How Indian Talent Became a Driving Force in US Business School Leadership

Indian talent has become a key force in U.S. business school leadership, bringing diverse perspectives, innovation and strategic insights that enhance institutional growth and global influence.

In recent years, Indian talent has emerged as a significant force in shaping the leadership landscape of U.S. business schools. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the diverse perspectives and innovative approaches that Indian professionals bring.

With a rich blend of cultural insights, entrepreneurial spirit and academic excellence, Indian leaders increasingly influence strategic decisions, curriculum development and institutional growth in prestigious American business schools. Their rise is a testament to their achievements and highlights the growing global dynamics in education leadership and the value of diverse international perspectives.

Dipak Jain shared the skepticism he faced over two decades ago when he became the first dean of Indian origin at a leading US business school. Despite the criticism, including a prominent alumnus who could only see the downside and a rival who questioned his experience, Jain's tenure at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management from 2001 to 2009 marked the beginning of a significant trend. His leadership helped pave the way for a new wave of Indian academics in the US.

Rao Unnava, the current dean at the University of California, Davis Graduate School of Management, notes the extensive network of Indian deans and senior academics now established in the US. Unnava, who once noted the absence of Indians at Ohio State University in the 1980s, now counts over 80 Indian deans and senior academics in a social media group. They regularly share information and support each other, reflecting the growing influence of Indian leaders in American academia.

Paul Almeida, dean of the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University, attributes the significant presence of Indian business schools in the US to cultural values and educational aspirations. Almeida, who studied at the Indian Institute of Management before earning a PhD at Wharton, highlights that Indians’ deep respect for education and their sensitivity to academic prestige have contributed to their success. Their cultural background has helped Indian academics integrate well into the diverse environment of US universities.

Rangarajan Sundaram, dean of New York University’s Stern School of Business, attributes the rise of Indian academics in the US to the country’s educational models and aspirations. The elite Indian Institutes of Technology and Indian Institutes of Management created a strong middle class and a culture of educational ambition, which in turn drew talented individuals like himself to pursue advanced studies and careers in the US.

Soumitra Dutta, who studied at the Indian Institute of Technology and later held dean positions at Cornell and Oxford, reflects on the adaptability of Indian academics to US culture. Indians' ability to handle diverse viewpoints and backgrounds and their comfort in English and Anglo-Saxon cultures has facilitated their success in US academia. The importance of moving away from traditional hierarchical approaches in favor of more collaborative and flexible academic environments become a trend.

Devesh Kapur, Professor of South Asia Studies at Johns Hopkins University, comments on the dual impact of the Indian diaspora’s success in the US. While India has contributed immense talent to American institutions, it is also worth reflecting on what might have been achieved if these scholars had remained in India. The relative weaknesses of India’s higher education system have led to a significant brain drain.

Madhav Rajan, dean at the Chicago Booth School of Business, recounts how Srikant Datar’s encouragement led him to switch from a master’s program to a PhD at Carnegie Mellon University. While previous generations of Indian students were drawn to academic careers, current trends show a shift towards master’s degrees and diverse business careers. This change reflects the increasing success of Indians in various corporate roles, inspiring new generations to explore alternative career paths.

Rajan predicts that future leaders in US business schools may increasingly come from Europe. He suggests that European academics are drawn to the US due to limited opportunities in their home countries. Despite this, the number of Indians studying in the US remains high, providing ongoing opportunities for those who aspire to senior academic roles.

As Indian leaders continue to make significant contributions, they are enhancing the global reputation of U.S. business schools and setting a precedent for future leaders in the increasingly interconnected world of higher education. Their impact will continue to resonate, driving positive change and broadening the scope of business education.