Conference Agenda

Welcome and Breakfast – Saurabh Gupta / Divesh Sharma

KSU Center, Room 400

For more information go to Doctoral Consortium page.

Marketing: KSU Center, Room 464

Information Systems: KSU Center, Room 402

Accounting: KSU Center, Room 401

Management: KSU Center, Room 462

Guided tours of our Parallel Journeys exhibit will be available to those not attending the Doctoral Consortium at 9:30 am and 10:30am. Meet the tour guide at the Museum of History and Holocaust Education sign on the right-hand side of the East Entrance near the Hatch Bridge suite.

Keynote Lunch – Charles E. Potts, EVP, Chief Innovation Officer, Independent Community Bankers of America – "Driving Innovation in the Financial Industry"

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction by  Humayun Zafar

Panel: Unveiling the Hiring Criteria: A Discussion Among Academic Search Committee Chairs – Humayun Zafar

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction

The recruitment and selection of new faculty members are critical responsibilities for academic search committees. Chairs of these committees play a pivotal role in identifying and evaluating candidates possessing the necessary qualifications, expertise, and potential to contribute significantly to our respective institutions. The core aim of this panel discussion is to foster a collaborative exchange of ideas and perspectives exploring the essential qualities we seek in prospective faculty in the fast-evolving business and learning environments.

Panel Objectives

• Discuss key attributes and skills search committees prioritize when evaluating faculty candidates.
• Share insights into the factors that influence hiring decisions, including but not limited to, research excellence, teaching acumen, and departmental fit.
• Discuss strategies for identifying and attracting diverse and talented candidates to enhance the intellectual vibrancy of our institutions.
• Explore emerging trends and challenges in academic hiring, including the impact of technology, evolving research methodologies, and institutional agendas.

Panel Format

The panel discussion aims to discuss insights, experiences, and perspectives on the qualities sought in new faculty hires, of the hiring process, and other pertinent yet often unspoken issues and concerns.

Panel Members

• George Krull, Retired Partner, Grant Thronton LLP
• Richard Johnson, Associate Professor of Management, Information Systems, and Entrepreneurship at Carson College of Business
• Reanna Berry, Associate Professor of Accounting, Accounting, Management Information Systems and Finance Interim Department Chair at Georgia Gwinnett College

Moderator

• Humayun Zafar, Assistant Chair of the Department of Information Systems and Security and Fintech Program Coordinator and Professor of Inform • Department of Information Systems, Kennesaw State University

Conclusion

The panel discussion will transition into an open forum to exchange ideas  and address questions from the audience. We hope the productive dialog will breathe new life into the recruitment and selection of new faculty to enhance the continued excellence of our academic institutions.

Fireside chat with Blane Ruschak, President of The PhD Project: Embracing Diversity in Business Doctoral Education, Here and Abroad – Adriane Randolph and Blane Ruschak

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction

The business landscape is increasingly globalized and diverse, and business doctoral education must reflect this changing reality. A student body that is diverse in thinking and possesses a global perspective is an essential environmental element for preparing future business leaders who can navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Panel Discussion

This panel discussion aims to discuss the importance of diversity and internationalization in business doctoral education along the following key areas:

• The Benefits of Diversity: Understanding the benefits of a diverse student body, including increased creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills.
• Promoting Internationalization: Developing strategies to attract and support international students, creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity of thought and experience.
• Globalizing the Curriculum: Incorporating global perspectives and case studies into the business doctoral curriculum, preparing graduates to work effectively in a globalized marketplace.
• Addressing Implicit Bias: Recognizing and addressing implicit bias in the business doctoral education process, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to succeed.

Panel Member

• Blane Ruschak - President of The PhD Project.

Moderator

• Adriane Randolph, Interim Associate Dean for Community and Faculty Affairs and Professor of Information Systems, Kennesaw State University

Conclusion

The panel discussion will conclude with a Q&A session inviting the audience to engage with the panel and share their thoughts and insights on the importance of diversity and internationalization in business doctoral education.

Panel: Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry: The Value of Professional Experience in Business Doctoral Candidates – Leo MacDonald / Scott Widmier

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction

Business doctoral programs have long been recognized for their role in preparing future scholars and business leaders, fostering critical thinking, research expertise, and a deep understanding of business theories and practices. However, the dynamic nature of the business landscape necessitates a reevaluation of business doctoral education to ensure that graduates possess relevant business experiences and insights. This panel discussion explores the significance of professional experience of business doctoral candidates and its impact on their academic and professional trajectories.

Panel Discussion

This panel aims to discuss the multifaceted benefits of doctoral programs requiring professional experience as an essential pre-requisite for business doctoral students. The panel may address the following key themes:

• Professional Experience as a Catalyst for Research Relevance: Understanding how professional experience enriches the research perspectives of business doctoral students, enabling them to identify real-world problems, develop applicable solutions using sound and relevant theoretical frameworks, and contribute to impactful research that informs the literature, practice, policy making, and society.
• Bridging the Academia-Industry Divide: Recognizing the role of professional experience to foster connections with practitioners, and provide business doctoral students with a deeper understanding of industry practices and expectations.
• Enhancing Career Readiness and Professional Development: Discussing how professional experience contributes to the career readiness and professional development of business doctoral students, preparing them for successful transitions into academia or industry.
• Criteria: Exploring strategies for effectively evaluating and incorporating professional experience into the acceptance criteria for business doctoral candidates.

Panel Members

• Douglas Boyle, Distinguished Professor of Accounting, University of Scranton
• Sridhar Narasimhan, Professor; Gregory J. Owens Professor of Business Analytics Center, Faculty Director at Georgia Tech
• Filippo Occhino, Associate Professor of Economics, Department of Economics, Finance and Quantitative Analysis, Kennesaw State University
• John Riggs, Professor of Practice in Marketing, Director of the Centurion Sales Excellence Program, Stetson University

Moderators

• Leo MacDonald, Ph.D. Discipline Lead, Risk and Decision Analytics, Professor of Economics • Department of Economics, Finance and Quantitative Analysis, Kennesaw State University
• Scott Widmier, Ph.D. Discipline Lead, Marketing and Professional Sales, Associate Professor of Marketing and Professional Sales • Department of Marketing and Professional Sales, Kennesaw State University

Conclusion

The panel discussion will conclude with a Q&A session inviting the audience to engage with the panel and share further insights into the value of professional experience in business doctoral education.

Keynote Breakfast – Bryan Southworth – “Innovating the Future: Transforming Business Doctoral Education for Global Impact and Social Good"

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction by Jomon Paul

Panel Proposal: Navigating the Future of Business Doctoral Education: Insights from Recent Graduates – Vinod Vincent

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction

Business doctoral programs play a crucial role in shaping the future of business, nurturing the next generation of business leaders and scholars equipped with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation. Recent graduates from these programs offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of business doctoral education and its impact on their professional trajectories.

Panel Discussion

This panel discussion will bring together a group of recent business doctoral graduates to share their experiences, perspectives, and recommendations on the following key areas:

• Evolving Expectations and Skills: Understanding the changing demands of the business world and the skills and expertise required to excel in the ever-evolving corporate landscape.
• The Impact of Technological Advancements: Assessing the impact of technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and automation, on business doctoral education and the future of work.
• Effective Research and Collaboration: Exploring strategies for conducting impactful research that addresses real-world business problems and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
• Preparing for Global Challenges and Opportunities: Gaining insights into the global business landscape and developing the necessary skills to navigate cross-cultural dynamics and emerging market opportunities.
• Career Paths and Professional Development: Discussing career paths available to business doctoral graduates, exploring opportunities for professional development, and sharing strategies for transitioning from academia to the business world.

Panel Members

• Joie Hain, Associate Professor of Marketing, Clayton State University
• Allen Brown, Assistant Professor of Management, Georgia Southwestern University
• Everod Davis, Assistant Professor of Management, Clayton State University

Moderator

• Vinod Vincent, Graduate Programs Director & Associate Professor of Management, Clayton State University

Conclusion

The panel discussion will conclude with an open forum discussion, allowing recent graduates to engage with the panelists and seek further advice on navigating their career paths and maximizing the value of their business doctoral education. We aim for this panel to provide valuable insights, foster a sense of community among recent graduates, and encourage them to utilize their expertise to shape the future of business.

Panel Proposal: Reimagining Business Doctoral Education for a Dynamic Future – Robin Cheramie

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction

Business doctoral programs have long been the cornerstone of preparing future business leaders and scholars, fostering critical thinking, research expertise, and a deep understanding of business theories and practices. However, the world of business is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, globalization, and evolving industry demands. These shifts necessitate a reevaluation of business doctoral education to ensure that it remains relevant, impactful, and aligned with the needs of the future business landscape.

Panel Discussion

This panel discussion aims to explore the challenges and opportunities facing business doctoral education and delve into strategies for reimagining these programs to meet the demands of the future. The panel may address the following key themes:

•  Navigating the Changing Business Landscape: Understanding the impact of technological advancements, globalization, and emerging industries on business education and the skills required for future business leaders.

• Redefining the Business Doctoral Curriculum: Envisioning a curriculum that balances traditional business theories with contemporary challenges and emerging trends, incorporating experiential learning opportunities and data-driven approaches.

• Enhancing Research Relevance and Impact: Fostering a culture of interdisciplinary research that addresses real-world business problems and contributes to the advancement of knowledge and industry practices.

• Bridging the Gap between Academia and Industry: Strengthening collaborations between business schools and industry partners to ensure that doctoral programs are aligned with industry needs and prepare graduates for successful careers.

• Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Cultivating an inclusive environment that attracts and supports a diverse range of doctoral students, fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

Panel Members

• Gaynor Cheokas, Dean, Professor of Management, Director of C.B.E.D
• Avinandan (Avi) Mukherjee, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Marshall University, Schools of Business (marshall.edu)

Moderator

• Robin Cheramie, Dean, Coles College of Business and Dinos’ Professor of Management, Kennesaw State University

Conclusion

The panel discussion will conclude with a Q&A session inviting the audience to engage with the panel and share further insights into reimagining business doctoral programs to prepare graduates for success in the dynamic and ever-evolving business world.

Keynote + Lunch – Robert Sumichrast - "Achieving the Promise of Business Doctoral Education"

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction by Saurabh Gupta

Panel: Striking a Balance: The Rigor-Relevance Debate in Business Doctoral Education – Divesh Sharma

KSU Center, Room 400

Business doctoral programs have long been held to a high standard of academic rigor, fostering critical thinking, research expertise, and a deep understanding of various theories. However, the ever-evolving business landscape and disconnect between academia and practice demands that business doctoral education embrace and inculcate relevance. Navigating this contentious and delicate issue within the backdrop of traditional doctoral programs elevating rigor over relevance is a continuous focal challenge facing doctoral programs and scholarly researchers.

Panel Discussion

This panel discussion aims to provide insights into the rigor vs. relevance debate. Some themes the panel may address include:

• Understanding Rigor: What do you understand by rigor of research? How can we achieve rigor? Why and how does rigorous research contribute to the advancement of knowledge?
• Understanding Relevance: What do we mean when we refer to relevance of research? What are the contexts that define relevance? Does research relevance matter to the advancement of knowledge?
• Balancing Rigor and Relevance: Do we need to give up rigor to conduct research that bridges the disconnect between academia and practice? Likewise, do we need to sacrifice relevance to conduct research that embodies high rigor? How can we achieve a better balance in rigor and relevance? What are some strategies for effectively incorporating rigor in highly relevant research and in dissertations.
• Assessing Doctoral Candidates Ability to Embrace Relevance: Many traditional doctoral program candidates do not possess the practical skills and industry knowledge to engage in research that is relevant. Should we, and therefore, how can we, rectify this problem? What has and has not worked for you?
• The Impact of Research Methodologies: How can evolving and non-traditional research methods such as qualitative methods, textual analysis, and AI-based machine learning methods enhance the rigor and relevance of scholarly research?

Panel Members

• Varsha Jain, AG Krishnamurthy Chair Professor of Marketing, MICA, India
• Douglas Boyle, Distinguished Professor of Accounting, University of Scranton
• Merrill Warkentin, James J. Rouse Endowed Professor of Information Systems, William L. Giles Distinguished Professor, Mississippi State University

Moderator

• Divesh Sharma, PhD in Business Administration Accounting Discipline Lead and Professor of Accounting • School of Accountancy

Conclusion

The panel discussion will conclude with a Q&A session inviting the audience to engage with the panel and  spark further thought-provoking ideas and debate that challenge traditional norms.

Panel: Nurturing Critical Thinkers and Philosophical Minds: The Imperative of Philosophy in Business Doctoral Education – Reza Vaezi

KSU Center, Room 400

Introduction

In today's complex and ever-changing business landscape, the ability to think critically and engage in philosophical inquiry is more essential than ever. Integrating philosophy into business doctoral programs can significantly enhance graduates’ ability, as academics and business leaders, to navigate complex challenges, make informed decisions, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society.

Panel Discussion

This panel discussion aims to explore the profound importance of philosophy and critical thinking in business doctoral education. Some themes the panel may delve into include:

• Critical Thinking: Exploring how critical thinking skills, rooted in philosophical inquiry, enable scholars and business leaders to analyze complex problems, evaluate diverse perspectives, and develop innovative solutions.
• Philosophy and the Cultivation of Global Citizens: Discussing the contribution of philosophical education in nurturing scholars and business leaders toward a global mindset, fostering cultural understanding, and promoting cross-cultural collaboration.
• The Intersection of Philosophy and Business Research: Investigating the role of philosophical approaches in enriching business research methodologies, enhancing conceptual frameworks, and deepening theoretical understandings.
• Integrating Philosophy into Business Doctoral Curricula: Exploring strategies for effectively integrating philosophy into business doctoral programs, balancing traditional business theories with philosophical inquiry, and fostering a culture of critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.

Panel Members

• Stephen Phelan, Professor of Entrepreneurship • Michael A. Leven School of Management, Entrepreneurship and Hospitality, Kennesaw State University
• Marc Sollosy - Professor of Management/Strategy at Marshall University, MBA Director

Moderator

• Reza Vaezi, Associate Professor of Information Systems • Department of Information Systems, Kennesaw State University

Conclusion

The panel discussion will conclude with a Q&A session inviting the audience to engage with the panel and share their perspectives on the integration of philosophy and critical thinking into business doctoral education. We aim for this panel to generate thought-provoking discussions, identify innovative teaching approaches, and advocate for the continued relevance of philosophy in preparing the next generation of scholars and business leaders.