Case Western Reserve University named to Forbes’ ‘New Ivies’ list
Evaluation based on preparing and graduating students that employers seek in an evolving AI-driven workforce
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) has been named to Forbes’ list of “New Ivies,” a group of 20 colleges and universities recognized for graduating students highly sought by employers.
The 2026 list—released this week—marks the first time Case Western Reserve has been included, placing it among 10 private and 10 public institutions identified for their ability to prepare students for a rapidly evolving workforce. CWRU was one of just two universities newly added this year.
To develop the rankings, Forbes surveyed more than 100 chief executives and senior hiring leaders, asking them not only to identify institutions producing top talent, but also to assess how advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping early-career hiring.
The resulting list highlights universities viewed as best positioned to educate graduates for an economy increasingly influenced by AI.
“We certainly appreciate this recognition by Forbes and the national attention it brings to one of our many strengths—hands-on and experiential learning that prepares students for their future careers,” said Case Western Reserve University President Eric W. Kaler. “Technology is always evolving, and we will continue to find ways to utilize it in ways that enrich and augment student experiences, but our fundamental approach to career development remains the same.”
In its report, Forbes noted that the selected institutions are “preparing and graduating the talent that employers will seek in this new era,” particularly as technological change alters expectations for workers ages 22 to 25. CWRU’s expanding efforts in AI were an area of focus.
Among the initiatives cited by Forbes:
- Case Western Reserve has tripled its number of AI-related courses, now offering more than 100 classes spanning 40 departments. The university also has expanded opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience with industry partners, integrating classroom learning with real-world application.
- At Weatherhead School of Management, for example, student teams collaborate directly with organizations such as Hyland Software, KeyBank, Penske and Dataswift to design and implement AI-driven solutions—providing both technical experience and exposure to employer expectations.
The Forbes recognition adds to a series of recent national distinctions highlighting the university’s growing reputation. Earlier this year, CWRU was named among the top 25 institutions in the United States by TIME magazine.
CWRU was also recently identified as the #1 fastest-growing research university among members of the Association of American Universities.
“Together,” Kaler said, “these honors reflect continued momentum for Case Western Reserve—underscoring its commitment to academic excellence, research growth and preparing graduates to lead in a changing world.”
