Alliant School Becomes First University to Achieve B Corp Certification
Alliant International University is the first stand-alone university in the United States to achieve B Corp Certification, according to a recent press release from the University. B Corp Certification is given only to public benefit corporations meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability.
Alliant School went through a rigorous vetting process to achieve the certification set forth by the governing body for B corporations, B Lab. The process evaluated the University’s outcomes including its wages and benefits, working conditions, environmental targets, reduction of energy and waste, and financial transparency. The certification demonstrates the School’s commitment to using its resources to solve social and environmental problems.
However, Alliant School was also evaluated using B Lab’s new standards for post-secondary institutions. These standards looked at the School’s ability to deliver long-term sustained educational services, as well as its capacity to create positive outcomes for its students, particularly those from underrepresented groups.
In the press release, Alliant School’s Interim President and CEO, Andy Vaughn, spoke about the new B Corp Certification. Alliant is meeting the needs of students, the community, and society as a whole in an exemplary way,” he said. “[The Certification has] strengthened our ability to provide the highest level of educational experience for our students, learning at nine campuses in four countries.”
The B Corp Certification is the second significant milestone for Alliant School since February 5, 2015 when it became the first university in the nation to transition from a 501(c)3 status to a public benefit corporation. As for the new certification, Vale Jokisch of B Lab sees it as a signification achievement. “Alliant is setting a high standard for impact measurement and transparency among for-profit higher education institutions, and we hope others will follow.”
Alliant International University and the Alliant School of Management specialist in preparing students to enter professions that require advanced knowledge and highly specialized skills. The School offers a full-time and part-time MBA program in San Diego.