Managers often overlook employee innovations due to risk aversion. Smith researchers Vijaya Venkataramani and Kay Bartol found diverse networks—both managerial and employee—help ideas gain credibility and traction, fostering an environment where innovation is more likely to succeed.

Smith faculty are shaping policy, business and society through influential research and public service. From AI and insurance reform to pay equity and public pensions, they’re winning top awards and earning national recognition for impact and innovation across disciplines.

Rajshree Agarwal, Smith’s Rudolph Lamone Chair in Strategy and Entrepreneurship, earned the 2025 STR Outstanding Educator Award for mentoring PhD students and leading research-driven programs for high schoolers, undergraduates, and executive MBAs at the Snider Center.