Brandeis International Business School

Prof. Ying Becker, MSF'01 and staff members Marcia Katz, Sonia Liang, Alice Ain Rich and Jennifer Voldins are the winners of this year’s Excellence in Teaching awards.

Each spring, Brandeis International Business School recognizes community members who demonstrate passion, commitment and outstanding contributions through teaching. The awards are based on the popular vote of students and presented by Dean Kathryn Graddy.

Graddy said all five of this year’s award winners inspire students and bring passion and dedication to their respective fields.

A professor of the practice of finance at the International Business School, Becker brings a unique perspective to the classroom after having spent more than two decades working in the high technology and asset management industries. Prior to becoming a professor, Becker served as a managing director and senior management group member of State Street Global Advisors.

Becker’s courses include FIN 270a Options and Derivatives, FIN 280a Financial Risk Management and FIN 285a Computer Simulations and Risk Assessment.

“Ying teaches some of our most difficult classes at the International Business School,” said Graddy. “Students appreciate her uncanny ability to make complex concepts easy to understand, unlocking their confidence and potential as they embark on careers in finance.”

Katz, Liang, Rich and Voldins work in the Career Strategies and Engagement Center (CSE) and serve as adjunct professors. All four women teach career development courses that equip students with the necessary tools for career planning, conducting an effective job search and excelling in today’s global labor market. MA, MSF and MSBA students at the International Business School take BUS224g Launching Your Global Career, while MBA students take BUS228b MBA Career Strategy & Management Communication.

Katz is director of career development and alumni engagement and MA Career Coach. Liang is an associate director and MSBA Career Coach. Rich is a senior MBA Career Coach. Voldins is an associate director and MSF Career Coach.

“Launching Your Global Career and MBA Career Strategy & Management Communication are popular courses that prepare our students for career success,” said Graddy. “Marcia, Sonia, Alice and Jennifer are talented instructors with a passion for helping students identify and accomplish their career goals. The International Business School is grateful for their collective efforts.”