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Varun Nagaraj's Historic Appointment to AACSB Board

In a remarkable achievement, Varun Nagaraj, the Dean of the S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR), has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This prestigious association is recognized globally as the leading body for setting standards in business education.

Nagaraj's appointment marks a historic first, as he becomes the inaugural representative from an Indian business school on the AACSB Board in its 110-year history. This appointment reflects the growing influence and recognition of Indian educational institutions on the global academic stage. The announcement was made on March 25, 2026, signifying a transformative moment in education, particularly for institutions in India.

Lily Bi, President and CEO of AACSB, conveyed congratulations to Dean Nagaraj, emphasizing the importance of this milestone as a significant chapter in the organization’s journey. She noted, "Dean Nagaraj's leadership and insights will be crucial in furthering AACSB's mission to connect and elevate business education worldwide."

Dr. Nagaraj’s three-year term on the board is set to commence on July 1, 2026. In his response to the appointment, he expressed excitement about collaborating with a diverse group of global colleagues to enhance the impact of business schools around the world. He highlighted that SPJIMR's commitment to innovative practices and societal impact is in harmony with AACSB's vision for meaningful change within both business and societal contexts.

Professional Background of Varun Nagaraj
Dr. Nagaraj is not only a prominent academic but also an experienced professional in the field of Information Management. He has been at the helm of SPJIMR since 2021, and his extensive background includes over thirty years in various leadership roles, including serving as CEO of both venture-funded start-ups and public enterprises, along with time spent as a Partner at PRTM Management Consulting. His academic focus areas encompass responsible innovation, product management, and entrepreneurship, with published research in multiple prestigious journals highlighting his authority and expertise in the field.

His academic qualifications are impressive: he obtained a BTech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Bombay, pursued a Master's degree from North Carolina State University, earned an MBA from Boston University, and completed a PhD at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. His diverse educational background enriches his contributions to the board and reflects his comprehensive understanding of the complexities within business education.

Impact of SPJIMR’s Representation
The inclusion of SPJIMR on the AACSB Board is a significant representation for Indian business schools. Previously, only individuals of Indian descent had served on the board, but they represented institutions located outside of India. Dr. Nagaraj’s appointment is expected to inspire and encourage more Indian institutions to strive for global standards in business education. Furthermore, it underscores the imperative for business schools in India to innovate and enhance their global educational offerings.

Established in 1916, AACSB has been pivotal in advancing excellence through accreditation and transformative learning. It currently plays an essential role in fostering quality education across more than 100 countries. SPJIMR, recognized for its innovative and socially conscious approach, recently ranked #35 in the Financial Times MiM global rankings and is celebrated for its commitment to societal impact.

This momentous occasion is not just a win for Dr. Nagaraj and SPJIMR; it’s a testimony to India's growing stature in the landscape of global business education, resonating well beyond the country's borders. As Dr. Nagaraj steps into this new role, the academic and business communities await the new perspectives and initiatives that he is sure to bring to the AACSB Board.