The Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business is launching the Ivy Investment Banking Initiative this fall to provide high-level academics and career-ready experience for students interested in careers in high finance.
The initiative is a specialized, high-impact program designed for students who want to stand out in the world of finance. Designed for students seeking a career in investment banking, the initiative aims to give students a comprehensive set of resources and experiences to get ahead in this competitive field.
Each year, 10 high-achieving students will be selected as Ivy Scholars based on academic success, leadership, drive, and communication skills through an application and interview process. As an Ivy Scholar, students join a close-knit, motivated group and gain access to:
- Technical training in financial modeling, valuation, and relevant tools of the industry.
- Mentorship and hands-on coaching from Cyclone alumni across high finance.
- Frequent and impactful networking opportunities with professionals at top firms.
- Support to land the best internships and full-time roles.
The Ivy Investment Banking Initiative aims to differentiate itself from other programs in meaningful ways.
“We plan on bringing students into the fold right away, giving select freshmen students additional training starting on day one through the Freshman Introductory Program. Most colleges make you wait until your second year for any sort of official guidance,” said Nick Greenwood (’23 computer engineering), an investment banking analyst with Harris Williams. Greenwood is a member of the initiative’s Alumni Advisory Council, along with four Ivy finance alumni who are working or have worked in the investment banking field.
“Finance is currently the largest major at the college, and we know students who are interested in investment banking are hungry for mentorship and guidance to enter this extremely competitive field.”
— David Spalding, Ivy Investment Banking Initiative director
The Ivy program will be led by David Spalding, a Wall Street veteran who is also a close friend of the Ivy College of Business. Spalding is set to retire on June 30 from his position as Raisbeck Endowed Dean of the college after 12 years in the role, and will subsequently act as the program director. “Finance is currently the largest major at the college, and we know students who are interested in investment banking are hungry for mentorship and guidance to enter this extremely competitive field,” he said.
Before joining Iowa State in 2013, he served for eight years at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, most recently as senior vice president and senior advisor to Dartmouth’s president. Before entering higher education, Spalding had a 29-year career in finance in New York City.
Invest in a future of excellence
The Ivy Investment Banking Initiative is your fast track to the most competitive careers in finance — from Wall Street investment banking to private equity, hedge funds, and beyond.
June 26, 2025
