One of the major initiatives of the ZU College of Business is to elevate student learning to include research and real world applications. Dr. Constance VanHorne is a stunning example of someone who truly has a passion for developing the future leaders of the UAE.

As an example, one of her students, Yousef Al Shehhi, was recently selected to present his work on Emirati Male Youth Entrepreneurship at the MIT-Masdar Institute Forum for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Dr. Connie and another ZU professor, Dr. Victor Huang, have supervised Yousef as he gathers information that will help inform how the UAE can encourage creativity and entrepreneurial activity in Emirati male youth. The major purpose of his research is to identify the challenges facing local business owners as well as to identify potential solutions for growing young talent.

Yousef’s research poster was one of only three selected for presentation at the forum on April 29^th. He greatly impressed all who attended and was even invited to present his results in several Abu Dhabi organizations.

 To read more about Dr. Connie’s student projects and collaborations, please visit her blog “Strategy in the UAE”:

 http://uaestrategy.blogspot.ae