by the program’s Awards Committee.

Essay submission deadline is May 1st. Please contact our Recruitment & Admissions team for more information.

Forté Scholarship

Smith School of Business is the first Canadian business school to join Forté Foundation. This group of major corporations, top business schools and influential non-profit organizations is dedicated to directing women towards business education and business leadership roles, as well as working with corporations to more effectively attract and retain female talent.

Each year, Smith awards a $10,000 Forté Foundation Fellowship to a highly qualified woman entering the EMBA Americas program

Essay submission deadline is May 1st. Please contact our Recruitment & Admissions team for more information.