Dima Jamali: Transforming the Landscape of Higher Education and Sustainability in the UAE and Beyond

In the ever-evolving world of higher education and sustainability, there are a few names that resonate globally, and Dr. Dima Jamali is certainly one of them. Recognized by Forbes NY as a pioneering dean and influencer, her recent appointment as the Dean of the School of Management at the Canadian University in Dubai has only added another feather to her already illustrious cap.

Having dedicated over two decades to academia, her association with the prestigious American University of Beirut stands as a testament to her commitment to educational excellence. Her meteoric rise through the ranks to Full Professor in 2010 and subsequently being awarded the Endowed Chair in Responsible Leadership in 2014, speaks volumes about her academic prowess.

However, it’s not just in the academic arena where Dr. Jamali shines. Her achievements extend far beyond the classroom. Ranked among the top 2% of the most influential global scholars by Stanford University in the field of sustainability, her work is not limited to awards and titles. Instead, she has actively brought change through her role as the President and National Representative for the UN Global Compact Network Lebanon (GCNL), significantly contributing to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Lebanon.

Dr. Jamali’s extensive research, primarily centered around Sustainability, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Social Entrepreneurship (SE), is globally recognized. With seven books to her name, she has carved a niche for herself, emphasizing sustainability, especially in developing countries and the Middle East.

Her accolades, ranging from the Aspen Institute Faculty Pioneer Award, often likened to the “Oscars of the Business School World,” to the Shield of Excellence for the Arab Region, showcase her unparalleled contribution to both education and sustainability.

Yet, perhaps the most commendable aspect of Dr. Jamali’s journey is her constant pursuit to make a difference beyond the academic realm. Her work with the United Nations on Social Policy and CSR, combined with her collaborations with major global institutions like the World Bank and the US Agency for International Development, has solidified her reputation as not just an academician but a change-maker.

In her new role as the Dean of the School of Management at the Canadian University in Dubai, the higher education landscape of the UAE is set to undergo a transformative change, benefitting from Dr. Jamali’s vast experience, knowledge, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

To gain deeper insights into Dr. Jamali’s endeavors, initiatives, and her inspiring journey, you can follow her on Instagram @dimarachidjamali.

As we continue to move towards a future where sustainability and education go hand in hand, leaders like Dr. Dima Jamali serve as beacons of hope, ensuring that the path ahead is not only illuminated but also promising and impactful.