The fall semester is in full swing at the College of Business and Analytics, and with it comes fresh energy, bold ideas, and inspiring stories that reflect our mission: creating opportunities and connections that change lives. In this issue, you’ll meet leaders, alumni, and students who are moving CoBA forward with purpose from the classroom to the global stage. Also learn how you can be part of the momentum on SIU’s Day of Giving.
Data, Diversity and Direction: Dr Mavis Adjei on her new leadership role at CoBA
The School of Management and Marketing is starting the semester with fresh vision and energy under the leadership of Dr. Mavis Adjei, Interim Director. With a career rooted in academic excellence and a passion for student success, Dr. Adjei is eager to guide the school into its next chapter. In this issue, she shares her journey, her priorities for the year ahead, and her hopes for empowering the next generation of business leaders.
Rachel (’98, ’99) once described herself as an introvert who struggled to network. Today, she is a KPMG partner who has traveled to more than 40 countries, built a career she loves, and now serves on CoBA boards to mentor the next generation. Discover how a scholarship changed her life and why she is so passionate about giving back.
When it comes to advancing the mission of the College of Business and Analytics, relationships make all the difference. As CoBA’s Director of Development, Jen Badiu is making her mark by forging meaningful connections with alumni, partners, and friends of the college. Her passion for building support is opening doors for students, strengthening programs, and ensuring CoBA continues to thrive well into the future.
This summer, CoBA students traded textbooks for train tickets, immersing themselves in the language, culture, and business pulse of France. In just a few weeks, they gained global perspectives, built lifelong friendships, and discovered that the world truly is their classroom.
The new Dean’s Student Advisory Board is giving students a direct seat at the table to shape programs, events, and the future of the college. This board is redefining what it means to connect leadership and students.
At the College of Business and Analytics, our faculty and staff are the heart of everything we do. Their dedication to teaching, research, service, and student success sets the standard for excellence and drives our mission forward. This year’s Faculty and Staff Awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond and innovating in the classroom, supporting colleagues, and shaping the future of CoBA through their commitment and leadership. The awards were given out earlier this year.