Colorado State University’s College of Business’ vision to “inspire and inform business practices that improve societal well-being and the health of our planet” defines its approach to governance. It is the College’s driving force and is embedded in its “Strategic Plan 2030: Business for a Better World.” This governance strategy was co-created through broad stakeholder engagement, including students, alumni, staff, faculty, and business partners, resulting in shared ownership of its direction and values.

To operationalize the strategy, the College applies a Budgeting for Strategic Outcomes model, ensuring that funding supports initiatives aligned with long-term priorities. Governance structures also support participatory action. The Green Team, made up of students, staff, and faculty, drives sustainability-related projects on campus, including building efficiency efforts and the development of community green spaces.
Governance extends into academic-program alignment.

The Impact MBA Fellowship Program has facilitated more than 73,000 hours of student work in sustainability internships since its inception, helping businesses and nonprofits advance their environmental and social goals. The VITA program similarly demonstrates public service integration, enabling accounting students to provide free tax assistance to local residents.

The student-run Summit Fund exemplifies financial governance tied to educational outcomes and impact. By managing an equity portfolio, students gain practical financial experience while directing returns—over USD 50,000 in the last year—toward scholarships.

The College’s approach to governance is characterized by transparency, stakeholder inclusion, and strategic alignment. It ensures that sustainability and social impact are not peripheral, but embedded in financial, curricular, and operational decision-making—reinforcing the institution’s vision through concrete, accountable structures.