Our History

The Bernstein Center for Leadership and Ethics

The Bernstein Center acts as the character backbone of Columbia Business School by bringing leadership and ethics out of theory and into real, lived conversations and experiences.

Founded in 2003 through a generous gift from the Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. Foundation, the Center reflects a longstanding commitment to principled leadership. The foundation was affiliated with the firm established in 1967 by the late Sanford C. Bernstein. Today, the company is known as AllianceBernstein—one of the world’s leading independent investment management firms, widely recognized for its rigorous research and high professional standards.

At the core of our work is values-based leadership. From the start of their Columbia Business School experience, students are asked to identify the values that guide them and understand how those values shape their decisions, especially under pressure. This is aligned with our belief that leaders who are grounded in their values are better equipped to navigate difficult choices, act consistently, and build trust across differences.

In an environment often defined by performance and achievement, we create space for reflection and growth by encouraging students to think critically about how they lead, not just what they accomplish. This work is made possible by the students, faculty, staff, and network of supporters who believe ethical leadership is essential to the future of business.

We look forward to supporting you throughout your leadership journey at CBS and beyond.

Modupe Akinola
Barbara and David Zalaznick Professor of Business, Columbia Business School