Leadership

Shaping the future of business education

Our leadership team is at the heart of the Mike Ilitch School of Business community, guaranteeing that our programs and initiatives meet the highest standards of quality and relevance.

As well-connected professionals with deep roots in the business world, our leaders bring a wealth of professional experience and ensure that our curriculum is not only academic but also practical, preparing you for real-world success.

When you join the Ilitch School, you become a part of a collaborative environment that encourages your personal and professional growth. Ilitch School leaders are here to guide you through your educational journey, offering mentorship, insight and unwavering support.

Our leadership team

Connect with the individuals who guide our commitment to excellence. They're not just administrators — they're partners in your journey to success.

Ilitch School dean

Dean Virginia Franke Kleist oversees Ilitch School’s academic and student affairs, fostering a welcoming environment for student achievement and faculty distinction.

Meet Dean Kleist

Ilitch School associate dean

Associate Dean Toni Somers supports Ilitch School’s mission, while also serving as a professor in the department of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics (TISA).

Get to know Associate Dean Somers

Board of Visitors

Composed of passionate alumni, business innovators and community visionaries, our Board of Visitors supports Ilitch School’s development and strategic plan.

Learn more about our Board of Visitors

Leadership with a vision

Discover the mission and strategic plan that drive our Ilitch School leadership team. See their dedication for community engagement, business research and preparing you to become an industry trailblazer.

Explore our mission and strategic plan

Our department chairs

Meet the distinguished department chairs that drive Ilitch School’s academic programs with unparalleled expertise.

Cheol Lee, Department of Accounting

View Cheol Lee, Department of Accounting's profile

Anand Jha, Department of Finance

View Anand Jha, Department of Finance's profile

Hakan Yildiz, Department of Global Supply Chain Management

View Hakan Yildiz, Department of Global Supply Chain Management's profile

Christine Jackson, Department of Management

View Christine Jackson, Department of Management's profile

Abhijit Biswas, Department of Marketing

View Abhijit Biswas, Department of Marketing's profile

Rhoda Joseph, Department of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics (TISA)

View Rhoda Joseph, Department of Technology, Information Systems and Analytics (TISA)'s profile

Take the next step

Stay connected with the Mike Ilitch School of Business by requesting more information, reaching out to faculty and staff, or visiting our vibrant campus in Detroit.