Share this Story
Virginia Wesleyan University Hosts IEN Fall Forum: A Platform for Sustainable Investments and Societal Impact
The goal: to leverage the immense assets of educational institutions towards creating a sustainable economic landscape
University News | October 23, 2023
Under the esteemed leadership of President Scott D. Miller, Virginia Wesleyan University is set to host the much-anticipated Intentional Endowments Network (IEN) Fall Forum from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on October 25 at the Joan P. Brock Room. This enriching event showcases the university's commitment to fostering an environment that champions sustainable investment strategies. 
The Forum endeavors to harmonize returns with profound societal impact, an initiative reflecting the present-day urge for endowments to invest with a conscience. Included among the panelists will be distinguished VWU alumni and Trustee Gary Bonnewell '79, along with Rowan Stuart, a student and member of the Brown Advisory Student Investment Fund team, who will be contributing their insights and experiences.
This year's Fall Forum, in collaboration with the BlueMark team and its Advisory Committee, proudly presents the Endowment Impact Benchmark—a pioneering endeavor in the realm of value-aligned investments. Institutions across the spectrum are beckoned to participate in this fall's pilot program, playing a role in shaping this groundbreaking benchmarking initiative.
The agenda for the 2023 Fall Forum is both robust and relevant, encompassing:
- Building consensus in investment policies
- Promoting racial equity in portfolios
- Upholding the sanctity of investment autonomy
Beyond these pivotal subjects, the event promises abundant opportunities for networking, mutual learning, and collaborative strategizing.
About the Intentional Endowments Network (IEN)
Leading the charge as the vanguard of mission-aligned investing for higher education and endowed institutions, IEN envisions a world rich in opportunity for all. This network, by emphasizing long-term value, is rewriting the narrative from fleeting returns to addressing overarching concerns such as racial disparities, climate change, and economic inequality.
The higher education sector, nurturing 20 million US students annually, is a formidable force, and IEN recognizes its potency. Spearheaded by influential figures like President Scott D. Miller, there's a tangible drive to leverage the immense assets of educational institutions towards creating a sustainable economic landscape.
Central to IEN's ethos is its unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ). This dedication translates into actionable steps aimed at eliminating systemic barriers and uplifting marginalized communities.
IEN’s Organizational Focus
Addressing the dual threats of inequality and the climate crisis, IEN is determined to ensure societal harmony and resilience. The statistics, be it wealth disparities or the environmental crisis, are daunting. Yet, with the concerted efforts of individuals, institutions, and leaders like those from VWU, there's hope for a balanced and brighter future.