Cracks in our systems—from environmental distress to wealth and healthcare inequality to racial injustice—present a historic opportunity for business leaders to reset and rebuild so that together, we can pave the way for a more inclusive, sustainable and prosperous future.
What does being a force for good mean to you?
In this issue of Salamander, you will find that this can be interpreted, and activated, in myriad ways. You will also see excellent examples of INSEAD and its broader community living and breathing this mission every day.
I encourage you to read the story about FUL Foods, which chronicles the journey of three young INSEAD alumnae who set out to create a “climate active” company in the sustainable food sector. Their progress, in just two years, will astound you.
In an article about the Hoffmann Global Institute for Business and Society, you can learn more about the great strides our passionate, dedicated team have made in aligning INSEAD with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These efforts have not only resulted in a strong commitment to sustainability on our campuses but have defined us as important contributors to the most critical conversations of our time.
Of course, thought leadership serves as the foundation for INSEAD’s academic excellence and real-world impact. Joining our faculty this year, leading economist Philippe Aghion offers a cutting-edge theory and compelling evidence for “harnessing the power of the creative destruction” to drive economic growth. Please consider adding Aghion’s latest book to your reading list along with the most recent slate of INSEAD faculty books that address today’s pressing global challenges.
Finally, it would be remiss not to highlight the extraordinary work and generosity of you, our alumni. Whether it is volunteering your time as an advisor for our new Global Mentorship Programme, organising inspiring events with your National Alumni Associations, or giving for the next generation of responsible leaders, the ripple effect of your actions is changing lives, communities, businesses and indeed, the world.
Last month, we commemorated the passing of our co-founder and long-time supporter Claude Janssen with the planting of the Quercus Myrsinfolia on the Europe Campus. Like this evergreen oak (which can live for well over 250 years), Claude’s legacy of championing business education for the betterment of society will continue to thrive through all of you who have rallied around the school’s vision, values and ventures despite the challenges of our time. As we prepare for the new year, let us take a moment to celebrate how far we’ve come. I am optimistic about the future because of you, as I know Claude would have been.
Yours sincerely,
Ilian Mihov
Dean
