The W. Frank Barton School of Business is the home of real and applied learning. A
place where students apply knowledge gained from faculty and business leaders while
developing professional and life skills. The Barton School is among the top 1% of
business schools worldwide due to its double AACSB accreditation in business and accounting.
Housed in the award-winning building, Woolsey Hall, features artwork, sculptures,
gardens, and The Promise Bridge – a 300-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the water
in front of the building.
Erin Cummings, serial entrepreneur, author, and angel investor, has announced the
launch of Armine + Ambrose—a semi-fine jewelry brand reflecting resilience, authenticity, and empowerment. Named
after the middle names of her children, the brand celebrates storytelling through
wearable symbols of courage and intention.
“This brand is so much more than jewelry,” Cummings said. “It’s about honoring the
courage to chase big dreams, overcome challenges, and remain true to yourself. Every
piece embodies these values, reminding us of the strength we hold within.”
A Legacy of Impact and Vision
A proud Barton School alumna, Cummings earned a bachelor’s in business administration
with an emphasis in real estate in 2009. Joining the Dean’s Alumni Advisory Board
in 2020, she assumed the presidency in 2022. Under her leadership, the board has strengthened partnerships and expanded outreach,
positively impacting students, alumni, and the community.
In addition to her leadership, Cummings has championed programs that prepare students
for success. One such initiative, the Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF), was made possible by a $250,000 gift from Erin and her husband, Kyle. The program, established in 2023, empowers students
with real-world experience managing financial portfolios. This forward-thinking initiative
equips participants with critical decision-making skills and a competitive edge in
the industry.
Beyond her contributions to the Barton School, Erin is also the author of The Possibility Project: A Guided Journal for Creating What’s Possible. She celebrated its launch in 2023 with a keynote presentation at Woolsey Hall, further showcasing her dedication to empowering others through creativity and intention.
Building Boldly
Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School, praised Cummings, noting, “It’s been incredible
to witness Erin’s vision come to fruition. Her commitment to empowering others—whether
through her entrepreneurial ventures or her contributions to the Barton School—is
nothing short of extraordinary. Armine + Ambrose is a brilliant example of Erin’s
ability to lead with purpose and create meaning through every detail.”
This spirit of empowerment drives both her entrepreneurial ventures and her commitment
to mentorship. Reflecting on her journey, Cummings emphasized the importance of collaboration.
“My time at the Barton School taught me the power of mentorship and collaboration,”
she said. “Those lessons laid the foundation for Armine + Ambrose, a brand brought
to life by the remarkable women on my team—Michelle Hsiao, Ashlyn Verrette, and Jenn
Morrison—whose passion and expertise made this dream possible.”
Armine + Ambrose offers pieces that commemorate life’s pivotal moments, encouraging
wearers to live boldly and meaningfully. Discover the collection at armineandambrose.com and find designs that inspire boldness and elegance.
