Iona’s LaPenta School of Business Earns Extension of Premier Accreditation

Congratulations to BCW Member Iona University’s LaPenta School of Business (LSB) on the announcement this week that 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.

“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.