Welcoming UM Global Executive MBA Students

On August 22nd, the University of Miami’s Global Executive MBA program hosted its annual reception at the Newman Alumni Center, welcoming 15 seasoned entrepreneurs and senior-level leaders into the incoming class. This year’s event drew record-breaking attendance, including alumni, faculty, and staff, all eager to usher in a new cohort of future global leaders.

The evening began with opening remarks from the Dean of the Miami Herbert Business School, Paul A. Pavlou, Leonard Miller University Chair Professor, who spoke about the importance of cultivating global leadership skills in an ever-changing business environment. He highlighted the rigorous selection process that brought together a diverse and accomplished group of professionals, each with the potential to make significant contributions to the global business landscape.

Following the dean’s address, Joan Martinez Evora, Senior Lecturer of Business Law and Academic Director of the Global EMBA, introduced the esteemed alumnus and artist, Xavier Cortada, who delivered the keynote speech. Cortada, a graduate of the University of Miami School of Business with a master’s degree earned in 1991, shared his vision of Miami as a city “not just positioned on the map but positioned for the future.”

In his speech, Cortada emphasized Miami’s pivotal role at the intersection of culture, trade, and technology, urging the new students to immerse themselves fully in the opportunities that the city offers. He spoke about how Miami’s cultural diversity, strategic trade position, and emerging tech scene create a unique environment for learning and leadership, challenging the cohort to leverage this dynamic energy in their own careers.

Cortada also underscored how Miami is uniquely positioned for the future, particularly as it faces the challenges of sea level rise and climate change. As ground zero for these global issues, Miami stands at the forefront of innovation and problem-solving. He stressed that the business and market innovations developed here will drive the solutions needed to address these pressing challenges. Cortada urged the students to immerse themselves in this critical moment and to contribute their expertise and creativity to help solve the challenges that define our time.

To mark this special occasion, Cortada presented the new cohort with one of his signed digital art pieces, which prominently featured the iconic University of Miami “U.” This gesture symbolized their formal induction into the University of Miami family—a network of over 190,000 alumni worldwide, known for their impact and leadership across various fields.

The Global Executive MBA program is designed for seasoned professionals with the potential to advance their careers and expand their global business perspectives. The incoming class of 2024 includes leaders from diverse industries, from healthcare and finance to technology and construction, each bringing a wealth of experience and a drive for excellence. With Cortada’s inspiring words as a guiding light, this cohort is now poised to embark on a journey that will not only shape their futures but also contribute to the evolving global landscape.