The CoBA Connection

Data, Diversity and Direction: Dr. Mavis Adjei on her new leadership role at CoBA

The School of Marketing and Management has a new interim director, Dr Mavis Adjei. She is excited about this new job and when I asked about her path to leadership, Dr. Mavis smiles “It’s not a journey I planned,” she admits. With an undergraduate degree in biology, a master’s in Information Systems, an MBA, and eventually a PhD blending marketing and information systems, her professional arc is a testament to the unexpected ways careers can unfold. “I realized I didn’t want to work solely in IT,” she recalls. “Taking marketing classes showed me I really enjoyed it, it was fun.” That discovery not only redirected her academic focus but ultimately positioned her to become Interim Director of the School of Management and Marketing at the College of Business and Analytics (CoBA). 

Dr. Adjei joined the faculty in 2006, as an assistant professor. Administrative leadership wasn’t on her radar initially, but when the Dean asked her to step into this role, she reluctantly agreed. To her surprise, she enjoyed it. “I realized I liked co-creating the direction of the college, collaborating with faculty, and engaging with students and alumni,” she says. “This position felt like a logical next step.” 

Preparing Students for a Changing Business World 

For Dr. Mavis, the driving force of her work is the responsibility to equip students for a rapidly changing business environment. “If we bring students here, we owe it to them to prepare them for the real world,” she emphasizes. That means ensuring programs and courses reflect the evolving demands of employers. In her view, three competencies stand out: 

Data Savviness. “The world is increasingly data-driven,” she says. “Students must graduate with the ability to analyze information and translate it into meaningful business decisions.” 

Emotional Intelligence and Adaptability. “Technical skills alone aren’t enough. To succeed, students must understand people, navigate challenges, and adapt quickly.” 

Communication Across Cultures. “Cross-cultural communication doesn’t just mean speaking across nationalities. It’s about bridging differences such as socioeconomic, religious, ethnic, or regional. That’s critical for thriving in today’s workplaces.”  

She is confident that CoBA already has strong momentum in this direction, crediting her predecessor’s groundwork in launching new programs. Her goal is to continue fostering an environment where students leave not only with highly marketable skills but capable of thriving in an ever-shifting global marketplace. 

Faculty and Student Excellence 

The School of Management and Marketing, Dr. Adjei notes, has much to be proud of. On the student side, case competition teams have brought home national awards, competing successfully against some of the country’s top business schools. These successes, she emphasizes, are the result of dedicated faculty advisors and highly motivated students. “It’s a combination of faculty investing time and students being fully present and driven,” she explains. “They show up, work hard, and achieve remarkable results.” 

On the faculty side, research is thriving. Several professors rank among the top two percent of most-cited scholars worldwide, underscoring the global relevance of their work. “That doesn’t just happen,” Dr. Adjei points out. “It means our faculty are producing research that other scholars and practitioners see as impactful and important.” 

Classroom experiences also set the school apart. Many courses integrate real world projects with local businesses. For example, students in marketing research classes collaborate with small and medium-sized companies in southern Illinois, helping them tackle business challenges. “Walmart doesn’t need our help,” Dr. Mavis jokes. “But local businesses do. Partnering with them gives students hands-on experience while supporting the region’s economic development.” By the end of each semester, students deliver professional reports that not only strengthen their resumes but also provide tangible value to the community.

Championing Diversity and Inclusion 

Perhaps most central to Dr. Adjei’s leadership philosophy is her commitment to diversity and inclusion. To her, this is not a checklist but it’s about creating a sense of belonging for every member of the CoBA community. “Students can’t thrive in a silo,” she says. “They need to feel connected—to each other, to faculty, and to the school. Only then can they truly succeed.” 

She stresses that diversity is not limited to race or ethnicity. “It includes students from different socioeconomic backgrounds, religions, or regions—even those from southern Illinois who may think differently than others. Everyone deserves to feel they belong here,” she explains. Her vision is to foster an environment where students not only graduate with academic achievements but also with lasting positive memories of their time at CoBA. 

Looking Ahead 

As Interim Director, Dr. Adjei envisions a future where the School of Management and Marketing continues to thrive through collaboration, innovation, and community impact. She believes faculty research and teaching excellence, paired with students’ ambition and drive, will keep the school at the forefront of business education. “Faculty bring innovation into the classroom, and students bring energy and ideas,” she reflects. “Together, we create something extraordinary.” 

In a field where the only constant is change, Dr. Adjei’s leadership blends adaptability with a clear commitment to student success, faculty excellence, and inclusive community building. Her journey from biology major to business school leader, may not have been a straight path, but it has equipped her with the perspective and passion to guide CoBA into the future. 

Alumni Spotlight: Rachel Paul (Class of 1998, 1999) – From Opportunity to Impact

By Rajvee Subramanian 

When Rachel Paul graduated from the College of Business and Analytics (CoBA) with an undergraduate degree in accounting in 1998 and a master’s in 1999, she had no idea her career would take her to more than 40 countries around the world. What began with an externship in Denver led to a job offer with Arthur Andersen, a global journey in mobility tax, and ultimately a successful 23+ year career with KPMG, where she is now a partner.  

Rachel has built a career she truly loves, helping clients move their employees across the globe while navigating the complex world of international HR, tax and payroll. Her work has taken her from remote island paradises in Indonesia and West African jungles to South American mountains and across Europe. “It’s been a career of learning through people and places,” she says. “I feel lucky that my work and my passion for travel have come together.” 

Rachels' success story is also deeply rooted in gratitude. She was awarded the Accounting Circle Scholarship as a student, a full-ride opportunity that covered tuition, fees, and housing. “That scholarship allowed me to graduate without a student loan. It was life-changing,” she reflects. Today, she honors that gift by giving back to CoBA in every way she can. 

Rachel currently serves on the School of Accountancy Advisory Board (since 2017) and on the Dean’s External Advisory Board since the Spring of 2025. She frequently returns to campus, attending banquets, golf tournaments, and mentoring students. “CoBA gave me the foundation and the opportunities I needed to succeed. Staying connected and supporting the next generation feels like the right way to give back,” she says with excitement.  

Her journey was not always easy. Rachel admits that being introverted made networking and leadership challenging at first. “I was shy, and I did not push myself to connect enough outside of student organizations or professors,” she recalls. Eventually, she worked hard to build those soft skills, learning how to network, delegate, and lead teams. “If I could give my younger self advice, I would say: put in the effort earlier. Build relationships, find mentors, and don’t be afraid to step forward.” 

Despite those early challenges, Rachel has reached milestones that any professional would be proud of, most notably becoming a partner at KPMG in 2012, a long-sought accomplishment in public accounting. And she remains excited about the future. “AI is transforming accounting, and those who learn how to leverage it effectively will lead the way. It’s not about replacing humans but it’s about freeing us to focus on what only people can do. Our firm is heavily investing in this technology to transform business.” 

For Rachel, the story has come full circle: from receiving a helping hand when she needed it most, to extending that same support to today’s CoBA students. And along the way, she’s built a career, a lovely life, travels the world and even gets paid for it. 

Connecting People, Building Opportunities – Meet Jen Badiu, Championing CoBA’s Growth 

As the College of Business and Analytics (CoBA) prepares for one of its most anticipated traditions—Day of Giving this September—the energy across the SIU Carbondale campus is palpable. With a university-wide goal of raising $3 million, the event is more than a fundraising milestone for Jen Badiu, CoBA’s new Director of Development. It’s a moment to deepen relationships and inspire collective impact. “Fund development is not just my profession—it’s my passion,” Jen shares. “I see myself as a connector, bringing together people, ideas, and resources to create meaningful change.” 

Beyond Dollars: The Power of Intention 

While the financial goal is ambitious, Jen emphasizes that Day of Giving is about more than monetary contributions. It’s a celebration of time, talent, and intention. CoBA proudly claimed the Day of Giving trophy two years in a row before last year and the team is eager to reclaim it. “Even a single dollar can make a difference,” Jen notes. “It’s the intention behind the gift that counts. We’re engaging alumni, faculty, and students near and far to imagine what’s possible.” 

A Legacy of Impact: The SSIF Story 

One of CoBA’s most compelling success stories is the Saluki Student Investment Fund (SSIF), now celebrating its 25th anniversary. Launched in 2000 with just $25,000, the student-managed fund has grown into a $4 million portfolio. “SSIF is a testament to what strategic investment in our students can achieve,” Jen explains. “It’s a powerful example of how donor support fuels innovation and excellence.” 

Sustaining Momentum: From R1 Status to Future Vision 

Day of Giving contributions directly support the College of Business and Analytics Dean’s Excellence Fund, Student Scholarship Fund, and The Dean’s Club 1957—critical pillars for CoBA’s continued growth. With SIU recently earning the prestigious R1 research designation, sustaining that level of excellence is a top priority. “Achieving R1 status is a milestone,” Jen says. “But sustaining it requires ongoing commitment and visionary leadership.” Under the guidance of Dean Marc Morris, Jen is confident in CoBA’s trajectory. “We are taking bold steps, one at a time,” she adds. “If every member of the CoBA community pledged even a dollar, the collective impact would be extraordinary.”

Beyond Borders, Beyond Books: SIU CoBA’s Transformative Study Abroad Experience in France

By Rajvee Subramanian 

In the above photo from left to right: Talaya Keith, James Riffey, Taylor Ingram, Audrey Dowland, Ellie Marks, Sequoia Allmond, Lily Lochhead, Jaysa Etchison, Tara Tanner  

This summer, a group of SIU’s College of Business and Analytics (CoBA) students traded their traditional classroom walls for the bustling markets of Grenoble. Led by faculty member Christie Mitchell, the three-week immersive learning experience at Grenoble École de Management became more than just a study abroad, it was a catalyst for confidence, cultural awareness, and personal transformation. 

Christie, who led her first study abroad program, reflected on the journey with visible joy, flipping through a scrapbook filled with vibrant snapshots of students exploring local markets, ordering in French cafés, and absorbing lessons in both business and life. 

“From the moment we left Chicago to the moment we returned, the students had changed,” Christie shared. “They gained confidence, global awareness, and a deeper understanding of themselves. These are key traits that every future business leader needs.” 

But the transformation was not limited to the students. Christie herself embraced the challenge of leading the program abroad, even learning key French phrases to navigate daily life. “It was a growth experience for me too,” she admitted. “I saw firsthand how stepping outside your comfort zone regardless of age or role can be incredibly rewarding.” 

Among the student participants was Taylor Ingram, who credits her academic advisor for encouraging her to take this trip. “The best decision of my life,” she said with infectious enthusiasm. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone. I grew so much personally and professionally.” She particularly appreciated the contrast in educational styles between the U.S. and the French business school. 
“Our classes were shorter but packed with intense, high-impact learning. It gave me a fresh perspective on how education can vary across cultures. I even got a minor in marketing” The experience also included meeting fellow Salukis in France, navigating public transportation, currency exchange, cross-cultural communication and real world challenges that sharpened the student's adaptability and resilience. 

A Strategic Vision for Global Engagement 

SIU is raising the bar when it comes to enhancing study abroad opportunities for students. The Center for International Education recently welcomed Brian Henry as the new Director of Study Abroad Programs. In a campus wide meeting with academic leaders, Brian emphasized that global education requires a shift in mindset. “Studying abroad is not just about attending class in another country,” he said. “It’s about full cultural immersion, learning through every interaction, every conversation, and every unexpected moment.” 

Brian is actively expanding global partnerships to provide students with more cost-effective, credit bearing opportunities around the world. His vision is to make global learning both accessible and integral to every student’s academic journey, regardless of financial background. 

Meanwhile, Christie is already planning her next adventure. “This year I took nine students, and my goal is to return to France with 20 next summer,” she said with determination. “We’re just getting started.” 

As they say in France… well, I tried to say something clever in French, but let’s just say I’m better off leaving it to the experts. 

Learn more about study abroad programs

Amplifying Students Voice: Deans Advisory Board at Work 

By Rajvee Subramanian 

The College of Business and Analytics (CoBA) has taken an exciting new step toward strengthening the student experience with the launch of the Dean’s Student Advisory Board (DSAB) earlier this year. Inspired by the vision of creating stronger connections between leadership and students, the DSAB provides a direct channel for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation across all majors at CoBA. “I want students to know that as the Dean, I am committed to bringing in change that matters to them,” said Dean Marc Morris. “Through this board, I can better understand student expectations and work with them to host programs and events that truly resonate.” 

Kimberly Little, Director of Student Services, echoed this commitment by highlighting the wealth of resources available to CoBA students. From the career closet and mock interview spaces, scholarships, financial assistance, mentor programs, and resume preparation support, Kim emphasized that CoBA is dedicated to helping students succeed both academically and professionally. 

Unlike other boards, the DSAB is intentionally informal and there are no bylaws or officer positions. Every member has a voice, and the emphasis is on brainstorming ideas and fostering collegiality in a relaxed environment. Though the group currently includes only a handful of members, its goal is to expand representation across all CoBA majors and programs. 

The energy is already palpable. Dillon Mallerk, one of the active members and a familiar face in the Rehn Hall corridors, shared, “We’re really excited about this board. We joined in the spring of 2025, and we currently have a small group of student members. Our hope is to grow to at least 12 or 15 by the end of the semester. We’re aiming to organize at least one event every month, and we are confident these efforts will make a real impact on the student experience at CoBA.” 

Noe Estrada, another board member, emphasized the board’s role as a vital communication bridge: “We like to bridge communication between the student body and Dean Morris. Our job is to brainstorm and implement initiatives that enhance student engagement, ensure students feel welcome on campus, and inform them about the many resources we have here at CoBA. It’s also a way to make sure the student voice is heard at the leadership level.” 

The DSAB meets bi-monthly and is already planning a range of events, from town halls to fun, food centered gatherings that bring students together in meaningful ways. Students will soon hear more about these initiatives through CoBA social media, and in the digital displays across Rehn. 

Though still in its early stages, the vision of the Dean’s Student Advisory Board is clear: to amplify student voices, create engaging opportunities, and build a more connected CoBA community. With the momentum of its student leaders and support from the administration, the DSAB is poised to become a cornerstone of student engagement and a catalyst for positive change at CoBA. 

SOAR 2025 Ignites the College Spirit: A High-Energy Glimpse into Life at SIU

By Rajvee Subramanian, College of Business and Analytics  

Adrenaline, ambition, and academic insight; Saluki Opportunity Awareness Residency (SOAR) program 2025 was more than just a summer camp. It was a transformative experience where high school students leaped (literally) into the world of college life at Southern Illinois University (SIU), guided by world class faculty and driven by curiosity, courage, and connection. 

Hosted by the College of Business and Analytics (COBA), SOAR is a week-long summer camp that introduces and educates junior and senior high school students about the expectations of college life and opportunities in business-related fields while providing the foundation of financial literacy and the development of interpersonal skills. SOAR 2025 brought together a diverse group of high school students from around the country for a packed week of engaging activities, leadership exercises, and hands on exposure to life at SIU. 

From the very first day, students embraced the thrill of outdoor challenges at Touch of Nature. The obstacle courses such as the giant swing, and the infamous “pamper pole” pushed campers to their limits both physically and mentally. “I was really nervous,” said camper Jessie Jay from Missouri, “but once I did it, it was total fun. It’s the connections for me and I met so many cool people and students. The networking is what matters to me the most.” 

The camp didn’t just challenge bodies, but it inspired minds. Campers attended sessions led by accomplished SIU faculty from several area, covering topics ranging from photography to finance, and even participated in stock market simulations and research workshops. “This is the place where we learn stuff and also make friends for life,” said Edom, who traveled from Sioux Falls to attend. 

Leilah Smith, another excited camper, shared her journey: “I had to get a recommendation letter from my school staff just to attend. I wanted to learn about finance and accounting and probably will decide my major. I was too scared to try the giant swing, but I loved cheering others on. Boating on the lake was the highlight for me!” 

At the helm of SOAR program was Ivan Vargas, the passionate director of CoBA’s Office of Diversity and Inclusivity (ODI). “It’s a win-win situation for the students and for SIU,” he said. “They live in the dorms, explore CoBA, and experience what it truly means to be a Saluki. I’m especially grateful for our camp counselors who worked tirelessly, from airport pickups to keeping the energy high.”  
This is also an excellent opportunity to meet people in their field. Campers had the chance to tour the Federal Reserve Museum in St. Louis and learned firsthand how monetary policy and financial systems operate. They visited Moneta Group, a St.Louis based wealth management firm and got to interact with the top executives. Ivan added that, “These visits help student connect classroom concepts with real people doing real work.” 

Behind the scenes, Dean Morris, the visionary force behind SOAR, expressed his pride in the program’s impact. “At COBA, students are our top priority. We’re proud to offer access to top-notch faculty, state of the art technology, and real-world exposure. Ivan is doing a fantastic job, and I know he’ll continue to do great things for our college.” 

From conquering fears on a swing high above the ground to unlocking new dreams in lecture halls, SOAR 2025 lit a spark in every student who walked its path. For these future Salukis, it wasn’t just a camp, it was a launchpad. As one camper put it best: “It was the first step toward the future I didn’t know I needed.” 

From dangling high above the treetops to diving into conversations about college majors, SOAR 2025 at SIUC proved that stepping outside your comfort zone is the first step toward success.  

And what’s the final verdict from the students? The unanimous answer was “A total blast.” 

Learn more about COBA and various programs