In a recent Forbes article published by the London School of Economics, Vanessa Burbano, Associate Professor of Management at Columbia Business School, is recognized for her pioneering research on the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and employee retention.
The article, titled "How CSR Activities Reduce Turnover—And Why Men Stand to Benefit More Than Women," highlights Burbano’s findings that employees are more likely to stay with companies that engage in CSR efforts aligned with their personal values. Her research also uncovers a gender disparity in the retention effects of CSR, with male employees reporting stronger job satisfaction and reduced turnover intent when their employer engages in socially responsible activities.
Burbano’s work continues to inform how organizations can strategically align purpose with performance to strengthen workforce engagement and loyalty.
Mentioned Faculty

Vanessa Burbano
- Donald C. Waite III Associate Professor of Social Enterprise
- Management Division
Vanessa Burbano is the Donald C. Waite III Associate Professor of Social Enterprise in the strategy area at Columbia Business School.