Hobart and William Smith Colleges have announced a sweeping new initiative to reshape how students prepare for careers, thanks to a historic $70 million gift from alums Tom and Judy Melly.
The newly launched Melly Institute for Business, Innovation and Leadership will guarantee every student hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and access to in-demand professional skills—regardless of major.
College officials say the Melly Institute brings together three of HWS’ key programs under one umbrella: The Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education, the Bozzuto Center for Entrepreneurship, and the Centennial Center for Leadership. The goal is to create a unified, career-focused hub that builds on the school’s nationally ranked alumni network and career services.
“The Melly Institute is a transformative investment in our students’ futures,” said HWS President Mark Gearan. “Every graduate will leave not just with a degree, but with confidence, real-world experience, and a powerful professional network.”
From first-year coaching to guaranteed internships
Every student will now work with a dedicated career coach starting in their first year. They’ll build résumés, prep for interviews, and even explore graduate school paths—backed by a deep bench of alumni, faculty, and peer mentors.
The Institute guarantees all students at least one internship and offers opportunities to earn digital badges in areas like artificial intelligence, coding, financial modeling, and digital leadership. These credentials can be shared on LinkedIn or job applications to show mastery in specific fields.
Students will also meet and learn from top industry leaders through HWS’s Experts-in-Residence program, Career Treks to major cities, and mentorship from alumni and parents.
Clubs, credentials, and connections
To support industry-specific exploration, HWS is expanding its lineup of pre-professional student clubs. These include groups focused on finance, advertising, sports management, real estate, design, artificial intelligence, and women in business—each backed by alumni and faculty mentors.
The Mellys’ gift also continues their support of the Melly Scholarship, the Colleges’ most prestigious merit award. It offers $184,000 over four years to 15–20 students annually who demonstrate leadership and purpose.
“This isn’t just about landing a job after graduation,” said Gearan. “It’s about preparing students for a life of consequence—with the skills and support to lead wherever they go.”
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