Rakesh Khurana : (1998-2000) Professor An Indian-American Trailblazer in Education and Leadership

Rakesh Khurana : In the realm of education and leadership, one name stands out as a beacon of inspiration and innovation –(Rakesh Khurana). Born on November 22, 1967, in India and raised in Queens, New York, Khurana’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a revered professor of sociology at Harvard University, a Professor of Leadership Development at Harvard Business School, and the Danoff Dean of Harvard College, is nothing short of extraordinary.

A Passion for Learning:

Khurana’s thirst for knowledge led him to Cornell University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial relations. But that was only the beginning of his academic pursuit. Determined to delve deeper into the workings of society and organizations, he ventured to Harvard, obtaining his AM in sociology.

Rakesh Khurana: A Visionary Scholar

Khurana’s pursuit of knowledge didn’t end there. He recognized the significance of bridging the gap between sociology and business, leading him to complete his PhD in organizational behaviour through a joint program between Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences and Harvard Business School in 1998.

The Rise of a Thought Leader

His academic journey laid a solid foundation for Rakesh Khurana to impact the corporate world positively. He became a founding team member of Cambridge Technology Partners, contributing his expertise to this technological venture.

Rakesh Khurana & His Teaching

Teaching at the esteemed Massachusetts Institute of Technology from 1998 to 2000, Khurana emerged as a thought leader in the field of leadership and management. He authored the book “Searching for a Corporate Savior: The Irrational Quest for Charismatic CEOs,” shedding light on the pitfalls of charismatic leadership – a subject that resonated with both academia and the corporate world.

Championing Change

In 2007, Rakesh Khurana published his second book, “From Higher Aims to Hired Hands: The Social Transformation of American Business Schools and the Unfulfilled Promise of Management as a Profession.” This thought-provoking piece earned him the prestigious Max Weber prize from the American Sociological Association’s Organizations, Occupations, and Work Section, among other accolades.

Dean of Harvard College: A Legacy of Progress

Khurana’s visionary approach to education and leadership caught the attention of Harvard University, and in July 2014, he was appointed Dean of Harvard College. In this esteemed position, he sought to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all students.

One significant move was his collaboration with University President Drew Gilpin Faust to develop a new policy concerning fraternities and gender-exclusive organizations not formally affiliated with the college. Khurana believed that the exclusion of women from these clubs had no place in the 21st century, and he championed the cause of gender equality.

Impactful Leadership

Khurana’s leadership extended beyond the academic realm. In March 2010, he and his wife, Stephanie Khurana, were named master and co-master of Cabot House, a role they embraced wholeheartedly until 2020. Despite the title change from “master” to “faculty dean,” their dedication to fostering a supportive community for students remained unwavering.

A Lasting Legacy

Rakesh Khurana’s profound impact on education and leadership continues to resonate worldwide. As the co-editor of influential publications like the “Handbook of Leadership Theory and Practice” and the “Handbook for Teaching Leadership: Knowing, Doing, and Being,” his work continues to shape the minds of future leaders.

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