On November 18, 2024, Chancellor Rich Lyons rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange, symbolizing Berkeley’s prominence as a force for innovation and economic advancement. Indeed, our undergraduates produce more funded new business than those from any other university (see PitchBook University Rankings).
“It was thrilling to represent Berkeley at the New York Stock Exchange,” said Chancellor Lyons. “After reflecting on the tremendous impact our university has on the marketplace of ideas, products, and programs, the symbolism of ringing the closing bell was all the more sweet.”
Chancellor Lyons with Oski on the podium at the NYSE. Photo courtesy of the NYSE.
Prior to the bell-ringing ceremony, the chancellor spoke with prominent Berkeley alums about the impact of higher education on a changing economy. The audience included members of our university’s East Coast community, many of whom are deeply engaged as philanthropists and volunteers who offer their time and insights to advance Berkeley’s mission. In a conversation with Elena Gomez, CFO of Toast, and Michael Grimes, co-head of Global Technology Investing at Morgan Stanley, Chancellor Lyons discussed topics such as the impact and future of AI, the pathway from idea to product, and the role of academic research in developing nascent technologies.
The attendance of prominent alums at the NYSE event underscored Berkeley’s broad influence across sectors, from technology to finance to public service. This gathering of Berkeley leaders demonstrates the transformative power of the alum network, whose support continues to propel the university forward by expanding access to education and fostering the next generation of Berkeley changemakers.
“Berkeley’s unique ecosystem — driven by world-class faculty, an entrepreneurial student body, and strong partnerships with industry leaders — enables groundbreaking ideas to move quickly from concept to product,” Lyons noted. “It’s a process that benefits both society and the economy.”
The NYSE bell-ringing ceremony ultimately served as a symbolic reminder of the essential role higher education institutions like Berkeley play in the economy, advancing research and shaping the workforce. With Chancellor Lyons at the helm, Berkeley remains committed to addressing the complex issues of today and innovating for a sustainable and equitable future.
