The mission of Wharton CEO, through the lenses of race, gender, religion, and socioeconomics, is to equip current and future leaders with the critical skills needed to design equitable organizations, create positive outcomes in the business sector, and grow wealth creation opportunities.
We partner with for-profit and nonprofit entities to address inequity through applicable research, in fields like healthcare, finance, and technology to expand access to economic opportunities for all.
Health Equity
Advance Access to Health Care and Improve Health Outcomes
The death rate for Black patients hospitalized with COVID-19 would have been 10% lower if they received care at the same hospitals as white patients.
Financial Literacy
Empower Communities Through Financial Education
In 2020, white households—representing 60% of the U.S. population—held 84% of total household wealth, while Black households— representing 13.4% of the U.S. population—held only 4% of total household wealth.
Digital Divide
Bridge Gaps in Tech Access and Representation in AI
About four-in-ten adults with lower incomes do not have home broadband services or access to a computer.
CEO News
Limited Podcast Series: Opportunity Matters
“If health equity means ensuring that everyone has a chance to be as healthy as possible, it starts with realizing that not everyone has the same opportunities to achieve the same level of health.”
– Guy David, Alan B. Miller Professor, Professor of Health Care Management
In partnership with SiriusXM, we launched “Opportunity Matters,” a 4-episode limited podcast series. Kenneth Shropshire, former Wharton CEO Faculty Director was joined by Wharton faculty and industry experts across healthcare, sports, finance, and entertainment. Together, they explore issues of diversity, opportunity, and inclusion and offer listeners insights and actionable steps to create more equity within these spaces and drive change in society.
Beyond the Game: Insights on Race and Sports with Journalist William C. Rhoden
“If you don’t watch the game film, you’re doomed to repeat the same stuff.” – Bill Rhoden
In partnership with the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Africana Studies and the Wharton Sports Analytics Business Initiative (WSABI), the 2024 Race and Sports event was held in Huntsman Hall to welcome legendary sports journalist William C. “Bill” Rhoden. The conversation touched on a number of topics, including the NFL’s anti-racism campaign, media bias toward white players such as Caitlin Clark, and why some famous Black athletes stay out of the political fray. Read the highlights here.
Watch the full conversation
Closing the Health and Wealth Gap: Wharton CEO Seeks Solutions
“I’m encouraged by the meaningful conversation and by our shared commitment to improving the lives of so many people who aren’t getting what they need to thrive.”
– Fareeda Griffith, Managing Director of Wharton CEO
The “Healthcare and Financial Wellness for All” Roundtable, hosted in partnership with the TIAA Institute, the thought leadership and research arm of TIAA, brought together experts from healthcare, academia, and nonprofits. Held in the sunny boardroom of Huntsman Hall on campus, the event facilitated discussions on strategies to close the health equity and wealth gaps.
Healthcare and Financial Wellness for All Roundtable
Contact Us
Wharton Coalition for Equity and Opportunity
Steinberg Hall-Dietrich Hall 1150
3620 Locust Walk
Philadelphia, PA 19104
