Mike Ilitch School of Business Professor selected for Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program in Ethiopia

The Mike Ilitch School of Business continues to expand its presence in global business education and research through the work and recognition of its faculty. Dr. Amanuel G. Tekleab, Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Management at the Mike Ilitch School of Business, has received a prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award in Management for the 2026-2027 academic year.

The award, granted by the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board, will support Tekleab's research in Ethiopia beginning in Winter 2027. During his six-months in Ethiopia, Tekleab will collaborate with faculty and students at Addis Ababa University School of Commerce.

The Fulbright Program is a U.S.-sponsored international exchange program that supports teaching, research, and professional collaboration in more than 160 countries. Fulbright awards are granted to faculty, researchers, students, and professionals based on academic achievement and the potential impact of their proposed work, with the goal of advancing cross-cultural exchange and international collaboration.

Tekleab will teach a doctoral seminar on Advanced Leadership Theory, and conduct workshops focused on high-quality research practices, publishing in major management journals, and effective methodological approaches to hypothesis testing. He will also mentor doctoral students, support dissertation development, and collaborate on research initiatives with faculty and students at the university.

"I am thrilled to be awarded this scholarship. It is one of my career highlights," said Tekleab. "It will help me to continue making the difference in the professional careers of many Ethiopians."

Tekleab's Fulbright appointment reflects the Mike Ilitch School of Business's commitment to international collaboration and impactful research. Fulbright U.S. Scholars are selected based on their academic achievements, leadership, and potential to contribute to cross-cultural exchange and global scholarship.

Dr. Virginia Franke Kleist, Dean of the Mike Ilitch School of Business, commented on Tekleab's achievement, saying, "We are deeply proud of Dr. Tekleab for receiving this highly distinguished Fulbright Scholar award. This honor reflects not only his exceptional scholarship and leadership in the field of management, but also the Mike Ilitch School of Business's strong commitment to global engagement and impactful research. Dr. Tekleab's work in Ethiopia will foster meaningful international collaboration with our school, support the development of future scholars, and further strengthen the global educational platform for our students that is so essential in business education today."