The College of Staten Island’s Lucille and Jay Chazanoff School of Business has earned accreditation from AACSB International, a globally recognized symbol of excellence in business education.
This milestone places the Chazanoff School among an elite six percent of business schools worldwide to achieve this distinction, underscoring CSI’s commitment to academic rigor, innovation, and continuous improvement. AACSB accreditation is considered the gold standard of business education, awarded only to institutions that meet the highest levels of excellence in teaching, research, curriculum development, and student success.
“Congratulations to the College of Staten Island’s Lucille and Jay Chazanoff School of Business on this well-deserved achievement, which will create new opportunities for the school and its students,” said CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez. “CSI is the third CUNY school to earn this prestigious accreditation and speaks to our University’s commitment to providing students with a high-quality education that leads to career success.”
CSI President Timothy G. Lynch commented, “I congratulate the Lucille and Jay Chazanoff School of Business on receiving this honor of accreditation from AACSB International. This recognition underscores the exceptional quality of education that the School provides its students, ensuring success in their careers and providing our City and the world with skilled business professionals.”
“I am incredibly proud and elated that the Lucille and Jay Chazanoff School of Business has been granted full accreditation by the prestigious organization AACSB International. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to preparing students for the ever-evolving business landscape and providing them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to build fulfilling and successful careers,” said CSI Foundation Board member and benefactor Jay Chazanoff. “This achievement would not have been possible without the extraordinary leadership of our Founding Dean, Dr. Susan L. Holak, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the enduring vision of my late wife, Lucille.”
Founded in 1916, AACSB International is the world’s longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools, representing 2,000 institutional members and more than 1,000 accredited members worldwide. With members in over 100 countries and territories, AACSB elevates the quality and impact of business schools and is the world’s largest network connecting educators, learners, and organizations. The accreditation process is an extensive, multi-year evaluation that examines every aspect of an institution’s operations and impact.
To earn accreditation, business schools must undergo a rigorous peer-review process led by experienced academic and industry leaders. This includes detailed reviews of faculty qualifications, research productivity, strategic planning, student learning outcomes, financial stewardship, and community engagement. Schools must demonstrate not only excellence in current programs but also a commitment to continuous innovation and measurable societal impact.
“We are delighted and proud to be joining the prestigious ranks of AACSB-accredited institutions, after many years of dedicated effort to demonstrate our ability to meet rigorous and comprehensive educational standards,” said Dr. Susan L. Holak, Founding Dean of the Lucille and Jay Chazanoff School of Business. “Our deepest appreciation and gratitude go out to all the faculty, staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders who have participated in our accreditation journey. Most especially, we would like to acknowledge the vision and generosity of Lucille and Jay Chazanoff, whose contributions have enabled us to reach this significant milestone. We look forward to a bright and dynamic future under this new banner.”
Earning AACSB accreditation not only validates the Chazanoff School’s standing as a leader in business education but also enhances the value of every CSI business degree. Graduates of AACSB-accredited schools are highly sought-after by top employers, and institutions within the AACSB network are recognized for driving innovation, research, leadership and societal impact that shape the global business landscape.
“AACSB accreditation recognizes institutions that have demonstrated a focus on excellence in all areas, including teaching, research, curriculum development, and student learning,” said Stephanie M. Bryant, executive vice president and chief accreditation officer of AACSB. “We congratulate the Lucille and Jay Chazanoff School of Business and applaud the entire team, including the administration, faculty, staff, and students, for their roles in achieving this respected honor.”
The Lucille and Jay Chazanoff School of Business offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs in accounting, finance, management, marketing, and related disciplines. With an emphasis on applied learning, community engagement, and sustainable development, the School prepares students to become ethical and effective leaders in an ever-changing economy. Its partnerships with New York City businesses and non-profit organizations provide students with transformative experiences that bridge classroom knowledge and real-world practice.
AACSB accreditation further strengthens CSI’s role as a vital institution within CUNY and the Staten Island community, expanding opportunities for collaboration, research, and student success across the region.
By David Pizzuto and Terry Mares
