From AI to ambition: Wright State is shaping tomorrow’s business leaders

New business artificial intelligence minor launches in fall 2025

Wright State students will soon be able to broaden their skills in one of the most rapidly evolving fields in the world of business. Beginning in Fall Semester 2025, the Raj Soin College of Business will offer a business artificial intelligence (AI) minor.

The minor was established to equip students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in AI, as applied to business contexts. The program covers AI fundamentals, data analysis, and machine learning techniques, focusing on their applications in solving real-world business challenges.

“The demand for professionals with AI and data analytics expertise is growing across all industries. Businesses leverage AI to enhance efficiency, improve customer experiences, and gain a competitive edge,” said Daniel Asamoah, Ph.D., chair of the School of Finance, Accounting, Management Information Systems, and Economics. “By completing this minor, students will develop a unique and highly sought-after skill set, positioning them for better career opportunities in the evolving job market.”

The development of the AI minor was influenced by feedback from the college’s industry partners. Input from the Management Information Systems Corporate Advisory Board played a crucial role in designing a curriculum that aligns with industry needs.

While AI is not expected to replace all jobs, graduates without AI knowledge or skills will face increasing challenges in the workforce over the next five to 10 years.

“AI applications are becoming pervasive across industries, and our goal is to ensure that every graduate, regardless of major, attains AI literacy before they enter the job market,” said Asamoah. “Expanding AI education across disciplines will be a key focus for the college in the coming years.”

The launch of the new business AI minor is timely, as the AI industry continues to experience exponential growth. As of 2024, the global AI market was valued at approximately $298.25 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 32.9%, reaching nearly $1.85 trillion by 2030 (Grand View Research, 2024).

“This program positions the Raj Soin College of Business and Wright State University at the forefront of AI education, ensuring our students are career-ready and well-prepared for the evolving demands of the job market,” said Asamoah.

New academy helps students develop their leadership potential

A group of high-achieving undergraduate students from Wright State University recently capped off an intensive yearlong journey to enhance their leadership skills through the new Ascend Leadership Academy.

Organized by Rachel Sturm, Ph.D., associate dean of the Raj Soin College of Business, the academy helps students increase their leadership potential, career success, and capacity to create a positive impact in the Dayton region and beyond. Students who completed the program received an Ascend Leadership Academy Certificate.

“The academy promises to significantly impact both the personal and professional lives of its participants, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic future for the Dayton region,” Sturm said. “Since nearly 80% of Wright State graduates remain in Raider Country, the Ascend Leadership Academy is designed to help students become leaders in their chosen careers in the Dayton region.”

The first cohort comprised 31 students from various fields, including accounting, business management, economics, electrical engineering, entrepreneurship, finance, international business, management information systems, marketing, mechanical engineering, organizational leadership, pre-med studies, and psychology.

“This eclectic mix underscores the academy’s commitment to nurturing leadership skills and character across disciplines, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to excel in their chosen professions,” Sturm said.

The academy employs a variety of learning experiences and methodologies to help students develop their leadership talents, including assessments, formal instruction, panel discussions, and mentorship opportunities. Students also participate in field experiences and community service activities.

The academy helps students better understand their core beliefs and motivations, develop character, enhance their emotional intelligence and interpersonal competencies, set goals, expand their worldview and community service mindset, and learn of professional opportunities in the Dayton region.

This article was originally published in the 2025 issue of the Wright State Magazine. Read more stories at wright.edu/magazine.