The Willett Institute of Finance at Bryant University, named in honor of entrepreneur and philanthropist Paul J. Willett ’86, stands as a cornerstone of applied finance education. Its establishment, significantly bolstered by a generous gift from Paul Langone ’53, empowers Bryant students with practical skills and cutting-edge knowledge vital for success in the dynamic world of finance.
The Institute’s primary objective is to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. It achieves this through several key initiatives. The Boulay Portfolio, a student-managed investment fund, offers invaluable experience in portfolio construction, security analysis, and risk management. Students actively research companies, present investment recommendations to their peers and faculty advisors, and execute trades, learning firsthand the complexities of managing a multi-million dollar portfolio.
Beyond the Boulay Portfolio, the Willett Institute facilitates experiential learning opportunities through internships, case competitions, and industry speaker series. These activities expose students to various facets of the financial industry, from investment banking and asset management to corporate finance and financial planning. Networking opportunities are abundant, connecting students with alumni and industry professionals who provide mentorship and guidance.
Paul Langone’s contribution is particularly significant. His dedication to Bryant University and his understanding of the evolving needs of the financial sector have helped shape the Institute into a leading center for finance education. Langone’s vision aligns with the Institute’s mission to equip students with not only technical expertise but also the critical thinking, communication, and ethical decision-making skills necessary to thrive in demanding roles.
The impact of the Willett Institute extends beyond the classroom. It enhances Bryant University’s reputation as a premier business school, attracting top-tier students and faculty. The Institute’s research activities contribute to the body of financial knowledge, with faculty publishing in leading academic journals and presenting at international conferences. Furthermore, the Institute plays a role in regional economic development by providing a pipeline of skilled financial professionals to Rhode Island and the broader New England area.
In essence, the Willett Institute of Finance, fueled by the vision of Paul Willett and the generosity of Paul Langone, provides a transformative educational experience. It empowers Bryant University students to graduate with the confidence, competence, and connections needed to become leaders in the financial industry, contributing to a more sophisticated and ethical financial landscape.
704×974 fireside chat ken langone center study enterprise from affiliate.wcu.edu 
492×492 dr walter willett advisory board member gaples institute from www.gaplesinstitute.org 
600×600 thomas willett professor emeritus economics from www.cgu.edu 
900×500 nyu langone health logo vector svg png tukuzcom from tukuz.com 
1024×682 paul smith cfa finance cfa institute enterprising from blogs.cfainstitute.org 
635×353 nyu langone winthrop university hospital sign letter intent from www.healthcarefinancenews.com