<p>Dr. Mary Cianni's professional journey is one of academic excellence, extensive consulting experience, and a genuine knack for teaching. With a PhD in Counseling Psychology from Penn State University, Cianni transitioned from academia to human capital consulting, leading global teams at Willis Towers Watson and Korn Ferry. Her connection with NYU SPS began through a case competition sponsorship by Willis Towers Watson, leading to her role as a Clinical Associate Professor of Organizational Consulting. We were excited to get her take on balancing her two greatest passions: teaching and consulting.</p>

<p>Dr. Cianni's initial foray into education was in elementary education, a field that kindled her enduring love for teaching. She finds fulfillment in sharing her consulting experiences and mentoring students, helping them and their organizations thrive. Cianni views teaching as a continuous learning process, adapting to the unique experiences each cohort brings.</p>

<p>Students entering the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-executive-coaching-and-organizational-consulting.html" title="MS in Executive Coaching and Organizational Consulting">MS in Executive Coaching and Organizational Consulting</a> program often have a keen interest in executive coaching but less familiarity with consulting. Cianni takes pride in transforming this initial curiosity into a genuine interest in consulting as she brings team projects and real-world case studies to the classroom. She hopes that students will learn to navigate ambiguity and develop data-driven problem-solving skills, and by the end of the program, gain the confidence to embark on careers as consultants or coaches, armed with a clear career plan.</p>

<p>Professor Cianni's greatest successes are reflected in her students' achievements. She recalls an alumni panel where the diversity of roles held by graduates was truly inspiring. Employers consistently express their admiration for NYU SPS students, with one professional association president remarking that they would be a &quot;Buy&quot; if they were stock. These moments of pride validate the program's impact.</p> <p>Challenges in the field mirror those in today's workplace, particularly integrating technological advancements and AI into teaching and practice. Cianni emphasizes the importance of adapting to these innovations to stay relevant and effective.</p>

<p>Organizational consulting is at a pivotal moment, grappling with the potential disruptions posed by AI. While technology can automate many tasks traditionally performed by consultants, the human element remains irreplaceable. “Consultants have value to bring to their clients through their ability to connect dots in ways clients don't often see, to bring the learnings from working across industries, and to provide deep subject matter expertise,&quot; she shares.&nbsp;</p> <p>According to Cianni, the consulting profession is shifting from being mere data providers to becoming critical sources of debate and insights, helping organizations adapt to future challenges.</p>

<p>Advising students to read and study broadly across disciplines, Cianni says, &quot;Our ability to be strategic thought partners to our clients often comes from our own comfort with ambiguity and 'not knowing.'&nbsp; Being in the role of a learner challenges us to see things from different perspectives.&quot; This approach not only enhances their problem-solving capabilities, but also fosters innovation and adaptability.</p>

<p>As technology continues to advance, Professor Cianni encourages new leaders in the field to actively engage with emerging tools. She highlights the opportunities at NYU SPS to experiment with technologies like ChatGPT and attend events such as the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/events/human-capital-management-department-events/NYU-SPS-Coaching-Technology-Summit.html" title="NYU Coaching &amp; Technology Summit">NYU Coaching &amp; Technology Summit</a>. Embracing resources like these and staying curious about technological applications across professions can keep consultants ahead of the curve.</p>

<p>The NYU SPS experience extends beyond the classroom. The cohort model fosters deep, meaningful connections among students with similar interests, and faculty mentorship and extensive resources create a supportive and enriching environment, preparing students for successful careers in organizational consulting and beyond.<br> </p> <p>Ready to join the next cohort? Begin your journey by pursuing an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-executive-coaching-and-organizational-consulting.html" title="MS in Executive Coaching and Organizational Consulting">MS in Executive Coaching and Organizational Consulting</a> today.</p>