Trey Nordone, Author at EmoryBusiness.com https://www.emorybusiness.com/author/trey-nordone/ Insights from Goizueta Business School Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:01:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.emorybusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/eb-logo-150x150.jpeg Trey Nordone, Author at EmoryBusiness.com https://www.emorybusiness.com/author/trey-nordone/ 32 32 Unlocking Growth Leadership: Emory Executive Education’s Innovative Assessment Tool https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/10/08/unlocking-growth-leadership-emory-executive-educations-innovative-assessment-tool/ Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:01:23 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=33738 The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with saying, “The only constant in life is change.” In the business world, leaders face this constant on a daily basis. The pace of new trends continues to quicken, both disrupting and creating opportunities for its leaders. “The rules of strategy and engagement are being rewritten. They demand new […]

The post Unlocking Growth Leadership: Emory Executive Education’s Innovative Assessment Tool appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with saying, “The only constant in life is change.” In the business world, leaders face this constant on a daily basis. The pace of new trends continues to quicken, both disrupting and creating opportunities for its leaders.

“The rules of strategy and engagement are being rewritten. They demand new mindsets, enhanced capabilities, new disciplines, new business models, and new business structures,” shares Nicola Barrett, chief corporate learning officer at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School and lead of Emory Executive Education.  

Businesses and leaders across all industries face mounting demands, including leveraging accelerating technology, utilizing big data, increasing environmental responsibility, managing remote teams, and building engagement and purpose. Yet the imperative to meet profitable growth goals remains at the top of the agenda.

In response, Emory Executive Education, in collaboration with Goizueta Professors Omar Rodríguez-Vilá and Robert Kazanjian, developed the Growth Leadership framework and assessment tool. The goal is to equip professionals to stay ahead of the curve and prepare businesses to unlock their growth potential while better targeting their learning and development dollars. The approach can help leaders in all parts of the business to modernize their growth playbook.

Unlocking the Secret to Growth

The Growth Leadership framework and assessment tool will be able to better equip leaders with deep insights on their own growth-enabling knowledge strengths, blind spots and gaps. Currently in beta testing, the assessment includes 80 knowledge areas that help leaders devise strategies for growth where the status quo may have gone stale.

The assessment tool includes 80 knowledge areas that help leaders devise strategies for growth

The assessment was born from a study into what was on the radar for decision-makers like C-suite officers. “Over the last couple of years, we conducted research on what was top-of-mind for senior executives,” says Barrett. “Yesterday’s playbooks really weren’t cutting it in terms of where organic growth happens today.”

According to Barrett, designing a new growth playbook for organizations hinges on four critical components. First, identifying new opportunities is essential, as recognizing potential areas for expansion sets the foundation for success. Second, organizations must design a competitive edge by determining which opportunities are worth pursuing and defining a unique value proposition that distinguishes them in the market. Third, unlocking demand for new products or services is crucial to converting potential into tangible results. Finally, it is vital to cultivate a team of growth leaders who can think innovatively about identifying, designing, and unlocking growth opportunities given the evolving business landscape and changed customer values. These insights fueled the Growth Leadership framework—See, Design, Unlock, and Lead—and the new assessment tool.

The Archetypes of Leadership

The Growth Leadership assessment also provides insight into the type of growth leader you are. 

“To consistently deliver growth inside an organization requires a complement of leadership archetypes,” says Pam Tipton, senior director of Executive Education. “All of us have qualities aligned with each archetype. However, understanding your primary archetype helps leaders understand how they deliver the most value to their organization.”

The Growth Leadership framework: See, Design, Unlock, and Lead

The assessment analyzes groups to find the balance of archetypes in each organization and individual. “The assessment was originally designed so that we could assess a group, whether that’s a small, intact team, or a larger segment of the organization,” says Tipton. “We can assess where they are collectively so that we can design a program tailored to their needs and give them the most lift in terms of increasing their capacity to see, design, unlock, and lead growth.” The team also sees possibilities for individual career development utilizing the instrument.

Rodríguez-Vilá identifies the five archetypes as:
  1. The Organizer: focuses on bringing order to disorder, organizing people and things to realize goals.
  2. The Strategist: constantly monitors the external environment and plays a key role in shaping and directing the organization’s strategic path.
  3. The Innovator: is an idea generator who ensures things can move through the development process.
  4. The Operator: ensures all processes become a well-oiled machine.
  5. The Analyst: analyzes the available data and how it guides an organization along the growth process.
The Organizer is one of five archetypes the new assessment tool can identify.

“For growth to happen inside of the organization, you need all five archetypes,” posits Rodríguez-Vilá.

Tipton adds, “For example, there are questions that specifically get to the degree to which you encourage cross-team collaboration or can operationally scale growth opportunities. Typically, there are two different archetypes that champion these efforts.” The assessment allows teams and individuals to strategize around the data and improve the balance of where they’re strong and where they need development.

Version 2: Powering Growth Leadership with AI

“People need the context of the overarching growth leadership framework. Then, they can see how their scores position them relative to organizational priorities and others in their organization,” says Tipton. “These insights highlight where they are a resource and in what areas they need to develop.”

AI will ultimately augment the already comprehensive roadmap the evaluation provides by aggregating data from multiple people within the same organization over time to produce an organization-level roadmap. “AI has the ability to quickly read data from multiple surveys, aggregate the data, and create a visual map. We’re already thinking through how AI can boost organizational insights in the next iteration of the assessment reporting.”

The assessment, which continues to evolve through beta testing, is set to roll out by the end of the year.

Looking to quickly grow your own career or your team’s expertise? Experience Goizueta’s unique, hands-on applied learning approach with the combined power of academic insight and real-world business experience. Find out more about Emory Executive Education.

The post Unlocking Growth Leadership: Emory Executive Education’s Innovative Assessment Tool appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Expanding Horizons: How Goizueta’s MPA Program is Shaping the Future of Accounting https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/09/26/expanding-horizons-how-goizuetas-mpa-program-is-shaping-the-future-of-accounting/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 22:12:15 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=33635 This fall, an exceptionally large class joins the Master of Professional Accounting program at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. The class consists of a record 40 new students, up from 24 in the spring of 2023. The program director, Jeff Byrne, credits this growth to recent changes that have broadened career horizons for students. “I […]

The post Expanding Horizons: How Goizueta’s MPA Program is Shaping the Future of Accounting appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
This fall, an exceptionally large class joins the Master of Professional Accounting program at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. The class consists of a record 40 new students, up from 24 in the spring of 2023. The program director, Jeff Byrne, credits this growth to recent changes that have broadened career horizons for students. “I think we’ve really seen a lot of growth because now we have a wide variety of pathways that students can choose from,” says Byrne.

The Master of Professional Accounting program is designed for students currently enrolled in Goizueta’s undergraduate BBA program. This dual degree enables students to earn both their undergraduate and masters degrees in as little as four to five years, leveraging up to eight credit hours that count toward both degrees. With a curriculum integrating cutting-edge technologies like data analytics and blockchain, the degree prepares graduates for diverse careers, from public accounting to corporate executive roles.

Redefining Accounting Education

The Masters of Professional Accounting program underwent a significant redesign to address evolving student interests and declining enrollments, a trend seen nationwide.* Initially focused solely on public accounting, the program now offers diverse pathways that align with various career goals, including consulting, investment banking, corporate finance, and entrepreneurship.

Byrne explains, “The goal was to move away from being a lockstep program designed specifically for public accounting. Now we offer students diverse ways that they could use an accounting background in future careers.” New courses, such as Strategic Cost Management, were introduced to equip students with skills applicable to leadership roles, enabling them to leverage their accounting background in a broader range of professions. “We added more classes to help students not just prepare for public accounting, but for the wide variety of careers they can succeed in with an accounting degree,” says Byrne.

A Larger, More Engaged Class

The newest class of 40 new students is a testament to the changes in the program and the community surrounding it. While most students still aim to pursue CPA credentials, there’s growing interest in fields like information systems and control, corporate accounting, and finance. Around 70% of students plan to take the CPA exam, but not necessarily to work in public accounting. “I chose to apply to the program because I have trust in Goizueta’s ability to mold me into an entrepreneur that is able to mitigate financial risks within my business,” says Elijah Bou 25BBA/MPA.

Students are staying longer in the program with the introduction of new classes of interest. “Accounting is a broader field than many realize. As someone pursuing a niche in the industry, transaction tax, the customizability of the program will prove invaluable to my career,” says Ellie Long 25BBA/MPA. This extended engagement reflects the program’s ability to cater to diverse career paths. It allows students to deepen their expertise in specific areas, making them more competitive in the job market. The program fosters a more committed and well-prepared cohort of future accounting professionals by offering tailored courses and flexible pathways.

Fostering a Sense of Community

The Master of Professional Accounting program has significantly enhanced its community and engagement efforts. The program has been expanding information sessions to include faculty panels and student meet-and-greets, and it is organizing more social events for students to bond with each other and faculty. This has further strengthened the sense of belonging and commitment among students. “The mix of the courses and the community has been kind of the secret sauce that’s been helping the program to really grow,” says Byrne.

Learn more about the MPA program.

*Wall Street Journal: “Accounting Graduates Drop By Highest Percentage in Years” Oct 12, 2023; “Why No One’s Going Into Accounting” Oct 6, 2023

The post Expanding Horizons: How Goizueta’s MPA Program is Shaping the Future of Accounting appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
The Hidden Costs of Cultural Appropriation https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/09/09/the-hidden-costs-of-cultural-appropriation/ Mon, 09 Sep 2024 20:50:56 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=33551 In our interconnected world, cultural borrowing is everywhere. But why do some instances earn applause while others provoke outrage? This question is becoming increasingly crucial for business leaders who must carefully navigate cultural boundaries. Take the backlash the Kardashian-Jenner family faced for adopting styles from minority cultures or the controversy over non-Indigenous designers using Native […]

The post The Hidden Costs of Cultural Appropriation appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
In our interconnected world, cultural borrowing is everywhere. But why do some instances earn applause while others provoke outrage? This question is becoming increasingly crucial for business leaders who must carefully navigate cultural boundaries.

Take the backlash the Kardashian-Jenner family faced for adopting styles from minority cultures or the controversy over non-Indigenous designers using Native American patterns in fashion. These examples highlight the issue of cultural appropriation, where borrowing elements from another culture without genuine understanding or respect can lead to accusations of exploitation.

Abraham Oshotse, an assistant professor of organization and management at Goizueta Business School, along with Assistant Professor of Sociology and Anthropology at Hebrew University Yael Berda and Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Stanford Graduate School of Business Amir Goldberg, explores this in their research on “cultural tariffing.” They shed light on why high-status individuals, such as celebrities or industry leaders, often come under fire when crossing cultural boundaries.

The probability, by year, of the bigram “Cultural Appropriation” as indexed by the Google Ngram Viewer project. The probability is calculated as the likelihood of the term appearing in a document during that year. The Google Ngram Viewer is the most comprehensive collection of texts published in the English language, containing upwards of 8 million books.

The Concept of Cultural Tariffing

Oshotse and coauthors define cultural tariffing as “the act of imposing a social cost on cultural boundary crossing. It is levied on high-status actors crossing into low-status culture, in order to mitigate the reproduction of the status inequality.” This notion suggests that the acceptance or rejection of cultural boundary-crossing is influenced by the perceived costs and benefits.

Cultural appropriation involves taking elements from a culture that one does not belong to, without permission or authority. For example, when Elvis Presley brought African-American music into the mainstream, it was initially seen as elevating the genre. However, in today’s context, such acts might be criticized as appropriation rather than celebration. This research seeks to analyze people’s modern reactions to different examples of cultural boundary-crossing and which conditions induce cultural tariffing.

The Hypotheses

The researchers make four hypotheses about participants’ reactions to cultural appropriation:

  1. People will disapprove of cultural borrowing if there’s a clear power imbalance, with the borrowing group having more status or privilege than the group they are borrowing from.
  2. Cultural borrowing is more likely to be criticized if the person doing it has a higher socioeconomic status within their social group.
  3. Cultural borrowing is more likely to be criticized if the person doing it has only a shallow connection to the culture they’re borrowing from.
  4. Cultural borrowing is more likely to be criticized if the person doing it benefits more from it than the people from the culture they are borrowing from.

Put to the Test

Oshotse et al exposed respondents to four scenarios per hypothesis (16 total) with a permissible and a transgressive condition. In the permissible condition, subjects exhibit lower status or socioeconomic standing or a stronger connection to the target culture. Subjects in the transgressive condition exhibit a higher status or socioeconomic standing and less of an authentic connection to the target culture.

A schematic overview of the experimental procedure

Insights from the Study

Oshotse’s study offers four key insights:

  1. Status Matters: Cultural boundary-crossing is more likely to generate disapproval if there’s a clear status difference favoring the adopter.
  2. Superficial Connections: The less authentic the adopter’s connection to the target culture, the more likely they are to face backlash.
  3. Socioeconomic Influence: Higher socioeconomic status within the adopter’s social group increases the likelihood of disapproval.
  4. Value Extraction: The more value the adopter gains relative to the culture they’re borrowing from, the higher the disapproval.

These insights are crucial for leaders who want to navigate cultural boundaries successfully, ensuring their actions are seen as respectful and inclusive rather than exploitative.

Real-World Implications for Business Leaders

Why does this matter for business leaders? Understanding cultural tariffing is crucial when expanding into new markets, launching multicultural campaigns, or even managing diverse teams. The research suggests that crossing cultural boundaries without deep understanding or respect can backfire. That’s especially true when the adopter holds a higher socioeconomic status.

Consider the example of a luxury brand adopting traditional African patterns without engaging with the communities behind them. In this case, it risks being seen as exploitative rather than innovative. The consequences aren’t just reputational; they can also impact the brand’s bottom line.

This research isn’t just about isolated incidents; it mirrors sweeping societal shifts. Over the past 50 years, Western views have evolved to embrace ethnic diversity and multicultural exchange. But with this newfound appreciation comes a fresh set of challenges. Today’s leaders must navigate cultural interactions with greater care, fully aware of the historical and social contexts that shape perceptions of appropriation.

In today’s global and interconnected business landscape, mastering the subtleties of cultural appropriation and tariffing is crucial. Leaders who tread thoughtfully can boost their reputation and success, while those who falter may face serious backlash. By understanding the hidden costs of crossing cultural boundaries, business leaders can cultivate authentic exchanges and steer clear of the pitfalls of appropriation.                     

Goizueta faculty apply their expertise and knowledge to solving problems that society—and the world—face. Learn more about faculty research at Goizueta.

The post The Hidden Costs of Cultural Appropriation appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
New Reads: Goizueta Faculty Between the Pages https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/08/14/new-reads-goizueta-faculty-between-the-pages/ Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:46:26 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=33337 Faculty at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School are renowned for their scholarly contributions. They extend their expertise beyond the classroom to influence a wider audience through their publications. “Our faculty are at the forefront of research that not only advances scientific discovery but also shapes business practices and informs policy debates,” says Wei Jiang, author, […]

The post New Reads: Goizueta Faculty Between the Pages appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Faculty at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School are renowned for their scholarly contributions. They extend their expertise beyond the classroom to influence a wider audience through their publications. “Our faculty are at the forefront of research that not only advances scientific discovery but also shapes business practices and informs policy debates,” says Wei Jiang, author, vice dean for faculty and research, and Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Finance. “Our work spans multiple disciplines within business and cross-pollinates with a wide array of fields across Emory University and beyond.”

Emory Business is pleased to share the following books written by Goizueta faculty.

Purpose-Driven Pricing: Leveraging the Power of Pricing for Profit and Societal Good, by Saloni Firasta-Vastani & Jagdish N. Sheth

Saloni Firasta-Vastani, Associate Professor in the Practice of Marketing & Jagdish Sheth, Charles H. Kellstadt Chaired Professor of Business

Purpose-Driven Pricing: Leveraging the Power of Pricing for Profit and Societal Good

Pricing is often a key strategic tool for increasing profitability, but it can also be used for societal good. This book shows how effective pricing can reduce carbon emissions, promote eco-friendly products, and improve health outcomes and quality of life. Written by experts in pricing strategy, the book connects organizational purpose with practical tools for implementing change through pricing.

Jagdish Sheth, Charles H. Kellstadt Chaired Professor of Business

Artificial Intelligence in Customer Service The Next Frontier for Personalized Engagement by Jagdish N. Sheth, Varsha Jain, Emmanuel Mogaji, and Anupama Ambika
Artificial Intelligence in Customer Service: The Next Frontier for Personalized Engagement

This edited volume explains how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance customer service by increasing customer engagement, improving user experiences, and boosting customer and employee well-being. The book addresses these issues through real-world examples. It offers a global perspective on AI in customer service, covering customer well-being, data and technology integration, and customer engagement.

India's Road to Transformation: Why Leadership Matters by Jagdish N. Sheth and Gyanendra Singh
India’s Road to Transformation: Why Leadership Matters

Since gaining independence in 1947, India has been led by 14 prime ministers, some of whom have greatly advanced its socio-economic development. This book highlights how various leaders, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s unifying philosophy, have used their influence to improve the lives of Indians through transformative economic and social policies.

Wes Longhofer: Goizueta Foundation Term Associate Professor of Organization & Management

Social Theory Re-Wired: New Connections to Classical and Contemporary Perspectives by Wes Longhofer and Daniel Winchester
Social Theory Re-Wired: New Connections to Classical and Contemporary Perspectives

This social theory text offers the structure of a traditional print reader with the flexibility of a comprehensive interactive website. It features readings from notable classical and contemporary theorists, organized around core themes such as the puzzle of social order, the dark side of modernity, and identity.

Wei Jiang, Vice Dean for Faculty and Research and Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Finance

Analytics for Finance and Accounting: Data Structures and Applied AI
Wei Jiang
Wei Jiang

This book teaches students how to combine AI with accounting and finance data. Instead of starting with programming, the book first introduces domain data, textual features, and relevant use cases. It then covers emerging technologies and how to apply AI and machine learning tools to analyze unstructured financial data, like conference call transcripts and annual reports.

Corporate governance includes the processes, customs, policies, laws, and institutions that influence how a corporation is directed and controlled. In this booklet, Jiang and Li explore three key themes: the redefinition of information and information asymmetry through big data, blockchain technology’s potential to transform shareholder voting and blur the line between securities and tokens, and the impact of smart contracts on decentralized governance through decentralized autonomous organizations.

Lakshmi Shankar Ramachandran: Associate Professor in the Practice of Finance

Fintech and Sustainability: How Financial Technologies Can Help Address Today’s Environmental and Societal Challenges by Thomas Walker, Harry J. Turtle, and Maher Kooli, Elaheh Nikbakht with a chapter by Lakshmi Shankar Ramachandran
Fintech and Sustainability: How Financial Technologies Can Help Address Today’s Environmental and Societal Challenges, featuring a chapter by Lakshmi Shankar Ramachandran

This book overviews fintech applications and their impact on sustainable finance. It explores how financial technologies can boost sustainable investments and corporate decisions, helping to achieve sustainable development goals. Considering practitioner and academic perspectives, it examines how fintech can improve sustainability practices, address potential threats, and discusses policies and regulations to enhance sustainability benefits.

Karl Kuhnert: Professor in the Practice of Organization & Management

The MAP by Keith M. Eigel and Karl W. Kuhnert
The MAP: Your Path to Effectiveness in Leadership, Life, and Legacy

Great leadership isn’t about winning, pleasing people, or holding titles. It’s about making a unique contribution to your family, friends, community, organization, country, or the world. It requires wisdom, courage, and effort; it’s not an automatic result of aging. Based on decades of research on adult development, The MAP explains how we can take control of our growth and accelerate progress in leadership, life, and legacy.

Kuhnert is creating a chatbot to accompany the book with the idea of rereleasing the book with the coaching chatbot to personalize the content for readers.

Goizueta faculty apply their expertise and knowledge to solving problems that society—and the world—face. Learn more about faculty research at Goizueta.

Discover more great reads from Emory authors here.

The post New Reads: Goizueta Faculty Between the Pages appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Global Experiential Modules: A Gateway to Global Citizenship https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/08/05/global-experiential-modules-a-gateway-to-global-citizenship/ Mon, 05 Aug 2024 21:57:43 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=33302 Goizueta Business School’s Global Experiential Modules (GEMs) program is a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering a global perspective among students. Offered three times a year, the program takes both Full-Time MBA and Evening MBA students to diverse locations worldwide, exposing them to international business environments and cultural experiences. This past May, the program […]

The post Global Experiential Modules: A Gateway to Global Citizenship appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Goizueta Business School’s Global Experiential Modules (GEMs) program is a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering a global perspective among students. Offered three times a year, the program takes both Full-Time MBA and Evening MBA students to diverse locations worldwide, exposing them to international business environments and cultural experiences. This past May, the program featured trips to Austria and Germany, South Korea, and South Africa, each with unique themes and focuses.

Cultivating Global Citizens

The program aims to expand Goizueta’s global footprint while providing students with rich, hands-on learning experiences. “Essentially, these programs are meant to open their eyes to opportunities they might not otherwise find globally,” says Megha Madan, senior associate director of Goizueta Global Strategy and Initiatives.

These trips are more than just academic excursions. They aim to cultivate global citizens by exposing students to various business practices, cultures, and opportunities. Through these experiences, students gain insights crucial for their future careers in the increasingly interconnected global market.

Each trip includes a mix of preparatory sessions, business visits, and cultural immersion. The program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the host country’s business landscape and cultural context.

Before departure, students attend sessions that prepare them for the trip, offering background on the destinations’ cultural, economic, and political climate. This preparation ensures that students are ready to engage meaningfully with their international experiences.

Along with business activities, students engage in cultural tours and excursions to better understand and appreciate the local way of life. “They do some cultural immersion, some tourism that allows them to really get a feel of the place that they’re visiting,” says Madan.

Excursions in South Africa include trips like visits to the site of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment, the Nelson Mandela House & Family Museum, and the Apartheid Museum. In South Korea, participants can experience a baseball game at Jamsil Stadium or an outing to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, an important cultural center originally built in 1376. Such activities augment the students’ global engagement with the historical context of their destinations while learning about local business.

Fostering Business Relationships Abroad

During the Global Experiential Modules, students also visit companies, often ones that have a relationship with Emory University, including those that sponsor MBA students. These visits provide firsthand insights into international business operations and strategies.

The South Africa trip, for example, includes a longstanding relationship with the Innovation Hub Pretoria, a government-funded innovation center. Here, students witness the full cycle of entrepreneurship, from incubation to product sales in local townships. “We actually go into one of the local townships. That allows students to see and purchase these products that have come out of this innovation,” says Madan.

They really felt like they understood what this relationship means to our institution and the impact it has on the local community as well.

Megha Madan

Such experiences make a lasting impression on students, helping them understand the real-world applications of their academic studies and the significant role of innovation in economic development.

Leveraging Goizueta’s Global Footprint

The locations for Global Experiential Modules are chosen strategically to leverage Emory’s existing global footprint. For instance, the South Korea trip benefits from the university’s active alumni network in the country and sponsored MBA programs. Meanwhile, the Austria and Germany trip is supported by an alumnus who is a third-generation business owner. “We have alumni activity and networking built into the program,” Madan says. This strategic selection ensures that students have robust support networks and opportunities for meaningful engagement during their trips.

It’s All About Enrichment

Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive. Many students report that these trips have profoundly influenced their perspectives on global business and career aspirations. Engaging with international entrepreneurs and business leaders, asking insightful questions, and participating in idea generation has been particularly impactful. “This is an academic experience, but for some of them, it’s a life-changing experience,” Madan says.

The success of the GEMs program is measured through student surveys. These are reviewed regularly to continuously improve the program. “It’s great to be able to see that and get that feedback from them directly. It really shows that these programs are impacting these students in a way that we hope,” says Madan. These evaluations reveal that students not only enjoy these trips but also find them academically and personally enriching.

An Experience to Remember

The GEMs program at Goizueta Business School is more than just an academic course. It’s it is a transformative experience that prepares students for leadership in a globalized world. The Global Experiential Modules combine rigorous academic preparation with real-world international experiences. This unique combination equips students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to thrive in today’s interconnected business environment. The program’s success shines through in the enthusiastic feedback from students who return with a deeper understanding of global business and a renewed commitment to pursuing international opportunities.

Learn more about Goizueta’s global opportunities here.

The post Global Experiential Modules: A Gateway to Global Citizenship appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Emory Executive Education Offers Courses to Enhance Business Knowledge, Leadership Skills https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/07/12/emory-executive-education-offers-courses-to-enhance-business-knowledge-leadership-skills/ Fri, 12 Jul 2024 20:36:57 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=33176 Emory University’s Goizueta Business School offers executive education courses to empower professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. “An appetite and thirst for learning is one of today’s leadership differentiators,” says Chief Corporate Learning Officer Nicola Barrett. “Reskilling, upskilling, and honing your business and leadership abilities is critical […]

The post Emory Executive Education Offers Courses to Enhance Business Knowledge, Leadership Skills appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Emory University’s Goizueta Business School offers executive education courses to empower professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. “An appetite and thirst for learning is one of today’s leadership differentiators,” says Chief Corporate Learning Officer Nicola Barrett. “Reskilling, upskilling, and honing your business and leadership abilities is critical for the growth of your career, your team, and your organization.”

With a blend of cutting-edge curriculum, experienced faculty, and a collaborative learning atmosphere, Goizueta’s executive education courses provide participants with practical insights and tools to drive personal growth. Whether navigating complex challenges, fostering innovation, or cultivating a global mindset, Goizueta equips individuals with the skills to lead confidently and make impactful decisions. Read on to learn more about upcoming courses available this fall.

Emory Executive Education Fall Courses

Goizueta Executive Women’s Leadership Program

This course targets essential skills that boost individual capability and confidence, empowering women leaders to enhance organizational value. This program offers women leaders the chance to sharpen their strategic thinking, cultivate an enterprise mindset, improve self-awareness and leadership behaviors, and emerge prepared to contribute within their organizations.

Executive Communication & Leadership Presence

This course teaches how to build confidence and inspire action among internal and external audiences with a coherent and effective messaging strategy. It offers techniques for becoming a more observant and impactful communicator. Learn how to lead an organization through any challenge or obstacle.

Negotiation Strategy for Success

Equip yourself with highly effective and dynamic negotiation techniques applicable across various business settings. Gain confidence in making tough bargaining decisions and improve your ability to close deals. Enhance your overall negotiation skills to drive growth within your organization.

Disrupting Your Business Strategy

By examining the interplay between strategy, mission, and innovation, you’ll equip yourself to help your organization proactively disrupt itself before competitors do. Gain the knowledge and skills to lead a more agile organization and effectively respond to changing customer needs in increasingly disruptive times. Discover how your business can pursue a more human-centric mission, achieving success and positive impact.

Finance & Account for Non-Financial Managers

This course empowers business leaders from non-financial backgrounds with a practical understanding of financial markets and key insights into finance and accounting practices. You’ll learn to apply financial principles to address your organization’s challenges, regardless of your industry.

Leading & Inspiring Change

Change is constant, and your ability to navigate it skillfully sets you apart. Learning to become more agile in such environments is crucial. Leading & Inspiring Change can help you become a change agent, understand reactions to change, and enhance your overall skill set. You will learn to create buy-in and direct major strategic shifts within your organization.

Unlocking Growth with Design Thinking & AI

This course teaches you how to apply design thinking principles to break free from traditional mindsets and methods. Discover the power of empathy, prototyping, creativity, and AI to drive business innovation and growth. Engage in interactive team-based exercises and a design project, translating theory into practice. Leave with a concrete plan to implement your new knowledge within your organization.

Executive Decision Making

Explore the underlying psychological, physiological, and sociological dynamics of decisions in complex organizations. Discover how to align issues with the most suitable tools to enhance your ability to make informed decisions that lead to better outcomes.

Emory Executive Education courses enhance your business knowledge and acumen, helping you achieve your professional development goals. Learn more about our courses here.

The post Emory Executive Education Offers Courses to Enhance Business Knowledge, Leadership Skills appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Awards Recognize Distinguished Members of Emory and Goizueta Faculty and Staff https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/07/05/awards-recognize-distinguished-members-of-emory-and-goizeuta-faculty-and-staff/ Fri, 05 Jul 2024 14:25:22 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=33131 Celebrating excellence and dedication in academia, Emory University and Goizueta Business School annually honor their most outstanding faculty and staff through a series of prestigious awards. These accolades highlight the exceptional contributions of educators and administrators who have profoundly impacted the university community. Here, we recognize the recipients of these awards. Honoring the Leaders of […]

The post Awards Recognize Distinguished Members of Emory and Goizueta Faculty and Staff appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Celebrating excellence and dedication in academia, Emory University and Goizueta Business School annually honor their most outstanding faculty and staff through a series of prestigious awards. These accolades highlight the exceptional contributions of educators and administrators who have profoundly impacted the university community. Here, we recognize the recipients of these awards.

Honoring the Leaders of Emory and Goizueta

The Emory Williams Distinguished Undergraduate Teaching Award is presented to faculty members from each of Emory’s four undergraduate schools during commencement every year. “The award celebrates the pinnacle of teaching excellence, honoring faculty who have profoundly impacted their students’ academic journeys,” says Wei Jiang, vice dean for faculty and research and Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Finance. The award was established by Emory Williams, a 1932 Emory College alumnus and longtime trustee, to recognize a record of excellence in undergraduate teaching.

Emory College of Arts and Sciences selects three award recipients, drawn from the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Each of the other undergraduate schools—Goizueta Business School, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, and Oxford College—selects one award recipient.

Richard Berlin

The 2024 honoree from Goizueta Business School is Richard Berlin, associate professor in the practice of organization and management.

The remaining 2024 honorees are:

  • Christopher Eagle, associate teaching professor in the Center for the Study of Human Health, Emory College of Arts and Sciences
  • Sarah Fankhauser, associate professor of biology, Oxford College
  • Gillian Hue, assistant teaching professor, Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology program and senior faculty fellow, Center for Ethics, Emory College of Arts and Sciences
  • Brajesh Samarth, teaching professor, Department of Middle Eastern and South Asian Studies, Emory College of Arts and Sciences
  • LisaMarie Wands, associate clinical professor, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

The Provost’s Distinguished Teaching Award

The Provost’s Distinguished Teaching Award for Excellence in Graduate and Professional Education recognizes outstanding scholars who excel as teachers within formal and informal educational settings. “This award honors exceptional teaching and recognizes those who guide their students with passion and expertise,” says Alicia Sierra, director of human resources and diversity.

One faculty member in each of Emory’s seven graduate and professional schools receives the award in recognition of the important role of exceptional teaching in graduate and professional education. 

J.B. Kurish

The 2024 honoree from Goizueta Business School is J.B. Kurish, professor in the practice of finance.

The remaining 2024 honorees are:

  • Lauren Christiansen-Lindquist, assistant teaching professor, Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health
  • Thomas W. Elliott Jr., professor in the practice of practical theology and Methodist studies, Candler School of Theology
  • George S. Georgiev, associate professor of law, Emory School of Law
  • Adriana P. Hermida, professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory School of Medicine
  • Lori A. Modly, assistant clinical professor, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
  • David A. Steinhauer, faculty, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics Program in the Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, and associate professor, School of Medicine Department of Microbiology and Immunology, James T. Laney School of Graduate Studies

The Keough Awards

The Keough Awards for Service are named after Don Keough, the legendary President of The Coca-Cola Company and a symbol of business excellence. This award is the business school’s highest service award and is awarded to one faculty member and one staff member. Each recipient receives a $2,000 award. “The recipient is a long-term contributor to the school and makes a significant impact or contribution to Goizueta,” says Jiang.

Keough Faculty Award


Kristy Towry

The recipient of the 2024 Keough Faculty Award is Professor Kristy Towry. Towry has served in many roles within Goizueta over many years. She has served as vice dean and significantly impacted the culture and comradery at the school. Towry also served as the chair of the executive committee, where she initiated a governance structure that has enhanced decision-making and evaluation. She served as a mentor to numerous junior faculty and doctoral students. In addition, Towry has shown true leadership by appealing to others’ values in helping and supporting the school.

Towry is a top researcher and has trained numerous influential students. She is a favorite teacher of hundreds of MBA graduates and has made a lasting contribution to the school.

Keough Staff Award

The 2024 Keough staff recipient is Krystle Arnold-Moore, administrative assistant, BBA program office. She has consistently made an impact since she started at Goizueta in the summer of 2019. Faculty and staff across the school quickly noticed her creativity, as she served as an active division student advisory council member and on the committee to build morale after the pandemic. She has helped other units with programmatic support during staff vacancies, all while continuing to grow her expertise in the BBA program office.

Staff Excellence Award: Collaboration

The staff excellence awards recognize staff who have “gone above and beyond in collaborating with others, managing resources, and overall influence at the school,” says Sierra. Each recipient receives a $1,000 award.

The 2024 recipient of the Staff Excellence Award for Collaboration is Brandi Baker, director of registrar services. Baker has worked tirelessly to accommodate Goizueta’s exponential growth as a school. She collaborates with program offices to meet the needs of faculty, students, and administrators and proactively finds solutions that create a more positive learning environment. Baker is in a position where she has to answer to colleagues across numerous academic programs. She is limited in terms of building capacity, and yet she manages to fit all the pieces together. In her work, she maintains a positive attitude and a “get to yes” philosophy.

Staff Excellence Award: Influence

The 2024 recipient of the Staff Excellence Award for Influence is Ron Harris, director of research computing. Harris has been the backbone of faculty research projects for decades. He helps faculty as a thought partner, sharing the work and thinking through choices. This ability requires a deep understanding of the datasets and faculty research challenges. He uses his data manipulation skills to clean data and make it serviceable for research. He also trains the next generation of scholars, our PhD students, in the use of statistical software. It would be fair to claim that the considerable pace of our research is due to Harris’s support.

Staff Excellence Award: Resources

The 2024 recipient of the Staff Excellence Award for Resources is Robin Dittmann, chief business, analytics, and operations officer. Dittmann has been instrumental in helping strengthen school finances. She has worked toward more efficient staffing levels, streamlined processes, and new policies to facilitate efficient resources by faculty and staff. She does so with expertise and transparency that instills confidence in the community.

Department Distinguished Teaching Awards

Emory and Goizueta also award those of exceptional academic excellence in each department. These awards go to individuals who represent their departments with outstanding education and lead the professionals of tomorrow. We would like to recognize them here.

  • – BBA Distinguished Educator: Emily Bianchi, Goizueta Foundation term associate professor of organization and management.
  • – Evening MBA Distinguished Core Educator: Omar Rodríguez-Vilá, professor in the practice of marketing.
  • – Evening MBA Distinguished Elective Educator: Kevin Crowley, associate professor in the practice of finance.
  • – Full-Time MBA Distinguished Educator: JB Kurish, professor in the practice of finance.
  • – Full-Time MBA Distinguished Educator: Marina Cooley, assistant professor in the practice of marketing.
  • – MS in Business Analytics Distinguished Core Educator: Rajiv Garg, associate professor of information systems and operations management.
  • – MS in Business Analytics Distinguished Elective Educator: Emma Zhang, associate professor of information systems and operations management.
  • – Master of Finance Distinguished Educator: Kevin Crowley, associate professor in the practice of finance.

We are immensely proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our faculty. Through their transformational work, they push industries forward, prepare the next generation of business leaders, and solve today’s toughest business problems.

The post Awards Recognize Distinguished Members of Emory and Goizueta Faculty and Staff appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
3rd Annual Emory Goizueta Real Estate Conference Brings Together Best in the Industry https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/06/21/3rd-annual-emory-goizueta-real-estate-conference-brings-together-best-in-the-industry/ Fri, 21 Jun 2024 19:09:37 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=32966 On May 2nd, Goizueta Business School welcomed more than 650 attendees to the 3rd Annual Emory Goizueta Real Estate Conference. Out-of-towners and locals alike gathered at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta to foster connections among alumni and other professionals. The conference brought together developers, investors, and other professionals to hear perspectives from some of […]

The post 3rd Annual Emory Goizueta Real Estate Conference Brings Together Best in the Industry appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
On May 2nd, Goizueta Business School welcomed more than 650 attendees to the 3rd Annual Emory Goizueta Real Estate Conference. Out-of-towners and locals alike gathered at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta to foster connections among alumni and other professionals. The conference brought together developers, investors, and other professionals to hear perspectives from some of the most influential minds in commercial real estate. This year once again established the event as a must-attend for those eager to learn, connect, and grow in the trade and the focus was to provide clarity as to how to invest in a complicated world while exploring different asset types and across the capital stack.

A fireside chat with Chris Lee 00C and Matthew Borstein 94C

This year’s conference, led by Conference Co-Chairs Bernard Clevens 22MBA, Russell Hardin 21EvMBA, John Hillman 21EvMBA, and John Schellhase 23EvMBA, boasted 38 sponsors and over 650 people in attendance, about 400 of which were alumni according to Schellhase. “It’s a chance for these people to get together in a way they normally don’t,” he says.

Goizueta Cements Leadership in the Real Estate Space

To Schellhase, Goizueta is a natural choice for a gathering of industry professionals. “It has one of the most prominent real estate programs in the country,” he says. The conference has solidified Emory’s spot on the map in the commercial real estate industry.

Dean Gareth James addresses the audience

Gareth James, John H. Harland Dean of Goizueta Business School, weighed in on the conference ahead of the event. “Through the Emory Goizueta Real Estate Conference, we are able to engage thought leaders, exchange ideas, and gain valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the real estate market,” he said. “This not only helps our students but also the industry as a whole to be better prepared to address key challenges and capitalize on opportunities for sustained success in the dynamic Atlanta market.”

Elite Speakers Gather at Goizueta

A large part of the staying power of the conference is the talent it brings to Goizueta. Accomplished alumni and professionals from all over the nation make the pilgrimage to participate and share their knowledge.

Atlanta does not normally get this caliber of speaker coming in. Over 50% of the speakers flew in from across the country to be a part of this. That’s pretty special.

-John Schellhase 23EvMBA
Chris Lee 00C gives the keynote address

Emory alumnus Chris Lee 00C, Partner and Co-President of KKR Real Estate, gave the keynote address via a fireside chat with Matthew Borstein 94C, portfolio manager & partner at Oak Hill Advisors. Despite a tumultuous market, Lee spoke with optimism about the future of commercial real estate. Following Lee, other leaders of national and global firms spoke through panel discussions including a session on Navigating Choppy Capital Markets Across Asset Classes, Pivots and Priorities Amidst Broader Capital Market Volatility featuring speakers Andrea Drasites, senior managing director at Blackstone; Greg Friedman, managing principal and chief executive officer at Peachtree Group; Kennedy Hicks, chief investment officer at Cousins Properties; and Porter McDonald, managing director at Landmark Properties. The panel was moderated by Matt Rendle 01MBA, chief investment officer for Selig Enterprises.

The second panel discussion From College to Cap Rates: Navigating Capital in the Residential and Industrial Sectors featured speakers Ashish Karamchandani, executive vice president at Heitman; Aaron Rosdal 05BBA, senior vice president at Prologis; Ryan Shear 05BBA, managing partner at PMG; and was moderated by Jason LaBonte 01MBA, chief investment officers, Crescent Communities.

Networking Opportunities Abound

As a cornerstone of the community, the Emory Goizueta Real Estate Conference looks to grow and continue to connect industry professionals and hopefuls. While the event has become a nationally renowned meeting of the minds for more than just Goizueta grads, recent alumni and students shouldn’t shy away from attending.

If you’re an alumni in commercial real estate, you’re missing out by not going.

John Schellhase

 “The room is filled with hundreds of decision-makers: people who have hiring authority. So, if you’re a student, raise your hand, get involved, and that’s the best way to potentially find a job.”

The Goizueta Real Estate Conference would not have been possible without contributions from more than three dozen sponsors, including: Bisnow, Cousins Properties, Eastdil Secured, The Graham Group, Oak Hill Advisors, Rockefeller Group, Summit Contracting Group, and Walker & Dunlop.

Learn more about the Goizueta Real Estate Group which offers a robust calendar of annual events and experiential opportunities within real estate. Contact Sergio Garate, Director of Goizueta’s Real Estate program.

The post 3rd Annual Emory Goizueta Real Estate Conference Brings Together Best in the Industry appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Transformative MBA Projects on Display at 2024 IMPACT Showcase https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/06/12/transformative-mba-projects-on-display-at-2024-impact-showcase/ Wed, 12 Jun 2024 19:38:00 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=32818 Last month, Goizueta Business School welcomed a distinguished guest speaker and judges for the annual Goizueta IMPACT Showcase. The IMPACT program is an integral part of the MBA curriculum at Goizueta Business School. It is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in consulting projects. These projects offer MBA candidates the opportunity to collaborate with […]

The post Transformative MBA Projects on Display at 2024 IMPACT Showcase appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Last month, Goizueta Business School welcomed a distinguished guest speaker and judges for the annual Goizueta IMPACT Showcase. The IMPACT program is an integral part of the MBA curriculum at Goizueta Business School. It is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in consulting projects. These projects offer MBA candidates the opportunity to collaborate with leading companies, nonprofits, and government organizations to address pressing business issues and drive meaningful change.

A student team presents to a panel of judges

The showcase is more than just a culmination of academic endeavors; it’s a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and practicality. “Goizueta IMPACT is the experience we provide our MBA students to bridge the theory that they’re learning… with the practice of solving real-world problems,” says Lynne Segall, associate dean of management practices initiatives. This year’s event highlighted the transformative projects of Full-Time MBA students who tackled pressing challenges businesses and communities face worldwide.

The Final Showcase

Through a series of intensive, semester-long projects, students work closely with corporate partners, nonprofit organizations, and startups to develop strategic solutions to complex business problems. These projects not only provide valuable learning experiences for students but deliver tangible benefits to the organizations involved.

Chris Cocks talks data analytics with Dean Gareth James at the 2024 IMPACT Showcase
Chris Cocks talks data analytics with Dean Gareth James

The event kicked off with a fireside chat featuring Chris Cocks, CEO of Hasbro, and Gareth James, John H. Harland Dean of Goizueta Business School. Cocks offered students valuable business and leadership advice, discussing everything from customer-centric data analytics to the leadership skills of Optimus Prime of the Transformers.

The student teams then presented their recommendations to clients, business leaders, faculty, and staff. The IMPACT Showcase brings over 300 judges to campus, providing a tremendous opportunity to connect with the broader business community.

2024 Showcase Winners

Winning team Safe House Project
Goizueta Gold

Safe House Project – Marketing Practice elective
Members: Mariana Zindel Mundet Cruz 25MBA, Betzaira Herrara 25MBA, Andrew Nelson 25MBA, Kevin Mamaril 25MBA, Sasha McNair 25MBA
Faculty: Omar Rodriguez-Vila, professor in the practice of marketing and academic director, Business & Society Institute
IMPACT Coaching Fellow: Sai Konkala 24MBA

Runners up Lowe’s Team 2
Runners Up

Lowe’s Team 2, Operations elective
Members: Allison Hill 25MBA, JS Yoo 25MBA, Gus Williams 25MBA, Moonseok Yun 25MBA, Alessandra Sarango 25MBA, Joonheon Kim 25MBA
Faculty: Jeff Rummel, associate professor in the practice of information systems an operations management
IMPACT Coaching Fellow: Stephanie Wong 24MBA

Runners up Chick-fil-A Team 2

Chick-fil-A Team 2, Marketing Practice elective
Members: Huan Nguyen 25MBA, Tom Moak 25MBA, Oluwatobiloba Olukeye 25MBA, Joshua Copeland 25MBA, Patrice Johnson 25MBA, Diana Li 25MBA
Faculty: Omar Rodriguez-Vila, professor in the practice of marketing and academic director, Business & Society Institute
IMPACT Coaching Fellow: Akash Parthasarathy 24MBA

As the curtain closed on another successful IMPACT Showcase, the legacy of collaboration and innovation continues to inspire the Goizueta community and beyond. The projects exemplify the academic rigor and practical relevance of Goizueta’s MBA program and demonstrate the school’s unwavering dedication to shaping leaders who drive positive change in the global business landscape.

Through initiatives like the IMPACT program, Goizueta continues to push the boundaries of business education, empowering students to make a meaningful difference in the world—one project at a time. Learn More.

View more images from the 2024 IMPACT Showcase below:

The post Transformative MBA Projects on Display at 2024 IMPACT Showcase appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Pride and Progress: Goizueta Commits to LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Leadership https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/06/06/pride-and-progress-goizueta-commits-to-lgbtq-inclusion-and-leadership/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 20:51:36 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=32659 With June upon us, the world gears up to celebrate Pride Month, a time dedicated to honoring the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience, history, and ongoing fight for equality. For educational institutions like Emory University’s Goizueta Business School, Pride Month is a time to reaffirm their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, respected, […]

The post Pride and Progress: Goizueta Commits to LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Leadership appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
With June upon us, the world gears up to celebrate Pride Month, a time dedicated to honoring the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience, history, and ongoing fight for equality. For educational institutions like Emory University’s Goizueta Business School, Pride Month is a time to reaffirm their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.

Emory Goizueta’s campus has long been a beacon of diversity and inclusion, embracing students, faculty, and staff from all walks of life. “We have the privilege as a private university to be as inclusive as we want to be,” says Giacomo Negro, the associate dean for culture and inclusion. Yet, the journey towards LGBTQ+ acceptance and involvement is ongoing, and Pride Month serves as an opportune moment to reflect on the progress made and the work that still lies ahead.

Acceptance goes beyond mere tolerance; it involves active participation and engagement. Goizueta encourages LGBTQ+ students to take up leadership roles and join student organizations dedicated to activism and inclusion.

Fostering Leadership at Goizueta

One of the cornerstones of LGBTQ+ acceptance on campus is education. Goizueta recognizes the importance of providing resources and support to help all members of the community understand the challenges and opportunities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Through workshops, seminars, and guest lectures, the school fosters dialogue and awareness, creating a more empathetic and informed community.

This April, Goizueta partnered with Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA) to put on one of the most prominent leadership summits for LGBTQ+ MBA students. “The idea is, they bring together club leaders from MBA programs all across the country,” says Tyler Dinucci 24MBA, who was vice president of the Goizueta Pride Alliance. “And then those club leaders share what’s worked for them, what they’re working on… and it’s also a knowledge exchange.”

Dinucci shares that ROMBA had been eager to have an event in the Southeast. So, a partnership with Emory seemed natural. “We are a top 20 MBA program. So if you’re looking for a high-quality program within the Southeast, this was one of the more obvious choices to go with,” he says. The Goizueta Pride Alliance jumped at the chance to host such a prestigious event, and it marked an important partnership for Emory as a whole. “I think it was a way for us to express our excitement to be able to participate,” says Negro.

The conference included workshops in which MBA students exchanged information on programs, marketing strategies, roadblocks, and community projects. Club leaders got to see different perspectives from a diverse group of MBA programs to which they might not otherwise have access. “The nice thing is going to a summit and hearing something that is wildly different than something you’re pursuing,” Dinucci says.

One program shared its initiative of providing consulting services to local queer-owned businesses. Dinucci admits that was something he and others in the Goizueta Pride Alliance hadn’t thought of yet. “Using what we’re learning at Goizueta to help a business in the community, especially a queer-owned one, was a really amazing idea,” he says. “That cross-pollination of ideas was super useful.” Staying plugged into the national LGBTQ+ MBA scene helps keep Goizueta informed and at the forefront of advocacy strategy.

A Small Class Needs Big Representation

Goizueta Pride Alliance recognizes the importance of connecting students organizationally and socially. With an MBA population that includes many working students, socializing proves more difficult than in a traditional undergraduate program. “MBA programs are really tough,” Dinucci shares. “It’s important to have social activities as well that make people feel like they’re in more of a community.”

Finding your people on campus who have similar experiences [to] you does have value, especially when you’re going through the rigor of an MBA program.

Tyler Dinucci 24MBA

Organizations like Goizueta Pride Alliance help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. They do this by providing spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can connect with one another, share experiences, and offer support. “I know lots of people come get their MBA with a goal in mind of how they wanted to accelerate their career. But that does not mean you can’t have fun while doing it,” Dinucci says. “And part of that is still making sure that social aspect exists.”

LGBTQ+ identifiers and allies alike have to do their part to nurture the small community. While tight-knit, the numbers are still prevalent. “The connections may be deep and sustained and long-lasting. On the other hand… everyone has to always step up and participate. Because if they don’t, then I think their absence might be noticed,” Negro said. “Not in terms of judgment, but more in terms of presence and contribution.”

Goizueta Pride

When asked what Pride means to a Goizueta student, Dinucci speaks of self-assurance and value. “It’s this idea shaking off the shame… or confusion, or maybe anxiety that you had when you were younger. You kind of come in with a more fully confident version of yourself and who you are,” he says. Acceptance and inclusion on campus help students grow personally in their self-identity as they grow academically and professionally.

Goizueta has a large population of working students who balance life in the office with life on campus. “Part of what being a Pride activist is for LGBTQ students to go into the workplace to be comfortable in their own skin. It means to be out and still be successful at whatever they do and wherever they go.”

Embracing diversity isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s also smart business. In today’s interconnected world, companies and organizations operate in increasingly diverse markets. The ability to understand, appreciate, and leverage diverse perspectives is not just a moral imperative but also a competitive advantage. By championing inclusion and acceptance, Goizueta prepares its students to navigate a globalized marketplace with empathy, cultural competence, and leadership.

At Goizueta, diversity is a commitment to nurture and challenge the unique perspectives that will shape the future of business. It’s a commitment to innovate in traditional fields and embrace emerging insights. It is the foundation of our intentions and actions. It is one of the core values by which we lead. Learn more.

The post Pride and Progress: Goizueta Commits to LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Leadership appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
How Will AI Impact Consulting? https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/05/21/how-will-ai-impact-consulting/ Tue, 21 May 2024 22:00:15 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=32437 Goizueta Undergraduates Conduct Directed Study on AI’s Impact on Consulting Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a new frontier, or as some say, the “Wild West” of tech. After performing a directed study on the subject, Jonathan Fineman 24BBA and Zaim Zibran 24BBA note that experts liken the arrival of AI to the Industrial Revolution. If that […]

The post How Will AI Impact Consulting? appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Goizueta Undergraduates Conduct Directed Study on AI’s Impact on Consulting

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a new frontier, or as some say, the “Wild West” of tech. After performing a directed study on the subject, Jonathan Fineman 24BBA and Zaim Zibran 24BBA note that experts liken the arrival of AI to the Industrial Revolution.

If that sentiment puts you on edge, it’s ok: Fineman and Zibran haven’t forgotten to factor the complex human emotions surrounding major technological shifts into their calculations.

What brims with infinite possibility to some breathes an existential threat to others. As with any major technological development in human history, the cards will be reshuffled and money and power will flow in new directions. There are lingering questions about what will be lost, what will be gained, and the “law of unintended consequences.”

When it comes to the consulting industry, how will the chips land? Rather than wait and see, Fineman and Zibran decided to seek answers themselves.

“We’ve been witnessing the AI revolution transform every facet of modern life, from our work to even how we decide what gift to buy our best friends,” says Zibran. “So the question we asked ourselves is ‘How can we best prepare as not only consultants in the next few years but also business executives in the next few decades? How do we emerge as leaders who guide the business world and society through this massive transformation?’”

Conducting the Directed Study

A directed study is a semester-long project in which students receive a fair amount of independence to explore an area of academic interest. The study takes place under the mentorship of a professor, in this case, Richard Berlin, associate professor in the practice of organization and management. “That means we have to design the curriculum ground up. We take ownership, from front to end over executing it, and obviously, ensuring quality with Professor Berlin,” says Zibran.

[Professor Berlin] was guiding our takeoff, helping really steer us through the journey. We would course correct when we needed to, and then ensure that we were able to land with a high-quality deliverable.

Jonathan Fineman

Beyond mere curiosity, Fineman and Zibran were motivated by other factors. The first of these was to help themselves and others become proactive entities in the impending upheaval. An informed student base is better equipped to succeed when the tides shift. Plus, they wanted their research to have real use beyond the “ivory tower” of academia. “We viewed this as an opportunity to educate other students in Goizueta Business School,” Zibran says.

The two wanted to envision how consulting firms could change internally with roles and tasks as well as externally in the way they deliver value to the client.

Jonathan Fineman

So, Fineman and Zibran began their search online.“We looked at reputable sources, including consulting firms like Deloitte, McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Google Scholar… and more,” Fineman says. “But a key thing that we decided to do to distinguish our research is we also conducted interviews.” The pair interviewed twelve individuals. Some are Emory faculty while others are employees at consulting firms like McKinsey & Company, EY, and Deloitte. “And we used our interviews to supplement what we had already learned and really make that research original,” Fineman says.

The Impact on Consulting

In terms of findings, Fineman and Zibran say that while AI adoption is paramount, it seems to be lagging. “I think we found out that… adoption within organizations and society even is very slow because of inertia and organizational readiness. So, we don’t even have a lot of these data infrastructures ready,” Zibran says. “And people are very inherently afraid of losing agency to AI.”

Despite reluctance, the study doesn’t suggest that AI will make consultants obsolete, but rather augment their work. Consultants will be able to shift time and resources away from mundane tasks and towards higher-level strategic thinking with AI collaboration.

This is sort of the big picture answer from our study: AI cannot fully replace consultants, but more so can augment the existing workflows.

Zaim Zibran

While the finding that AI won’t replace consultants didn’t shock Fineman and Zibran, they did come across a few surprises. “We looked at a BCG and a Harvard study and found that while everybody benefits from AI, top staff benefit the least,” says Fineman. The hypothesis is that AI acts as an equalizer for under-average performers while top performers may not need it as a crutch so to speak. That said, Fineman points out that it’s an indicator that AI needs to grow a bit more.

Secondly, the two found that while generative AI can aid creativity and brainstorming, the same isn’t true of business applications. “There was another BCG Harvard study that showed that 90% of participants improved performance when using generative AI for creative ideation with a 40% improvement on average participants. However, participants using AI for business problem solving, they saw a 23% decline in performance,” Fineman says.

Lastly is the sheer scope of AI’s transformative power to revolutionize every industry. “It matters because consultants are working across different industries,” Fineman says. “That means consultants need to educate themselves on opportunities for how to guide clients through industry-specific AI challenges and opportunities.”

The Impact on Education

Fineman and Zibran insist that AI literacy is going to be critical, and the fundamentals need to start with education. “What is AI? How does it work? What are the different types of AI? And then how do we train AI models to generate output, “ Zibran asks rhetorically. “We don’t want people just using AI without understanding how it works and the logic behind it.”

Zaim Zibran

Fineman and Zibran recommend AI as a larger focus at Goizueta. “We think that it’s important to integrate AI across all existing relevant classes,” Fineman says. The two think that Goizueta should lean headfirst into AI education and perhaps even create a new area of study. “And I think that’s how we leapfrog other universities who may be slow to react to this,” Zibran says.

The Biggest Change to the Future of Work Since the Industrial Revolution

As Fineman and Zibran espouse in their presentation, “Experts liken AI to the Industrial Revolution, with potential to reduce redundancy [and] inspire creativity.”

The Industrial Revolution improved the efficiency of factory production and generated wealth. However, a lot of that wealth ended up in the hands of a small group of people. Some workers enjoyed their crafts less once an assembly line automated the process. Will AI have the same effect?

Reassuringly, Fineman points out that the Industrial Revolution and the tech boom did not replace humans in the work force. “We’re pretty optimistic that with AI, it will be very similar. AI is not going to replace people, but will empower them…” Fineman says. AI will change the nature of jobs, and some jobs will become obsolete, but many new jobs will be created.

In the past, machines were only available to those with capital. Now, though, AI is accessible and can be a skill leveler. While one may have needed an innate gift in the past, AI can be an elevator to those with average abilities. Ensuring AI literacy is critical to leveling the playing field.

Interested in pursuing a business degree? Learn more about the unique programs Goizueta has to offer.

The future of business education is here, and it’s bold. Goizueta has transformed the traditional classroom into a dynamic digital ecosystem with virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and holographic capabilities. Learn more about innovation at Goizueta here.

The post How Will AI Impact Consulting? appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Students Learn from Entrepreneur Alumni and Compete in Pitch Contest at 8th Annual Entrepreneurship Summit https://www.emorybusiness.com/2024/04/30/students-learn-from-entrepreneur-alumni-and-compete-in-pitch-contest-at-8th-annual-entrepreneurship-summit/ Tue, 30 Apr 2024 19:00:01 +0000 https://www.emorybusiness.com/?p=32038 Goizueta Business School hosted the 8th annual Emory Goizueta Entrepreneurship Summit this spring. The event is a signature activity of The Roberto C. Goizueta Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Its aim is to educate and inspire students, alumni, and community partners with interactive workshops, speakers, and networking opportunities. “The most important aspect of the summit, […]

The post Students Learn from Entrepreneur Alumni and Compete in Pitch Contest at 8th Annual Entrepreneurship Summit appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>
Goizueta Business School hosted the 8th annual Emory Goizueta Entrepreneurship Summit this spring. The event is a signature activity of The Roberto C. Goizueta Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Its aim is to educate and inspire students, alumni, and community partners with interactive workshops, speakers, and networking opportunities.

“The most important aspect of the summit, and the driving force behind its creation, is to nurture entrepreneurship at Goizueta and Emory,” says Andrea Hershatter, senior associate dean of undergraduate education. “I think we do that in three ways. First, we provide connections and interactions among aspiring entrepreneurs. We also run educational workshops that highlight how successful ventures have addressed universal challenges. Most importantly, we offer inspiration in the form of alumni role models to whom our current students can relate.”

Summit Keynote

This year’s summit kicked off with a fireside chat with Cyril Berdugo 11BBA, co-founder and CEO of Landis. The company helps Americans reach the goal of homeownership through tailored coaching and a unique rent-to-own model. Since its inception in 2018, Landis has raised over $220 million from investors. These include such entities as Sequoia Capital, Google Ventures, and celebrities Jay-Z and Will Smith. Berdugo is a recipient of the Forbes 30 under 30 award. He holds a bachelor of business administration from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School and an MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.

“To me, bringing Cyril Berdugo back to campus for our founder’s address was particularly meaningful,” says Hershatter. “It is so gratifying that he attributes the roots of his entrepreneurial journey to his experiences in the undergraduate BBA Program. He has combined that foundation with his own brilliant intellect, purpose-driven intentionality, and values that led him to build a company based on innovation and compassion. He truly embodies everything I like to think we stand for, and I am so proud to have him represent us.”

The Emory Goizueta Entrepreneurship Summit continued with the Emory Impact Investing Group panel on Diversity in Entrepreneurship, moderated by Saanvi Sood 25BBA. The panelists included Kevin Rodgers of Swaxx, Destiny Brewton of A House Called Hue, and Waleisah Wilson of Phoneix Recruiting Employment and Services, LLC.

After the panel, Hershatter moderated the luminary spotlights and lightning rounds. The focuses of this segment were payments, go-to-market strategies, and leveraging technology. The alumni luminaries included Numan Dharani 17BBA, Dustin Finkel 00BBA, Jason Kuo 19MBA, Alex Reynolds 11BBA, Omer Sattar 00BBA, and Glen Surnamer 94C.

Pitch the Summit Competition

The summit concluded with the final rounds of the Pitch the Summit competition, open to all enrolled Emory students. “Pitch the Summit offers Emory undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to showcase their innovations and their venture development journey,” says Brian Cayce, managing director of The Roberto C. Goizueta Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. “Pitch the Summit is a unique event which unites startup founders from across the University and offers them support and resources from Goizueta Business School. This includes mentorship, training, and the opportunity to earn non-dilutive funding for their ventures.” The ventures competed for $25,000 in cash prizes in addition to alumni judges’ guidance in moving their ventures forward.

“In true Emory spirit, the final day of the pitch competition features a panel of judges of Goizueta Business School startup and venture luminaries,” Cayce says. “These alumni give generously of their time and talents to help these startups succeed and plan for the next steps in their entrepreneurial pathways. Pitch the Summit is an incredible resource for the entire University community. It is all made possible by the generous gifts of friends of Goizueta. It’s singular purpose is to help our world-class students blossom into world-class startup founders.”

Summit Winners

Along with graduate and undergraduate division finalists, an overall winner was selected. Goizueta is pleased to announce the following award winners:

Overall Grand Prize winner ($10,000)

Owanga – Benedict Owanga 24L and Chinelo Adi 24L

Undergraduate Winner ($5,000)

BidBee – Patrick Latting 25BBA

Graduate Winner ($5,000)

BrlCS – Karthik Ramesh 22G

Undergraduate Runner-Up ($2,500)

POR+ – Jonathan Zhang 25BBA and Zay Naing 25BBA

Learn how The Roberto C. Goizueta Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is changing the way we do business and supporting the next generation of leaders.

2O36 inspires investment in people for the benefit of people, bringing the Emory community together to build on our mission to serve humanity through knowledge. Donate now to the campaign.

The post Students Learn from Entrepreneur Alumni and Compete in Pitch Contest at 8th Annual Entrepreneurship Summit appeared first on EmoryBusiness.com.

]]>