2018 Business @ UM-Flint School of Management Magazine

University of Michigan-Flint School of Management 2221 Riverfront Center 303 E. Kearsley St. Flint, MI 48502-1950

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID FLINT, MI PERMIT NO. 89

(810) 762-3160 umflint.edu/som

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

BUSINESS UM-FLINT FALL 2018

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INTERDISCIPLINARY OPPORTUNITIES

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SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT ADVISORY BOARD MICHAEL J. BURKE, JR. President Lakestone Bank & Trust

RONALD JUSTICE President & CEO The State Bank

GHASSAN K. SAAB General Manager Saab Management Group

DAVID G. STICKEL Retired First Merit Bank

BRITAIN BUTCHER Director of Ecommerce Coffee Beanery

JANICE KARCHER Vice President Economic Development, Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce

MARK SIMON Professor/Director Hagerman Center, SOM/UM-Flint

MICHAEL TORREY VP Rates and Regulations Consumers Energy

KIMBER SMAIL Audit Partner Plante Moran

RICK TROMBLE Entrepreneur/CEO Tromble Bay Farms

SHEILA SMITH Consultant SOM Alumna

PAUL WENSTROM First Vice President Investments, Merrill Lynch

MELISSA STEPHENS-FARRELL Major Gifts Officer SOM/UM-Flint

STEPHEN WHITENER Entrepreneur & CEO National Systems Installers

SHERYL STEPHENS CEO Stephens Wealth Management Group

CAZZIE WILLIAMS Global Director Electronics Commodity Management, Honeywell Corporate Sourcing

JIM CARNEY Flint Community Bank President Chemical Bank WIN COOPER (Board President) President Cooper Commercial Group, Ltd. CATHLEEN HALE Engineer Champion Bus TERESA IRLAND MUNLEY Senior Vice President, retired Bank of America

JAMES MCGUIRK CEO Sun Steel Treating, Inc. PRESTON MEANS President & CEO Accu-Shape Die Cutting, Inc. LARRY NICHOLS Executive in Residence/Consultant UM-Flint JOHN POTBURY Genesee County Prosecutor Genesee County

#umflint

u FINANCE AND STEWARDSHIP Page 29

u THE BUSINESS OF THE ARTS IN JAPAN Page 11

University of Michigan-Flint is a Non-discriminatory, Affirmative Action Employer.

Regents of the University of Michigan: Michael J. Behm, Mark J. Bernstein, Shauna Ryder Diggs, Denise Ilitch, Andrea Fischer Newman, Andrew C. Richner, Ron Weiser, Katherine E. White, Mark S. Schlissel (ex officio) © 2018 Regents of the University of Michigan

u A NEED FOR FEMALE FINANCIAL PLANNERS Page 27

DONOR HONOR ROLL

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

DEAN’S MESSAGE

would like to thank our donors for their tremendous support for academic year 2017/2018 (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018).

3 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ANNIE SURI EXECUTIVE OFFICE Dean, School of Management Scott Johnson PhD

Associate Dean, School of Management Yener Kandogan PhD

4

MAIZE & BLUE AWARD WINNERS

4

BETA GAMMA SIGMA INDUCTEES

5

VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS

7

NEWS & BRIEFS

9 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ZIAD LAJNEF 11

EXPLORING THE BUSINESS OF ARTS IN JAPAN

13 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: JAWAN SIMPSON

PUBLICATION

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Editor....................................................Kimberly A. Laux, MA

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Graphic Designer............................ Tricia Borcherding, BFA

15 STUDENT ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT: SCOMA

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Contributors................................................ Kristin Arntz, BA

16 ALUMNI RELATIONS

Matt Bueby, BBA Robert Gold, BA Craig Gomolka, MSA Scott Johnson, PhD Yener Kandogan, PhD Jacinda Kitts, BBA Kimberly Laux, MA Bob Mabbitt, MA Mike Naddeo, BFA Antonio Riggs, EdS, MA Louanne Snyder Melissa Stephens-Farrell, BBA Pam Zemore

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Board of Reviewers................................ Scott Johnson, PhD Yener Kandogan, PhD Brent Nickola, MS Melissa Stephens-Farrell, BBA Anna Swartz, BA

14 SOM SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

17

INTERDISCIPLINARY OPPORTUNITIES IN SOM

21 WELCOMING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

EXECUTIVE LEVEL

($15,000-$99,000) Carroll Baker & Dr. Kimberly Roberson Dr. Barunashish Brahma & Dr. Pavna Brahma Mr. & Mrs. John Heitmann Dr. C.P. Kartha & Pressna Kartha* Mr. & Mrs. Randy Leach Mr. & Mrs. Rick Tromble*

DEAN’S CIRCLE

($5,000-$14,999) Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Winfield Cooper III* Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Flagel Cathleen Hale* Pricewaterhouse Coopers Foundation Rachor Family Foundation Dr. James Rachor & Lucinda Rachor Michael Rachor

PARTNER LEVEL

32 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: ERIN CAVUSGIL

($1,000-$4,999) Stephen Bolerjack & Susan Gasparian Mr. & Mrs. Michael Burke Jr.* Consumers Energy Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Eric Gasper Mr. & Mrs. David Gibbons David Hoffman & Judith Kermans Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Holzer Dr. Scott Johnson* & Mary Johnson* Jimmy Krause Dr. Cathleen Miller* Dr. Keith & Jeannine Moreland* David Page Mr. & Mrs. Julius Shaw Daniel Roesner & Sheryl Stephens* Michael Torrey & Marcia Torrey*

33 RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

SUPPORTING LEVEL

23 FACULTY INTERVIEW: SY BANERJEE 24 CORPORATE CASE COMPETITION 25 GIVING BACK WHILE PAYING IT FORWARD 27 A NEED FOR FEMALE FINANCIAL PLANNERS 29 FINANCE & STEWARDSHIP 31 KUDOS

35 RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT 37 FUNDRAISING HIGHLIGHTS 38 DONOR HONOR ROLL

($500-$999) Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Leslie Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Nelson Kenneth & Barbara Puzycki

CONTRIBUTING LEVEL ($100-$499)

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Bacha Robert Beauchamp & Catrina Beauchamp Jeffery Bigelow & Stephanie Bigelow Dr. Brian Blume* Mr. & Mrs. Ryburn Brown Archie Canterbury & Robin Canterbury Mr. & Mrs. Robert Catton Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Caughlin Dr. & Mrs. William Crittenden Jose Sanchez & Francine Cullari* DTE Energy Foundation Kathy Elsworth John Emmendorfer, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. John Fain Sr. David Fairman Gordon Fleming Dr. Richard Fortner* David Greiner Debra Handa RaShonda Harris Mr. & Mrs. Clifford Hart* Teresa Irland-Munley & Michael Munley* Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Kimball Mr. & Mrs. Kim Knag Mr. & Mrs. Steven Kramer Heidi Lund* Anthony Macksoud & Linda White-Macksoud Lisa Maiz & Richard Maiz Dr. & Mrs. John Marquardt* Vivek Mehta Richard Merrill & Kathleen Merrill Brad Mikus Jane Munsell & Shawn Munsell Juliet Murphy N. Goldsworthy PLC Plante & Moran Patricia Post Daniel J. Quigley & Sarah Quigley James Rau Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Reynolds Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ringler Glenda Robb Stephen Schiestel & Melissa Schiestel Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Scott Jr. David Seitz Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Shannon

*Denotes faculty, staff, or an advisory board member of SOM

Kathleen Sheehy Catherine Sluys Mr. & Mrs. Mark Smith Melissa Stephens-Farrell* & Edward Farrell III Robert Stork Mr. & Mrs. John Sullivan Mr. & Mrs. Steven Sullivant James Terry III The Shannon Family Trust Robin Walter Mr. & Mrs. Marc Warner Mr. & Mrs. Russell Yurk

DONOR LEVEL (Up to $99)

Bryan Baker III & Kimberly Baker Steven Bartunek Matthew Bohlen & Jessica Bohlen Anthony Caldwell Andrew Chapo Carrie Church & Jody Church Louis Ciccone Ruby Clark Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Collins Megan Dantzler Sharyl Demo Kirk Drennan Mr. & Mrs. Arnold Force Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Furey Charles Gearing Mark Govaere Carl Gretzinger James E. Mitchell Revocable Living Trust Mr. & Mrs. James Klobuchar Kustom Financial LLC Sharon Leaman-Case & David Case Frank Lloyd James Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Ouellette Mr. & Mrs. David Peterfi Michael Shegos & Bernice Shegos Charles Smith Sheila Smith* Mr. & Mrs. Michael Stetson Jenn Swank & Charles Swank Anna Swartz* Kathleen Wendling Alan Wilson

FUNDRAISING HIGHLIGHTS

Dear friends, Thanks to your generosity, the School of Management raised over $300,000 this past academic year—with roughly 87 percent directly supporting students through academic and study abroad scholarships. It’s the fruit of your gifts that inspire many of the stories featured in this issue of Business@UM-Flint.

While the three-year Victors for Michigan campaign comes to a close in December, we want to remind you that our students’ need continues. Over 70 percent of UMFlint students receive some form of financial aid; many have to put their degrees on hold because they run out of aid. Your gifts, both large and small, help students continue their education and our ability to create meaningful opportunities that will transform them into successful members of our local and business communities.

As you read through this issue, be inspired by the way students, alumni, faculty, staff, community partners, and donors are contributing to the success of the nearly 1,000 students in SOM, as well as those from other disciplines across campus. We welcome you to consider how you can do the same.

Melissa Stephens-Farrell Major Gifts Officer, University Advancement

If you would like to explore opportunities to support the School of Management, feel free to contact me directly by calling (810) 424-5480 or emailing msfarrel@ umflint.edu.

Thank you and always--GO BLUE!

u DEAN’S MESSAGE Dear alumni and friends of the School of Management: Welcome to the 2018 edition of Business@UM-Flint. We offer this magazine as a way to keep you informed of the many fine activities, initiatives, and accomplishments of our talented students, faculty, staff, and alumni. I take tremendous pride in serving as dean.

We deliver innovative, high-quality educational programs in business, create intellectual contributions that impact both business theory and practice, meaningfully engage our local and global communities, and demonstrate the highest integrity and ethics in all that we do.

As you peruse the magazine, you will notice we are offering more interdisciplinary programs. Disciplines evolve, and the marketplace demands broad skills. The marriage of healthcare expertise and business prowess, for example, will give students the needed skillset to help them navigate the rapidly changing healthcare industry. In addition, the School of Management continues to expand experiential learning through internships with close collaboration with our business partners in the region.

You will read about outstanding alumni, donors, faculty members, staff members, and students. I cannot describe all the wonderful achievements in this short welcome, but simply encourage you to read these stories. It is the people that make an organization effective in its work. I am continually amazed at the many wonderful people connected to the School of Management that continue to make us a leader in preparing students to make positive contributions to organizations, society, and the world.

Melissa Stephens-Farrell P.S. You can also make a gift through the School of Management website at umflint.edu/som by clicking on the “give online” button.

Scott D. Johnson Dean of School of Management

Thank you for your continued support and GO BLUE! Sincerely,

Fundraising Highlights Scott D. Johnson, PhD Dean

63%

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

24%

$309,215

STUDY ABROAD STUDENT SUPPORT

9.6%

TOTAL GIFTS RAISED AND PLEDGED FOR 2017-18

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES/EXCELLENCE FUND

2%

The School of Management is located on the second floor of the Riverfront Center on the University of Michigan-Flint campus.

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FACULTY SUPPORT

1.4%

STUDENT PROGRAM SUPPORT

Total market value of the School of Management’s endowed gift funds: 2014

$1,420,516

2015

$3,570,062

2016

$3,489,608

2017

$4,658,142

2018

$5,060,296

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

u ANNIE SURI MBA ’14, BBA ’06

White, G., Hemphill, T., Weber, T. & Moghaddam, K., 2017. Institutional origins of WOFS formal contracting: A judicial arbitrariness perspective, International Business Review, 27: 654-668.

Li, W. 2017. Solution attractor of local search system for the traveling salesman problem, Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics Conference on Optimization, Vancouver, Canada.

White, G., Boddewyn, J., Rajwani, T. & Hemphill, T. 2018. Political ties and regulator vulnerabilities to political pressure: The moderating effects of regulatory and political distance, Management International Review, forthcoming.

Li, W. 2017. Solution attractor of local search system, Conference of International Federation of Operational Research Societies, Quebec City, Canada.

Witt, M., Helmuth, J., Halpin, B. & Vandeberg, N. 2018. International economic development efforts and small and medium enterprises, Oxford Bibliographies in Management, Oxford University Press: Oxford.

MARKET OPERATIONS ANALYST THE NATIONAL CHAMBER PROGRAM (DETROIT)

CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

ALUMNA SERVES AS MARKET OPERATIONS ANALYST FOR THE LARGEST CHAMBER AFFINITY PROGRAM IN THE US

Ahmed, U., Shafiq, A. & Mahmoodi, F. 2017. The relational implications of supply chain analytics capability, DSI Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C.

Over the past two centuries, chambers of commerce have become the core networks for business owners to advocate on behalf of their communities, economic prosperity, and business interests. The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives estimates 4,000 of these networks in towns and cities across the US with at least one full-time staff person and thousands more established as volunteer entities.

Suri came to The National Chamber Program with experience as assistant marketing manager for Gibbs Sports Amphibians in Auburn Hills. She was part of the team that stood behind the international launch of the world’s first high-speed amphibious vehicle—the Quadski. She worked at the power sports company while pursuing her MBA at UM-Flint.

Banerjee, S., Xu, S. & Johnson, S. 2018. How does location based marketing affect mobile retail revenues? The complex interplay of tactic, device and user type, Global Marketing Conference, Tokyo, Japan.

“I was part of an intimate team that successfully developed and launched two world-class products in the two years I was with the company,” said Suri. “I consider it a great accomplishment to not only break glass ceilings in a male-dominated industry but to also have the opportunity to be part of the introduction of a brand new industry to the world. And, I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to enjoy such a successful career while pursuing my educational goals. This was only possible through the flexibility of the NetPlus! program.”

Uner, M., Cavusgil, E. & Cavusgil, S. 2017. BOT (Build, Operate, Transfer) projects in international marketing? A resilient entry mode strategy with new twists: The case of Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge in Istanbul, CIMaR, Florence, Italy.

Annie Suri (MBA ’14, BBA ’06) is a market operations analyst for The National Chamber Program, an organization of 1,500 chambers of commerce working together to “deliver greater member value through innovative products and services.”

A subsidiary of the Detroit Regional Chamber, The National Chamber Program partners with other chambers of commerce across the county to offer discounts, earning opportunities, and business education. It is the largest chamber affinity program in the country.

As market operations analyst, Suri serves as project lead in development and execution of National Chamber Program initiatives. She manages customer activity to establish a greater market presence and increase revenue. She’s also involved with implementing onboarding procedures, planning events, and communicating with external audiences. In her role, she focuses on providing an analysis of branding and outreach initiatives by identifying opportunities for improvement.

“The position is quite exciting and diverse,” said Suri. “With so many partners, I have a heavy hand in developing new business methods for our organization.”

‘‘

Growing up in Canton, Suri was surrounded by mentors in the business field, including her father. Watching them helped to hone her critical thinking skills. She studied business in college because she was attracted to “the unlimited possibilities and industries that a business degree could bring.”

“I can’t tell you how many doors have opened for me when I mention that I’m a School of Management alum,” said Suri. “I always dreamed big but was never prepared for the blessings and opportunities that have come my way. I’m truly proud to be part of the U of M family.”

I can’t tell you how many doors have opened for me when I mention that I’m a School of Management alum.

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

’’

Banerjee, S., & Sultan, F. 2017. Solitary or sociable? Segmenting mobile micro-moments with social media geoforensics, Marketing Edge, New Orleans, LA.

Blume, B., Ford, J., Surface, E. & Olenick, J. 2017. How do leader-member exchange and leader identification differentially mediate leadership effects?, Academy of Management, Atlanta, GA.

Johnson, S. 2018. Global Trends and Topics and Business Education, International Conference on Global Business and Commerce, Taipei, Taiwan.

Kandogan, Y. & Hiller, J. 2017. Partner selection in economic integration agreements: The role of alliances in international organizations, Academy of International Business Annual Meeting, Dubai, UAE. Kang, M. J., Liao, Q. & Kim, Y. 2017. Do bankers on the board reduce crash risk, Financial Management Association European Conference, Lisbon, Portugal.

Kang, M. J., Liao, Q. & Kim, Y. 2017. Do bankers on the board reduce crash risk, World Finance Conference, Cagliari, Italy.

Kim, Y., Kang, M. J., Jung, H. & Kim, D. 2017. Predicting North Korean aggressions using foreign short sales and media tone, Financial Management Association Conference, Boston, MA. Kartha, C. P. 2018. Impact of ISO 9001 certification on organizational effectiveness, International Business Horizon Conference, New Delhi, India.

Kelley, K., Hemphill, T. & Thams, Y. 2018. Corporate social responsibility, country reputation, and firm reputation: A perspective on the creation of shared value in emerging Latin American markets, Academy of International Business Annual Conference, Minneapolis, MN. Kelley, K. & Kandogan, Y. 2018. Should I stay or should I go? The effect of country reputation on young business professionals’ willingness to relocate internationally, Academy of International Business Annual Meeting, Minneapolis, MN. Laurence, G. & Moore, Y. 2017. Developing a theory of workplace soundscapes, European Congress of Psychology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Li, W., 2017. Attractor-based search system for the traveling salesman problem, International Conference on Learning and Intelligent Optimization, Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Fed.

Lotfi, V. & Maki, B. 2018. A predictive model for graduate application to enrollment, NAGAP Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA. Moreland, K. 2017. The impact of CPAs’ financial advice on financial behaviors, American Accounting Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA. Perera, S. 2018. New trends in supply chain and operations management. MERCon, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Perera, S. 2018. A little speed-customization goes a long way: Imminent delivery networks on online retailers, INFORMS International Meeting, Taipei, Taiwan.

Perera, S. 2018. Optimizing starvation to avoid cannibalization: Retailer’s strategies for markets in crisis, POMS Annual Conference, Houston, TX. Simon, M. 2018. Crowdfunding to support social entrepreneurship: A multi-method approach, Academy of Management, Chicago, IL. Chen, T., Simon, M., Qian, H. & Kim, J. 2017. Money buys time, really? A contingency view of TMT-CEO pay gap and competitive response speed, Academy of Management, Atlanta, GA. Chen, T., Simon, M., Qian, H. & Kim, J. 2018. Money buys time, really? A contingency view of TMT-CEO pay gap and competitive response speed, IACMR, Wuhan, China.

Simon, M. & Kim, J. 2017. Refining the business model canvas to increase venture formation, Western Academy of Management, Salt lake City, UT. White, G., Hemphill, T., Boddewyn, J. & Rajwani, T. 2017. Legal systems voids and wholly owned foreign subsidiary performance: The mediating role of political ties as nonmarket Assets, Academy of International Business Annual Conference, Minneapolis, MN. Xu, S. & Cavusgil, E. 2018. Alliance portfolio configuration, knowledge development, and innovation: Theoretical framework and empirical evidence, Global Marketing Conference, Tokyo, Japan.

RESEARCH INSIGHTS SOM faculty recognize that profound changes in today’s dynamic business environment and related fields continue to transform the discipline. Through meaningful research initiatives, SOM faculty are meeting the business world’s needs by providing knowledge and offering their skills to organizations, society, and the world.

From 2013 to 2017, SOM faculty had 157 peer-reviewed journal publications, including 68 articles in journals that are considered high quality by the Journal Citation Reports and discipline-specific listings. The average yearly impact factor (frequency an article has been cited) of faculty publications over the 2013-17 period also continues to grow. According to Google Scholar, over the last five years SOM faculty research was referred to in 6,995 other peerreviewed journal publications. They have also presented their findings at leading universities around the world and received external grants to support their work.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

REFEREED JOURNALS IN PRINT Ahmed, U., Kristal, M, Pagell, P. & Gattiker, T., 2017. Towards a classification of supply chain relationships: A routine based perspective, Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, 22(4): 341-374.

Banerjee, S., Dholakia, R.R. & Dholakia N., 2017. M-Powering Marketing in a Mobile World, Business Expert Press: New York.

Rybarczyk, G., Szymanski, M., Banerjee, S. & Shaker R., 2018. Travel and us: The impact of mode share on sentiment using geo-social media and geographic information systems, Journal of Location Based Services, 12(1): 40-62.

Poddar, A., Banerjee, S. & Sridhar, K., 2018. False advertising or slander?

Using location based tweets to assess online rating-reliability, Journal of Business Research, forthcoming.

Banerjee, S., Hemphill, T. & Longstreet, P., 2018. Wearable devices and healthcare: Data sharing and privacy, The Information Society: An International Journal, 34(1): 49-57.

Blume, B., Ford, J., Surface, E. & Olenick, J., 2018. A dynamic model of training transfer, Human Resource Management Review, forthcoming.

Cavusgil, S. T., Deligonul, S., Kardes, I. & Cavusgil, E., 2018. Middleclass consumers in emerging markets: Conceptualization, propositions, and implications for international marketers, Journal of International Marketing, forthcoming.

Jancenelle, V., Javalgi, R. & Cavusgil, E., 2018. The role of economic and normative signals in international prosocial crowdfunding: An illustration using market orientation and psychological capital, International Business Review, 27(1): 208-217.

Uner, M., Cavusgil, E. & Cavusgil, S., 2018. Build-Operate-Transfer projects as a hybrid mode of market entry: The case of Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge in Istanbul, International Business Review, 27(4): 797-802.

Yao, Q., Shi, L., Stottinger B & Cavusgil, E., 2018. Neither an authentic product nor a counterfeit: The growing popularity of Shanzhai products in global markets, Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences, forthcoming.

Jones, K., Chen, C. & Moreland, K., 2017. How online learning compares to the traditional classroom: Measuring accounting course outcome, The CPA Journal Chen, C., Jones, K. & Xu, S., 2018. The Association between students’ style of learning preferences, social presence, collaborative learning and learning outcomes, Journal of Educators Online, 15(1), 1-16.

Fortsch, S. & Perera, S., 2018. A resilient donor arrival policy for blood, Operations Research For Health Care, forthcoming.

Fortsch, S. & Liao, Q. 2018. Decreasing operational costs of nonprofit community-based blood centers. International Journal of Business and Systems Research, forthcoming.

Fortsch, S. & Khapalova, E., 2018. The value of inventory and the direction of the supply chain bullwhip effect, International Journal of Business and Systems Research, forthcoming.

Hemphill, T. & Laurence, G., 2018. Employee social responsibility: A missing component in the ISO 26000 social responsibility standard, Business and Society Review, 123(1): 59-81.

Hemphill, T. & White, G., 2018. Multinational enterprises, employee safety, and the socially responsible supply chain: The case of Bangladesh and the apparel industry, Business and Society Review, forthcoming.

Kandogan, Y. & Hiller, J., 2018. Alliances in international governmental organizations, regional trade agreement formation and multinational enterprise regionalization strategy, Journal of International Business Studies, forthcoming.

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MAIZE AND BLUE DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR AWARD

Kandogan, Y., 2018. Topological properties of the international trade network using modified measures, International Trade Journal, 32(3): 268-292.

Kandogan, Y., 2018. What do managers look for in candidates for international assignments?, Thunderbird International Business Review, forthcoming.

Johnson, M., Kang, M. J. & Lawson, T., 2017. Stock price reaction to data breaches, Journal of Finance Issues, 16(2), 1-13.

Kelley, K., Hemphill, T. & Thams, Y., 2018. Corporate social responsibility, country reputation, and corporate reputation: A perspective on the creation of shared value in Latin America and emerging markets, Multinational Business Review, forthcoming.

The Maize and Blue Distinguished Scholar Award is the highest academic award bestowed upon graduates of the University of Michigan-Flint and presented to no more than 13 graduates at the December and April commencement ceremonies. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.75 and demonstrate intellectual maturity and depth, character, talent, and service to the department, university, or community.

Thams, Y., Kelley, K. & Von Glinow, M., 2018. Foreigners in the boardroom: The Impact of firms’ local socio-cultural context, Journal of Business Research, forthcoming.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT MAIZE AND BLUE AWARD WINNERS!

Kelley, K. & Thams, Y., 2018. Global reputation management: Understanding and managing reputation as shared value across borders, Research in Global Strategic Management Global Aspects of Reputation and Strategic Management, Volume 18.

December 2017 Ashley M. Chapman - Bachelor of Business Administration Ariees T. Spangler - Bachelor of Business Administration

Li, J., Furst-Holloway, S., Gales, L., Masterson, S. & Blume, B., 2018.

Leader-Member exchange and leader identification: Comparison and integration, Journal of Managerial Psychology, forthcoming.

April 2018 Olivia Norfolk - Bachelor of Business Administration

Alvarado-Vargas, M. & Kelley, K., 2018. Bullwhip severity in conditions of uncertainty: Regional versus global supply chain strategies, International Journal of Emerging Markets, forthcoming.

Li, J., Laurence, G. & Blume, B., 2018. How does supervisor-focused procedural justice explain the effects of person-focused leadership?

The moderating role of leader-referenced relational-self, European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 27(3): 387-399.

Li, R., Chen, C. & Jones, K., 2018. What to do with math error notices from the IRS, Journal of Accountancy Li, W., 2018. Solution attractor of local search systems: Theory and application, Advances in Mathematics Research, forthcoming.

Longstreet, P. & Brooks, S., 2017. Life satisfaction: A key to managing internet & social media addiction, Technology in Society, 50: 73-77.

Brooks, S., Longstreet, P. & Califf, C. 2017. Social media induced technostress and its impact on internet addiction: A distraction-conflict theory perspective, AIS Transactions on Human-Computer Interaction, 9(2): 99-122.

Lotfi, V., Maki, B., 2018. A predictive model for graduate application to enrollment, Open Access Library Journal, forthcoming.

Mehdian, S., Stoica, O. & Ajayi, R. 2018. An empirical investigation of the dissemination of stock price innovations across the Nordic and Baltic Counties, Emerging Markets Finance and Trade, forthcoming.

Moreland, K., 2018. Financial advice and other desirable financial behaviors, Journal of Financial Counseling and Planning, forthcoming.

Perera, S. & Long, H., 2017. An approximation scheme for impulse control with random reaction periods, Operations Research Letters, 45(6): 585-591.

Perera, S., Janakiraman, G. & Niu, S., 2018. Optimality of (s,S) inventory policies under renewal demand and general cost structures, Production and Operations Management, 27(2): 368-383.

Tack, L., Simon, M. & Jiang, J., 2018. Global business brigades: A profitable pig in Panama?, Southeast Case Research Journal, forthcoming.

BETA GAMMA SIGMA Beta Gamma Sigma is the honor society that serves business programs accredited by AACSB International (the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). Membership in Beta Gamma Sigma is the highest recognition a business student in a program accredited by AACSB International can receive.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S BETA GAMMA SIGMA INDUCTEES: Jason Abbasspour

Christopher Godin

Sydney Parvin

Tyler Borkowski

Adham Habbas

Latonia Raines

Ashley Born

Tabitha Hill

Stacie Scherman

Ashley Chapman

Kirstin Knag

Heather Standal

Nicholas Chung

Xin Lin

Tom Tang

Valerio Crovasce

Nicholas Matthies

James Traxler

Raquel Davila

Michael McGahey

Michael Tupper

Erich Drettmann

Maxwell Montney

Michelle Van Elsacker

Shane Emmons

Eric Netkowski

Lanting Wei

Kelly Forster Ivy

Olivia Norfolk

Avadella White

White, G., Fainshmidt, S. & Rajwani, T., 2018. Antecedents and outcomes of political tie intensity: Institutional and strategic fit perspectives, Journal of International Management, 24(1), 1-15.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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THE VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS:

HOW STUDENTS AND EMPLOYERS

BENEFIT FROM THE EXPERIENCE Each year the National Association of Colleges and Employers conducts a survey to determine key attributes that employers seek on students’ resumes. Past responses identified a student’s major to be the deciding factor between two equally qualified candidates. This year’s Job Outlook reveals an even greater attribute than academic major—whether he or she has completed an internship. (Job Outlook 2018) “While internships are not required, faculty and staff encourage all students to participate in an internship prior to graduation,” said Antonio Riggs, who coordinates internships for the School of Management. “They are an important factor in our students’ academic learning experience. Through these opportunities, students increase their academic knowledge, network, and skills.

“And, students aren’t the only ones who profit. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship. Employers have access to a pool of highly motivated, bright students eager to do a good job.

They get to recruit personnel with specific skills in a costeffective way.”

u A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE Senior Austin McKenzie worked as an accounting intern at Genesee County 911 this past summer. He chose to major in accounting during his freshman year because he “liked numbers.” The following year, he decided to explore other career paths.

He operated a forklift at Dayton Freight, volunteered for the Swartz Creek Area Fire Department, and became a cadet through the Michigan State Police. These experiences helped McKenzie realize his dream job—Michigan State Police Trooper. He considered changing his major until the lieutenant in charge of all troopers in Genesee and Shiawassee County encouraged him to finish his degree in accounting.

“He explained that being a member of the department with a bachelor’s degree would allow me to promote faster,” said 5

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

shared more about his research. Our conversation led to the topic of this article that was published by the Journal of International Business Studies, a top-ranking academic journal in international business.”

Knowledge is power.

Experience is priceless.

Offering an internship is one of the most meaningful ways alumni and community partners can contribute to a student’s business education.

In their article, Kandogan and Hiller apply concepts from the alliance theories in political science to explain the formation of free trade areas. Over time, countries that develop alliances build trust, and the reduction in uncertainty makes the allies desirable locations for the operations of multinationals. As the reliability increases between allies, countries will sign a trade liberalization agreement to formalize this.

Such agreements increase wealth of countries involved (and countries prefer to increase the wealth of their allies rather than adversaries).

“We utilized this to gauge the strength alliances between countries to predict the free trade area formation,” Kandogan explained. “Given the strategic importance of being a first mover, we suggest that multinational companies watch for the alliance formations around the world. I think this is critical in the current political environment, as statements are being made and actions are taken by countries in the form of ‘war of words,’ trade wars, and retaliations impacting the reliability of partners in traditional alliances.”

McKenzie. “Specifically, a degree in business would give me an advantage if I wished to be promoted to lieutenant or higher, as they are heavily involved in budgeting and post spending. Also, federal agencies (FBI, CIA, DEA, and so forth) prefer to hire persons with a bachelor’s in something other than criminal justice. He then recommended that I get some real-world experience, and I began searching for ways to do so.”

About a week later, McKenzie heard that the Genesee County Dispatch Center was in need of an accountant. He applied and was hired as an accounts manager. The position allowed him to earn credits toward his degree through the accounting internship program. His “real world experience” taught him how to process payroll, manage accounts payable, manage accounts receivable, and produce financial statements. He even assisted in the writing of a request for proposal (RFP) for new computer aided dispatch software.

u L i, J., Laurence, G., & Blume, B., “How Does Supervisor-Focused Procedural Justice Explain the

Effects of Person-Focused Leadership? The Moderating Role of Leader-Referenced Relational-Self,” European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology.

While every person exhibits their own leadership style, each employee reacts to these particular styles in different ways. Some prefer a leader who takes a hands-on approach, providing clear direction, while others prefer a leader who is more hands off and allows employees to “do their own thing.” This article examines an aspect (or type) of leadership in which the leader acts in a sort of ‘parent-like way,’ exhibiting genuine and controlling care about employees’ well-being.

Jie Li, PhD

“UM-Flint helped me gain the skills and knowledge to put me in the position I am in today,” said McKenzie. “Courses were offered in ways that allowed me to simultaneously explore different career paths, find my dream job, and earn credits toward my degree.

“Now, after 21 months of college, I’ve completed 96 credit hours with a GPA of 3.87. I’m employed by three different agencies and started my own freelance bookkeeping service.

I have been very blessed thus far in my life and look forward to what the future holds for me.”

“We found that this was generally the case, but that engaging in these behaviors depended on how much employees identified with their leaders and to what extent employees adhered to more traditional value sets. This is particularly important for leaders who operate in cross-cultural environments where employees are likely to be from more traditionalist cultures (like, say, China, Japan, Korea…).”

Greg Laurence, PhD

u AN EMPLOYER’S PERSPECTIVE Local non-profit 100K Ideas doesn’t limit itself to one or two student interns a semester. In fact, the majority of the organization’s personnel are comprised of student specialists who work under the direction of professional mentors and leadership staff. Brandee Cooke oversees students as they bring entrepreneurial projects to life from inside the Ferris Wheel Building located in downtown Flint.

“100K Ideas was founded on the realization that there are 100,000 people in Flint; if we got one idea from each person, we could change the world,” explained Cooke, who earned a psychology degree from the University of Michigan. “Since November (2017), we’ve heard over 160 ideas. Seventy percent of have been for products, 20 percent have been

“We were interested in whether the decisions of leaders who behaved this way would be perceived as ‘fair,” and if employees responded by helping their supervisors in ways that exceeded their job descriptions,” said Greg Laurence, PhD, associate professor of management.

The study examined working professionals enrolled in a part-time MBA program at a large public university located in a major metropolitan area in west China. The participants were asked to complete a survey in which they rated their direct supervisors’ benevolent paternalistic leadership along with their own traditionality, leader identification, and SPJ. The supervisors rated the participants level of helping (willing to help colleagues solve work-related problems) and conscientiousness (takes one’s job seriously and rarely makes mistakes).

“Leaders’ understanding and influence on the followers’ level of leader identification will be especially important for organizations moving into other cultural contexts where the general level of traditionality might be expected to be lower than that of their home cultures,” said Brian Blume, PhD, professor of organizational behavior and HR management and interim associate director of the Hagerman Center.

“For instance, it may not be a good idea for a multinational corporation to send a benevolent paternalistic manager in China, without additional training, to lead a group of non-traditionalist professionals in New York City.”

Brian Blume, PhD

Laurence added, “When Dr. Li approached Dr. Blume and I about this project, it seemed like a nice way to mix our strengths and interests. I think there’s more collaborative research going on at UM-Flint SOM now than ever before, and it was nice for us to be able to work together and publish in a high quality journal like this one.”

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RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Students typically work 25 hours a week. Some are recruited via referral, while others learn about the organization at the Career Fair on the UM-Flint campus. The interview process allows Cooke to determine applicants’ potential to fit in with the team and work with the community. She is most impressed by students who do research prior to the interview, then follow her questions with questions of their own.

u B anerjee, S., Hemphill, T. & Longstreet, P., “Wearable Devices and Healthcare: Data Sharing and Privacy,” The Information Society: An International Journal, 34(1): 49-57.

Businesses regularly collect customer data to best serve customers. While the collection of personal data is meant to benefit customers, a wide variety of factors can also lead to exposure of such personal data in a manner that is beyond legal recourse for consumers. This research highlights the need to address policies that have become dated in the current internet and mobile device era.

Sy Banerjee, PhD

“When students are curious, it reveals a genuine interest in what we’re doing here in Flint,” said Cooke. “They see this experience as more than a resume builder. You can tell they have heart. You can teach students other aspects of a job, but you can’t teach that.”

“In this piece, we discuss health data collection, storage and transmission from wearable devices, how existing HIPAA laws are insufficient to protect consumers, and suggestions for regulatory changes,” said Syagnik Banerjee, PhD, associate professor of marketing.

“The key problems lie with the technological ability to capture new, unknown (and unprotected) types of personally identifiable data, and lifestyle tech and apparel companies being able to collect health related data that existing policy assumes only healthcare service providers could collect.”

While the impetus for this article was originally inspired by Banerjee’s research in the area of digital marketing, the topics of privacy, security, and technological innovation were of interest to several SOM faculty.

Thomas Hemphill, PhD

“Dr. Banerjee approached me about this topic, requesting my input concerning US regulatory policy,” said Thomas A. Hemphill, PhD, David M. French distinguished professor of strategy, innovation and public policy. “After accepting his invitation, he and I mutually decided that Dr. Longstreet, with his expertise in information system security, would be a welcome addition to completing the project team.

We had successfully worked in combination on other research projects.”

Phil Longstreet, PhD, assistant professor of management information systems, is a noted scholar in the intersection where business meets technology.

“In recent history, there have been numerous examples of security breaches involving financial data, breaches of personal data, and what some would consider malfeasance on the part of data holders in relation to what can be done with personal data,” said Longstreet. “Hopefully this research will be a stepping stone to show businesses how they can responsibly deal with personal data in the modern environment.”

Phil Longstreet, PhD

u K andogan, Y. & Hiller, J., “Alliances in International

Governmental Organizations, Regional Trade Agreement Formation and Multinational Enterprise Regionalization Strategy,” Journal of International Business Studies, 2018, 49(6), 729-742.

Interdisciplinary research has interested Yener Kandogan, PhD, professor of international business and associate dean of SOM, since the beginning of his academic career. He first realized the potential of incorporating knowledge and theories from other academic fields when he was introduced to an international trade estimation method developed by his doctoral thesis advisor at the University of Michigan. It relied on Newton’s Law of Gravity.

Yener Kandogan, PhD

“What was impressive is that a simple model that based on this law’s parameters (the mass and the distance in-between) was able to successfully explain more than 90 percent of the variation in international trade patterns, considering country sizes as the mass,” he explained. “Since then, I realized there is valuable knowledge that can be applied from other disciplines, and, if we talk to each other, (better yet, do research with each other), we can utilize each other’s theories and techniques to explain phenomena we encounter in our own disciplines.”

During a sabbatical leave in 2015, Kandogan visited Bergische Universität Wuppertal, a university in Germany, where he often interacted with other researchers. His office was across from doctoral students from other disciplines. There he met co-author, Jens Hiller, a political science scholar.

“I was working on another project, which was incidentally interdisciplinary too, borrowing from social network theories from sociology,” said Kandogan. “He and I started talking about the project, then he

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u INTERESTED IN OFFERING AN INTERNSHIP AT YOUR COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION?

100K student employees: (from left to right) Bradley Tomasek, Natalie Roland, Gabriel Stone and Teresa Walterhouse with Brandee Cooke (center). Photo: Mike Naddeo.

for services, and 10 percent have proposed new software or apps. It’s the work of our students that moves these ideas forward.”

Students from UM-Flint, U-M Ann Arbor, Western Michigan, Lawrence Tech, Kettering, and College for Creative Studies comprise the community of hobbyists, thinkers, and inventors tasked with the mission of “helping passionate innovators create products/services and startups of their own.” While students from other programs are involved with the engineering and industrial design aspects of proposed ideas, SOM students tend to take on leadership roles within 100K’s teams. They meet with clients, compile client binders (which involves benchmarking, patent/trademark services, market analysis, and identifying next steps), process work orders, and determine what other services an idea needs to evolve from concept to market.

“We treat our student interns as employees of our organization,” said Cooke. “They’re held to the same standards of an employee and expected to perform as such.

We do this to help prepare them for the next step in their professional careers.

Each semester, roughly 25 students approach Riggs about internships. Some are open to any kind of experience in their field, while others are seeking more specific opportunities.

“Recently, a couple students inquired about internships related to sports marketing,” said Riggs. “I’ve also met with a few international students seeking internship opportunities.

Few companies in our area will hire international students. I think if employers are better informed about our internship program, more opportunities for international students will become available in our area.”

Internships offered through SOM are paid opportunities.

Students work a minimum of 150 hours during a 15-week semester (averaging about 10 hours a week).

“We keep paperwork to a minimum in our program, but we do ask organizations to provide students with a safe learning environment, dedicated supervisor, and responsibilities that will allow them to apply what they are learning in class to the real world,” said Riggs.

If your company or organization is interested in offering an internship to SOM students, begin by emailing the job posting with application instructions to Antonio Riggs (anriggs@umflint.edu) or call him to discuss the opening at (810) 237-6680. The posting will be featured on Career Connection, UM-Flint’s career services website, for 30 days so students may review and submit resumes. Interviews can be done on campus or at your company or organization.

“And, even more important, they find fulfillment in the realization that they are playing a role in the revitalization of their community. It’s that passion we’re most interested in cultivating.”

STUDENT BENEFITS

EMPLOYER BENEFITS

u Competitive edge in the job market

u Specific skills for special projects

u Academic credit u Work experience and skills

uR ecruitment/mentoring opportunities for possible employment options after graduation

u Network of professional contacts

u Fresh perspectives

u Insight into the recruitment/hiring process

u Highly motivated, cost-effective personnel u Partnership with SOM and UM-Flint

Reference: naceweb.org/about-us/press/2017/the-key-attributes-employers-seek-on-students-resumes BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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NEWS

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

BRIEFS

CAMPUS-WIDE “A ZILLION SOLUTIONS” COMPETITION Last December, students from across the campus gathered for the A Zillion Solutions Awards Ceremony.

The event was held in the Northbank Center and hosted

by SOM and the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

Dean Scott D. Johnson, Nick Matthies (student, first recipient of the Stephen A. Whitener Scholarship for Innovators), Mark Simon (Director of Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation) and Stephen A. Whitener (BBA ’77; entrepreneur) celebrate innovation at the event.

The event celebrated the semester-long competition inviting UM-Flint students of all majors to express ideas, solutions, or innovations in a short video. These could be based on new mobile apps, university improvement, research ideas, business startups, or other solutions to common problems. During the ceremony, guests watched videos of ten category winners and had the opportunity to network over dinner with students, alumni, and members of Flint’s business community. A panel of distinguished judges deliberated on first and second place overall solutions, and guests voted for a “Fan Favorite” recipient.

ANESTHESIA STUDENT’S MEDICAL DEVICE IDEA WINS UM-FLINT BUSINESS PITCH COMPETITION

PHD

PROFESSOR OF MARKETING

When Erin Cavusgil walked across the stage to accept her chemical engineering degree from U-M Ann Arbor, she never envisioned a career as a marketing professor. In fact, she went on to earn a master’s degree in biomedical engineering and worked as a chemical engineer in the pharmaceutical industry before pursuing marketing as a PhD student at Michigan State University. What Cavusgil learned from these experiences has proven invaluable—to her and her students.

“Blending science and engineering with the business discipline (though I never planned it in advance) creates a wonderful synergy,” said Cavusgil, who was recently promoted to full professor of marketing in the School of Management. “So, when I discuss new product development, I can better explain the scientific as well marketing aspects of this company practice and connect the two worlds. I believe students appreciate this and probably gain deeper understanding of the subject matter.

“I always felt fortunate to have had some industry background.

My work as a practitioner taught me many life skills. I strive to share my work experiences, offer many industry illustrations, and give the students a realistic expectation of what it takes to do well in business.

Nurse Anesthesia student Jason Flowers took home first place in the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Business Pitch Competition, a UM-Flint event which is run by the center and the School of Management. The competition is open to students from all disciplines.

“Similarly, my previous work experience in the pharmaceutical industry helps to guide my research. Such experience has helped me identify which research questions are important to practitioners. The pharmaceutical industry is very unique in many ways: pricing, promotion, the product life cycle—these are fascinating topics.”

Flowers’ winning pitch was for a minimally invasive, expandable endo-tracheal tube (MieT Tube). His pitch described the problem (that endotracheal tubes are not tailored to a patient’s individual needs/size), the provisionally patented technology, the implementation of that technology in anesthesia/respiratory equipment, and a business plan to develop a marketable product/IP. As his prize, Flowers received $5,000 plus a range of free consultations.

Since becoming an assistant professor in 2008, Cavusgil has taught undergraduate and graduate courses for SOM. She frequently teaches Principles of Marketing, International Marketing, and Retail Management—her favorite.

“This competition really helped me to look past an interesting idea as the object and see that for my idea to be successful more was needed,” said Flowers.

“It moved me to do a huge amount of research, seek out mentors in various fields, utilize outside expertise, and to see the need for a cogent business plan to keep heading in the right direction. Without the competition I would be nowhere near forming a business, provisional patenting, or meeting with investors (milestones that I have, or will soon have, achieved).”

u ERIN CAVUSGIL

Nurse Anesthesia student Jason Flowers won UM-Flint’s recent Business Pitch Competition with his idea for a device to improve anesthesia/respiratory procedures.

“The retail environment is so dynamic!” Cavusgil exclaimed.

“Specifically, advances in technology as well as the growing popularity of online shopping have significantly impacted retailers. There is no shortage of fun and interesting knowledge to share with my students.

“In all of my classes, I try to help students prepare themselves for the ‘real world’ as best as they can. While I’d like my students to have a basic understanding of marketing principles, it’s even more important for them to improve their problem solving and communication skills. Teamwork is important too.

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“It always delights me when I hear from a former student who writes and comments that he/she is applying knowledge/skills from my course(s) in his/her job. Being able to impact student success and help our distinguished, talented faculty elevate the reputation of the School of Management is what I find most rewarding.”

Cavusgil’s research has been published in the Journal of Product Innovation Management, the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Sciences, the Journal of International Marketing, International Business Review, and the Journal of Business Research among other publications. An article she wrote for the Journal of Marketing Theory and Practice was recognized as one of the top 20 cited articles from that journal over the past decade. In Cavusgil’s promotion recommendation (submitted to the U-M Regents), one reviewer commented that her impressive record places her in the top 10 percent of all marketing scholars and the top 5 percent of international business scholars. Several other comments praising Cavusgil led to her promotion as full professor with tenure (approved May 2018).

“It’s nice when one is recognized by peers,” said Cavusgil. “It also serves as validation that your efforts and hard work matter. I feel re-energized to continue to work hard and do my best— in the classroom, in the academic community, in the literature, and in advancing business practice. Being promoted to full professor also implies that one reaches out to junior colleagues and assists with their career advancement. I enjoy doing that.”

In addition to her teaching and research, Cavusgil participates in American Marketing Association (AMA) conferences. Over the last four years, she has served as a workshop leader for the International Marketing session of the Faculty Development in International Business pedagogy workshop sponsored by Georgia State University, which she considers a wonderful opportunity to share best practices in teaching with other educators. In her spare time, Cavusgil enjoys working out, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

“I am pleased and proud to be a member of the faculty at SOM,” she said. “We have an outstanding faculty who try their best to make an impact. We try to motivate and inspire each other. I also like the smaller, family environment of UM-Flint where you have the opportunity to get to know faculty in other disciplines.

This is a great place to be!”

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KUDOS

ERIN CAVUSGIL PHD PROFESSOR OF MARKETING Erin Cavusgil, PhD, was recently promoted to professor of marketing with tenure. She joined the SOM faculty in 2008, and holds a BS in chemical engineering from the University of Michigan, an MS in biomedical engineering from the University of Minnesota, and a PhD in marketing from Michigan State University.

She spent over three years working in the pharmaceutical industry as a chemical engineer.

Cavusgil teaches courses in principles of marketing, retail management, and international marketing. Her main research interests include new product development and international marketing. Her research has been published in the Journal of Product Innovation Management, the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Sciences, the Journal of International Marketing, International Business Review, and the Journal of Business Research, among others.

THOMAS A. HEMPHILL PHD PROFESSOR OF STRATEGY, INNOVATION AND PUBLIC POLICY Thomas A. Hemphill, PhD, professor of strategy, innovation and public policy, was recently appointed as a David M. French Professor by the University of Michigan Board of Regents. This distinguished professorship honors faculty who have attained national or international recognition for continuous scholarly achievement, teaching excellence, and recognized breadth of interest.

Hemphill joined the SOM faculty in 2005. He teaches graduate courses in nonmarket strategy and strategic innovation management, as well as undergraduate courses in corporate and business strategy, business and society, and innovation management. His research areas include strategic management of technology and innovation, technology and innovation policy, business governance and ethics, and global business and international political economy. In addition to his scholarly work, Hemphill has published editorial opinion pieces in The Wall Street Journal, U.S. News & World Report, and other respected publications.

SEYED MEHDIAN PHD PROFESSOR OF FINANCE Seyed Mehdian, PhD, professor of finance in UM-Flint’s School of Management, has received a Fulbright award to conduct research in Romania. This is the fourth time he has received a Fulbright award. Mehdian joined UM-Flint in 1999, and received other Fulbright awards in 2007, 2008, and 2012. He has frequently visited Romania to study and carry out research projects, which has helped build connections between universities there and UM-Flint.

Mehdian will utilize this grant during his sabbatical in Winter 2019. He will conduct research on the areas of diffusion and transmission of information across financial markets, study the behavior of investors, and measure the performance of financial institutions.

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NEWS

&

BRIEFS

FERRIS WHEEL BUILDING RIBBON CUTTING CREATES NEW OPPORTUNITIES Last fall’s ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Ferris Wheel Building in downtown Flint, the onetime home of Ferris Furs, heralds the launch of several related startups and economic development initiatives.

The Ferris Wheel is a project of SkyPoint Ventures, the venture capital firm spearheaded by Phil and Jocelyn Hagerman. In 2015, the Hagermans established the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation within UM-Flint’s School of Management.

UM-Flint has been involved in the Ferris Wheel project from the beginning, financing the feasibility study for the original concept and helping to bring together various stakeholders. As part of the ribbonGovernor Snyder and Lt. Governor Calley join UM-Flint’s Chancellor cutting ceremony, UM-Flint’s Innovation Incubator Susan E. Borrego and University Outreach staff members to cut ribbon at Ferris Wheel Building.

[IN] and EDA University Center for Community and Economic Development opened offices on the second floor of the Ferris Wheel Building, where staff and students will assist entrepreneurs.

The Innovation Incubator and EDA University Center for Community and Economic Development are coordinated by UM-Flint’s Office of University Outreach. Interim director of University Outreach Paula Nas is enthusiastic about the possibilities afforded by their new space in the Ferris Wheel Building and complementary missions of the organizations that make up its unique, collaborative environment.

Nas said, “This is a great opportunity for UM-Flint students, faculty, and staff, as well as our community partners, to further expand our partnerships in the innovation ecosystem through our on-site business assistance, workshops, special events, and seminars spanning the curriculum.”

ENTREPRENEURS SOCIETY CONTINUES WINNING TRADITION Members of the University of Michigan-Flint’s Entrepreneurs Society brought back a national award, second place for cross campus involvement, from the annual College Entrepreneurship Organization conference held in Tampa. Judges were impressed that membership of the Society included students across several disciplines.

The interdisciplinary membership of the Entrepreneurs Society allows members with various skillsets to connect with each other, said Ashley Hardacre, the group’s marketing director.

“We have people interested in biochemistry, engineering, art, and more,” Hardacre said.

“We are not just business oriented.”

This year, the Entrepreneurs Society celebrates its 10-year anniversary. It was founded

by Michael Witt, PharmD, JD, lecturer of business law and management and Entrepreneurin-Residence, to introduce students to the world of business. Members act as resources for each other “to create a powerful collaborative environment that empowers students.” They are active in the business community citywide and beyond, hosting and attending events that improve the community.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

‘‘

Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?

u ZIAD LAJNEF BBA/MBA ’03

AUDIT DIRECTOR FOR THE AMERICAS GENERAL MOTORS (DETROIT)

FORMER CHEF NOW OVERSEES GM’S AUDIT PLANS ON TWO CONTINENTS While it’s the lure of “number crunching” that calls some to the field of accounting, others eventually find themselves there as they pursue different passions.

Ziad Lajnef (BBA/MBA ’03) is a chef at heart. He dropped out of engineering school twice to pursue a career in culinary arts.

Then a car accident in 1998 changed everything.

“I was in an accident that damaged my left hand, so I needed to go back to school and graduate,” said Lajnef, who grew up in Tunisia then attended schools in Germany and the US. “Business was attractive, since I did not like engineering, and it complemented my experience as a chef. I spent most of my career either turning around restaurants that were in financial trouble or launching new restaurants from concept to operations. Business became my second career.”

Lajnef was accepted into a program offered by the School of Management that allowed him to complete both a BBA and MBA over a span of four years. He excelled in his courses. His GPA and experience earned him UM-Flint’s prestigious Maize and Blue Scholar Award, and he was selected as the student speaker at graduation.

What Lajnef appreciated most about his experiences in SOM were the faculty and the opportunity to travel abroad.

“My professors and mentors, Mark Perry and Keith Moreland, inspired me to give back and serve as a mentor to others,” said Lajnef. “The opportunity to develop and mentor talent is what I enjoy most about my career today.”

“I also participated in a trip to Russia in 2002, which was a tremendous experience,” he said. “We studied at the Business Academy of Togliatti Russia, and visited the GM plant in Togliatti, and the GM headquarters in Moscow. Interestingly, I’ve returned to those GM locations on business trips while on assignment in Europe.”

After graduation, Lajnef landed a position as a senior auditor at Deloitte, then moved on to Ernst & Young before being hired

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into General Motors in 2007. Since then, he has worked his way up from senior auditor to director of internal audit (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) to internal audit director (The Americas).

In this position, he is responsible for the yearly risk assessment and execution of the audit plan for North and South America.

“I recently completed two overseas assignments: one in Sao Paulo, Brazil, leading the South American internal audit, and one in Frankfurt, Germany, leading the European internal audit,” said Lajnef. “I speak seven languages fluently (Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Arabic, English and Spanish), which has helped me build trust and lasting relationships with local leaders and management as I travel abroad.

“These experiences have also taught me how important it is to do your homework when you interact with people from different cultures. It helps you understand what motivates them. We often make the assumption that what works here is automatically transferable elsewhere. Speaking the language is important, but it’s not enough. Understanding and respecting other cultures is critical to success.”

Before pursuing business as a second career, Lajnef enjoyed a 12-year career as an executive chef. He worked in cities in Europe as well as Flint (Danny’s restaurant and Café Panache), Detroit, and Ann Arbor. Two fundraisers he did for the Flint Institute of Arts are among his most memorable experiences.

“One involved recreating the food that was served in the movie Big Night,” explained Lajnef. “The other was an eight-course meal (inspired by Michelangelo’s biography The Agony and the Ecstasy) served in honor of the curator of the Vatican who was visiting Flint to lecture about Michelangelo’s art.”

In his spare time, Lajnef enjoys spending time with his daughter (born one month after graduation) and looks forward to opportunities to be more engaged with UM-Flint.

’’

- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., from Strength to Love

“Through their example, faculty also demonstrated how to develop professional relationships. They were always helpful, and they paid special attention to each student. On several occasions, I saw professors out in the community. They often greeted me by name! This always shocked me, and it taught me how to connect with people in small ways.

“At OLV, we have a passion for people and giving back to the communities that helped shape us into who we are today. UMFlint was that for me, and I want to help other students have those same opportunities. That’s why I initiated a scholarship for students in Flint and Genesee County studying business and finance at the university.”

Each year, the Oliver, LaGore, VanValin Investment Group Scholarship is awarded to a student who demonstrates financial need along with the leadership qualities of character and integrity. Beyond academics, he/she must exhibit a passion for community and seek out opportunities to give back within his or her sphere of influence.

VanValin also partnered with SOM to begin offering student internships. This year’s intern was Muhammad Ammar. OLV offered him valuable experience in management research, money management input, building reports, and putting together workbooks.

“Ammar was a great value to us,” said VanValin. “He often asked insightful questions during meetings with clients and played a role in client-advisor relationships.”

While scholarships and internship opportunities have helped students at UM-Flint, VanValin envisions ways OLV can impact others on a global level. He is actively seeking partnerships with other organizations around the world to create opportunities for young adults from poverty stricken environments.

“Through business initiatives (like financial planning), we’d like to help these young people build and sustain thriving communities in areas where opportunities do not often exist,” he explained. “This may seem ambitious, but with God all things are possible. I, along with the team at OLV, will be working hard to achieve these goals and share the blessings we’ve received.”

Jesse VanValin, OLV’s chief investment officer and president of asset management, uses his career in finance to impact the lives of clients, colleagues, students, and others he’s never even met.

“Working with kids is always an inspiration,” said VanValin. “We have the ability to love, guide, and leave an impact through the investment of our time, energy, and resources.

“Church and family are very important parts of my life. The older I get, the harder I work to keep these priorities straight. God as my core, family, work, and play radiating from there. I try to keep my priorities in this order, and I find that life is best when I do.”

In addition to the OLV scholarship, the firm also offers internships. This year’s intern was Muhammad Ammar, an international student and junior majoring in finance. He originally planned to intern for 100 hours, but OLV helped him achieve 250 hours (6 credits) in that same period of time.

“There is so much I could say about OLV,” said Ammar. “My experience was great. I not only learned about finance and economics, but also about the American way of business, work ethic, and much more. The biggest eye-opener for me was to see how a business could be involved in many other things such as charitable and social work. It was not only for profit.

“Every single person at OLV helped me at some point. It was a very friendly environment. There was genuine care for one another, and I am extremely happy to be a part of their team. I hope to keep OLV involved with UM-Flint as this relationship benefits our campus.”

Outside of his career at OLV, VanValin mentors children in inner city Flint, teaches classes at his church (Bethany Baptist Church in Grand Blanc), and enjoys spending time with his wife (of 15 years), their three daughters (ages 7, 8, and 10) and the family’s pet, Cooper.

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FINANCE & STEWARDSHIP: Investing in the Future Within each of us burns the desire and capacity to give of ourselves. While a connection between finance and stewardship may not seem obvious, the Oliver, LaGore, VanValin (OLV) Investment Group is helping clients leave a legacy of love in their communities and throughout the world through their practice of wealth management.

Jesse VanValin (BBA ‘05), OLV’s chief investment officer and president of asset management, has learned that there’s more than one way to answer life’s “most persistent and urgent question.” Through gifts of time, talent, and treasure, VanValin impacts the lives of clients, colleagues, students, and others he’s never even met.

“Although the finance industry tends to not focus on unity and generosity, OLV seeks opportunities to be generous with what we’ve been blessed with and to build a culture that’s focused on others and not as much on ourselves,” he said.

“It’s rewarding to be able to help people reach their financial goals by educating them about investing young and the power of compounding. I also love money management and exploring different ways to grow and protect client assets as we transition through the business cycle.”

One of VanValin’s greatest professional accomplishments has been the successful implementation of processes for managing and modeling money that he developed working at OLV. At the firm’s inception in 2012, it was managing roughly $60 million in assets. Today, VanValin oversees $250 million in assets and manages $160 million of that amount inside models he created.

“Understanding markets and how various sectors react during different phases of a cycle is extremely important,” said VanValin.

“It’s exciting to help people understand and be comfortable with day-to-day and month-to-month fluctuations.”

In addition to working with clients, VanValin enjoys the business development end of OLV and mentoring new advisors.

“OLV is a family-focused firm when it comes to both our clients and our employees,” he said. “I love thinking and planning for different growth opportunities and exploring how we can continue to expand the vision of the company. We get excited about bringing on new advisors. We don’t want them to think of us as a stepping stone in their career. We want to be a source of support for them and the growth of their business.”

VanValin’s commitment to providing new advisors with meaningful experience grew out of the lessons he learned about business earlier in life. During his childhood, it was not uncommon to find VanValin selling cookies at the front of his subdivision or going door-to-door looking for odd jobs. By age 13, he was spending summers working carpentry jobs for a family friend. These experiences strengthened VanValin’s work ethic and inspired him to pursue a degree in business.

“Working construction taught me what it takes to run a business and that there are business opportunities in every area of life,” he said. “Learning how to do something better, be more efficient, and work harder than the next guy—these important lessons helped shape me into the kind of worker I wanted to be.

They honed my ability to effectively work with and for people.”

VanValin went on to become a licensed real estate agent after college and the owner/manager of nine rental properties in Flint before establishing his career as a financial advisor.

“Seventy-five percent of what I do is based on relationships, so it was insightful to gain an understanding of people when it comes to one of the most vulnerable aspects of life—finding a home, whether purchasing a house or looking for a place to rent,” said VanValin.

MBA BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

UM-Flint’s part-time MBA named among “Best Graduate Business Programs”

by U.S. News and World Report and is a great return on investment.

FLEXIBLE. GLOBAL. COLLABORATIVE.

Also shaping VanValin’s career were his experiences as a student at UM-Flint. He credits his education (both in terms of business knowledge and the value of relationships) to building the confidence he needs for his career. Outside of the classroom, VanValin enjoyed playing intramural sports, including soccer, basketball, and football at Atwood Stadium.

“It takes a certain level of confidence to manage other people’s money—to have faith in a plan that will help them move from point A to Z,” said VanValin. “I wouldn’t have this level of confidence without the knowledge I gained from SOM faculty.

Dean Oliver, Joel LaGore and Jesse VanValin are part of OLV’s leadership team and financial advisors for the firm.

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

umflint.edu/mba

EXPL RING ‘‘

THE BUSINESS OF THE ARTS of the Japan trip, it was the main way she expressed herself for the assignment.

“Prior to the trip, I never would have dreamed about making a sketch to represent what I was thinking,” Hite said. “It really opened my mind to brainstorming in ways I had never tried. The trip taught us to have an open mind, and that any opportunity to train your brain in different ways is absolutely beneficial for your professional career.”

Hite’s experience mirrored the goal of the course, designed and led by Greg Laurence, an associate professor of management, and Shelby Newport, an associate professor of theatre and dance. Both are also heavily involved with the International and Global Studies Program at the university.

Sarah Hite bought her first sketchbook this year. It was for her education abroad trip in May, a UM-Flint class that merged arts, business, and culture in Japan.

As part of the class, “The Business of the Arts in Japan,” the 21 students were to journal and sketch every day about their experiences as a way to observe and be inspired.

Hite, an MBA student who is also a product development scientist in a food research lab, had her doubts about the sketching. She considered herself more of a lists, bullet points, and journals type of person. The last art class she took was a pottery course in high school.

“Journaling was comfortable. Sketching was not,” Hite later wrote in her reflections on the journey in Japan.

But something happened during the 10-day trip. Hite stuck with journaling at first, but gradually sketched more, and by the end

GREG LAURENCE, associate professor of management, co-organized the Business of the Arts in Japan course to allow students to observe how their peers from different fields processed information and came up with ideas.

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

“We saw the class as an experiment for what makes a good study abroad course across disciplines, and all of the measurements were successful,” said Newport.

Newport and Laurence hope to use the class as a springboard into discussions on how to develop future partnerships between disciplines at the university, including education abroad programs. They hope to serve as mentors for faculty looking at how to design such courses.

The class of graduate and undergraduate students included those studying business, marketing, accounting, organizational leadership, psychology, creative writing, arts administration, theatre design and technology, acting, and international business.

The group delved into the culture of Japan, attending a sumo tournament, and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. They visited a sixth-generation family business that makes sweets

SHELBY NEWPORT, associate professor of theatre and dance, co-organized the Business of the Arts in Japan course with Laurence to explore further opportunities with other disciplines at UM-Flint.

Sheryl Stephens, financial advisor and president of the Stephens Wealth Management Group, is working with other senior level advisors across the country to address the demand for more women in the financial planning industry.

both perspectives yet realized there wasn’t an equal balance in the industry and in people’s homes. To help bridge the gap for clients, she sought ways to invite the wives of their clients into the financial decision making process.

“This approach added a beneficial dimension to our practice,” said Stephens.

In 1994, Stephens’ career changed drastically. Her mentor passed away unexpectedly, and she took over the firm, which had recently expanded into Tampa. This all unfolded during the bond market crisis and while Stephens was balancing the personal demands of young children at home.

“I was up against several road blocks with very limited resources—there were few people I could pick up the phone and call,” she recalled. “That need to connect is one of the reasons why I believe the Women’s Leadership Alliance Group is so important. I want to help other women in this industry when they encounter challenges in their careers.”

Under Stephens’ leadership, her firm has grown six fold, and the team has increased from 3 to 14 members. She has received praise and countless awards as a leader in the financial industry. In 2018 alone, she was listed among: u “One of America’s Top 200 Women Advisors” (Forbes) u “One of the Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” (Barron’s) u “ One of the Top 400 Advisors” in the country (The Financial Times)

on the SOM Advisory Board, and seeking out opportunities to speak to female students about careers in the fields of financial planning and wealth management.

“UM-Flint was foundational to my career,” said Stephens.

“Staying involved is a way I can give back to the school that has given me so much—knowledge, confidence, and a network of successful professionals that grew out of close friendships.

It’s helped me to build a meaningful career, and I want to help others do the same.”

The Stephens Wealth Management Group is an independent team of licensed financial advisors who offer clients customized professional and/or personalized financial planning and wealth management solutions.

Their offices are located in Flint; Tampa, Florida; and Austin, Texas.

While Stephens is grateful for such recognition, she considers her greatest accomplishments to be her family (she and her husband raised four sons and now have seven grandchildren) and the opportunity to impact others (both clients and her colleagues) through a life-changing career in the Flint community.

Advisors offer a range of services, including financial planning, retirement planning, investment management, estate planning, college planning, tax planning, cash management and lending, business planning, insurance planning, risk management, charitable giving, trust services and administration, institutional services, and investment banking.

Outside of the firm, Stephens serves as past chair and current trustee of The Community Foundation of Greater Flint (CFGF), current board member of McLaren Flint, former board member of Fentura Bank, as well as several non-profit organizations. She continues to stay connected to the UMFlint campus by offering internships to SOM students, serving

In addition to face-to-face meetings with clients, the Stephens Wealth Management Group provides practical tools for visitors to their website. Its content features blogs, several online resources, and interactive tools to help future clients start building their wealth. stephenswmg.com

ADDRESSING THE NEED for Female Financial Planners through Mentoring and Education

One of the biggest issues facing the finance industry is the shortage of women pursuing careers in the areas of wealth management and financial planning. According to Cerulli Associates, a worldwide asset management and distribution analytics firm, about 16 percent of financial advisors are women. Not only does this figure contrast with the emergence of female professionals in other fields, but it also puts firms at a disadvantage when interacting with clients—the majority of whom are female.

Sheryl Stephens (BBA ‘80), financial advisor and president of the Stephens Wealth Management Group, is working with other senior-level advisors across the country to address the demand for more women in this industry.

“Women are uniquely qualified to become financial planners as they tend to understand the specific challenges of our clients,” said Stephens. “While it wasn’t the case 30 years ago, today it’s often women who drive financial decisions for their families and manage their family’s resources. Many of our clients are financially savvy women trying to balance a career, children, and aging parents.”

“Then there’s the fact that women are outliving men,” Stephens continued. “It’s not uncommon to meet with older clients who are now widowed and suddenly responsible for managing their own financials in a complex environment.

They don’t know what to do. Often, working with a female advisor, who understands what they’re going through, helps them feel more comfortable.”

Stephens is a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Alliance, a network of financial advisors whose goal is “to attract and develop the most promising women in the profession and to help them become successful.” So far, they have raised over $700,000 toward mentoring and education opportunities to encourage women to seek careers in financial planning and wealth management.

“We’re finding that although many women study finance in school, they’re not aspiring to become financial advisors,” said Stephens. “It’s not an option that many women consider, and, in the past, there hasn’t been a clear path to the field. Instead, they seek jobs on Wall Street where it can be stressful, less flexible, and potentially less fulfilling. We truly believe that a career in financial planning is one of the industry’s best kept secrets.”

‘‘

Stephens credits mentorship and education for launching her career in ways she never imagined. In fact, she started as a high school co-op assistant in the firm she now owns.

She planned on becoming a teacher until her boss/mentor, John Winton, encouraged her to take a few economics and business courses. One of her first professors was Dennis Ellis, PhD, now professor emeritus of business economics. She excelled in his course and decided to change her major. She also took courses with Mark Perry, PhD, professor of finance and business economics, which gave her the opportunity to run statistics for the long-standing Genesee County Business Index. These courses, coupled with the experience she was getting at the firm, helped her to realize a career in wealth management.

“I was fortunate to have a mentor who was also a visionary,” said Stephens. “John taught me the importance of ethics and putting the client first. He often invited me into client meetings, and I remember so many of them thanking him—for getting them out of debt, being able to afford their children’s college, and reaching a certain level of security. That was my ‘aha moment.’

“I realized success in this field has little to do with commission and everything to do with understanding the goals of our clients. Whenever anything happened (divorce, sickness, death, etc.), we were one of their first calls. We were the trusted advisors of these families, and that was important to me.”

As Stephens worked alongside Winton, she noticed that men and women had the potential to offer different sets of skills to the profession. Men, like her mentor, were considered more analytical. Stephens brought a new dimension to client meetings by articulating the equally important familial and emotional aspects of financial decisions. She saw the need for

I realized success in this field has little to do with commission and everything to do with understanding the goals of our clients.

’’

’’

IN JAPAN

By Robert Gold UM-Flint students are welcomed to the Japanese village of HidaOsaka. Photo: Nick Looney

used in tea ceremonies. They spent part of the time staying with host families, and met a host of different artists.

In the village of Hida-Osaka, they spent time with a ceramicist and a stained glass artist. Their visit drew the attention of the Japanese media, and the class was featured on the national news.

Throughout the trip, Laurence said students and faculty witnessed and tried new things. They also were learning how their peers from different fields processed information and came up with ideas.

“Everybody is experiencing something for the first time, so that really amped everything up,” he said.

Hannah Erdman, a theatre design and technology student, said the design of the class made it a success.

Students experienced Ukai, a traditional night fishing method.

Photo: Nick Looney

“I was part of a class made up of people that I would normally not take a class with. The mix of new people helped me to learn and experience things from a whole new perspective than I am used to,” she said. “I believe the interdisciplinary design of the class is a big part of what made this trip great.”

Newport said spending time with people who developed their craft across generations gave students a new way of thinking about art and business.

“They are learning these trades from their families and passing it on,” she said about the Japanese professionals.

Now that the class is over, Newport and Laurence said it has sparked ideas on how to design other courses that incorporate travel and bringing different academic disciplines together.

Students learned techniques from a ceramicist in Hida-Osaka.

Photo: Nick Looney

Hite said the setup of the course helped her grow both personally and professionally.

‘‘

Seeing the world, and having the opportunity to do that through a lens that is academically focused, it was deeper and more thoughtful than a vacation. It was eye-opening.

’’

Students enjoyed a sumo match. Photo: Nick Looney BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

u JAWAN SIMPSON MSA ’16, BBA ’15

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, BACKYARD PRODUCTS CO-FOUNDER/CFO, JZ INTERNATIONAL EXPORT/IMPORT FOUNDER, SIMPSON FINANCIAL CONSULTANCY

ALUMNUS/VETERAN FINDS FULFILLMENT IN ACCOUNTING CAREER The one thing Jawan Simpson (MSA ’16, BBA ’15) will tell you about a career in accounting is this: everyone always listens to the accountant. He learned how significant accounting was as he watched his father and uncle start two successful businesses in Pontiac, Michigan. Today, Simpson is the senior accountant for Backyard Products in Monroe and a founder of two businesses—JZ International Export/Import and Simpson Financial Consultancy.

“My family had a profound impact on my decision to study accounting,” said Simpson. “My father worked at Chrysler for about eight years, then left his job to open a barbershop. My uncle started a mechanic’s shop in Pontiac. Now, he does around $1 million in sales each year! I quickly learned that accounting is the language of business, and I was always good at math, so it was natural that I gravitated toward the field.”

As senior accountant, Simpson oversees the accounting and financial aspects of the four companies that make up Backyard Products, one of the nation’s largest suppliers of sheds, playset kits, and gazebos. He runs daily reports, monitors sales, aids accounts receivable and accounts payable, prepares financial statements, and works with operations to determine the cost of materials.

“It’s been fulfilling to provide a service that is so critical to a business’s success,” said Simpson. “But there’s also this entrepreneurial bug in me—compelling me to build something of my own.”

Simpson is co-founder of JZ International Export/Import, a transportation/hauling service for boats, trailers, and fifthwheels. Since the company’s inception in 2017, they’ve been hired to transport a fleet of RVs from Indiana to Key Largo and worked on other contracts, while providing impromptu hauls for friends and business associates.

In addition to JZ International Export/Import, Simpson offers tax services to roughly 60 clients through Simpson Financial

Consultancy. He also served as treasurer for Chris Jackson’s political campaign (Pontiac City Council, District 1) in this year’s election, and is the treasurer for Chris Jackson’s run for the Michigan House of Representatives seat in District 29.

“While I enjoy being a general accountant now, my end goal is to become a high-level consultant,” said Simpson. “All of my experiences have been helpful in leading me in this direction.”

and thankful for my opportunities at UM-Flint. The Heitmann scholarship motivates me to continue to strive for quality work inside and outside of school.

offer generous contributions to the fund as a way of honoring their father’s legacy at UM-Flint. This gift became the The Kartha Family Scholarship for Study Abroad.

“If I could speak with Mr. Heitmann, I would thank him for the gracious scholarship opportunity. Also, I would ask for career advice based off of his personal experiences in the business environment.”

Last spring, funds from The Kartha Family Scholarship for Study Abroad (and additional money from SOM) provided 14 students with $1,000 toward the Business of the Arts Study Abroad Trip to Japan (see page 11-12).

While some donors prefer their support to benefit a particular type of student, others prefer to support a specific type of activity. In 2016, C. Peeth Kartha, PhD, David M. French Distinguished Professor of Quantitative Methods in SOM, and his wife, Pressna, began the process of establishing a scholarship for students who wish to study abroad through a faculty-led international experience.

Chintelle Rice, a senior majoring in accounting, shares her gratitude. This support made it possible for her (and several others) to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Kartha, who has organized several study abroad trips in the past, often witnessed “eager and deserving students” who had to cancel their plans at the last minute because of the high costs associated with international travel. His immediate family, Drs. Pavna and Barun Brahma and Anjali and Rajit Basu, decided to

BUSINESS UM-FLINT BUSINESS @@UM-FLINT

For more information about endowed funds or other opportunities to support student success in SOM, contact Stephens-Farrell at (810) 424-5480 or msfarrel@umflint.edu.

THE POWER OF

Prior to his position at Backyard Products, Simpson was senior accountant for Rainbow Child Care Center in Troy. He helped manage revenue tracking and allocation for 141 centers across 15 states. He also served in the US Army for three years, including one year in Iraq.

“I was an operations and intel specialist,” said Simpson. “It was my job to prepare reports and brief the battalion commander each day and to assist with communication as the military conducted missions.”

After returning from duty, Simpson enrolled in a program at UM-Flint that allowed him to complete both a bachelor and master’s degree in business over a three-and-one-half-year period. He became an active member of the Student Veterans Association and Beta Alpha Psi, and was awarded MICPA’s Michigan Accountancy Foundation Scholarship.

ATTEND THE FREE, PUBLIC SULLENGER DIALOGUES: DANIEL LERNER Author & Educator

Simpson credits Helen Budd, certifying evaluator for UM-Flint’s Student Veterans Resource Center, for helping to smooth the transition from military officer to successful business student.

THE POWER OF POSITIVITY

MARCH 20, 2019

“Helen and the entire SOM faculty were invaluable resources,” said Simpson. “Each played a part in bringing me one step closer to where I am today. This journey has taught me to always pursue your passion and goals. Tiny hiccups may happen, but never let them get in the way of your dreams.”

1:45 p.m.

Northbank Center 432 N. Saginaw St. Flint, Michigan 48502

Book signing will take place following the Sullenger Dialogue

umflint.edu/cif

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“I would like to thank Dr. Kartha and his family for the scholarship funding to help students incur a cheaper cost for this trip,” said Rice. “The sights were beautiful, and every day was an adventure! I learned a lot about Japanese culture and am grateful to be able to take part in such an amazing trip.”

SHABNAM MOGHARABI

Social Entrepreneur THE POWER OF PURPOSE

APRIL 10, 2019 1:45 p.m.

Northbank Center 432 N. Saginaw St. Flint, Michigan 48502

2018-2019 FRANCES WILLSON THOMPSON

CRITICAL ISSUES FORUM

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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GIVE BACK WHILE

PAYING IT FORWARD Start a Scholarship at UM-Flint

SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS BAKER-ROBERSON SCHOLARSHIP Xin Lin

TIMOTHY PURMAN CPA SCHOLARSHIP Carlton D. Harahuc

PROFESSOR ROBERT COJEEN SCHOLARSHIP Stacey L. Broekstra Meagan A. Rinck Tabitha J. Hill Moira L. Tuttle

CHARLES ERICKSON RACHOR SCHOLARSHIP Kirstin E. Knag

Opportunity is the greatest gift alumni and friends offer our students. For some, this comes in the form of internships— giving students concrete experience in their field and an edge in the job market. Others create opportunity through financial support: making one-time gifts, contributing to a campaign, or something more personal—starting a scholarship. And, it may be more affordable than you think.

DIPLOMAT SCHOLARSHIP FUND Jessica L. Backmeier Sarah J. Jajey William G. Hembruch Hope D. Vines

“While UM-Flint welcomes gifts of any amount (all make a difference!), starting a scholarship is one of the best ways to directly support students while leaving a loving legacy of your commitment to the university,” said Melissa StephensFarrell, major gift officer for the School of Management (SOM).

“Establishing a scholarship allows you to give back to an institution that has played such a meaningful role in people’s lives and a way to pay it forward for others to reach their goals and dreams.”

R. & E. FREEMAN NETPLUS MBA SCHOLARSHIP Jason R. Abbasspour Jonathan B. Morley Elizabeth E. Jahn Latonia R. Raines Kevin E. Koonmen

Roughly 70 percent of UM-Flint students qualify for financial aid. Although the university is one of the best values for higher education in Michigan, students graduate with an average of about $27,000 in debt. Scholarships help to alleviate this burden and can sometimes make the difference between a student continuing their education or dropping out of school.

The starting amount to establish an endowed scholarship fund at UM-Flint is $10,000—much smaller than what’s required at other universities. Contributions can be paid over a period of four years ($2,500 a year) and collectively (for example, through the gifts of multiple family members or professionals at a business or organization). Methods of payment include check, credit card, payroll deductions, gifts of stock, etc.

“Starting an endowed fund (at $10,000) is a great way to give now, then continue to grow it, and/or perhaps consider it as part of a bequest down the road,” said Stephens-Farrell.

“Unlike other gifts, an endowed fund offers long-term impact for students. It is invested in perpetuity, with interest from the fund used to finance the corresponding scholarship(s) available to students.”

Donors who start scholarships can establish a profile for the type of students they would like to support. For example, some are based on GPA, while others are based on financial need and/or other criteria.

In 2004, John T. Heitmann (BA, ’70), retired partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, set up a scholarship for students transferring to UM-Flint with a preference given to those

from Mott. This full-ride scholarship, named the John & Kathie Heitmann Family Continuing Education Scholarship, is awarded to students majoring in accounting who are at least junior standing and pursuing their first undergraduate degree. To qualify, they must have 3.0 cumulative GPA and be a resident of Michigan. Financial need is a consideration but does not exclude the middle class student who often times does not have financial family support.

Joylynn Clement was one of two students who received the Heitmann scholarship in 2017-2018.

She aspires to work in pubic accounting and to take the CPA exam as soon as possible after graduation. Her goal is to gain experience in auditing, taxation, and merger acquisition accounting. Longterm, she would like to use knowledge from both of her majors (accounting and operations and supply chain management) in a position as either chief financial officer or controller.

The Heitmann scholarship has allowed Clement to invest more time in both her education and the campus community. It has also provided her with the ability to explore opportunities in her field and start preparing for the CPA exam.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to Mr. Heitmann for his generous gift,” said Clement. “I would also thank him for being an inspiration to me and many other students. His success and generosity has instilled the motivation in my own life to one day give back to the students of the University of Michigan-Flint.”

The other student to receive a Heitmann scholarship was Connor Krish. Like Clement, Krish hopes to complete the CPA exam shortly after graduation, then to work at “an innovative firm.” His dream is to build a career in accounting for a major sports organization.

“I am honored to be a recipient of the Heitmann scholarship,” said Krish. “It has provided me with the financial aid to help me continue my education and get closer to obtaining my degree.

As a recipient of the scholarship, I feel proud of my hard work

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2017/2018 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS! Gifts totaling $180,939 were awarded to the following students:

WALKER E. FESMIRE ACCOUNTING SCHOLARSHIP Kaitlin R. Anderson Xin Lin

R. & E. FREEMAN SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT SCHOLARSHIP Muhammad Ammar Austin J. McKenzie Jim G. Blondin Yuchen Ouyang Stacey L. Broekstra Holly S. Parker Dominic N. Marciszewski Bethany R. Trites GMAT SCHOLARSHIP Ruchi M. Chaudhary Beth M. Duffy Brad S. Grotkowski Tina A. Gueccia Jackie A. Hodges Alexandra Li Michael J. Lin

Michael I. McCoy Mathew M. Rojeski Garrett S. Ruff Derek D. Rymill Michael Surato Kemeng Wang

JESSICA HAGEMEISTER CPA SCHOLARSHIP Connor S. Krish HAGERMAN SCHOLARS SCHOLARSHIP Hui Cheng Jacinda K. Kitts Adham V. Habbas CATHLEEN E. HALE SCHOLARSHIP Brian K. Slubowski HEITMANN, JOHN & KATHIE FAMILY CONTINUING EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP Joylynn Clement Olivia Norfolk PAMELA HERNANDEZ SCHOLARSHIP Jim E. Traxler I. DOUGLAS MOON SOM UNDERGRADUATE MERIT SCHOLARSHIP Austin J. McKenzie OLIVER LAGORE VANVALIN INV GROUP SCHOLARSHIP Christin P. Curtis

THOMAS P. RYAN & THOMAS P. RYAN, JR. SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kaitlin R. Anderson Khadija Mohammed Stacey L. Broekstra Maxwell D. Montney Jason P. Cascio Bradley S. O’Brien Christin P. Curtis Rayshawn D. Riley Mariah L. Dominguez Lauren J. Rowley London A. Haught Riley M. Schank Jacob C. Hewitt Ariees T. Spangler Tabitha J. Hill Heather M. Standal Connor S. Krish Jim E. Traxler Khoa M. Lam Moira L. Tuttle Dominic N. Marciszewski Richard J. Walker Cheyenne S. McFarland Justin T. Young SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP Matthew D. Jacobs Lanting Wei SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT DEAN’S SCHOLARSHIP Aaron J. Nowakowski SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL EASTERN SCHOLARSHIP Chieh Yu Chen Hsao Fei Lu Yun An Chen Jae Woo Maeng Ya-Hsiu Hsu Chia-You Tang Seo Hee Jang Ching-Chun Wang Ting Chun Lee Jung Jung Yang Alexandra Li Ya Rong Yu SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT MERIT SCHOLARSHIP Darcy S. Bell Robin L. Flood Nikki N. Everhart SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIP Keith S. Burton Alexandra Li Ruchi M. Chaudhary Nicholas N. Looney Nikki M. Gifford Kim S. Poma London A. Haught Chintelle T. Rice Sarah B. Hite Ashlyn M. Summers Elizabeth E. Jahn Jessica E. Thompson Zubera N. Jemal Alyssa Walker Jeffrey L. John Maria C. Zaldivar DAVID C. TUCKER CPA SCHOLARSHIP Carlton D. Harahuc

PLANTE MORAN ACCOUNTING SCHOLARSHIP Amanda M. Wilson 25

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

BUSINESS BUSINESS@ @UM-FLINT UM-FLINT

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STUDENT ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT

SUPPLY CHAIN AND OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION Last February, UM-Flint welcomed the Supply Chain and Operations Management Association (SCOMA) to its family of student organizations. SCOMA was founded by the collaborative efforts of students, faculty, and administrators to enrich the academic experience of students in the operations and supply chain management program—now in its third year.

“SOM’s operations and supply chain management program is clearly one of the most comprehensive programs in the state of Michigan, and, arguably, one of the most unique programs in the nation. In particular, it is very difficult to find a program that includes eminent topics such as revenue management, data analytics, six sigma, and healthcare management in the same curriculum,” said Sandun Perera, PhD, assistant professor of operations and supply chain management and SCOMA’s faculty advisor.

“SCOMA was initiated to enrich this academic experience of our students with the latest industrial trends and expertise,” said Perera. “Through SCOMA, we look forward to building and maintaining quality, long-term relationships between interested companies and our program. It’s our hope that this networked society of students, faculty, industry professionals, companies, and individual experts will engage in cross-pollination of ideas, resulting in tangible holistic development for our students.”

As defined on SCOMA’s website, supply chain and operations management is “a system of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in moving a product or service from the producer or supplier to their customers.”

The ability to effectively understand, manage, and control this system allows individuals and groups to become invaluable members of the economy and sets the stage for success.

Joylynn Clement, a senior double majoring in accounting and operations and supply management, serves as SCOMA’s president.

“Starting a new student organization (with the help of other students, faculty, and administration) has given me a deeper sense of connection to the campus community and provided me with opportunities to network with local professionals from various companies through events and company tours,” said Clement.

“SCOMA has also allowed me to witness firsthand how the methods we are learning in the classroom are being applied in the real world,” she said. “I have learned so much about the field through interactions with other members. It’s exciting to be able to start building lifelong connections with students who I believe will become future leaders in the field.”

SCOMA

Clement was first exposed to supply chain and operations management in courses she was taking toward her accounting degree. She quickly discovered that it was “an area of great interest” to her and decided to double major in both.

“I am very thankful to have received an education that is wellrounded in several areas of business,” said Clement. “Personally, I most enjoy the technical/analytic side of the supply chain and operations management degree that teaches students to always look for ways that companies can be continuously improved.”

CORPORATE CASE COMPETITION

Promotes Interdisciplinary Collaboration Among Students Adapted from an article written by Robert Gold “How does a business create and maintain a highly engaged workforce?” This is the question over 90 students attempted to answer as part of this year’s annual Corporate Case Competition.

The event attracted graduate and undergraduate students from an array of fields. They were divided into groups and worked with corporate partners to explore ways of creating and maintaining a highly engaged workforce. Some of the options they considered were leadership opportunities, year-long outreach to employees, employee support strategies, peer-topeer recognition, and volunteer initiatives. One month later, the groups presented their findings to a panel of judges in the Northbank Center ballroom.

“The competition allows students to apply their classroom theoretical learning in the corporate world, and it gives them an opportunity to distinguish themselves,” said Sara Barton, one of the event organizers and manager of the UM-Flint Career Center.

Pictured left to right: Sandun Perera, Dean Johnson, David Bueby, Sydney Parvin (vice president), Joylynn Clement, Ahmed Alhisan (treasurer), Matt Korpi (secretary)

Last winter, SCOMA invited David Bueby, corporate vice president of supply chain management at McLaren Health Care, to speak at their opening ceremony in February and organized a tour of Dearborn’s Ford Rouge Factory in March.

“There were about 40 of us (students and faculty) that attended the Ford factory tour,” said Clement. “It was an interactive experience that depicted the history and innovations of the Ford Company. We were able to observe the active line at the Ford Rouge plant and witness how the manufacturing of their vehicles takes place. The guides leading our tour provided us with insight on how the plant operates and how manufacturing has developed over the years. Overall, the tour was a unique experience that allowed for us to gain a better understanding of how the company operates.”

If you are interested in partnering with SCOMA by serving as a guest speaker, providing tours of your business, or offering internships to students, contact Dr. Perera at sperera@ umflint.edu. For more information about the organization, visit clubs.umflint.edu/scoma.

Winners of the competition received a $500 scholarship. Alhana Khobeir, a student in the Honors Program studying research psychology, was part of this year’s winning team. Khobeir, who recently earned a bachelor’s degree at UM-Flint in molecular biology, said the event allowed her to work with students from a wide spectrum of backgrounds. Other members of her group were Audrey Beauchesne, Zachary Hayes, Sai Pradeep Chebrolu, Mohammed Alsarraj, and Jami Blaauw-Hara.

“It helped me build relationships. It helped me with my oral presentation skills,” she said, adding that it helps students find another way to be involved. “It’s a really good idea for a lot of students.”

Claus Weimann, of the UM-Flint Education Abroad Office and one of the event organizers, said the connections with the corporate partners helps create internship and job opportunities for students.

The winning team of the 2018 Corporate Case Competition accept their award. Standing left to right are: Sara Barton (Career Center, UM-Flint), Philipp Schramm (VP for HR and IT at Webasto Roof Systems), Zachary Hayes (student), Sai Pradeep Chebrolu (student), Mohammed Alsarraj (student), Audrey Beauchesne (student), Alhana Khobeir (student), Greg Ward (Consumers Energy), Andrea Alvarez (Consumers Energy), Claus Weimann (Education Abroad, UM-Flint), and Dondi Cupp (Associate VP for Development, UM-Ann Arbor).

Participating companies included Plante Moran, Al Serra, Chemical Bank, Consumers Energy, Mass Transportation Authority, Laird Technologies, Quicken Loans, C3, GM, 100K Ideas, Pioneer State Mutual Insurance Company, and Webasto—the presenting partner.

“We have benefitted from the ideas and hard work the students have put into this project,” said Philipp Schramm, chief financial officer and vice president of human resources and IT at Webasto Roof Systems.

Other companies also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to tap into the talent of UM-Flint students.

“They came in with an open mind of what’s possible,” said Bill Cooke, a director of product management at Laird. “They were really innovative, and very creative, and they did a lot of research, so it’s very exciting.”

CORPORATE INVESTMENT

CORPORATE BENEFITS

u $2,500

u G ain knowledge of the latest business tools and techniques practiced by faculty and students

u Participation at kick-off and culminating events u Professional knowledge shared while mentoring student group

u Build your brand on UM-Flint’s campus u Network with students and other corporate partners u Exposure to all enrolled UM-Flint students u Apply new business concepts to your corporation by mentoring students u Paid registration and publicity as a corporate partner at the Career Fair u Access to top-tier undergrad and graduate students

15

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

24

FACULTY INTERVIEW

ALUMNI RELATIONS

BY JACINDA KITTS

M-POWERING MARKETING IN A MOBILE WORLD u

What prompted you to write M-Powering Marketing in a Mobile World?

A: My industry experience started in the sale and distribution of consumer packaged goods in brick and mortar economies devoid of reliable connectivity.

Industries operated rather inefficiently with elevated information asymmetry and corrupt intermediation, thus preventing buyers from selecting better alternatives and organizations from knowing the needs of customers. Internet connectivity needed voltage stabilizers, electric and phone cables (which were often stolen by locals, delayed by bureaucracy, and chewed out by field rats). After moving to vehicle tracking and telecom industries, I realized how connectivity could transform the economy, and the only possibility seemed wireless.

Gradually, I observed the evolution of the digital domain where content, applications, and marketing knowledge were developed imagining users with visuals of young adults dressed in Abercrombie & Fitch, sipping Starbucks lattes, with sufficient household wealth to afford multiple devices. Many practitioners seemed oblivious of large populations below the poverty line who were perhaps illiterate, with limited access to nutrition and electricity, but had access to the internet on shared mobile devices charged with old car batteries, browsing the same websites that their more affluent counterparts do.

While parts of industry moved on to address the mobile information needs of developing economies that had greater population, diversity, and growth in purchasing power, knowledge and education did not follow the same trajectory.

I pursued research in this area collaborating with my coauthors who have laid out some of its foundations, to be able to contribute to more holistic knowledge development. This book is a by-product of those efforts.

u

communications between the university and its graduates. Our programs build leadership, create traditions, support students, and foster connections among our 45,000 alumni. Our office, in collaboration with the University of Michigan Alumni Association, is your tie to the Leaders and Best. Here’s how you can stay connected to SOM and the University of Michigan-Flint:

SY BANERJEE, PHD ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MARKETING Banerjee received his PhD in business (marketing) from the University of Rhode Island, MBA (marketing) from International Management Institute, New Delhi, and his Bachelor of Science (economics) from Presidency College, Kolkata. He joined academia with four years of industry experience in consumer packaged goods, logistics, tracking, and telecommunications.

BE SOCIAL

Follow UM-Flint social media. Share your photos, Tweets, and videos using the #umflint hashtag, and follow our official social media sites: umflint.edu/socialmedia. And be sure to like the UM-Flint School of Management page on Facebook!

HIRE THE LEADERS AND BEST

Recruit from the deep UM-Flint talent pool that has been producing leaders for more than 60 years. SOM alumni can post internship/job postings as well as utilize career counseling and assistance to find a job. For more information contact Antonio Riggs, SOM student service coordinator, at (810) 237-6680 or anriggs@umflint.edu.

UPDATE YOUR INFO

Did you move? Get a new job? Get married? Let us know what you’ve been up to and how we can contact you to stay connected. Find us at umflintalumni.org.

SPREAD THE WORD

Stay up-to-date with the latest UM-Flint news and stories about your friends and fellow alumni. Check out news.umflint.edu.

How could this book help businesses with their marketing efforts?

A: Aside from the numerous case studies and examples presented from across the globe, this book pushes marketers—traditional or digital—to think in a few directions before designing their marketing mixes and strategic perspectives.

One: it familiarizes them with the potential diversity of website/application audiences. Not only differences across user demographics, but also within user differences. The same user could change preference patterns and information processing based on the physical context of the same device.

Two: The book illustrates the roles of competition and collaboration enterprises may play in lesser-organized environments. It discusses ecosystem development, industry collaboration, and identifying regulatory challenges.

Three: the book explains how data can be used for leverage, augmentation, and attribution, thus enabling new types of insights, decisions, and product or service design.

Four: Leveraging new technologies bring new uncertainties and risk in terms of violating regulations. The book discusses policies, violations, threats, and misuses on a global landscape.

Five: In the epilogue, the book discusses some fundamental marketplace transformations, heading to a hyper-automated future of consumption that marketers may reflect on for long-term considerations.

23

The Office of Alumni Relations adds value to the alumni experience through fostering university spirit and managing

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

MAKE A GIFT

Give back to SOM! Every gift to our entire campus matters, regardless of size. Support the university’s efforts to prepare the next generation of Leaders and Best. Contact Annual Giving at annual_giving@umflint.edu or visit umflint.edu/som and click on “give online.”

VOLUNTEER

Build your resume while giving back. The Office of Alumni Relations offers many volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Visit go.umflint.edu/volunteer.

WEAR IT ON YOUR SLEEVE

Wear your UM-Flint pride. Check out the UM-Flint Bookstore for your UM-Flint and Wolverine gear. Visit go.umflint.edu/ bookstore.

TAKE US ALONG FOR THE RIDE

UM-Flint is in the Vehicle City. Show your UM-Flint pride with a UM-Flint license plate available from the Michigan Secretary of State michigan.gov/sos.

NETWORK WITH US

The Office of Alumni Relations and the U of M Club of Greater Flint host a number of events throughout the year. Stay up-todate with the latest events on our website: umflintalumni.org.

KEEP IN TOUCH!

For more information about alumni opportunities in the School of Management contact, Anna Swartz, SOM alumni liaison, at (810) 424 5587 or annas@umflint.edu.

LEARNING

u INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE IN SOM

8 % 16

“What’s your major?” This question has divided students since the late 19th century when colleges and universities started taking a more specialized approach to higher education. According to academic historian Frederick Rudolph, the concept originated as a way to effectively organize and facilitate the intellectual work of scholars. Johns Hopkins, Cornell, and Harvard were some of the first institutions to adopt this innovative model. Others were quick to follow.

Our world, however, is not clearly organized by discipline.

After graduation, students encounter complex problems and issues that require critical thinking, creativity, and an array of knowledge surpassing the confines of what any one discipline can teach. That’s why the School of Management (SOM) promotes interdisciplinary opportunities both within the school and across the UM-Flint campus.

“Often times, different disciplines in academia are analyzing the same problems with different perspectives, theories, and analysis techniques,” said Yener Kandogan, PhD, professor of international business and associate dean in SOM. “Interdisciplinary programs help students view problems with a wider lens in a more holistic way.”

In addition to expertise within diverse areas of business, many SOM faculty have degrees in such fields as biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, economics, electrical engineering, English, foreign languages, history, law, math, pharmacology, public health, and public policy among others. Their openness to interdisciplinary collaboration has led to a number of exciting opportunities.

“Since business courses can help an individual to become more successful in any career field, SOM offers several minor options for non-business students, including general business, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and human resource management,” said Kandogan. “We also often advise our business students to minor (or double major) in complementary fields, such as communications for marketing students and foreign language for international business students.”

“At the graduate level, we offer a number of dual-degree programs with other academic units,” said Kandogan. “These include a master’s program with the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems and doctoral programs in physical therapy, anesthesia, and nursing. Students pursuing a master’s in liberal studies have the option to earn a certificate 17

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

in business, and we’re launching a master’s program in health care management that includes 12 credits in business.”

%

of current undergraduates in SOM are international students. Of these 80 students, the majority are from Saudi Arabia (43 students), 12 are from China, and five are from India.

Also represented are students from Korea, Nigeria, Canada, Ethiopia, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, Italy, Mexico, Syria, Jamaica, Japan, Kuwait, Poland, Palestine, and the United Arab Emirates. of graduate-level students in SOM are international students. Of these 34 students, most are from India (10 students), followed by China (6 students), then Canada (4 students). Others have traveled from Pakistan, Italy, Jordan, Korea, Turkey, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Nepal, Nigeria, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Tunisia, and Ghana to study business at UM-Flint.

Faculty also offer their international experience to SOM. They have lived, studied, or worked in such countries as Canada, China, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Iran, Japan, Pakistan, the Philippines, Romania, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

UNDERGRADUATE

GRADUATE

Thomas Hemphill, PhD, David M. French distinguished professor of strategy, innovation, and public policy, was a driving force behind several dual-degree programs now offered on the UMFlint campus. One of the first was a dual master’s program in business and computer science and information systems that he started with Michael Farmer, PhD, professor of computer science and chair of the Computer Science, Engineering, and Physics Department.

“Through extensive work experience and studying technology as a secondary focus of my graduate degrees, I realized how much students could benefit by learning from professors in both fields of business and technology,” said Hemphill. “It was around the same time our Chancellor (Ruth Person, PhD, now a professor of management) expressed the desire for more interdisciplinary collaboration across the university. That was a turning point and opened the doors for programs like this, which led to even more interdisciplinary opportunities.”

SAILAB AJMERI MS ‘18, MBA ‘15

‘‘

Having both business and technical skills makes you a very strong candidate in the job market and helps you advance in your career.

’’

Sailab Ajmeri (MS ’18, MBA ’15) earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science, then decided to pursue the MS/MBA program to fulfill his dream of eventually becoming CEO of a reputable company.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

22

WELCOMING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS TO THE SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

Interdisciplinary Education in Action

According to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International—the world’s largest business education network of students, educators, and business professionals—diversity in people and ideas “enhances the educational experience in every management education program.”

Welcoming international students to the School of Management is one way of cultivating diversity in the classroom and creating a campus environment rich in intercultural interaction.

SOM has found that the experience benefits all students.

“The presence of international students offers all SOM students firsthand exposure to cultural practices different from their own,” said Yener Kandogan, PhD, associate dean of SOM and professor of international business.

“This happens on a large scale via campus discussions, events, and more intimately, through interpersonal interaction required by many classes that challenge students to write papers, manage projects, and deliver presentations as part of small groups.”

Kandogan points out that studying and living in another country provides international students new skills such as independence, self-reliance, networking, and social skills, as well as opportunity to see new places (international students tend to travel a lot within the country) and learn about other cultures.

“Of course, we should not forget about their experience with different styles of education,” he adds. “In the US, business education involves a lot of teamwork, presentations, and active involvement in the course through discussions beyond the lectures that most countries tend to have. Particularly, by studying abroad, they also get the opportunity to improve their English speaking abilities. Lastly, having this experience makes them more marketable in the job markets of their home countries.”

Domestic students also benefit from the presence of international students in their classes. As they work together on projects, they have the opportunity to learn about different ideas, cultures, and business practices that they otherwise may not have experienced without traveling abroad themselves.

“Business is international business,” stated Kandogan.

“Intercultural interaction with international students better prepares domestic students for their careers and gives them a global perspective. It also provides them with an expansive professional network after graduation that includes contacts in other countries.”

The International Business Student Organization helps build connections between domestic and international students

21

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

FROM EACH OTHER:

Students, faculty, and staff gather to celebrate International Peace Day with the flags of countries representing their heritage.

by organizing events throughout the year. In 2017-2018, their programming included a talk by a Romanian professor on European financial markets, foreign film movie nights, a trip to Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor to listen to a Nobel Laureate on international economic development, an international Halloween event where students tried candy from numerous countries, a Korean Cinema viewing in Ann Arbor, and a visit to the Flint Institute of Arts to see Japanese prints followed by a sushi dinner.

“Additionally, SOM organizes a welcome reception for international students so international and domestic students get the opportunity to meet,” said Kandogan. “We celebrate a Chinese New Year luncheon, and we take students to the ArabAmerican Heritage Council’s annual dinner. In the past, we have also supported additional activities on campus such as a soccer tournament, as this sport is really big internationally.”

Many students choose to study at UM-Flint because of the university’s world-renowned reputation.

“We recently conducted a student survey as part of our strategic planning efforts,” said Kandogan. “The international students we talked to mentioned the U-M name and quality as reasons they chose UM-Flint. SOM is especially appealing, since the US generally is known for its business programs (as well as engineering). This, on top of the lower studentto-faculty ratios and the attention we pay to teaching and learning on this campus, makes us an ideal destination for international students.”

Other international students are part of dual degree, exchange, and hosting agreements with other universities in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. SOM is currently exploring two more partnerships with countries in Africa. Professors Clement Chen and Seyed Mehdian, among others, have been instrumental in developing these relationships.

“Companies are looking for ways to automate business processes and innovate new business services/products,” said Sailab. “From Amazon to Uber, technology is the backbone of many successful businesses. Having both business and technical skills makes you a very strong candidate in the job market and helps you advance in your career. A technical background helps business students to understand the latest technology out in the market and use it with their management skills to help companies to innovate and become more efficient. That’s why candidates with technical and management backgrounds are top choices for high-level management positions.”

What Sailab appreciates most about the program were the case studies and hands-on projects that prepared him for real-world business challenges. He is currently working on a project that could evolve into a new startup company.

“I’m very excited about it!” he exclaimed.

Donna Fry, PT, PhD, CHC, dean of the College of Health Sciences (CHS), became interested in establishing a dual-degree program with SOM to meet the needs of health science students who often end up owning and operating their own businesses. Due to the intense level of educational programming in science, professional courses, and clinical internships, the doctoral programs in health sciences contain very few business courses.

To provide students with options for more business education, CHS partnered with SOM to offer two dual-degree programs— the DPT/MBA and the DNAP/MBA. “Students who graduate from these joint programs are well positioned to launch their own practices or move into leadership/administration positions within a hospital system,” said Fry. “Both prepare students to truly fulfill their roles as leaders and best in their fields.”

CHRISTIN CURTIS MBA ‘18, DPT ‘18

‘‘

The MBA allowed me to actually learn the interworkings of a business that could be applied to any physical therapy clinic or hospital setting.

’’

Christin Curtis (MBA ’18, DPT ‘18) recently completed her final clinical internship in physical therapy. After gaining more

experience in outpatient therapy, she aspires to work on the business side of health care as a long-term goal. She chose the dual-degree program because it opened the door to future management positions in PT and health care.

“The health care system is a business, and understanding how a business works is crucial to understanding how physical therapy clinics and hospitals operate outside of patientcare,” said Curtis. “In PT school, we learn business basics, but the MBA allowed me to actually learn the inter-workings of a business that could be applied to any physical therapy clinic or hospital setting. Dual-degree options are only offered by a handful of other schools, and the ability to make connections in person with MBA students and professors during the NetPlus! residencies (while completing the majority of work online) is a benefit not found in many other programs.”

Curtis came to the program with a degree in sports medicine, which often led to varying opinions and different ways of thinking from other MBA students.

“There were some other healthcare students in the MBA program, but many were from big hospitals, whereas I only had experience in outpatient and small rehab hospital settings,” she explained. “I wasn’t always thinking ‘big business’ when entering discussions, and I was often more patient/customercentered than many of the other students. The differences in our backgrounds often made for well-rounded, collaborative discussion.”

TONI SCHMITTLING DNAP ‘16, MBA ‘15

‘‘

The blend of clinical and business knowledge allows better communication, thus decreasing the knowledge gap between clinicians and administrators.

’’

Toni Schmittling (DNAP ’16, MBA ’15) applied to UM-Flint’s DNAP/MBA program because it was the only one in the nation she found that offered both a doctoral level CRNA degree and an MBA. She had already earned several degrees in nursing and came to the program with a variety of experiences, including service in the Army Reserves. She provided anesthesia to Marines during Operation Enduring Freedom and traveled to BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

18

such countries as Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Guatemala to provide care for special populations.

“Anesthesia is a business,” said Schmittling. “Anesthesia education is focused on the clinical aspect of patient care, which obviously is important and should never be sacrificed.

In the past, hospitals and healthcare systems were run by nonbusiness people such as doctors, nurses, nuns, and so forth.

Their focus was taking care of the sick, a very noble mission.

However, they lacked the business awareness that’s necessary for hospitals and healthcare systems to survive and prosper.”

“Today, many, if not most hospitals and healthcare systems, are run by business professionals,” said Schmittling. “To some, business practices can come across as cold and uncaring in the context of taking care of patients. Like most things in life, one has to find a balance—the sweet spot that allows for quality patient care while maintaining a well-run efficient organization that is fiscally responsible. This is why it’s important to educate clinical professionals in the art of business. The blend of clinical and business knowledge allows better communication, thus decreasing the knowledge gap between clinicians and administrators. The DNAP and MBA programs bring this unique balance to the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).”

“This program has changed the way I think,” she continued. “As a clinician, there were times I thought I was learning a foreign language—the language of business. I believe my education has made me not only a better practitioner but also a better person.

I analyze more and judge less. I look for the ‘why,’ and it’s usually economically driven. Business awareness can be utilized in every aspect of my life. I even understand politics better. In fact, I became involved in government relations after I finished my MBA.” Shortly after graduation, Schmittling started her own business, Collaborative Anesthesia Staffing Solutions, Inc. (CASSI), to meet the needs of Michigan Reproductive Medicine when it began requiring anesthesia for patients undergoing in vitro fertilization.

With seven CRNAs on staff, MRM now has anesthesia capabilities 365 days a year. Schmittling was recently recognized for her professional contributions to the healthcare field by Crain’s Business as one of the Notable Women in Healthcare (2018).

“CASSI was founded to ensure women receiving in vitro fertilization and egg preservation have access to anesthesia care,” said Schmittling. “Egg freezing preservation is one of the most resourceful and successful methods available for preserving fertility in women who have cancer. As president of CASSI, I believe that providing anesthesia care to this vulnerable population is essential.”

Constance J. Creech, RN, MSN, EdD, ANP-BC, professor and director of Graduate Nursing Affairs, was also interested in the idea of a dual-degree program since many Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students take on leadership roles after graduation. This led to a dual DNP/MBA program; both degrees can be earned online.

“DNP students have strong health care backgrounds, and all of them are registered nurses,” said Creech. “They bring this insider knowledge of the complex health care environment

19

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

to their course projects, which often involve real life problems that must be solved by the blending of both health care and business.

“Doctor of Nursing Practice students take on various leadership roles (practice management, research coordinator, director of quality improvement, entrepreneur, consultant, health care business owner, etc.) after graduation, and the additional business administration knowledge and skills helps them excel in these roles. The three leadership/management, informatics, and policy courses that form an integral part of the DNP are strong building blocks for the MBA,” said Creech.

“The challenges of providing cost-effective, high-quality health care are numerous.

Graduates of this program are ready to take on roles that blend doctoral nursing practice knowledge and skill with business acumen. They are prepared to improve both the quality and efficiency in a clinical practice setting, and they are often the only person in a practice who performs this role.”

SALMA MANSOUR DNP ‘16

‘‘

UM-Flint offered one of the few dual-degree programs in the country in which both programs are accredited.

’’

Salma Mansour (DNP ’16) began her career as a full-time clinical nurse at The Johns Hopkins Hospital caring for neurology and neurosurgery patients while pursuing a graduate degree at the School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University. In 2013, she moved to Honolulu to work with the neurohospitalist team and started teaching neuroscience nursing courses at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and Hawaii Pacific University. She moved to California three years later to accept a position as nurse practitioner in radiation oncology (with a focus on radiosurgery) with CyberKnife at Stanford Health Care in Palo Alto. Mansour’s desire to advance in academia and healthcare management inspired her to pursue the DNP/MBA program.

“UM-Flint offered one of the few dual-degree programs in the country in which both programs are accredited,” said Mansour, who plans to complete her MBA next spring. “The DNP portion is completely online, and the MBA NetPlus! program only requires live classes twice a semester. This accommodates both my busy schedule and distant location. The NetPlus! residencies are a great way to meet professors and peers and network with like-minded, motivated individuals from various fields and backgrounds.”

As the dynamic healthcare system continues to evolve, Mansour sees the need for more healthcare professionals with experience in resource management, healthcare operation management, and leadership experience. She believes an

‘‘

These experiences give students the opportunity to effectively work with others to meet their goals, both in the classroom and in - Brian D. Blume the workplace.

’’

MBA will empower her with the tools necessary to improve the healthcare system’s foundation, tackle healthcare initiatives, and contribute to better patient care.

“Healthcare systems (hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, etc.) make up a substantial percentage of our country’s businesses,” noted Mansour. “Recent healthcare insurance and coverage changes have sparked debates in the political arena, with many suggested business and healthcare models for reform. I’ve been a part of the healthcare field for over 10 years and can help my classmates better understand medical rationale for healthcare processes, governmentbased programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, and private insurances practices. I am able to contribute to education regarding healthcare legislation and business practices—which differ in many aspects to a manufacturing business model, such as automobile companies like Ford or GM, where many of my fellow classmates work.”

The interdisciplinary backgrounds of students like Curtis, Schmittling, and Mansour have impacted some of the pedagogical approaches used by SOM faculty.

Gerald Knesek, EdD, lecturer of management, teaches MGT 501: Organizational Communication and Negotiation, one of the core courses in the MBA program. Beyond class discussion, he utilizes the diversity of students’ backgrounds to teach valuable lessons about negotiation.

“Business students have a tendency to look at the numbers when making decisions, while students with backgrounds in health care look more at the impact on the individuals involved,” said Knesek. “It’s important to consider outcomes and relationships when working toward successful negotiation. The diversity of our students’ backgrounds has allowed me to create pairs or teams where both perspectives are shared.”

Brian D. Blume, PhD, professor of organizational behavior and human resources management and associate director of the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, sees the interdisciplinary nature of these programs as preparation for students to develop important skills to effectively work with others in different contexts after graduation.

“In the relatively safe classroom environment, this diversity increases the awareness of others who have different backgrounds and who may have different perspectives,” said Blume. “These experiences give students the opportunity to effectively work with others to meet their goals, both in the classroom and in the workplace.”

For more information about dual-degree programs offered between SOM and other units at UM-Flint, visit umflint.edu/ som/dual-degrees.

DUAL DEGREE OPTIONS

u Business Administration and

Leadership & Organizational Dynamics

u Business Administration and Accounting u Business Administration and

Computer Science & Information Systems

DUAL DEGREE MBA PROGRAMS

Dual degree programs lead to two separate degree citations on your transcript and two diplomas.

u Business Administration and Lean Manufacturing

u Business Administration and Nursing Practice u Business Administration and Physical Therapy u Business Administration and Liberal Studies

umflint.edu/mba BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

20

such countries as Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Guatemala to provide care for special populations.

“Anesthesia is a business,” said Schmittling. “Anesthesia education is focused on the clinical aspect of patient care, which obviously is important and should never be sacrificed.

In the past, hospitals and healthcare systems were run by nonbusiness people such as doctors, nurses, nuns, and so forth.

Their focus was taking care of the sick, a very noble mission.

However, they lacked the business awareness that’s necessary for hospitals and healthcare systems to survive and prosper.”

“Today, many, if not most hospitals and healthcare systems, are run by business professionals,” said Schmittling. “To some, business practices can come across as cold and uncaring in the context of taking care of patients. Like most things in life, one has to find a balance—the sweet spot that allows for quality patient care while maintaining a well-run efficient organization that is fiscally responsible. This is why it’s important to educate clinical professionals in the art of business. The blend of clinical and business knowledge allows better communication, thus decreasing the knowledge gap between clinicians and administrators. The DNAP and MBA programs bring this unique balance to the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).”

“This program has changed the way I think,” she continued. “As a clinician, there were times I thought I was learning a foreign language—the language of business. I believe my education has made me not only a better practitioner but also a better person.

I analyze more and judge less. I look for the ‘why,’ and it’s usually economically driven. Business awareness can be utilized in every aspect of my life. I even understand politics better. In fact, I became involved in government relations after I finished my MBA.” Shortly after graduation, Schmittling started her own business, Collaborative Anesthesia Staffing Solutions, Inc. (CASSI), to meet the needs of Michigan Reproductive Medicine when it began requiring anesthesia for patients undergoing in vitro fertilization.

With seven CRNAs on staff, MRM now has anesthesia capabilities 365 days a year. Schmittling was recently recognized for her professional contributions to the healthcare field by Crain’s Business as one of the Notable Women in Healthcare (2018).

“CASSI was founded to ensure women receiving in vitro fertilization and egg preservation have access to anesthesia care,” said Schmittling. “Egg freezing preservation is one of the most resourceful and successful methods available for preserving fertility in women who have cancer. As president of CASSI, I believe that providing anesthesia care to this vulnerable population is essential.”

Constance J. Creech, RN, MSN, EdD, ANP-BC, professor and director of Graduate Nursing Affairs, was also interested in the idea of a dual-degree program since many Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students take on leadership roles after graduation. This led to a dual DNP/MBA program; both degrees can be earned online.

“DNP students have strong health care backgrounds, and all of them are registered nurses,” said Creech. “They bring this insider knowledge of the complex health care environment

19

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

to their course projects, which often involve real life problems that must be solved by the blending of both health care and business.

“Doctor of Nursing Practice students take on various leadership roles (practice management, research coordinator, director of quality improvement, entrepreneur, consultant, health care business owner, etc.) after graduation, and the additional business administration knowledge and skills helps them excel in these roles. The three leadership/management, informatics, and policy courses that form an integral part of the DNP are strong building blocks for the MBA,” said Creech.

“The challenges of providing cost-effective, high-quality health care are numerous.

Graduates of this program are ready to take on roles that blend doctoral nursing practice knowledge and skill with business acumen. They are prepared to improve both the quality and efficiency in a clinical practice setting, and they are often the only person in a practice who performs this role.”

SALMA MANSOUR DNP ‘16

‘‘

UM-Flint offered one of the few dual-degree programs in the country in which both programs are accredited.

’’

Salma Mansour (DNP ’16) began her career as a full-time clinical nurse at The Johns Hopkins Hospital caring for neurology and neurosurgery patients while pursuing a graduate degree at the School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University. In 2013, she moved to Honolulu to work with the neurohospitalist team and started teaching neuroscience nursing courses at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and Hawaii Pacific University. She moved to California three years later to accept a position as nurse practitioner in radiation oncology (with a focus on radiosurgery) with CyberKnife at Stanford Health Care in Palo Alto. Mansour’s desire to advance in academia and healthcare management inspired her to pursue the DNP/MBA program.

“UM-Flint offered one of the few dual-degree programs in the country in which both programs are accredited,” said Mansour, who plans to complete her MBA next spring. “The DNP portion is completely online, and the MBA NetPlus! program only requires live classes twice a semester. This accommodates both my busy schedule and distant location. The NetPlus! residencies are a great way to meet professors and peers and network with like-minded, motivated individuals from various fields and backgrounds.”

As the dynamic healthcare system continues to evolve, Mansour sees the need for more healthcare professionals with experience in resource management, healthcare operation management, and leadership experience. She believes an

‘‘

These experiences give students the opportunity to effectively work with others to meet their goals, both in the classroom and in - Brian D. Blume the workplace.

’’

MBA will empower her with the tools necessary to improve the healthcare system’s foundation, tackle healthcare initiatives, and contribute to better patient care.

“Healthcare systems (hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, etc.) make up a substantial percentage of our country’s businesses,” noted Mansour. “Recent healthcare insurance and coverage changes have sparked debates in the political arena, with many suggested business and healthcare models for reform. I’ve been a part of the healthcare field for over 10 years and can help my classmates better understand medical rationale for healthcare processes, governmentbased programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, and private insurances practices. I am able to contribute to education regarding healthcare legislation and business practices—which differ in many aspects to a manufacturing business model, such as automobile companies like Ford or GM, where many of my fellow classmates work.”

The interdisciplinary backgrounds of students like Curtis, Schmittling, and Mansour have impacted some of the pedagogical approaches used by SOM faculty.

Gerald Knesek, EdD, lecturer of management, teaches MGT 501: Organizational Communication and Negotiation, one of the core courses in the MBA program. Beyond class discussion, he utilizes the diversity of students’ backgrounds to teach valuable lessons about negotiation.

“Business students have a tendency to look at the numbers when making decisions, while students with backgrounds in health care look more at the impact on the individuals involved,” said Knesek. “It’s important to consider outcomes and relationships when working toward successful negotiation. The diversity of our students’ backgrounds has allowed me to create pairs or teams where both perspectives are shared.”

Brian D. Blume, PhD, professor of organizational behavior and human resources management and associate director of the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, sees the interdisciplinary nature of these programs as preparation for students to develop important skills to effectively work with others in different contexts after graduation.

“In the relatively safe classroom environment, this diversity increases the awareness of others who have different backgrounds and who may have different perspectives,” said Blume. “These experiences give students the opportunity to effectively work with others to meet their goals, both in the classroom and in the workplace.”

For more information about dual-degree programs offered between SOM and other units at UM-Flint, visit umflint.edu/ som/dual-degrees.

DUAL DEGREE OPTIONS

u Business Administration and

Leadership & Organizational Dynamics

u Business Administration and Accounting u Business Administration and

Computer Science & Information Systems

DUAL DEGREE MBA PROGRAMS

Dual degree programs lead to two separate degree citations on your transcript and two diplomas.

u Business Administration and Lean Manufacturing

u Business Administration and Nursing Practice u Business Administration and Physical Therapy u Business Administration and Liberal Studies

umflint.edu/mba BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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WELCOMING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS TO THE SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

Interdisciplinary Education in Action

According to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International—the world’s largest business education network of students, educators, and business professionals—diversity in people and ideas “enhances the educational experience in every management education program.”

Welcoming international students to the School of Management is one way of cultivating diversity in the classroom and creating a campus environment rich in intercultural interaction.

SOM has found that the experience benefits all students.

“The presence of international students offers all SOM students firsthand exposure to cultural practices different from their own,” said Yener Kandogan, PhD, associate dean of SOM and professor of international business.

“This happens on a large scale via campus discussions, events, and more intimately, through interpersonal interaction required by many classes that challenge students to write papers, manage projects, and deliver presentations as part of small groups.”

Kandogan points out that studying and living in another country provides international students new skills such as independence, self-reliance, networking, and social skills, as well as opportunity to see new places (international students tend to travel a lot within the country) and learn about other cultures.

“Of course, we should not forget about their experience with different styles of education,” he adds. “In the US, business education involves a lot of teamwork, presentations, and active involvement in the course through discussions beyond the lectures that most countries tend to have. Particularly, by studying abroad, they also get the opportunity to improve their English speaking abilities. Lastly, having this experience makes them more marketable in the job markets of their home countries.”

Domestic students also benefit from the presence of international students in their classes. As they work together on projects, they have the opportunity to learn about different ideas, cultures, and business practices that they otherwise may not have experienced without traveling abroad themselves.

“Business is international business,” stated Kandogan.

“Intercultural interaction with international students better prepares domestic students for their careers and gives them a global perspective. It also provides them with an expansive professional network after graduation that includes contacts in other countries.”

The International Business Student Organization helps build connections between domestic and international students

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

FROM EACH OTHER:

Students, faculty, and staff gather to celebrate International Peace Day with the flags of countries representing their heritage.

by organizing events throughout the year. In 2017-2018, their programming included a talk by a Romanian professor on European financial markets, foreign film movie nights, a trip to Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor to listen to a Nobel Laureate on international economic development, an international Halloween event where students tried candy from numerous countries, a Korean Cinema viewing in Ann Arbor, and a visit to the Flint Institute of Arts to see Japanese prints followed by a sushi dinner.

“Additionally, SOM organizes a welcome reception for international students so international and domestic students get the opportunity to meet,” said Kandogan. “We celebrate a Chinese New Year luncheon, and we take students to the ArabAmerican Heritage Council’s annual dinner. In the past, we have also supported additional activities on campus such as a soccer tournament, as this sport is really big internationally.”

Many students choose to study at UM-Flint because of the university’s world-renowned reputation.

“We recently conducted a student survey as part of our strategic planning efforts,” said Kandogan. “The international students we talked to mentioned the U-M name and quality as reasons they chose UM-Flint. SOM is especially appealing, since the US generally is known for its business programs (as well as engineering). This, on top of the lower studentto-faculty ratios and the attention we pay to teaching and learning on this campus, makes us an ideal destination for international students.”

Other international students are part of dual degree, exchange, and hosting agreements with other universities in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. SOM is currently exploring two more partnerships with countries in Africa. Professors Clement Chen and Seyed Mehdian, among others, have been instrumental in developing these relationships.

“Companies are looking for ways to automate business processes and innovate new business services/products,” said Sailab. “From Amazon to Uber, technology is the backbone of many successful businesses. Having both business and technical skills makes you a very strong candidate in the job market and helps you advance in your career. A technical background helps business students to understand the latest technology out in the market and use it with their management skills to help companies to innovate and become more efficient. That’s why candidates with technical and management backgrounds are top choices for high-level management positions.”

What Sailab appreciates most about the program were the case studies and hands-on projects that prepared him for real-world business challenges. He is currently working on a project that could evolve into a new startup company.

“I’m very excited about it!” he exclaimed.

Donna Fry, PT, PhD, CHC, dean of the College of Health Sciences (CHS), became interested in establishing a dual-degree program with SOM to meet the needs of health science students who often end up owning and operating their own businesses. Due to the intense level of educational programming in science, professional courses, and clinical internships, the doctoral programs in health sciences contain very few business courses.

To provide students with options for more business education, CHS partnered with SOM to offer two dual-degree programs— the DPT/MBA and the DNAP/MBA. “Students who graduate from these joint programs are well positioned to launch their own practices or move into leadership/administration positions within a hospital system,” said Fry. “Both prepare students to truly fulfill their roles as leaders and best in their fields.”

CHRISTIN CURTIS MBA ‘18, DPT ‘18

‘‘

The MBA allowed me to actually learn the interworkings of a business that could be applied to any physical therapy clinic or hospital setting.

’’

Christin Curtis (MBA ’18, DPT ‘18) recently completed her final clinical internship in physical therapy. After gaining more

experience in outpatient therapy, she aspires to work on the business side of health care as a long-term goal. She chose the dual-degree program because it opened the door to future management positions in PT and health care.

“The health care system is a business, and understanding how a business works is crucial to understanding how physical therapy clinics and hospitals operate outside of patientcare,” said Curtis. “In PT school, we learn business basics, but the MBA allowed me to actually learn the inter-workings of a business that could be applied to any physical therapy clinic or hospital setting. Dual-degree options are only offered by a handful of other schools, and the ability to make connections in person with MBA students and professors during the NetPlus! residencies (while completing the majority of work online) is a benefit not found in many other programs.”

Curtis came to the program with a degree in sports medicine, which often led to varying opinions and different ways of thinking from other MBA students.

“There were some other healthcare students in the MBA program, but many were from big hospitals, whereas I only had experience in outpatient and small rehab hospital settings,” she explained. “I wasn’t always thinking ‘big business’ when entering discussions, and I was often more patient/customercentered than many of the other students. The differences in our backgrounds often made for well-rounded, collaborative discussion.”

TONI SCHMITTLING DNAP ‘16, MBA ‘15

‘‘

The blend of clinical and business knowledge allows better communication, thus decreasing the knowledge gap between clinicians and administrators.

’’

Toni Schmittling (DNAP ’16, MBA ’15) applied to UM-Flint’s DNAP/MBA program because it was the only one in the nation she found that offered both a doctoral level CRNA degree and an MBA. She had already earned several degrees in nursing and came to the program with a variety of experiences, including service in the Army Reserves. She provided anesthesia to Marines during Operation Enduring Freedom and traveled to BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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LEARNING

u INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE IN SOM

8 % 16

“What’s your major?” This question has divided students since the late 19th century when colleges and universities started taking a more specialized approach to higher education. According to academic historian Frederick Rudolph, the concept originated as a way to effectively organize and facilitate the intellectual work of scholars. Johns Hopkins, Cornell, and Harvard were some of the first institutions to adopt this innovative model. Others were quick to follow.

Our world, however, is not clearly organized by discipline.

After graduation, students encounter complex problems and issues that require critical thinking, creativity, and an array of knowledge surpassing the confines of what any one discipline can teach. That’s why the School of Management (SOM) promotes interdisciplinary opportunities both within the school and across the UM-Flint campus.

“Often times, different disciplines in academia are analyzing the same problems with different perspectives, theories, and analysis techniques,” said Yener Kandogan, PhD, professor of international business and associate dean in SOM. “Interdisciplinary programs help students view problems with a wider lens in a more holistic way.”

In addition to expertise within diverse areas of business, many SOM faculty have degrees in such fields as biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, economics, electrical engineering, English, foreign languages, history, law, math, pharmacology, public health, and public policy among others. Their openness to interdisciplinary collaboration has led to a number of exciting opportunities.

“Since business courses can help an individual to become more successful in any career field, SOM offers several minor options for non-business students, including general business, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and human resource management,” said Kandogan. “We also often advise our business students to minor (or double major) in complementary fields, such as communications for marketing students and foreign language for international business students.”

“At the graduate level, we offer a number of dual-degree programs with other academic units,” said Kandogan. “These include a master’s program with the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems and doctoral programs in physical therapy, anesthesia, and nursing. Students pursuing a master’s in liberal studies have the option to earn a certificate 17

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

in business, and we’re launching a master’s program in health care management that includes 12 credits in business.”

%

of current undergraduates in SOM are international students. Of these 80 students, the majority are from Saudi Arabia (43 students), 12 are from China, and five are from India.

Also represented are students from Korea, Nigeria, Canada, Ethiopia, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, Italy, Mexico, Syria, Jamaica, Japan, Kuwait, Poland, Palestine, and the United Arab Emirates. of graduate-level students in SOM are international students. Of these 34 students, most are from India (10 students), followed by China (6 students), then Canada (4 students). Others have traveled from Pakistan, Italy, Jordan, Korea, Turkey, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Nepal, Nigeria, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Tunisia, and Ghana to study business at UM-Flint.

Faculty also offer their international experience to SOM. They have lived, studied, or worked in such countries as Canada, China, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Iran, Japan, Pakistan, the Philippines, Romania, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

UNDERGRADUATE

GRADUATE

Thomas Hemphill, PhD, David M. French distinguished professor of strategy, innovation, and public policy, was a driving force behind several dual-degree programs now offered on the UMFlint campus. One of the first was a dual master’s program in business and computer science and information systems that he started with Michael Farmer, PhD, professor of computer science and chair of the Computer Science, Engineering, and Physics Department.

“Through extensive work experience and studying technology as a secondary focus of my graduate degrees, I realized how much students could benefit by learning from professors in both fields of business and technology,” said Hemphill. “It was around the same time our Chancellor (Ruth Person, PhD, now a professor of management) expressed the desire for more interdisciplinary collaboration across the university. That was a turning point and opened the doors for programs like this, which led to even more interdisciplinary opportunities.”

SAILAB AJMERI MS ‘18, MBA ‘15

‘‘

Having both business and technical skills makes you a very strong candidate in the job market and helps you advance in your career.

’’

Sailab Ajmeri (MS ’18, MBA ’15) earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science, then decided to pursue the MS/MBA program to fulfill his dream of eventually becoming CEO of a reputable company.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

22

FACULTY INTERVIEW

ALUMNI RELATIONS

BY JACINDA KITTS

M-POWERING MARKETING IN A MOBILE WORLD u

What prompted you to write M-Powering Marketing in a Mobile World?

A: My industry experience started in the sale and distribution of consumer packaged goods in brick and mortar economies devoid of reliable connectivity.

Industries operated rather inefficiently with elevated information asymmetry and corrupt intermediation, thus preventing buyers from selecting better alternatives and organizations from knowing the needs of customers. Internet connectivity needed voltage stabilizers, electric and phone cables (which were often stolen by locals, delayed by bureaucracy, and chewed out by field rats). After moving to vehicle tracking and telecom industries, I realized how connectivity could transform the economy, and the only possibility seemed wireless.

Gradually, I observed the evolution of the digital domain where content, applications, and marketing knowledge were developed imagining users with visuals of young adults dressed in Abercrombie & Fitch, sipping Starbucks lattes, with sufficient household wealth to afford multiple devices. Many practitioners seemed oblivious of large populations below the poverty line who were perhaps illiterate, with limited access to nutrition and electricity, but had access to the internet on shared mobile devices charged with old car batteries, browsing the same websites that their more affluent counterparts do.

While parts of industry moved on to address the mobile information needs of developing economies that had greater population, diversity, and growth in purchasing power, knowledge and education did not follow the same trajectory.

I pursued research in this area collaborating with my coauthors who have laid out some of its foundations, to be able to contribute to more holistic knowledge development. This book is a by-product of those efforts.

u

communications between the university and its graduates. Our programs build leadership, create traditions, support students, and foster connections among our 45,000 alumni. Our office, in collaboration with the University of Michigan Alumni Association, is your tie to the Leaders and Best. Here’s how you can stay connected to SOM and the University of Michigan-Flint:

SY BANERJEE, PHD ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MARKETING Banerjee received his PhD in business (marketing) from the University of Rhode Island, MBA (marketing) from International Management Institute, New Delhi, and his Bachelor of Science (economics) from Presidency College, Kolkata. He joined academia with four years of industry experience in consumer packaged goods, logistics, tracking, and telecommunications.

BE SOCIAL

Follow UM-Flint social media. Share your photos, Tweets, and videos using the #umflint hashtag, and follow our official social media sites: umflint.edu/socialmedia. And be sure to like the UM-Flint School of Management page on Facebook!

HIRE THE LEADERS AND BEST

Recruit from the deep UM-Flint talent pool that has been producing leaders for more than 60 years. SOM alumni can post internship/job postings as well as utilize career counseling and assistance to find a job. For more information contact Antonio Riggs, SOM student service coordinator, at (810) 237-6680 or anriggs@umflint.edu.

UPDATE YOUR INFO

Did you move? Get a new job? Get married? Let us know what you’ve been up to and how we can contact you to stay connected. Find us at umflintalumni.org.

SPREAD THE WORD

Stay up-to-date with the latest UM-Flint news and stories about your friends and fellow alumni. Check out news.umflint.edu.

How could this book help businesses with their marketing efforts?

A: Aside from the numerous case studies and examples presented from across the globe, this book pushes marketers—traditional or digital—to think in a few directions before designing their marketing mixes and strategic perspectives.

One: it familiarizes them with the potential diversity of website/application audiences. Not only differences across user demographics, but also within user differences. The same user could change preference patterns and information processing based on the physical context of the same device.

Two: The book illustrates the roles of competition and collaboration enterprises may play in lesser-organized environments. It discusses ecosystem development, industry collaboration, and identifying regulatory challenges.

Three: the book explains how data can be used for leverage, augmentation, and attribution, thus enabling new types of insights, decisions, and product or service design.

Four: Leveraging new technologies bring new uncertainties and risk in terms of violating regulations. The book discusses policies, violations, threats, and misuses on a global landscape.

Five: In the epilogue, the book discusses some fundamental marketplace transformations, heading to a hyper-automated future of consumption that marketers may reflect on for long-term considerations.

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The Office of Alumni Relations adds value to the alumni experience through fostering university spirit and managing

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

MAKE A GIFT

Give back to SOM! Every gift to our entire campus matters, regardless of size. Support the university’s efforts to prepare the next generation of Leaders and Best. Contact Annual Giving at annual_giving@umflint.edu or visit umflint.edu/som and click on “give online.”

VOLUNTEER

Build your resume while giving back. The Office of Alumni Relations offers many volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Visit go.umflint.edu/volunteer.

WEAR IT ON YOUR SLEEVE

Wear your UM-Flint pride. Check out the UM-Flint Bookstore for your UM-Flint and Wolverine gear. Visit go.umflint.edu/ bookstore.

TAKE US ALONG FOR THE RIDE

UM-Flint is in the Vehicle City. Show your UM-Flint pride with a UM-Flint license plate available from the Michigan Secretary of State michigan.gov/sos.

NETWORK WITH US

The Office of Alumni Relations and the U of M Club of Greater Flint host a number of events throughout the year. Stay up-todate with the latest events on our website: umflintalumni.org.

KEEP IN TOUCH!

For more information about alumni opportunities in the School of Management contact, Anna Swartz, SOM alumni liaison, at (810) 424 5587 or annas@umflint.edu.

STUDENT ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT

SUPPLY CHAIN AND OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION Last February, UM-Flint welcomed the Supply Chain and Operations Management Association (SCOMA) to its family of student organizations. SCOMA was founded by the collaborative efforts of students, faculty, and administrators to enrich the academic experience of students in the operations and supply chain management program—now in its third year.

“SOM’s operations and supply chain management program is clearly one of the most comprehensive programs in the state of Michigan, and, arguably, one of the most unique programs in the nation. In particular, it is very difficult to find a program that includes eminent topics such as revenue management, data analytics, six sigma, and healthcare management in the same curriculum,” said Sandun Perera, PhD, assistant professor of operations and supply chain management and SCOMA’s faculty advisor.

“SCOMA was initiated to enrich this academic experience of our students with the latest industrial trends and expertise,” said Perera. “Through SCOMA, we look forward to building and maintaining quality, long-term relationships between interested companies and our program. It’s our hope that this networked society of students, faculty, industry professionals, companies, and individual experts will engage in cross-pollination of ideas, resulting in tangible holistic development for our students.”

As defined on SCOMA’s website, supply chain and operations management is “a system of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in moving a product or service from the producer or supplier to their customers.”

The ability to effectively understand, manage, and control this system allows individuals and groups to become invaluable members of the economy and sets the stage for success.

Joylynn Clement, a senior double majoring in accounting and operations and supply management, serves as SCOMA’s president.

“Starting a new student organization (with the help of other students, faculty, and administration) has given me a deeper sense of connection to the campus community and provided me with opportunities to network with local professionals from various companies through events and company tours,” said Clement.

“SCOMA has also allowed me to witness firsthand how the methods we are learning in the classroom are being applied in the real world,” she said. “I have learned so much about the field through interactions with other members. It’s exciting to be able to start building lifelong connections with students who I believe will become future leaders in the field.”

SCOMA

Clement was first exposed to supply chain and operations management in courses she was taking toward her accounting degree. She quickly discovered that it was “an area of great interest” to her and decided to double major in both.

“I am very thankful to have received an education that is wellrounded in several areas of business,” said Clement. “Personally, I most enjoy the technical/analytic side of the supply chain and operations management degree that teaches students to always look for ways that companies can be continuously improved.”

CORPORATE CASE COMPETITION

Promotes Interdisciplinary Collaboration Among Students Adapted from an article written by Robert Gold “How does a business create and maintain a highly engaged workforce?” This is the question over 90 students attempted to answer as part of this year’s annual Corporate Case Competition.

The event attracted graduate and undergraduate students from an array of fields. They were divided into groups and worked with corporate partners to explore ways of creating and maintaining a highly engaged workforce. Some of the options they considered were leadership opportunities, year-long outreach to employees, employee support strategies, peer-topeer recognition, and volunteer initiatives. One month later, the groups presented their findings to a panel of judges in the Northbank Center ballroom.

“The competition allows students to apply their classroom theoretical learning in the corporate world, and it gives them an opportunity to distinguish themselves,” said Sara Barton, one of the event organizers and manager of the UM-Flint Career Center.

Pictured left to right: Sandun Perera, Dean Johnson, David Bueby, Sydney Parvin (vice president), Joylynn Clement, Ahmed Alhisan (treasurer), Matt Korpi (secretary)

Last winter, SCOMA invited David Bueby, corporate vice president of supply chain management at McLaren Health Care, to speak at their opening ceremony in February and organized a tour of Dearborn’s Ford Rouge Factory in March.

“There were about 40 of us (students and faculty) that attended the Ford factory tour,” said Clement. “It was an interactive experience that depicted the history and innovations of the Ford Company. We were able to observe the active line at the Ford Rouge plant and witness how the manufacturing of their vehicles takes place. The guides leading our tour provided us with insight on how the plant operates and how manufacturing has developed over the years. Overall, the tour was a unique experience that allowed for us to gain a better understanding of how the company operates.”

If you are interested in partnering with SCOMA by serving as a guest speaker, providing tours of your business, or offering internships to students, contact Dr. Perera at sperera@ umflint.edu. For more information about the organization, visit clubs.umflint.edu/scoma.

Winners of the competition received a $500 scholarship. Alhana Khobeir, a student in the Honors Program studying research psychology, was part of this year’s winning team. Khobeir, who recently earned a bachelor’s degree at UM-Flint in molecular biology, said the event allowed her to work with students from a wide spectrum of backgrounds. Other members of her group were Audrey Beauchesne, Zachary Hayes, Sai Pradeep Chebrolu, Mohammed Alsarraj, and Jami Blaauw-Hara.

“It helped me build relationships. It helped me with my oral presentation skills,” she said, adding that it helps students find another way to be involved. “It’s a really good idea for a lot of students.”

Claus Weimann, of the UM-Flint Education Abroad Office and one of the event organizers, said the connections with the corporate partners helps create internship and job opportunities for students.

The winning team of the 2018 Corporate Case Competition accept their award. Standing left to right are: Sara Barton (Career Center, UM-Flint), Philipp Schramm (VP for HR and IT at Webasto Roof Systems), Zachary Hayes (student), Sai Pradeep Chebrolu (student), Mohammed Alsarraj (student), Audrey Beauchesne (student), Alhana Khobeir (student), Greg Ward (Consumers Energy), Andrea Alvarez (Consumers Energy), Claus Weimann (Education Abroad, UM-Flint), and Dondi Cupp (Associate VP for Development, UM-Ann Arbor).

Participating companies included Plante Moran, Al Serra, Chemical Bank, Consumers Energy, Mass Transportation Authority, Laird Technologies, Quicken Loans, C3, GM, 100K Ideas, Pioneer State Mutual Insurance Company, and Webasto—the presenting partner.

“We have benefitted from the ideas and hard work the students have put into this project,” said Philipp Schramm, chief financial officer and vice president of human resources and IT at Webasto Roof Systems.

Other companies also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to tap into the talent of UM-Flint students.

“They came in with an open mind of what’s possible,” said Bill Cooke, a director of product management at Laird. “They were really innovative, and very creative, and they did a lot of research, so it’s very exciting.”

CORPORATE INVESTMENT

CORPORATE BENEFITS

u $2,500

u G ain knowledge of the latest business tools and techniques practiced by faculty and students

u Participation at kick-off and culminating events u Professional knowledge shared while mentoring student group

u Build your brand on UM-Flint’s campus u Network with students and other corporate partners u Exposure to all enrolled UM-Flint students u Apply new business concepts to your corporation by mentoring students u Paid registration and publicity as a corporate partner at the Career Fair u Access to top-tier undergrad and graduate students

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

24

GIVE BACK WHILE

PAYING IT FORWARD Start a Scholarship at UM-Flint

SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS BAKER-ROBERSON SCHOLARSHIP Xin Lin

TIMOTHY PURMAN CPA SCHOLARSHIP Carlton D. Harahuc

PROFESSOR ROBERT COJEEN SCHOLARSHIP Stacey L. Broekstra Meagan A. Rinck Tabitha J. Hill Moira L. Tuttle

CHARLES ERICKSON RACHOR SCHOLARSHIP Kirstin E. Knag

Opportunity is the greatest gift alumni and friends offer our students. For some, this comes in the form of internships— giving students concrete experience in their field and an edge in the job market. Others create opportunity through financial support: making one-time gifts, contributing to a campaign, or something more personal—starting a scholarship. And, it may be more affordable than you think.

DIPLOMAT SCHOLARSHIP FUND Jessica L. Backmeier Sarah J. Jajey William G. Hembruch Hope D. Vines

“While UM-Flint welcomes gifts of any amount (all make a difference!), starting a scholarship is one of the best ways to directly support students while leaving a loving legacy of your commitment to the university,” said Melissa StephensFarrell, major gift officer for the School of Management (SOM).

“Establishing a scholarship allows you to give back to an institution that has played such a meaningful role in people’s lives and a way to pay it forward for others to reach their goals and dreams.”

R. & E. FREEMAN NETPLUS MBA SCHOLARSHIP Jason R. Abbasspour Jonathan B. Morley Elizabeth E. Jahn Latonia R. Raines Kevin E. Koonmen

Roughly 70 percent of UM-Flint students qualify for financial aid. Although the university is one of the best values for higher education in Michigan, students graduate with an average of about $27,000 in debt. Scholarships help to alleviate this burden and can sometimes make the difference between a student continuing their education or dropping out of school.

The starting amount to establish an endowed scholarship fund at UM-Flint is $10,000—much smaller than what’s required at other universities. Contributions can be paid over a period of four years ($2,500 a year) and collectively (for example, through the gifts of multiple family members or professionals at a business or organization). Methods of payment include check, credit card, payroll deductions, gifts of stock, etc.

“Starting an endowed fund (at $10,000) is a great way to give now, then continue to grow it, and/or perhaps consider it as part of a bequest down the road,” said Stephens-Farrell.

“Unlike other gifts, an endowed fund offers long-term impact for students. It is invested in perpetuity, with interest from the fund used to finance the corresponding scholarship(s) available to students.”

Donors who start scholarships can establish a profile for the type of students they would like to support. For example, some are based on GPA, while others are based on financial need and/or other criteria.

In 2004, John T. Heitmann (BA, ’70), retired partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, set up a scholarship for students transferring to UM-Flint with a preference given to those

from Mott. This full-ride scholarship, named the John & Kathie Heitmann Family Continuing Education Scholarship, is awarded to students majoring in accounting who are at least junior standing and pursuing their first undergraduate degree. To qualify, they must have 3.0 cumulative GPA and be a resident of Michigan. Financial need is a consideration but does not exclude the middle class student who often times does not have financial family support.

Joylynn Clement was one of two students who received the Heitmann scholarship in 2017-2018.

She aspires to work in pubic accounting and to take the CPA exam as soon as possible after graduation. Her goal is to gain experience in auditing, taxation, and merger acquisition accounting. Longterm, she would like to use knowledge from both of her majors (accounting and operations and supply chain management) in a position as either chief financial officer or controller.

The Heitmann scholarship has allowed Clement to invest more time in both her education and the campus community. It has also provided her with the ability to explore opportunities in her field and start preparing for the CPA exam.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to Mr. Heitmann for his generous gift,” said Clement. “I would also thank him for being an inspiration to me and many other students. His success and generosity has instilled the motivation in my own life to one day give back to the students of the University of Michigan-Flint.”

The other student to receive a Heitmann scholarship was Connor Krish. Like Clement, Krish hopes to complete the CPA exam shortly after graduation, then to work at “an innovative firm.” His dream is to build a career in accounting for a major sports organization.

“I am honored to be a recipient of the Heitmann scholarship,” said Krish. “It has provided me with the financial aid to help me continue my education and get closer to obtaining my degree.

As a recipient of the scholarship, I feel proud of my hard work

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2017/2018 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS! Gifts totaling $180,939 were awarded to the following students:

WALKER E. FESMIRE ACCOUNTING SCHOLARSHIP Kaitlin R. Anderson Xin Lin

R. & E. FREEMAN SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT SCHOLARSHIP Muhammad Ammar Austin J. McKenzie Jim G. Blondin Yuchen Ouyang Stacey L. Broekstra Holly S. Parker Dominic N. Marciszewski Bethany R. Trites GMAT SCHOLARSHIP Ruchi M. Chaudhary Beth M. Duffy Brad S. Grotkowski Tina A. Gueccia Jackie A. Hodges Alexandra Li Michael J. Lin

Michael I. McCoy Mathew M. Rojeski Garrett S. Ruff Derek D. Rymill Michael Surato Kemeng Wang

JESSICA HAGEMEISTER CPA SCHOLARSHIP Connor S. Krish HAGERMAN SCHOLARS SCHOLARSHIP Hui Cheng Jacinda K. Kitts Adham V. Habbas CATHLEEN E. HALE SCHOLARSHIP Brian K. Slubowski HEITMANN, JOHN & KATHIE FAMILY CONTINUING EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP Joylynn Clement Olivia Norfolk PAMELA HERNANDEZ SCHOLARSHIP Jim E. Traxler I. DOUGLAS MOON SOM UNDERGRADUATE MERIT SCHOLARSHIP Austin J. McKenzie OLIVER LAGORE VANVALIN INV GROUP SCHOLARSHIP Christin P. Curtis

THOMAS P. RYAN & THOMAS P. RYAN, JR. SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kaitlin R. Anderson Khadija Mohammed Stacey L. Broekstra Maxwell D. Montney Jason P. Cascio Bradley S. O’Brien Christin P. Curtis Rayshawn D. Riley Mariah L. Dominguez Lauren J. Rowley London A. Haught Riley M. Schank Jacob C. Hewitt Ariees T. Spangler Tabitha J. Hill Heather M. Standal Connor S. Krish Jim E. Traxler Khoa M. Lam Moira L. Tuttle Dominic N. Marciszewski Richard J. Walker Cheyenne S. McFarland Justin T. Young SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP Matthew D. Jacobs Lanting Wei SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT DEAN’S SCHOLARSHIP Aaron J. Nowakowski SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL EASTERN SCHOLARSHIP Chieh Yu Chen Hsao Fei Lu Yun An Chen Jae Woo Maeng Ya-Hsiu Hsu Chia-You Tang Seo Hee Jang Ching-Chun Wang Ting Chun Lee Jung Jung Yang Alexandra Li Ya Rong Yu SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT MERIT SCHOLARSHIP Darcy S. Bell Robin L. Flood Nikki N. Everhart SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIP Keith S. Burton Alexandra Li Ruchi M. Chaudhary Nicholas N. Looney Nikki M. Gifford Kim S. Poma London A. Haught Chintelle T. Rice Sarah B. Hite Ashlyn M. Summers Elizabeth E. Jahn Jessica E. Thompson Zubera N. Jemal Alyssa Walker Jeffrey L. John Maria C. Zaldivar DAVID C. TUCKER CPA SCHOLARSHIP Carlton D. Harahuc

PLANTE MORAN ACCOUNTING SCHOLARSHIP Amanda M. Wilson 25

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

BUSINESS BUSINESS@ @UM-FLINT UM-FLINT

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

u JAWAN SIMPSON MSA ’16, BBA ’15

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, BACKYARD PRODUCTS CO-FOUNDER/CFO, JZ INTERNATIONAL EXPORT/IMPORT FOUNDER, SIMPSON FINANCIAL CONSULTANCY

ALUMNUS/VETERAN FINDS FULFILLMENT IN ACCOUNTING CAREER The one thing Jawan Simpson (MSA ’16, BBA ’15) will tell you about a career in accounting is this: everyone always listens to the accountant. He learned how significant accounting was as he watched his father and uncle start two successful businesses in Pontiac, Michigan. Today, Simpson is the senior accountant for Backyard Products in Monroe and a founder of two businesses—JZ International Export/Import and Simpson Financial Consultancy.

“My family had a profound impact on my decision to study accounting,” said Simpson. “My father worked at Chrysler for about eight years, then left his job to open a barbershop. My uncle started a mechanic’s shop in Pontiac. Now, he does around $1 million in sales each year! I quickly learned that accounting is the language of business, and I was always good at math, so it was natural that I gravitated toward the field.”

As senior accountant, Simpson oversees the accounting and financial aspects of the four companies that make up Backyard Products, one of the nation’s largest suppliers of sheds, playset kits, and gazebos. He runs daily reports, monitors sales, aids accounts receivable and accounts payable, prepares financial statements, and works with operations to determine the cost of materials.

“It’s been fulfilling to provide a service that is so critical to a business’s success,” said Simpson. “But there’s also this entrepreneurial bug in me—compelling me to build something of my own.”

Simpson is co-founder of JZ International Export/Import, a transportation/hauling service for boats, trailers, and fifthwheels. Since the company’s inception in 2017, they’ve been hired to transport a fleet of RVs from Indiana to Key Largo and worked on other contracts, while providing impromptu hauls for friends and business associates.

In addition to JZ International Export/Import, Simpson offers tax services to roughly 60 clients through Simpson Financial

Consultancy. He also served as treasurer for Chris Jackson’s political campaign (Pontiac City Council, District 1) in this year’s election, and is the treasurer for Chris Jackson’s run for the Michigan House of Representatives seat in District 29.

“While I enjoy being a general accountant now, my end goal is to become a high-level consultant,” said Simpson. “All of my experiences have been helpful in leading me in this direction.”

and thankful for my opportunities at UM-Flint. The Heitmann scholarship motivates me to continue to strive for quality work inside and outside of school.

offer generous contributions to the fund as a way of honoring their father’s legacy at UM-Flint. This gift became the The Kartha Family Scholarship for Study Abroad.

“If I could speak with Mr. Heitmann, I would thank him for the gracious scholarship opportunity. Also, I would ask for career advice based off of his personal experiences in the business environment.”

Last spring, funds from The Kartha Family Scholarship for Study Abroad (and additional money from SOM) provided 14 students with $1,000 toward the Business of the Arts Study Abroad Trip to Japan (see page 11-12).

While some donors prefer their support to benefit a particular type of student, others prefer to support a specific type of activity. In 2016, C. Peeth Kartha, PhD, David M. French Distinguished Professor of Quantitative Methods in SOM, and his wife, Pressna, began the process of establishing a scholarship for students who wish to study abroad through a faculty-led international experience.

Chintelle Rice, a senior majoring in accounting, shares her gratitude. This support made it possible for her (and several others) to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Kartha, who has organized several study abroad trips in the past, often witnessed “eager and deserving students” who had to cancel their plans at the last minute because of the high costs associated with international travel. His immediate family, Drs. Pavna and Barun Brahma and Anjali and Rajit Basu, decided to

BUSINESS UM-FLINT BUSINESS @@UM-FLINT

For more information about endowed funds or other opportunities to support student success in SOM, contact Stephens-Farrell at (810) 424-5480 or msfarrel@umflint.edu.

THE POWER OF

Prior to his position at Backyard Products, Simpson was senior accountant for Rainbow Child Care Center in Troy. He helped manage revenue tracking and allocation for 141 centers across 15 states. He also served in the US Army for three years, including one year in Iraq.

“I was an operations and intel specialist,” said Simpson. “It was my job to prepare reports and brief the battalion commander each day and to assist with communication as the military conducted missions.”

After returning from duty, Simpson enrolled in a program at UM-Flint that allowed him to complete both a bachelor and master’s degree in business over a three-and-one-half-year period. He became an active member of the Student Veterans Association and Beta Alpha Psi, and was awarded MICPA’s Michigan Accountancy Foundation Scholarship.

ATTEND THE FREE, PUBLIC SULLENGER DIALOGUES: DANIEL LERNER Author & Educator

Simpson credits Helen Budd, certifying evaluator for UM-Flint’s Student Veterans Resource Center, for helping to smooth the transition from military officer to successful business student.

THE POWER OF POSITIVITY

MARCH 20, 2019

“Helen and the entire SOM faculty were invaluable resources,” said Simpson. “Each played a part in bringing me one step closer to where I am today. This journey has taught me to always pursue your passion and goals. Tiny hiccups may happen, but never let them get in the way of your dreams.”

1:45 p.m.

Northbank Center 432 N. Saginaw St. Flint, Michigan 48502

Book signing will take place following the Sullenger Dialogue

umflint.edu/cif

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“I would like to thank Dr. Kartha and his family for the scholarship funding to help students incur a cheaper cost for this trip,” said Rice. “The sights were beautiful, and every day was an adventure! I learned a lot about Japanese culture and am grateful to be able to take part in such an amazing trip.”

SHABNAM MOGHARABI

Social Entrepreneur THE POWER OF PURPOSE

APRIL 10, 2019 1:45 p.m.

Northbank Center 432 N. Saginaw St. Flint, Michigan 48502

2018-2019 FRANCES WILLSON THOMPSON

CRITICAL ISSUES FORUM

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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ADDRESSING THE NEED for Female Financial Planners through Mentoring and Education

One of the biggest issues facing the finance industry is the shortage of women pursuing careers in the areas of wealth management and financial planning. According to Cerulli Associates, a worldwide asset management and distribution analytics firm, about 16 percent of financial advisors are women. Not only does this figure contrast with the emergence of female professionals in other fields, but it also puts firms at a disadvantage when interacting with clients—the majority of whom are female.

Sheryl Stephens (BBA ‘80), financial advisor and president of the Stephens Wealth Management Group, is working with other senior-level advisors across the country to address the demand for more women in this industry.

“Women are uniquely qualified to become financial planners as they tend to understand the specific challenges of our clients,” said Stephens. “While it wasn’t the case 30 years ago, today it’s often women who drive financial decisions for their families and manage their family’s resources. Many of our clients are financially savvy women trying to balance a career, children, and aging parents.”

“Then there’s the fact that women are outliving men,” Stephens continued. “It’s not uncommon to meet with older clients who are now widowed and suddenly responsible for managing their own financials in a complex environment.

They don’t know what to do. Often, working with a female advisor, who understands what they’re going through, helps them feel more comfortable.”

Stephens is a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Alliance, a network of financial advisors whose goal is “to attract and develop the most promising women in the profession and to help them become successful.” So far, they have raised over $700,000 toward mentoring and education opportunities to encourage women to seek careers in financial planning and wealth management.

“We’re finding that although many women study finance in school, they’re not aspiring to become financial advisors,” said Stephens. “It’s not an option that many women consider, and, in the past, there hasn’t been a clear path to the field. Instead, they seek jobs on Wall Street where it can be stressful, less flexible, and potentially less fulfilling. We truly believe that a career in financial planning is one of the industry’s best kept secrets.”

‘‘

Stephens credits mentorship and education for launching her career in ways she never imagined. In fact, she started as a high school co-op assistant in the firm she now owns.

She planned on becoming a teacher until her boss/mentor, John Winton, encouraged her to take a few economics and business courses. One of her first professors was Dennis Ellis, PhD, now professor emeritus of business economics. She excelled in his course and decided to change her major. She also took courses with Mark Perry, PhD, professor of finance and business economics, which gave her the opportunity to run statistics for the long-standing Genesee County Business Index. These courses, coupled with the experience she was getting at the firm, helped her to realize a career in wealth management.

“I was fortunate to have a mentor who was also a visionary,” said Stephens. “John taught me the importance of ethics and putting the client first. He often invited me into client meetings, and I remember so many of them thanking him—for getting them out of debt, being able to afford their children’s college, and reaching a certain level of security. That was my ‘aha moment.’

“I realized success in this field has little to do with commission and everything to do with understanding the goals of our clients. Whenever anything happened (divorce, sickness, death, etc.), we were one of their first calls. We were the trusted advisors of these families, and that was important to me.”

As Stephens worked alongside Winton, she noticed that men and women had the potential to offer different sets of skills to the profession. Men, like her mentor, were considered more analytical. Stephens brought a new dimension to client meetings by articulating the equally important familial and emotional aspects of financial decisions. She saw the need for

I realized success in this field has little to do with commission and everything to do with understanding the goals of our clients.

’’

’’

IN JAPAN

By Robert Gold UM-Flint students are welcomed to the Japanese village of HidaOsaka. Photo: Nick Looney

used in tea ceremonies. They spent part of the time staying with host families, and met a host of different artists.

In the village of Hida-Osaka, they spent time with a ceramicist and a stained glass artist. Their visit drew the attention of the Japanese media, and the class was featured on the national news.

Throughout the trip, Laurence said students and faculty witnessed and tried new things. They also were learning how their peers from different fields processed information and came up with ideas.

“Everybody is experiencing something for the first time, so that really amped everything up,” he said.

Hannah Erdman, a theatre design and technology student, said the design of the class made it a success.

Students experienced Ukai, a traditional night fishing method.

Photo: Nick Looney

“I was part of a class made up of people that I would normally not take a class with. The mix of new people helped me to learn and experience things from a whole new perspective than I am used to,” she said. “I believe the interdisciplinary design of the class is a big part of what made this trip great.”

Newport said spending time with people who developed their craft across generations gave students a new way of thinking about art and business.

“They are learning these trades from their families and passing it on,” she said about the Japanese professionals.

Now that the class is over, Newport and Laurence said it has sparked ideas on how to design other courses that incorporate travel and bringing different academic disciplines together.

Students learned techniques from a ceramicist in Hida-Osaka.

Photo: Nick Looney

Hite said the setup of the course helped her grow both personally and professionally.

‘‘

Seeing the world, and having the opportunity to do that through a lens that is academically focused, it was deeper and more thoughtful than a vacation. It was eye-opening.

’’

Students enjoyed a sumo match. Photo: Nick Looney BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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EXPL RING ‘‘

THE BUSINESS OF THE ARTS of the Japan trip, it was the main way she expressed herself for the assignment.

“Prior to the trip, I never would have dreamed about making a sketch to represent what I was thinking,” Hite said. “It really opened my mind to brainstorming in ways I had never tried. The trip taught us to have an open mind, and that any opportunity to train your brain in different ways is absolutely beneficial for your professional career.”

Hite’s experience mirrored the goal of the course, designed and led by Greg Laurence, an associate professor of management, and Shelby Newport, an associate professor of theatre and dance. Both are also heavily involved with the International and Global Studies Program at the university.

Sarah Hite bought her first sketchbook this year. It was for her education abroad trip in May, a UM-Flint class that merged arts, business, and culture in Japan.

As part of the class, “The Business of the Arts in Japan,” the 21 students were to journal and sketch every day about their experiences as a way to observe and be inspired.

Hite, an MBA student who is also a product development scientist in a food research lab, had her doubts about the sketching. She considered herself more of a lists, bullet points, and journals type of person. The last art class she took was a pottery course in high school.

“Journaling was comfortable. Sketching was not,” Hite later wrote in her reflections on the journey in Japan.

But something happened during the 10-day trip. Hite stuck with journaling at first, but gradually sketched more, and by the end

GREG LAURENCE, associate professor of management, co-organized the Business of the Arts in Japan course to allow students to observe how their peers from different fields processed information and came up with ideas.

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

“We saw the class as an experiment for what makes a good study abroad course across disciplines, and all of the measurements were successful,” said Newport.

Newport and Laurence hope to use the class as a springboard into discussions on how to develop future partnerships between disciplines at the university, including education abroad programs. They hope to serve as mentors for faculty looking at how to design such courses.

The class of graduate and undergraduate students included those studying business, marketing, accounting, organizational leadership, psychology, creative writing, arts administration, theatre design and technology, acting, and international business.

The group delved into the culture of Japan, attending a sumo tournament, and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. They visited a sixth-generation family business that makes sweets

SHELBY NEWPORT, associate professor of theatre and dance, co-organized the Business of the Arts in Japan course with Laurence to explore further opportunities with other disciplines at UM-Flint.

Sheryl Stephens, financial advisor and president of the Stephens Wealth Management Group, is working with other senior level advisors across the country to address the demand for more women in the financial planning industry.

both perspectives yet realized there wasn’t an equal balance in the industry and in people’s homes. To help bridge the gap for clients, she sought ways to invite the wives of their clients into the financial decision making process.

“This approach added a beneficial dimension to our practice,” said Stephens.

In 1994, Stephens’ career changed drastically. Her mentor passed away unexpectedly, and she took over the firm, which had recently expanded into Tampa. This all unfolded during the bond market crisis and while Stephens was balancing the personal demands of young children at home.

“I was up against several road blocks with very limited resources—there were few people I could pick up the phone and call,” she recalled. “That need to connect is one of the reasons why I believe the Women’s Leadership Alliance Group is so important. I want to help other women in this industry when they encounter challenges in their careers.”

Under Stephens’ leadership, her firm has grown six fold, and the team has increased from 3 to 14 members. She has received praise and countless awards as a leader in the financial industry. In 2018 alone, she was listed among: u “One of America’s Top 200 Women Advisors” (Forbes) u “One of the Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” (Barron’s) u “ One of the Top 400 Advisors” in the country (The Financial Times)

on the SOM Advisory Board, and seeking out opportunities to speak to female students about careers in the fields of financial planning and wealth management.

“UM-Flint was foundational to my career,” said Stephens.

“Staying involved is a way I can give back to the school that has given me so much—knowledge, confidence, and a network of successful professionals that grew out of close friendships.

It’s helped me to build a meaningful career, and I want to help others do the same.”

The Stephens Wealth Management Group is an independent team of licensed financial advisors who offer clients customized professional and/or personalized financial planning and wealth management solutions.

Their offices are located in Flint; Tampa, Florida; and Austin, Texas.

While Stephens is grateful for such recognition, she considers her greatest accomplishments to be her family (she and her husband raised four sons and now have seven grandchildren) and the opportunity to impact others (both clients and her colleagues) through a life-changing career in the Flint community.

Advisors offer a range of services, including financial planning, retirement planning, investment management, estate planning, college planning, tax planning, cash management and lending, business planning, insurance planning, risk management, charitable giving, trust services and administration, institutional services, and investment banking.

Outside of the firm, Stephens serves as past chair and current trustee of The Community Foundation of Greater Flint (CFGF), current board member of McLaren Flint, former board member of Fentura Bank, as well as several non-profit organizations. She continues to stay connected to the UMFlint campus by offering internships to SOM students, serving

In addition to face-to-face meetings with clients, the Stephens Wealth Management Group provides practical tools for visitors to their website. Its content features blogs, several online resources, and interactive tools to help future clients start building their wealth. stephenswmg.com

FINANCE & STEWARDSHIP: Investing in the Future Within each of us burns the desire and capacity to give of ourselves. While a connection between finance and stewardship may not seem obvious, the Oliver, LaGore, VanValin (OLV) Investment Group is helping clients leave a legacy of love in their communities and throughout the world through their practice of wealth management.

Jesse VanValin (BBA ‘05), OLV’s chief investment officer and president of asset management, has learned that there’s more than one way to answer life’s “most persistent and urgent question.” Through gifts of time, talent, and treasure, VanValin impacts the lives of clients, colleagues, students, and others he’s never even met.

“Although the finance industry tends to not focus on unity and generosity, OLV seeks opportunities to be generous with what we’ve been blessed with and to build a culture that’s focused on others and not as much on ourselves,” he said.

“It’s rewarding to be able to help people reach their financial goals by educating them about investing young and the power of compounding. I also love money management and exploring different ways to grow and protect client assets as we transition through the business cycle.”

One of VanValin’s greatest professional accomplishments has been the successful implementation of processes for managing and modeling money that he developed working at OLV. At the firm’s inception in 2012, it was managing roughly $60 million in assets. Today, VanValin oversees $250 million in assets and manages $160 million of that amount inside models he created.

“Understanding markets and how various sectors react during different phases of a cycle is extremely important,” said VanValin.

“It’s exciting to help people understand and be comfortable with day-to-day and month-to-month fluctuations.”

In addition to working with clients, VanValin enjoys the business development end of OLV and mentoring new advisors.

“OLV is a family-focused firm when it comes to both our clients and our employees,” he said. “I love thinking and planning for different growth opportunities and exploring how we can continue to expand the vision of the company. We get excited about bringing on new advisors. We don’t want them to think of us as a stepping stone in their career. We want to be a source of support for them and the growth of their business.”

VanValin’s commitment to providing new advisors with meaningful experience grew out of the lessons he learned about business earlier in life. During his childhood, it was not uncommon to find VanValin selling cookies at the front of his subdivision or going door-to-door looking for odd jobs. By age 13, he was spending summers working carpentry jobs for a family friend. These experiences strengthened VanValin’s work ethic and inspired him to pursue a degree in business.

“Working construction taught me what it takes to run a business and that there are business opportunities in every area of life,” he said. “Learning how to do something better, be more efficient, and work harder than the next guy—these important lessons helped shape me into the kind of worker I wanted to be.

They honed my ability to effectively work with and for people.”

VanValin went on to become a licensed real estate agent after college and the owner/manager of nine rental properties in Flint before establishing his career as a financial advisor.

“Seventy-five percent of what I do is based on relationships, so it was insightful to gain an understanding of people when it comes to one of the most vulnerable aspects of life—finding a home, whether purchasing a house or looking for a place to rent,” said VanValin.

MBA BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

UM-Flint’s part-time MBA named among “Best Graduate Business Programs”

by U.S. News and World Report and is a great return on investment.

FLEXIBLE. GLOBAL. COLLABORATIVE.

Also shaping VanValin’s career were his experiences as a student at UM-Flint. He credits his education (both in terms of business knowledge and the value of relationships) to building the confidence he needs for his career. Outside of the classroom, VanValin enjoyed playing intramural sports, including soccer, basketball, and football at Atwood Stadium.

“It takes a certain level of confidence to manage other people’s money—to have faith in a plan that will help them move from point A to Z,” said VanValin. “I wouldn’t have this level of confidence without the knowledge I gained from SOM faculty.

Dean Oliver, Joel LaGore and Jesse VanValin are part of OLV’s leadership team and financial advisors for the firm.

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umflint.edu/mba

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

‘‘

Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?

u ZIAD LAJNEF BBA/MBA ’03

AUDIT DIRECTOR FOR THE AMERICAS GENERAL MOTORS (DETROIT)

FORMER CHEF NOW OVERSEES GM’S AUDIT PLANS ON TWO CONTINENTS While it’s the lure of “number crunching” that calls some to the field of accounting, others eventually find themselves there as they pursue different passions.

Ziad Lajnef (BBA/MBA ’03) is a chef at heart. He dropped out of engineering school twice to pursue a career in culinary arts.

Then a car accident in 1998 changed everything.

“I was in an accident that damaged my left hand, so I needed to go back to school and graduate,” said Lajnef, who grew up in Tunisia then attended schools in Germany and the US. “Business was attractive, since I did not like engineering, and it complemented my experience as a chef. I spent most of my career either turning around restaurants that were in financial trouble or launching new restaurants from concept to operations. Business became my second career.”

Lajnef was accepted into a program offered by the School of Management that allowed him to complete both a BBA and MBA over a span of four years. He excelled in his courses. His GPA and experience earned him UM-Flint’s prestigious Maize and Blue Scholar Award, and he was selected as the student speaker at graduation.

What Lajnef appreciated most about his experiences in SOM were the faculty and the opportunity to travel abroad.

“My professors and mentors, Mark Perry and Keith Moreland, inspired me to give back and serve as a mentor to others,” said Lajnef. “The opportunity to develop and mentor talent is what I enjoy most about my career today.”

“I also participated in a trip to Russia in 2002, which was a tremendous experience,” he said. “We studied at the Business Academy of Togliatti Russia, and visited the GM plant in Togliatti, and the GM headquarters in Moscow. Interestingly, I’ve returned to those GM locations on business trips while on assignment in Europe.”

After graduation, Lajnef landed a position as a senior auditor at Deloitte, then moved on to Ernst & Young before being hired

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

into General Motors in 2007. Since then, he has worked his way up from senior auditor to director of internal audit (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) to internal audit director (The Americas).

In this position, he is responsible for the yearly risk assessment and execution of the audit plan for North and South America.

“I recently completed two overseas assignments: one in Sao Paulo, Brazil, leading the South American internal audit, and one in Frankfurt, Germany, leading the European internal audit,” said Lajnef. “I speak seven languages fluently (Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Arabic, English and Spanish), which has helped me build trust and lasting relationships with local leaders and management as I travel abroad.

“These experiences have also taught me how important it is to do your homework when you interact with people from different cultures. It helps you understand what motivates them. We often make the assumption that what works here is automatically transferable elsewhere. Speaking the language is important, but it’s not enough. Understanding and respecting other cultures is critical to success.”

Before pursuing business as a second career, Lajnef enjoyed a 12-year career as an executive chef. He worked in cities in Europe as well as Flint (Danny’s restaurant and Café Panache), Detroit, and Ann Arbor. Two fundraisers he did for the Flint Institute of Arts are among his most memorable experiences.

“One involved recreating the food that was served in the movie Big Night,” explained Lajnef. “The other was an eight-course meal (inspired by Michelangelo’s biography The Agony and the Ecstasy) served in honor of the curator of the Vatican who was visiting Flint to lecture about Michelangelo’s art.”

In his spare time, Lajnef enjoys spending time with his daughter (born one month after graduation) and looks forward to opportunities to be more engaged with UM-Flint.

’’

- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., from Strength to Love

“Through their example, faculty also demonstrated how to develop professional relationships. They were always helpful, and they paid special attention to each student. On several occasions, I saw professors out in the community. They often greeted me by name! This always shocked me, and it taught me how to connect with people in small ways.

“At OLV, we have a passion for people and giving back to the communities that helped shape us into who we are today. UMFlint was that for me, and I want to help other students have those same opportunities. That’s why I initiated a scholarship for students in Flint and Genesee County studying business and finance at the university.”

Each year, the Oliver, LaGore, VanValin Investment Group Scholarship is awarded to a student who demonstrates financial need along with the leadership qualities of character and integrity. Beyond academics, he/she must exhibit a passion for community and seek out opportunities to give back within his or her sphere of influence.

VanValin also partnered with SOM to begin offering student internships. This year’s intern was Muhammad Ammar. OLV offered him valuable experience in management research, money management input, building reports, and putting together workbooks.

“Ammar was a great value to us,” said VanValin. “He often asked insightful questions during meetings with clients and played a role in client-advisor relationships.”

While scholarships and internship opportunities have helped students at UM-Flint, VanValin envisions ways OLV can impact others on a global level. He is actively seeking partnerships with other organizations around the world to create opportunities for young adults from poverty stricken environments.

“Through business initiatives (like financial planning), we’d like to help these young people build and sustain thriving communities in areas where opportunities do not often exist,” he explained. “This may seem ambitious, but with God all things are possible. I, along with the team at OLV, will be working hard to achieve these goals and share the blessings we’ve received.”

Jesse VanValin, OLV’s chief investment officer and president of asset management, uses his career in finance to impact the lives of clients, colleagues, students, and others he’s never even met.

“Working with kids is always an inspiration,” said VanValin. “We have the ability to love, guide, and leave an impact through the investment of our time, energy, and resources.

“Church and family are very important parts of my life. The older I get, the harder I work to keep these priorities straight. God as my core, family, work, and play radiating from there. I try to keep my priorities in this order, and I find that life is best when I do.”

In addition to the OLV scholarship, the firm also offers internships. This year’s intern was Muhammad Ammar, an international student and junior majoring in finance. He originally planned to intern for 100 hours, but OLV helped him achieve 250 hours (6 credits) in that same period of time.

“There is so much I could say about OLV,” said Ammar. “My experience was great. I not only learned about finance and economics, but also about the American way of business, work ethic, and much more. The biggest eye-opener for me was to see how a business could be involved in many other things such as charitable and social work. It was not only for profit.

“Every single person at OLV helped me at some point. It was a very friendly environment. There was genuine care for one another, and I am extremely happy to be a part of their team. I hope to keep OLV involved with UM-Flint as this relationship benefits our campus.”

Outside of his career at OLV, VanValin mentors children in inner city Flint, teaches classes at his church (Bethany Baptist Church in Grand Blanc), and enjoys spending time with his wife (of 15 years), their three daughters (ages 7, 8, and 10) and the family’s pet, Cooper.

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KUDOS

ERIN CAVUSGIL PHD PROFESSOR OF MARKETING Erin Cavusgil, PhD, was recently promoted to professor of marketing with tenure. She joined the SOM faculty in 2008, and holds a BS in chemical engineering from the University of Michigan, an MS in biomedical engineering from the University of Minnesota, and a PhD in marketing from Michigan State University.

She spent over three years working in the pharmaceutical industry as a chemical engineer.

Cavusgil teaches courses in principles of marketing, retail management, and international marketing. Her main research interests include new product development and international marketing. Her research has been published in the Journal of Product Innovation Management, the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Sciences, the Journal of International Marketing, International Business Review, and the Journal of Business Research, among others.

THOMAS A. HEMPHILL PHD PROFESSOR OF STRATEGY, INNOVATION AND PUBLIC POLICY Thomas A. Hemphill, PhD, professor of strategy, innovation and public policy, was recently appointed as a David M. French Professor by the University of Michigan Board of Regents. This distinguished professorship honors faculty who have attained national or international recognition for continuous scholarly achievement, teaching excellence, and recognized breadth of interest.

Hemphill joined the SOM faculty in 2005. He teaches graduate courses in nonmarket strategy and strategic innovation management, as well as undergraduate courses in corporate and business strategy, business and society, and innovation management. His research areas include strategic management of technology and innovation, technology and innovation policy, business governance and ethics, and global business and international political economy. In addition to his scholarly work, Hemphill has published editorial opinion pieces in The Wall Street Journal, U.S. News & World Report, and other respected publications.

SEYED MEHDIAN PHD PROFESSOR OF FINANCE Seyed Mehdian, PhD, professor of finance in UM-Flint’s School of Management, has received a Fulbright award to conduct research in Romania. This is the fourth time he has received a Fulbright award. Mehdian joined UM-Flint in 1999, and received other Fulbright awards in 2007, 2008, and 2012. He has frequently visited Romania to study and carry out research projects, which has helped build connections between universities there and UM-Flint.

Mehdian will utilize this grant during his sabbatical in Winter 2019. He will conduct research on the areas of diffusion and transmission of information across financial markets, study the behavior of investors, and measure the performance of financial institutions.

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NEWS

&

BRIEFS

FERRIS WHEEL BUILDING RIBBON CUTTING CREATES NEW OPPORTUNITIES Last fall’s ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Ferris Wheel Building in downtown Flint, the onetime home of Ferris Furs, heralds the launch of several related startups and economic development initiatives.

The Ferris Wheel is a project of SkyPoint Ventures, the venture capital firm spearheaded by Phil and Jocelyn Hagerman. In 2015, the Hagermans established the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation within UM-Flint’s School of Management.

UM-Flint has been involved in the Ferris Wheel project from the beginning, financing the feasibility study for the original concept and helping to bring together various stakeholders. As part of the ribbonGovernor Snyder and Lt. Governor Calley join UM-Flint’s Chancellor cutting ceremony, UM-Flint’s Innovation Incubator Susan E. Borrego and University Outreach staff members to cut ribbon at Ferris Wheel Building.

[IN] and EDA University Center for Community and Economic Development opened offices on the second floor of the Ferris Wheel Building, where staff and students will assist entrepreneurs.

The Innovation Incubator and EDA University Center for Community and Economic Development are coordinated by UM-Flint’s Office of University Outreach. Interim director of University Outreach Paula Nas is enthusiastic about the possibilities afforded by their new space in the Ferris Wheel Building and complementary missions of the organizations that make up its unique, collaborative environment.

Nas said, “This is a great opportunity for UM-Flint students, faculty, and staff, as well as our community partners, to further expand our partnerships in the innovation ecosystem through our on-site business assistance, workshops, special events, and seminars spanning the curriculum.”

ENTREPRENEURS SOCIETY CONTINUES WINNING TRADITION Members of the University of Michigan-Flint’s Entrepreneurs Society brought back a national award, second place for cross campus involvement, from the annual College Entrepreneurship Organization conference held in Tampa. Judges were impressed that membership of the Society included students across several disciplines.

The interdisciplinary membership of the Entrepreneurs Society allows members with various skillsets to connect with each other, said Ashley Hardacre, the group’s marketing director.

“We have people interested in biochemistry, engineering, art, and more,” Hardacre said.

“We are not just business oriented.”

This year, the Entrepreneurs Society celebrates its 10-year anniversary. It was founded

by Michael Witt, PharmD, JD, lecturer of business law and management and Entrepreneurin-Residence, to introduce students to the world of business. Members act as resources for each other “to create a powerful collaborative environment that empowers students.” They are active in the business community citywide and beyond, hosting and attending events that improve the community.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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NEWS

&

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

BRIEFS

CAMPUS-WIDE “A ZILLION SOLUTIONS” COMPETITION Last December, students from across the campus gathered for the A Zillion Solutions Awards Ceremony.

The event was held in the Northbank Center and hosted

by SOM and the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

Dean Scott D. Johnson, Nick Matthies (student, first recipient of the Stephen A. Whitener Scholarship for Innovators), Mark Simon (Director of Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation) and Stephen A. Whitener (BBA ’77; entrepreneur) celebrate innovation at the event.

The event celebrated the semester-long competition inviting UM-Flint students of all majors to express ideas, solutions, or innovations in a short video. These could be based on new mobile apps, university improvement, research ideas, business startups, or other solutions to common problems. During the ceremony, guests watched videos of ten category winners and had the opportunity to network over dinner with students, alumni, and members of Flint’s business community. A panel of distinguished judges deliberated on first and second place overall solutions, and guests voted for a “Fan Favorite” recipient.

ANESTHESIA STUDENT’S MEDICAL DEVICE IDEA WINS UM-FLINT BUSINESS PITCH COMPETITION

PHD

PROFESSOR OF MARKETING

When Erin Cavusgil walked across the stage to accept her chemical engineering degree from U-M Ann Arbor, she never envisioned a career as a marketing professor. In fact, she went on to earn a master’s degree in biomedical engineering and worked as a chemical engineer in the pharmaceutical industry before pursuing marketing as a PhD student at Michigan State University. What Cavusgil learned from these experiences has proven invaluable—to her and her students.

“Blending science and engineering with the business discipline (though I never planned it in advance) creates a wonderful synergy,” said Cavusgil, who was recently promoted to full professor of marketing in the School of Management. “So, when I discuss new product development, I can better explain the scientific as well marketing aspects of this company practice and connect the two worlds. I believe students appreciate this and probably gain deeper understanding of the subject matter.

“I always felt fortunate to have had some industry background.

My work as a practitioner taught me many life skills. I strive to share my work experiences, offer many industry illustrations, and give the students a realistic expectation of what it takes to do well in business.

Nurse Anesthesia student Jason Flowers took home first place in the Hagerman Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Business Pitch Competition, a UM-Flint event which is run by the center and the School of Management. The competition is open to students from all disciplines.

“Similarly, my previous work experience in the pharmaceutical industry helps to guide my research. Such experience has helped me identify which research questions are important to practitioners. The pharmaceutical industry is very unique in many ways: pricing, promotion, the product life cycle—these are fascinating topics.”

Flowers’ winning pitch was for a minimally invasive, expandable endo-tracheal tube (MieT Tube). His pitch described the problem (that endotracheal tubes are not tailored to a patient’s individual needs/size), the provisionally patented technology, the implementation of that technology in anesthesia/respiratory equipment, and a business plan to develop a marketable product/IP. As his prize, Flowers received $5,000 plus a range of free consultations.

Since becoming an assistant professor in 2008, Cavusgil has taught undergraduate and graduate courses for SOM. She frequently teaches Principles of Marketing, International Marketing, and Retail Management—her favorite.

“This competition really helped me to look past an interesting idea as the object and see that for my idea to be successful more was needed,” said Flowers.

“It moved me to do a huge amount of research, seek out mentors in various fields, utilize outside expertise, and to see the need for a cogent business plan to keep heading in the right direction. Without the competition I would be nowhere near forming a business, provisional patenting, or meeting with investors (milestones that I have, or will soon have, achieved).”

u ERIN CAVUSGIL

Nurse Anesthesia student Jason Flowers won UM-Flint’s recent Business Pitch Competition with his idea for a device to improve anesthesia/respiratory procedures.

“The retail environment is so dynamic!” Cavusgil exclaimed.

“Specifically, advances in technology as well as the growing popularity of online shopping have significantly impacted retailers. There is no shortage of fun and interesting knowledge to share with my students.

“In all of my classes, I try to help students prepare themselves for the ‘real world’ as best as they can. While I’d like my students to have a basic understanding of marketing principles, it’s even more important for them to improve their problem solving and communication skills. Teamwork is important too.

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BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

“It always delights me when I hear from a former student who writes and comments that he/she is applying knowledge/skills from my course(s) in his/her job. Being able to impact student success and help our distinguished, talented faculty elevate the reputation of the School of Management is what I find most rewarding.”

Cavusgil’s research has been published in the Journal of Product Innovation Management, the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Sciences, the Journal of International Marketing, International Business Review, and the Journal of Business Research among other publications. An article she wrote for the Journal of Marketing Theory and Practice was recognized as one of the top 20 cited articles from that journal over the past decade. In Cavusgil’s promotion recommendation (submitted to the U-M Regents), one reviewer commented that her impressive record places her in the top 10 percent of all marketing scholars and the top 5 percent of international business scholars. Several other comments praising Cavusgil led to her promotion as full professor with tenure (approved May 2018).

“It’s nice when one is recognized by peers,” said Cavusgil. “It also serves as validation that your efforts and hard work matter. I feel re-energized to continue to work hard and do my best— in the classroom, in the academic community, in the literature, and in advancing business practice. Being promoted to full professor also implies that one reaches out to junior colleagues and assists with their career advancement. I enjoy doing that.”

In addition to her teaching and research, Cavusgil participates in American Marketing Association (AMA) conferences. Over the last four years, she has served as a workshop leader for the International Marketing session of the Faculty Development in International Business pedagogy workshop sponsored by Georgia State University, which she considers a wonderful opportunity to share best practices in teaching with other educators. In her spare time, Cavusgil enjoys working out, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

“I am pleased and proud to be a member of the faculty at SOM,” she said. “We have an outstanding faculty who try their best to make an impact. We try to motivate and inspire each other. I also like the smaller, family environment of UM-Flint where you have the opportunity to get to know faculty in other disciplines.

This is a great place to be!”

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Students typically work 25 hours a week. Some are recruited via referral, while others learn about the organization at the Career Fair on the UM-Flint campus. The interview process allows Cooke to determine applicants’ potential to fit in with the team and work with the community. She is most impressed by students who do research prior to the interview, then follow her questions with questions of their own.

u B anerjee, S., Hemphill, T. & Longstreet, P., “Wearable Devices and Healthcare: Data Sharing and Privacy,” The Information Society: An International Journal, 34(1): 49-57.

Businesses regularly collect customer data to best serve customers. While the collection of personal data is meant to benefit customers, a wide variety of factors can also lead to exposure of such personal data in a manner that is beyond legal recourse for consumers. This research highlights the need to address policies that have become dated in the current internet and mobile device era.

Sy Banerjee, PhD

“When students are curious, it reveals a genuine interest in what we’re doing here in Flint,” said Cooke. “They see this experience as more than a resume builder. You can tell they have heart. You can teach students other aspects of a job, but you can’t teach that.”

“In this piece, we discuss health data collection, storage and transmission from wearable devices, how existing HIPAA laws are insufficient to protect consumers, and suggestions for regulatory changes,” said Syagnik Banerjee, PhD, associate professor of marketing.

“The key problems lie with the technological ability to capture new, unknown (and unprotected) types of personally identifiable data, and lifestyle tech and apparel companies being able to collect health related data that existing policy assumes only healthcare service providers could collect.”

While the impetus for this article was originally inspired by Banerjee’s research in the area of digital marketing, the topics of privacy, security, and technological innovation were of interest to several SOM faculty.

Thomas Hemphill, PhD

“Dr. Banerjee approached me about this topic, requesting my input concerning US regulatory policy,” said Thomas A. Hemphill, PhD, David M. French distinguished professor of strategy, innovation and public policy. “After accepting his invitation, he and I mutually decided that Dr. Longstreet, with his expertise in information system security, would be a welcome addition to completing the project team.

We had successfully worked in combination on other research projects.”

Phil Longstreet, PhD, assistant professor of management information systems, is a noted scholar in the intersection where business meets technology.

“In recent history, there have been numerous examples of security breaches involving financial data, breaches of personal data, and what some would consider malfeasance on the part of data holders in relation to what can be done with personal data,” said Longstreet. “Hopefully this research will be a stepping stone to show businesses how they can responsibly deal with personal data in the modern environment.”

Phil Longstreet, PhD

u K andogan, Y. & Hiller, J., “Alliances in International

Governmental Organizations, Regional Trade Agreement Formation and Multinational Enterprise Regionalization Strategy,” Journal of International Business Studies, 2018, 49(6), 729-742.

Interdisciplinary research has interested Yener Kandogan, PhD, professor of international business and associate dean of SOM, since the beginning of his academic career. He first realized the potential of incorporating knowledge and theories from other academic fields when he was introduced to an international trade estimation method developed by his doctoral thesis advisor at the University of Michigan. It relied on Newton’s Law of Gravity.

Yener Kandogan, PhD

“What was impressive is that a simple model that based on this law’s parameters (the mass and the distance in-between) was able to successfully explain more than 90 percent of the variation in international trade patterns, considering country sizes as the mass,” he explained. “Since then, I realized there is valuable knowledge that can be applied from other disciplines, and, if we talk to each other, (better yet, do research with each other), we can utilize each other’s theories and techniques to explain phenomena we encounter in our own disciplines.”

During a sabbatical leave in 2015, Kandogan visited Bergische Universität Wuppertal, a university in Germany, where he often interacted with other researchers. His office was across from doctoral students from other disciplines. There he met co-author, Jens Hiller, a political science scholar.

“I was working on another project, which was incidentally interdisciplinary too, borrowing from social network theories from sociology,” said Kandogan. “He and I started talking about the project, then he

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u INTERESTED IN OFFERING AN INTERNSHIP AT YOUR COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION?

100K student employees: (from left to right) Bradley Tomasek, Natalie Roland, Gabriel Stone and Teresa Walterhouse with Brandee Cooke (center). Photo: Mike Naddeo.

for services, and 10 percent have proposed new software or apps. It’s the work of our students that moves these ideas forward.”

Students from UM-Flint, U-M Ann Arbor, Western Michigan, Lawrence Tech, Kettering, and College for Creative Studies comprise the community of hobbyists, thinkers, and inventors tasked with the mission of “helping passionate innovators create products/services and startups of their own.” While students from other programs are involved with the engineering and industrial design aspects of proposed ideas, SOM students tend to take on leadership roles within 100K’s teams. They meet with clients, compile client binders (which involves benchmarking, patent/trademark services, market analysis, and identifying next steps), process work orders, and determine what other services an idea needs to evolve from concept to market.

“We treat our student interns as employees of our organization,” said Cooke. “They’re held to the same standards of an employee and expected to perform as such.

We do this to help prepare them for the next step in their professional careers.

Each semester, roughly 25 students approach Riggs about internships. Some are open to any kind of experience in their field, while others are seeking more specific opportunities.

“Recently, a couple students inquired about internships related to sports marketing,” said Riggs. “I’ve also met with a few international students seeking internship opportunities.

Few companies in our area will hire international students. I think if employers are better informed about our internship program, more opportunities for international students will become available in our area.”

Internships offered through SOM are paid opportunities.

Students work a minimum of 150 hours during a 15-week semester (averaging about 10 hours a week).

“We keep paperwork to a minimum in our program, but we do ask organizations to provide students with a safe learning environment, dedicated supervisor, and responsibilities that will allow them to apply what they are learning in class to the real world,” said Riggs.

If your company or organization is interested in offering an internship to SOM students, begin by emailing the job posting with application instructions to Antonio Riggs (anriggs@umflint.edu) or call him to discuss the opening at (810) 237-6680. The posting will be featured on Career Connection, UM-Flint’s career services website, for 30 days so students may review and submit resumes. Interviews can be done on campus or at your company or organization.

“And, even more important, they find fulfillment in the realization that they are playing a role in the revitalization of their community. It’s that passion we’re most interested in cultivating.”

STUDENT BENEFITS

EMPLOYER BENEFITS

u Competitive edge in the job market

u Specific skills for special projects

u Academic credit u Work experience and skills

uR ecruitment/mentoring opportunities for possible employment options after graduation

u Network of professional contacts

u Fresh perspectives

u Insight into the recruitment/hiring process

u Highly motivated, cost-effective personnel u Partnership with SOM and UM-Flint

Reference: naceweb.org/about-us/press/2017/the-key-attributes-employers-seek-on-students-resumes BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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THE VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS:

HOW STUDENTS AND EMPLOYERS

BENEFIT FROM THE EXPERIENCE Each year the National Association of Colleges and Employers conducts a survey to determine key attributes that employers seek on students’ resumes. Past responses identified a student’s major to be the deciding factor between two equally qualified candidates. This year’s Job Outlook reveals an even greater attribute than academic major—whether he or she has completed an internship. (Job Outlook 2018) “While internships are not required, faculty and staff encourage all students to participate in an internship prior to graduation,” said Antonio Riggs, who coordinates internships for the School of Management. “They are an important factor in our students’ academic learning experience. Through these opportunities, students increase their academic knowledge, network, and skills.

“And, students aren’t the only ones who profit. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship. Employers have access to a pool of highly motivated, bright students eager to do a good job.

They get to recruit personnel with specific skills in a costeffective way.”

u A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE Senior Austin McKenzie worked as an accounting intern at Genesee County 911 this past summer. He chose to major in accounting during his freshman year because he “liked numbers.” The following year, he decided to explore other career paths.

He operated a forklift at Dayton Freight, volunteered for the Swartz Creek Area Fire Department, and became a cadet through the Michigan State Police. These experiences helped McKenzie realize his dream job—Michigan State Police Trooper. He considered changing his major until the lieutenant in charge of all troopers in Genesee and Shiawassee County encouraged him to finish his degree in accounting.

“He explained that being a member of the department with a bachelor’s degree would allow me to promote faster,” said 5

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

shared more about his research. Our conversation led to the topic of this article that was published by the Journal of International Business Studies, a top-ranking academic journal in international business.”

Knowledge is power.

Experience is priceless.

Offering an internship is one of the most meaningful ways alumni and community partners can contribute to a student’s business education.

In their article, Kandogan and Hiller apply concepts from the alliance theories in political science to explain the formation of free trade areas. Over time, countries that develop alliances build trust, and the reduction in uncertainty makes the allies desirable locations for the operations of multinationals. As the reliability increases between allies, countries will sign a trade liberalization agreement to formalize this.

Such agreements increase wealth of countries involved (and countries prefer to increase the wealth of their allies rather than adversaries).

“We utilized this to gauge the strength alliances between countries to predict the free trade area formation,” Kandogan explained. “Given the strategic importance of being a first mover, we suggest that multinational companies watch for the alliance formations around the world. I think this is critical in the current political environment, as statements are being made and actions are taken by countries in the form of ‘war of words,’ trade wars, and retaliations impacting the reliability of partners in traditional alliances.”

McKenzie. “Specifically, a degree in business would give me an advantage if I wished to be promoted to lieutenant or higher, as they are heavily involved in budgeting and post spending. Also, federal agencies (FBI, CIA, DEA, and so forth) prefer to hire persons with a bachelor’s in something other than criminal justice. He then recommended that I get some real-world experience, and I began searching for ways to do so.”

About a week later, McKenzie heard that the Genesee County Dispatch Center was in need of an accountant. He applied and was hired as an accounts manager. The position allowed him to earn credits toward his degree through the accounting internship program. His “real world experience” taught him how to process payroll, manage accounts payable, manage accounts receivable, and produce financial statements. He even assisted in the writing of a request for proposal (RFP) for new computer aided dispatch software.

u L i, J., Laurence, G., & Blume, B., “How Does Supervisor-Focused Procedural Justice Explain the

Effects of Person-Focused Leadership? The Moderating Role of Leader-Referenced Relational-Self,” European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology.

While every person exhibits their own leadership style, each employee reacts to these particular styles in different ways. Some prefer a leader who takes a hands-on approach, providing clear direction, while others prefer a leader who is more hands off and allows employees to “do their own thing.” This article examines an aspect (or type) of leadership in which the leader acts in a sort of ‘parent-like way,’ exhibiting genuine and controlling care about employees’ well-being.

Jie Li, PhD

“UM-Flint helped me gain the skills and knowledge to put me in the position I am in today,” said McKenzie. “Courses were offered in ways that allowed me to simultaneously explore different career paths, find my dream job, and earn credits toward my degree.

“Now, after 21 months of college, I’ve completed 96 credit hours with a GPA of 3.87. I’m employed by three different agencies and started my own freelance bookkeeping service.

I have been very blessed thus far in my life and look forward to what the future holds for me.”

“We found that this was generally the case, but that engaging in these behaviors depended on how much employees identified with their leaders and to what extent employees adhered to more traditional value sets. This is particularly important for leaders who operate in cross-cultural environments where employees are likely to be from more traditionalist cultures (like, say, China, Japan, Korea…).”

Greg Laurence, PhD

u AN EMPLOYER’S PERSPECTIVE Local non-profit 100K Ideas doesn’t limit itself to one or two student interns a semester. In fact, the majority of the organization’s personnel are comprised of student specialists who work under the direction of professional mentors and leadership staff. Brandee Cooke oversees students as they bring entrepreneurial projects to life from inside the Ferris Wheel Building located in downtown Flint.

“100K Ideas was founded on the realization that there are 100,000 people in Flint; if we got one idea from each person, we could change the world,” explained Cooke, who earned a psychology degree from the University of Michigan. “Since November (2017), we’ve heard over 160 ideas. Seventy percent of have been for products, 20 percent have been

“We were interested in whether the decisions of leaders who behaved this way would be perceived as ‘fair,” and if employees responded by helping their supervisors in ways that exceeded their job descriptions,” said Greg Laurence, PhD, associate professor of management.

The study examined working professionals enrolled in a part-time MBA program at a large public university located in a major metropolitan area in west China. The participants were asked to complete a survey in which they rated their direct supervisors’ benevolent paternalistic leadership along with their own traditionality, leader identification, and SPJ. The supervisors rated the participants level of helping (willing to help colleagues solve work-related problems) and conscientiousness (takes one’s job seriously and rarely makes mistakes).

“Leaders’ understanding and influence on the followers’ level of leader identification will be especially important for organizations moving into other cultural contexts where the general level of traditionality might be expected to be lower than that of their home cultures,” said Brian Blume, PhD, professor of organizational behavior and HR management and interim associate director of the Hagerman Center.

“For instance, it may not be a good idea for a multinational corporation to send a benevolent paternalistic manager in China, without additional training, to lead a group of non-traditionalist professionals in New York City.”

Brian Blume, PhD

Laurence added, “When Dr. Li approached Dr. Blume and I about this project, it seemed like a nice way to mix our strengths and interests. I think there’s more collaborative research going on at UM-Flint SOM now than ever before, and it was nice for us to be able to work together and publish in a high quality journal like this one.”

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

REFEREED JOURNALS IN PRINT Ahmed, U., Kristal, M, Pagell, P. & Gattiker, T., 2017. Towards a classification of supply chain relationships: A routine based perspective, Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, 22(4): 341-374.

Banerjee, S., Dholakia, R.R. & Dholakia N., 2017. M-Powering Marketing in a Mobile World, Business Expert Press: New York.

Rybarczyk, G., Szymanski, M., Banerjee, S. & Shaker R., 2018. Travel and us: The impact of mode share on sentiment using geo-social media and geographic information systems, Journal of Location Based Services, 12(1): 40-62.

Poddar, A., Banerjee, S. & Sridhar, K., 2018. False advertising or slander?

Using location based tweets to assess online rating-reliability, Journal of Business Research, forthcoming.

Banerjee, S., Hemphill, T. & Longstreet, P., 2018. Wearable devices and healthcare: Data sharing and privacy, The Information Society: An International Journal, 34(1): 49-57.

Blume, B., Ford, J., Surface, E. & Olenick, J., 2018. A dynamic model of training transfer, Human Resource Management Review, forthcoming.

Cavusgil, S. T., Deligonul, S., Kardes, I. & Cavusgil, E., 2018. Middleclass consumers in emerging markets: Conceptualization, propositions, and implications for international marketers, Journal of International Marketing, forthcoming.

Jancenelle, V., Javalgi, R. & Cavusgil, E., 2018. The role of economic and normative signals in international prosocial crowdfunding: An illustration using market orientation and psychological capital, International Business Review, 27(1): 208-217.

Uner, M., Cavusgil, E. & Cavusgil, S., 2018. Build-Operate-Transfer projects as a hybrid mode of market entry: The case of Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge in Istanbul, International Business Review, 27(4): 797-802.

Yao, Q., Shi, L., Stottinger B & Cavusgil, E., 2018. Neither an authentic product nor a counterfeit: The growing popularity of Shanzhai products in global markets, Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences, forthcoming.

Jones, K., Chen, C. & Moreland, K., 2017. How online learning compares to the traditional classroom: Measuring accounting course outcome, The CPA Journal Chen, C., Jones, K. & Xu, S., 2018. The Association between students’ style of learning preferences, social presence, collaborative learning and learning outcomes, Journal of Educators Online, 15(1), 1-16.

Fortsch, S. & Perera, S., 2018. A resilient donor arrival policy for blood, Operations Research For Health Care, forthcoming.

Fortsch, S. & Liao, Q. 2018. Decreasing operational costs of nonprofit community-based blood centers. International Journal of Business and Systems Research, forthcoming.

Fortsch, S. & Khapalova, E., 2018. The value of inventory and the direction of the supply chain bullwhip effect, International Journal of Business and Systems Research, forthcoming.

Hemphill, T. & Laurence, G., 2018. Employee social responsibility: A missing component in the ISO 26000 social responsibility standard, Business and Society Review, 123(1): 59-81.

Hemphill, T. & White, G., 2018. Multinational enterprises, employee safety, and the socially responsible supply chain: The case of Bangladesh and the apparel industry, Business and Society Review, forthcoming.

Kandogan, Y. & Hiller, J., 2018. Alliances in international governmental organizations, regional trade agreement formation and multinational enterprise regionalization strategy, Journal of International Business Studies, forthcoming.

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MAIZE AND BLUE DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR AWARD

Kandogan, Y., 2018. Topological properties of the international trade network using modified measures, International Trade Journal, 32(3): 268-292.

Kandogan, Y., 2018. What do managers look for in candidates for international assignments?, Thunderbird International Business Review, forthcoming.

Johnson, M., Kang, M. J. & Lawson, T., 2017. Stock price reaction to data breaches, Journal of Finance Issues, 16(2), 1-13.

Kelley, K., Hemphill, T. & Thams, Y., 2018. Corporate social responsibility, country reputation, and corporate reputation: A perspective on the creation of shared value in Latin America and emerging markets, Multinational Business Review, forthcoming.

The Maize and Blue Distinguished Scholar Award is the highest academic award bestowed upon graduates of the University of Michigan-Flint and presented to no more than 13 graduates at the December and April commencement ceremonies. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.75 and demonstrate intellectual maturity and depth, character, talent, and service to the department, university, or community.

Thams, Y., Kelley, K. & Von Glinow, M., 2018. Foreigners in the boardroom: The Impact of firms’ local socio-cultural context, Journal of Business Research, forthcoming.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT MAIZE AND BLUE AWARD WINNERS!

Kelley, K. & Thams, Y., 2018. Global reputation management: Understanding and managing reputation as shared value across borders, Research in Global Strategic Management Global Aspects of Reputation and Strategic Management, Volume 18.

December 2017 Ashley M. Chapman - Bachelor of Business Administration Ariees T. Spangler - Bachelor of Business Administration

Li, J., Furst-Holloway, S., Gales, L., Masterson, S. & Blume, B., 2018.

Leader-Member exchange and leader identification: Comparison and integration, Journal of Managerial Psychology, forthcoming.

April 2018 Olivia Norfolk - Bachelor of Business Administration

Alvarado-Vargas, M. & Kelley, K., 2018. Bullwhip severity in conditions of uncertainty: Regional versus global supply chain strategies, International Journal of Emerging Markets, forthcoming.

Li, J., Laurence, G. & Blume, B., 2018. How does supervisor-focused procedural justice explain the effects of person-focused leadership?

The moderating role of leader-referenced relational-self, European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 27(3): 387-399.

Li, R., Chen, C. & Jones, K., 2018. What to do with math error notices from the IRS, Journal of Accountancy Li, W., 2018. Solution attractor of local search systems: Theory and application, Advances in Mathematics Research, forthcoming.

Longstreet, P. & Brooks, S., 2017. Life satisfaction: A key to managing internet & social media addiction, Technology in Society, 50: 73-77.

Brooks, S., Longstreet, P. & Califf, C. 2017. Social media induced technostress and its impact on internet addiction: A distraction-conflict theory perspective, AIS Transactions on Human-Computer Interaction, 9(2): 99-122.

Lotfi, V., Maki, B., 2018. A predictive model for graduate application to enrollment, Open Access Library Journal, forthcoming.

Mehdian, S., Stoica, O. & Ajayi, R. 2018. An empirical investigation of the dissemination of stock price innovations across the Nordic and Baltic Counties, Emerging Markets Finance and Trade, forthcoming.

Moreland, K., 2018. Financial advice and other desirable financial behaviors, Journal of Financial Counseling and Planning, forthcoming.

Perera, S. & Long, H., 2017. An approximation scheme for impulse control with random reaction periods, Operations Research Letters, 45(6): 585-591.

Perera, S., Janakiraman, G. & Niu, S., 2018. Optimality of (s,S) inventory policies under renewal demand and general cost structures, Production and Operations Management, 27(2): 368-383.

Tack, L., Simon, M. & Jiang, J., 2018. Global business brigades: A profitable pig in Panama?, Southeast Case Research Journal, forthcoming.

BETA GAMMA SIGMA Beta Gamma Sigma is the honor society that serves business programs accredited by AACSB International (the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). Membership in Beta Gamma Sigma is the highest recognition a business student in a program accredited by AACSB International can receive.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S BETA GAMMA SIGMA INDUCTEES: Jason Abbasspour

Christopher Godin

Sydney Parvin

Tyler Borkowski

Adham Habbas

Latonia Raines

Ashley Born

Tabitha Hill

Stacie Scherman

Ashley Chapman

Kirstin Knag

Heather Standal

Nicholas Chung

Xin Lin

Tom Tang

Valerio Crovasce

Nicholas Matthies

James Traxler

Raquel Davila

Michael McGahey

Michael Tupper

Erich Drettmann

Maxwell Montney

Michelle Van Elsacker

Shane Emmons

Eric Netkowski

Lanting Wei

Kelly Forster Ivy

Olivia Norfolk

Avadella White

White, G., Fainshmidt, S. & Rajwani, T., 2018. Antecedents and outcomes of political tie intensity: Institutional and strategic fit perspectives, Journal of International Management, 24(1), 1-15.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

4

RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

u ANNIE SURI MBA ’14, BBA ’06

White, G., Hemphill, T., Weber, T. & Moghaddam, K., 2017. Institutional origins of WOFS formal contracting: A judicial arbitrariness perspective, International Business Review, 27: 654-668.

Li, W. 2017. Solution attractor of local search system for the traveling salesman problem, Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics Conference on Optimization, Vancouver, Canada.

White, G., Boddewyn, J., Rajwani, T. & Hemphill, T. 2018. Political ties and regulator vulnerabilities to political pressure: The moderating effects of regulatory and political distance, Management International Review, forthcoming.

Li, W. 2017. Solution attractor of local search system, Conference of International Federation of Operational Research Societies, Quebec City, Canada.

Witt, M., Helmuth, J., Halpin, B. & Vandeberg, N. 2018. International economic development efforts and small and medium enterprises, Oxford Bibliographies in Management, Oxford University Press: Oxford.

MARKET OPERATIONS ANALYST THE NATIONAL CHAMBER PROGRAM (DETROIT)

CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

ALUMNA SERVES AS MARKET OPERATIONS ANALYST FOR THE LARGEST CHAMBER AFFINITY PROGRAM IN THE US

Ahmed, U., Shafiq, A. & Mahmoodi, F. 2017. The relational implications of supply chain analytics capability, DSI Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C.

Over the past two centuries, chambers of commerce have become the core networks for business owners to advocate on behalf of their communities, economic prosperity, and business interests. The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives estimates 4,000 of these networks in towns and cities across the US with at least one full-time staff person and thousands more established as volunteer entities.

Suri came to The National Chamber Program with experience as assistant marketing manager for Gibbs Sports Amphibians in Auburn Hills. She was part of the team that stood behind the international launch of the world’s first high-speed amphibious vehicle—the Quadski. She worked at the power sports company while pursuing her MBA at UM-Flint.

Banerjee, S., Xu, S. & Johnson, S. 2018. How does location based marketing affect mobile retail revenues? The complex interplay of tactic, device and user type, Global Marketing Conference, Tokyo, Japan.

“I was part of an intimate team that successfully developed and launched two world-class products in the two years I was with the company,” said Suri. “I consider it a great accomplishment to not only break glass ceilings in a male-dominated industry but to also have the opportunity to be part of the introduction of a brand new industry to the world. And, I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to enjoy such a successful career while pursuing my educational goals. This was only possible through the flexibility of the NetPlus! program.”

Uner, M., Cavusgil, E. & Cavusgil, S. 2017. BOT (Build, Operate, Transfer) projects in international marketing? A resilient entry mode strategy with new twists: The case of Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge in Istanbul, CIMaR, Florence, Italy.

Annie Suri (MBA ’14, BBA ’06) is a market operations analyst for The National Chamber Program, an organization of 1,500 chambers of commerce working together to “deliver greater member value through innovative products and services.”

A subsidiary of the Detroit Regional Chamber, The National Chamber Program partners with other chambers of commerce across the county to offer discounts, earning opportunities, and business education. It is the largest chamber affinity program in the country.

As market operations analyst, Suri serves as project lead in development and execution of National Chamber Program initiatives. She manages customer activity to establish a greater market presence and increase revenue. She’s also involved with implementing onboarding procedures, planning events, and communicating with external audiences. In her role, she focuses on providing an analysis of branding and outreach initiatives by identifying opportunities for improvement.

“The position is quite exciting and diverse,” said Suri. “With so many partners, I have a heavy hand in developing new business methods for our organization.”

‘‘

Growing up in Canton, Suri was surrounded by mentors in the business field, including her father. Watching them helped to hone her critical thinking skills. She studied business in college because she was attracted to “the unlimited possibilities and industries that a business degree could bring.”

“I can’t tell you how many doors have opened for me when I mention that I’m a School of Management alum,” said Suri. “I always dreamed big but was never prepared for the blessings and opportunities that have come my way. I’m truly proud to be part of the U of M family.”

I can’t tell you how many doors have opened for me when I mention that I’m a School of Management alum.

3

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

’’

Banerjee, S., & Sultan, F. 2017. Solitary or sociable? Segmenting mobile micro-moments with social media geoforensics, Marketing Edge, New Orleans, LA.

Blume, B., Ford, J., Surface, E. & Olenick, J. 2017. How do leader-member exchange and leader identification differentially mediate leadership effects?, Academy of Management, Atlanta, GA.

Johnson, S. 2018. Global Trends and Topics and Business Education, International Conference on Global Business and Commerce, Taipei, Taiwan.

Kandogan, Y. & Hiller, J. 2017. Partner selection in economic integration agreements: The role of alliances in international organizations, Academy of International Business Annual Meeting, Dubai, UAE. Kang, M. J., Liao, Q. & Kim, Y. 2017. Do bankers on the board reduce crash risk, Financial Management Association European Conference, Lisbon, Portugal.

Kang, M. J., Liao, Q. & Kim, Y. 2017. Do bankers on the board reduce crash risk, World Finance Conference, Cagliari, Italy.

Kim, Y., Kang, M. J., Jung, H. & Kim, D. 2017. Predicting North Korean aggressions using foreign short sales and media tone, Financial Management Association Conference, Boston, MA. Kartha, C. P. 2018. Impact of ISO 9001 certification on organizational effectiveness, International Business Horizon Conference, New Delhi, India.

Kelley, K., Hemphill, T. & Thams, Y. 2018. Corporate social responsibility, country reputation, and firm reputation: A perspective on the creation of shared value in emerging Latin American markets, Academy of International Business Annual Conference, Minneapolis, MN. Kelley, K. & Kandogan, Y. 2018. Should I stay or should I go? The effect of country reputation on young business professionals’ willingness to relocate internationally, Academy of International Business Annual Meeting, Minneapolis, MN. Laurence, G. & Moore, Y. 2017. Developing a theory of workplace soundscapes, European Congress of Psychology, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Li, W., 2017. Attractor-based search system for the traveling salesman problem, International Conference on Learning and Intelligent Optimization, Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Fed.

Lotfi, V. & Maki, B. 2018. A predictive model for graduate application to enrollment, NAGAP Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA. Moreland, K. 2017. The impact of CPAs’ financial advice on financial behaviors, American Accounting Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA. Perera, S. 2018. New trends in supply chain and operations management. MERCon, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Perera, S. 2018. A little speed-customization goes a long way: Imminent delivery networks on online retailers, INFORMS International Meeting, Taipei, Taiwan.

Perera, S. 2018. Optimizing starvation to avoid cannibalization: Retailer’s strategies for markets in crisis, POMS Annual Conference, Houston, TX. Simon, M. 2018. Crowdfunding to support social entrepreneurship: A multi-method approach, Academy of Management, Chicago, IL. Chen, T., Simon, M., Qian, H. & Kim, J. 2017. Money buys time, really? A contingency view of TMT-CEO pay gap and competitive response speed, Academy of Management, Atlanta, GA. Chen, T., Simon, M., Qian, H. & Kim, J. 2018. Money buys time, really? A contingency view of TMT-CEO pay gap and competitive response speed, IACMR, Wuhan, China.

Simon, M. & Kim, J. 2017. Refining the business model canvas to increase venture formation, Western Academy of Management, Salt lake City, UT. White, G., Hemphill, T., Boddewyn, J. & Rajwani, T. 2017. Legal systems voids and wholly owned foreign subsidiary performance: The mediating role of political ties as nonmarket Assets, Academy of International Business Annual Conference, Minneapolis, MN. Xu, S. & Cavusgil, E. 2018. Alliance portfolio configuration, knowledge development, and innovation: Theoretical framework and empirical evidence, Global Marketing Conference, Tokyo, Japan.

RESEARCH INSIGHTS SOM faculty recognize that profound changes in today’s dynamic business environment and related fields continue to transform the discipline. Through meaningful research initiatives, SOM faculty are meeting the business world’s needs by providing knowledge and offering their skills to organizations, society, and the world.

From 2013 to 2017, SOM faculty had 157 peer-reviewed journal publications, including 68 articles in journals that are considered high quality by the Journal Citation Reports and discipline-specific listings. The average yearly impact factor (frequency an article has been cited) of faculty publications over the 2013-17 period also continues to grow. According to Google Scholar, over the last five years SOM faculty research was referred to in 6,995 other peerreviewed journal publications. They have also presented their findings at leading universities around the world and received external grants to support their work.

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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FUNDRAISING HIGHLIGHTS

Dear friends, Thanks to your generosity, the School of Management raised over $300,000 this past academic year—with roughly 87 percent directly supporting students through academic and study abroad scholarships. It’s the fruit of your gifts that inspire many of the stories featured in this issue of Business@UM-Flint.

While the three-year Victors for Michigan campaign comes to a close in December, we want to remind you that our students’ need continues. Over 70 percent of UMFlint students receive some form of financial aid; many have to put their degrees on hold because they run out of aid. Your gifts, both large and small, help students continue their education and our ability to create meaningful opportunities that will transform them into successful members of our local and business communities.

As you read through this issue, be inspired by the way students, alumni, faculty, staff, community partners, and donors are contributing to the success of the nearly 1,000 students in SOM, as well as those from other disciplines across campus. We welcome you to consider how you can do the same.

Melissa Stephens-Farrell Major Gifts Officer, University Advancement

If you would like to explore opportunities to support the School of Management, feel free to contact me directly by calling (810) 424-5480 or emailing msfarrel@ umflint.edu.

Thank you and always--GO BLUE!

u DEAN’S MESSAGE Dear alumni and friends of the School of Management: Welcome to the 2018 edition of Business@UM-Flint. We offer this magazine as a way to keep you informed of the many fine activities, initiatives, and accomplishments of our talented students, faculty, staff, and alumni. I take tremendous pride in serving as dean.

We deliver innovative, high-quality educational programs in business, create intellectual contributions that impact both business theory and practice, meaningfully engage our local and global communities, and demonstrate the highest integrity and ethics in all that we do.

As you peruse the magazine, you will notice we are offering more interdisciplinary programs. Disciplines evolve, and the marketplace demands broad skills. The marriage of healthcare expertise and business prowess, for example, will give students the needed skillset to help them navigate the rapidly changing healthcare industry. In addition, the School of Management continues to expand experiential learning through internships with close collaboration with our business partners in the region.

You will read about outstanding alumni, donors, faculty members, staff members, and students. I cannot describe all the wonderful achievements in this short welcome, but simply encourage you to read these stories. It is the people that make an organization effective in its work. I am continually amazed at the many wonderful people connected to the School of Management that continue to make us a leader in preparing students to make positive contributions to organizations, society, and the world.

Melissa Stephens-Farrell P.S. You can also make a gift through the School of Management website at umflint.edu/som by clicking on the “give online” button.

Scott D. Johnson Dean of School of Management

Thank you for your continued support and GO BLUE! Sincerely,

Fundraising Highlights Scott D. Johnson, PhD Dean

63%

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

24%

$309,215

STUDY ABROAD STUDENT SUPPORT

9.6%

TOTAL GIFTS RAISED AND PLEDGED FOR 2017-18

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES/EXCELLENCE FUND

2%

The School of Management is located on the second floor of the Riverfront Center on the University of Michigan-Flint campus.

u umflint.edu/som

FACULTY SUPPORT

1.4%

STUDENT PROGRAM SUPPORT

Total market value of the School of Management’s endowed gift funds: 2014

$1,420,516

2015

$3,570,062

2016

$3,489,608

2017

$4,658,142

2018

$5,060,296

BUSINESS @ UM-FLINT

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DONOR HONOR ROLL

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

DEAN’S MESSAGE

would like to thank our donors for their tremendous support for academic year 2017/2018 (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018).

3 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ANNIE SURI EXECUTIVE OFFICE Dean, School of Management Scott Johnson PhD

Associate Dean, School of Management Yener Kandogan PhD

4

MAIZE & BLUE AWARD WINNERS

4

BETA GAMMA SIGMA INDUCTEES

5

VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS

7

NEWS & BRIEFS

9 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ZIAD LAJNEF 11

EXPLORING THE BUSINESS OF ARTS IN JAPAN

13 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: JAWAN SIMPSON

PUBLICATION

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Editor....................................................Kimberly A. Laux, MA

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Graphic Designer............................ Tricia Borcherding, BFA

15 STUDENT ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT: SCOMA

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Contributors................................................ Kristin Arntz, BA

16 ALUMNI RELATIONS

Matt Bueby, BBA Robert Gold, BA Craig Gomolka, MSA Scott Johnson, PhD Yener Kandogan, PhD Jacinda Kitts, BBA Kimberly Laux, MA Bob Mabbitt, MA Mike Naddeo, BFA Antonio Riggs, EdS, MA Louanne Snyder Melissa Stephens-Farrell, BBA Pam Zemore

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Board of Reviewers................................ Scott Johnson, PhD Yener Kandogan, PhD Brent Nickola, MS Melissa Stephens-Farrell, BBA Anna Swartz, BA

14 SOM SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

17

INTERDISCIPLINARY OPPORTUNITIES IN SOM

21 WELCOMING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

EXECUTIVE LEVEL

($15,000-$99,000) Carroll Baker & Dr. Kimberly Roberson Dr. Barunashish Brahma & Dr. Pavna Brahma Mr. & Mrs. John Heitmann Dr. C.P. Kartha & Pressna Kartha* Mr. & Mrs. Randy Leach Mr. & Mrs. Rick Tromble*

DEAN’S CIRCLE

($5,000-$14,999) Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Winfield Cooper III* Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Flagel Cathleen Hale* Pricewaterhouse Coopers Foundation Rachor Family Foundation Dr. James Rachor & Lucinda Rachor Michael Rachor

PARTNER LEVEL

32 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: ERIN CAVUSGIL

($1,000-$4,999) Stephen Bolerjack & Susan Gasparian Mr. & Mrs. Michael Burke Jr.* Consumers Energy Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Eric Gasper Mr. & Mrs. David Gibbons David Hoffman & Judith Kermans Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Holzer Dr. Scott Johnson* & Mary Johnson* Jimmy Krause Dr. Cathleen Miller* Dr. Keith & Jeannine Moreland* David Page Mr. & Mrs. Julius Shaw Daniel Roesner & Sheryl Stephens* Michael Torrey & Marcia Torrey*

33 RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

SUPPORTING LEVEL

23 FACULTY INTERVIEW: SY BANERJEE 24 CORPORATE CASE COMPETITION 25 GIVING BACK WHILE PAYING IT FORWARD 27 A NEED FOR FEMALE FINANCIAL PLANNERS 29 FINANCE & STEWARDSHIP 31 KUDOS

35 RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT 37 FUNDRAISING HIGHLIGHTS 38 DONOR HONOR ROLL

($500-$999) Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Leslie Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Nelson Kenneth & Barbara Puzycki

CONTRIBUTING LEVEL ($100-$499)

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Bacha Robert Beauchamp & Catrina Beauchamp Jeffery Bigelow & Stephanie Bigelow Dr. Brian Blume* Mr. & Mrs. Ryburn Brown Archie Canterbury & Robin Canterbury Mr. & Mrs. Robert Catton Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Caughlin Dr. & Mrs. William Crittenden Jose Sanchez & Francine Cullari* DTE Energy Foundation Kathy Elsworth John Emmendorfer, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. John Fain Sr. David Fairman Gordon Fleming Dr. Richard Fortner* David Greiner Debra Handa RaShonda Harris Mr. & Mrs. Clifford Hart* Teresa Irland-Munley & Michael Munley* Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Kimball Mr. & Mrs. Kim Knag Mr. & Mrs. Steven Kramer Heidi Lund* Anthony Macksoud & Linda White-Macksoud Lisa Maiz & Richard Maiz Dr. & Mrs. John Marquardt* Vivek Mehta Richard Merrill & Kathleen Merrill Brad Mikus Jane Munsell & Shawn Munsell Juliet Murphy N. Goldsworthy PLC Plante & Moran Patricia Post Daniel J. Quigley & Sarah Quigley James Rau Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Reynolds Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ringler Glenda Robb Stephen Schiestel & Melissa Schiestel Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Scott Jr. David Seitz Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Shannon

*Denotes faculty, staff, or an advisory board member of SOM

Kathleen Sheehy Catherine Sluys Mr. & Mrs. Mark Smith Melissa Stephens-Farrell* & Edward Farrell III Robert Stork Mr. & Mrs. John Sullivan Mr. & Mrs. Steven Sullivant James Terry III The Shannon Family Trust Robin Walter Mr. & Mrs. Marc Warner Mr. & Mrs. Russell Yurk

DONOR LEVEL (Up to $99)

Bryan Baker III & Kimberly Baker Steven Bartunek Matthew Bohlen & Jessica Bohlen Anthony Caldwell Andrew Chapo Carrie Church & Jody Church Louis Ciccone Ruby Clark Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Collins Megan Dantzler Sharyl Demo Kirk Drennan Mr. & Mrs. Arnold Force Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Furey Charles Gearing Mark Govaere Carl Gretzinger James E. Mitchell Revocable Living Trust Mr. & Mrs. James Klobuchar Kustom Financial LLC Sharon Leaman-Case & David Case Frank Lloyd James Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Ouellette Mr. & Mrs. David Peterfi Michael Shegos & Bernice Shegos Charles Smith Sheila Smith* Mr. & Mrs. Michael Stetson Jenn Swank & Charles Swank Anna Swartz* Kathleen Wendling Alan Wilson

University of Michigan-Flint School of Management 2221 Riverfront Center 303 E. Kearsley St. Flint, MI 48502-1950

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID FLINT, MI PERMIT NO. 89

(810) 762-3160 umflint.edu/som

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

BUSINESS UM-FLINT FALL 2018

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INTERDISCIPLINARY OPPORTUNITIES

Page 17

SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT ADVISORY BOARD MICHAEL J. BURKE, JR. President Lakestone Bank & Trust

RONALD JUSTICE President & CEO The State Bank

GHASSAN K. SAAB General Manager Saab Management Group

DAVID G. STICKEL Retired First Merit Bank

BRITAIN BUTCHER Director of Ecommerce Coffee Beanery

JANICE KARCHER Vice President Economic Development, Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce

MARK SIMON Professor/Director Hagerman Center, SOM/UM-Flint

MICHAEL TORREY VP Rates and Regulations Consumers Energy

KIMBER SMAIL Audit Partner Plante Moran

RICK TROMBLE Entrepreneur/CEO Tromble Bay Farms

SHEILA SMITH Consultant SOM Alumna

PAUL WENSTROM First Vice President Investments, Merrill Lynch

MELISSA STEPHENS-FARRELL Major Gifts Officer SOM/UM-Flint

STEPHEN WHITENER Entrepreneur & CEO National Systems Installers

SHERYL STEPHENS CEO Stephens Wealth Management Group

CAZZIE WILLIAMS Global Director Electronics Commodity Management, Honeywell Corporate Sourcing

JIM CARNEY Flint Community Bank President Chemical Bank WIN COOPER (Board President) President Cooper Commercial Group, Ltd. CATHLEEN HALE Engineer Champion Bus TERESA IRLAND MUNLEY Senior Vice President, retired Bank of America

JAMES MCGUIRK CEO Sun Steel Treating, Inc. PRESTON MEANS President & CEO Accu-Shape Die Cutting, Inc. LARRY NICHOLS Executive in Residence/Consultant UM-Flint JOHN POTBURY Genesee County Prosecutor Genesee County

#umflint

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University of Michigan-Flint is a Non-discriminatory, Affirmative Action Employer.

Regents of the University of Michigan: Michael J. Behm, Mark J. Bernstein, Shauna Ryder Diggs, Denise Ilitch, Andrea Fischer Newman, Andrew C. Richner, Ron Weiser, Katherine E. White, Mark S. Schlissel (ex officio) © 2018 Regents of the University of Michigan

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