A breathtaking aerial view showcasing the Vardar River gracefully winding through the heart of downtown Skopje.
At Kelley Global, we are committed to shaping the future of business education through transformative partnerships. Since 2020, our collaboration with the Faculty of Economics at Sts. Cyril and Methodius University (UKIM) in North Macedonia has been a strong example of what we can achieve together. This six-year initiative, funded through a grant from the U.S. Embassy Skopje, has not only set the foundation for lasting institutional growth, it is also expanding global higher education partnership opportunities in the Balkan region.
A foundation of excellence: Strategic Human Resources Masters Program
The partnership began with the design and successful launch of the Strategic Human Resources Management (SHRM) Masters degree in 2021, which to date has enrolled 33 students and graduated three students. By leveraging Kelley’s expertise in innovative business education and programs, this degree has equipped students with advanced skills tailored to meet the growing demands of the region’s dynamic business landscape.
“Enrolling in the MBA in Strategic Human Resources Management Master’s Program was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The program did not just equip me with knowledge in advanced HR strategies, HR data analytics, employer branding, cross-cultural HR culture, change management, and more – it transformed how I approach challenges in the constantly changing work dynamics in my region and globally. As one of the 33 enrolled students, which were also joined by 4 Erasmus mobility students from outside of North Macedonia, I gained personalized mentorship and hands-on learning with the expertise of professors from the Faculty of Economics – Skopje and Kelley School of Business, which inspired me to aim higher.” – Bojan Kitanovikj, SHRM Alumnus
Paving the path to AACSB accreditation
As the collaboration evolved, the focus expanded to the UKIM Faculty of Economics’ pursuit of AACSB accreditation. This rigorous process, which includes meeting global benchmarks in nine key areas, gained significant momentum with the recent acceptance of UKIM’s Eligibility Application in 2024. With guidance from an AACSB-appointed mentor and support from Kelley faculty and staff, UKIM continues to make substantial progress towards the submission of their final accreditation application, positioning the UKIM Faculty of Economics as a regional leader in business education.
Highlighting expertise: Global thought leaders
Rebecca Slotegraaf, Associate Dean for Research, Neal Gilliatt Chair, and Professor of Marketing, delivers the keynote address in Skopje. (Photo courtesy of Sts. Cyril and Methodius University.)
The partnership has also been marked by a robust exchange of expertise. Rebecca Slotegraaf, Associate Dean for Research, Neal Gilliatt Chair, and Professor of Marketing at the Kelley School of Business delivered her keynote titled “Exploring Broad Implications of Environmental Sustainability in Academic Research” at the recently held 5th International Scientific Economic and Business Trends Shaping the Future conference on November 14, 2024.
Previous speakers from the Kelley School of Business at this conference include:
- Scott Shackelford (2023): Professor of Business Law and Ethics, Executive Director of the Center for Applied Cybersecurity Research
- Jamie Prenkert (2022): Executive Associate Dean for Faculty and Research, Professor of Business Law
- Idie Kesner (2021): Dean and Professor of Management
- Phil Powell (2020): Associate Dean of Academic Programs – Indianapolis
Each speaker has brought their unique perspective, reinforcing the shared mission to drive innovation and leadership in business education, and highlights ongoing commitment of the Kelley School towards the ongoing success of this global partnership.
Expanding opportunities: Research and student engagement
Beyond the scope of the grant, the partnership continues to flourish. In 2025, six students in Kelley’s Graduate Accounting Program (GAP) will travel to Skopje to engage in experiential learning projects, deepening cross-cultural and professional ties. Research collaborations between Kelley and UKIM faculty are also expanding, through exploration of shared research interests and potential collaborations.
Looking ahead
As we move into the final phases of this collaboration, we remain focused on supporting UKIM’s efforts to become a hub for top-tier business education in the Balkan region. By blending the expertise of U.S. business education programs with regional cultural insights and connections, this partnership is creating a sustainable model that benefits students, faculty, and regional businesses alike.
Stay connected with Kelley Global for updates on this and other initiatives that are shaping the future of global business education.
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