The Board of Directors of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) took time at its April 2 Board of Governors meeting to learn about the new vision for the UM School of Business Administration. Dean Barbara Kahn was a featured speaker at the meeting, which drew dozens of board members and other key members of the region’s business community.

“She is the person who is going to put this business school on the map, nationally and internationally,” said Hank Klein, chairman of the GMCC board, in introducing the dean, who left Wharton to join the School of Business in August 2007.

The dean outlined the School’s strategy for achieving global preeminence which includes building upon the research caliber and reputation of the School, differentiating the School with cross-functional programs focusing on the unique strengths of UM, and engaging the wider community.

“We believe that a business school has to be part of the community and I really want to be outwardly focused,” said Kahn. “And that is why I’m here. I’m hoping to build really strong programs for student internships and job placements in this community,” said Kahn.

The dean went on to discuss other ways in which the School will provide opportunities to Miami’s business community, such as impact conferences and executive education programs. She pointed to an upcoming conference, which will bring together business leaders for a discussion on the South Florida real estate market, and programs focused on Latin American business.

“We want to work with you because we want to provide programs that are valuable to the business community,” said Kahn.

This year, the School’s launched certificate programs in General Business, Lean Six-Sigma Management, and Investments. Additional certificate programs are being developed to meet other needs of the business community.