Mission
The Swensen Institute seeks to be a preeminent global asset management center, focused on advancing the study and practice of investing by convening thought leaders, supporting innovative research, and delivering curriculum rooted in real-world practice, critical inquiry, and ethical stewardship. The Institute will support an ecosystem of asset managers that lead, innovate, and drive societal change through investment.
Vision
We envision Yale as a recognized leader for asset management philosophies and education. Our approach will be grounded in the belief that investing/financial capital is a powerful catalyst for positive change.
David Swensen
David Swensen (1954-2021) assumed management of the Yale endowment in 1985, and over the subsequent 35 years, the endowment generated $36 billion in added value relative to a benchmark portfolio. Swensen’s innovative approach, which included diversifying the endowment’s holdings in non-traditional asset classes, such as natural resource funds, private equity, and venture capital, became known as the “Yale Model” and has had widespread influence.