Dean’s Report: 2024
It’s been another outstanding academic year here at the Smith School. We have a lot to be proud of, and we’re getting noticed for it.Forbes recently introduced its list of the “New Ivies” – the 10 public and 10 private institutions turning out the best students and research, according to a survey of hiring managers. The University of Maryland is on the list, and we’re a big part of the reason why.
Learning from the Best
At Smith, world-class faculty bring decades of research and expertise directly to undergraduate classrooms, offering students a unique opportunity to learn from top scholars, a rare practice among public universities.
All in on AI
The Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland is pioneering AI education to meet rising industry demand. The school's new AI center and specialized programs prepare students to address business challenges with AI, ensuring graduates' market relevance.
Building Smith's Future
Smith School Dean Prabhudev Konana is transforming learning with technological upgrades in Van Munching Hall, including new active-learning classrooms and a cutting-edge virtual teaching studio to support global remote learners.
Smith School Receives Grant from the Robert H. Smith School of Business Foundation
In May, the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business received a $437,860 grant from the Robert H. Smith School of Business Foundation.The grant represents roughly 4% of the foundation’s assets managed by the Smith School’s student investment funds—the Mayer, Senbet and Global Equity funds. Collectively, the funds currently manage approximately $11.5 million in assets.
President’s E Award to Smith’s Center for Global Business
The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded the 2024 President’s “E” Award for Export Service to the University of Maryland's Smith School Center for Global Business for its outstanding contributions to expanding U.S. business in international markets.
Aiming for Zero
Montgomery County, Maryland, aims for 100% greenhouse gas emission reduction by 2035. Smith Business Consulting students collaborate with the county, providing pro-bono services to achieve these goals. This initiative aligns with the Smith School's social impact and experiential learning strategies.
Sports Management Program Advisory Board Adds Another All-Star
Steve Schanwald, a trailblazer in sports marketing, began his journey by volunteering under Russ Potts at the University of Maryland. His tenure with the Chicago Bulls solidified his reputation. Now, he joins the Sports Management Program Advisory Board, enriching the future of sports industry professionals.
Speaker Series Addresses and Provides Solutions to the Challenges Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners Face
The latest NFIB survey indicates a historic low in small business owner optimism. Senator Cardin and Linda McMahon discuss challenges like stable policies and access to capital. UMD's Smith School of Business lauded for fostering entrepreneurship among students.
The Smith Analytics Consortium’s Annual Datathon Breaks Another Record
The 5th Annual Datathon, hosted by the Smith Analytics Consortium, engaged 370 students in 53 teams, marking a new participation record. The event, aligned with Smith's Strategic Plan, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration and included students from various academic backgrounds.