H. Rao Unnava, dean of the University of California, Davis Graduate School of Management, has been named Poets&Quants' Dean of the Year for 2024, a prestigious recognition celebrating his transformative leadership since taking the helm in 2016. This award places Unnava among an elite group of academic leaders from institutions like Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business, underscoring the significant impact of his ambitious change agenda at the business school. John A. Byrne, editor-in-chief at Poets&Quants, praised Unnava's tenure, stating that he has "led a revolution in innovation" since becoming dean, a revolution evident in the numerous new partnerships, degrees, and programs introduced under his leadership.
The tangible results of Unnava's approach are most striking in student enrollment figures, where nearly 70% of this year's 441 incoming graduate students are enrolled in programs created during his tenure. This demonstrates the strong appeal and relevance of the new educational offerings he has championed. Unnava's leadership philosophy emphasizes institutional progress over personal gain, as he noted that "the hardest thing is moving things forward through a bureaucracy, and the easiest thing is whatever you do, you do it for the institution and not for yourself." This commitment has driven several firsts among University of California business schools under his guidance.
These innovations include launching an online MBA program, introducing a Master's in Management, creating credit-bearing stackable credentials applicable to degree programs, and offering free access to all online content for alumni. Unnava also spearheaded a deferred tuition plan for online MBA candidates, increasing program accessibility, and successfully launched an undergraduate business major in partnership with two other Davis colleges—a feat previously considered unattainable. These changes reflect his vision for a more inclusive, flexible, and forward-thinking approach to business education that adapts to changing student needs and industry demands.
The recognition of Unnava as Dean of Year highlights the growing importance of adaptive and innovative leadership in higher education, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of business education. His success in implementing significant changes serves as a model for other institutions seeking to remain relevant and competitive. As business education continues to face challenges in a changing global economy, leaders like Unnava demonstrate the potential for transformative impact through visionary leadership and willingness to challenge the status quo. His achievements at UC Davis Graduate School of Management not only benefit the institution and its students but contribute to advancing the field of business education overall. For more details, readers can visit the Poets&Quants website.
