There is always something remarkable happening at the Kelley School of Business, and this May was no exception. In Berlin, Germany, we held the 11th Annual Global Dean’s Council (GDC) meeting. This wasn’t simply a gathering; it was a celebration of Kelley’s global vision, its extraordinary people, and its unwavering commitment to shaping a better future for business and society.
A legacy that inspires, a future we shape together
Our choice of Berlin was no accident. In 1947, Herman B Wells, then IU chancellor and dean of the School of Business, came here on his first mission of global engagement, laying the foundation for IU’s rise as an international force. Today, Kelley builds boldly on that legacy, forging connections across borders, industries, and cultures to prepare principled, innovative leaders for a complex world. Supporting this event and Kelley’s global mission was the Indiana University Europe Gateway, based in Berlin. The Gateway helped to organize the gathering and continues to serve as a bridge for IU’s international engagement, deepening connections and opportunities across Europe.
Global Dean’s Council 2025 participants enjoying the last night of the meeting. Photo courtesy of Arundhati Shenoy.
This meeting brought together not just the Global Dean’s Council, but also members of the Bloomington Dean’s Council and the Indianapolis Dean’s Council—a powerful convergence of ideas and voices united in purpose. The energy in the room was unmistakable and illustrated a shared sense that together, we can and will propel Kelley to new levels of global leadership and innovation.
A new chapter of leadership
This was also a moment of fresh beginnings. We were honored to have Dean Pat Hopkins lead his first Global Dean’s Council meeting since becoming dean on March 17, 2025. A distinguished accounting scholar and respected leader, Dean Hopkins has dedicated over 30 years to Kelley, serving in numerous leadership roles including executive associate dean for academic programs. Known for his commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement, he brings a visionary approach to advancing Kelley as a top-ranked, internationally renowned business school. Returning to his birthplace, Germany, to lead this globally significant gathering underscored the deep connection between his personal journey and Kelley’s expanding international influence.
Powerful conversations, lasting impact
Throughout the weekend, council members, faculty, and administrators engaged in thoughtful dialogue about Kelley’s strengths, opportunities, and ambitious future. Dean Hopkins and Executive Associate Dean Josh Perry led spirited discussions that drew on the expertise of council members from around the world—leaders who shared real-world insights that will help shape Kelley’s path forward. These conversations weren’t theoretical; they were focused on action: how to ensure Kelley continues to thrive as a force for innovation, ethics, and impact in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Connections that endure, a community that grows
At Kelley, we believe business is about people and relationships. That spirit came to life as we gathered with more than 120 IU alumni from across Europe at one of our largest alumni events on the continent. Old friendships were rekindled. New bonds were formed. And the Kelley spirit shone brightly, reminding us of the extraordinary community we are privileged to be part of.
An unforgettable highlight was an evening hosted by Robert Friedmann, GDC member and chairman of the Würth Group, at a historic site believed to have welcomed Herman B Wells in 1947. The evening featured stirring performances by IU Jacobs School of Music alumni, underscoring the profound partnership between Kelley and the Jacobs School as they launch the new music business degree: a program at the intersection of creativity and commerce that recognizes how business and the arts together can drive innovation, resilience, and societal progress.
IU and Jacobs School of Music alumni Yuval Gotlibovich, Andreas Ioannides, Clara Scholtes, and Cicely Parnas performed at the closely dinner. Photo courtesy of Arundhati Shenoy.
Kelley’s future: Bold, visionary, global
From artificial intelligence and biotechnology to mental health and well-being, life sciences, and music business, Kelley is investing in the ideas and industries shaping tomorrow. We are building on our strengths—our top-ranked programs in marketing, accounting, entrepreneurship, management, finance, information systems, and production/operations—while expanding our impact in new and vital areas.
As we look ahead, we are committed to listening, learning, and leading, partnering with our alumni and friends across the globe to understand the needs of the future workforce and to deliver a business education that is not only world class, but world changing.
“The Kelley School of Business doesn’t simply respond to change—we drive it. Together, we can build a future defined by purpose, possibility, and shared success.”
– Pat Hopkins, Dean, Kelley School of Business and James R. Hodge Chair of Excellence
Let’s build what’s next—together. Kelley Excellence. Kelley Impact. Kelley Global.
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