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Recognition highlights Robinson’s role in shaping Georgia’s fintech ecosystem and advancing global business education innovation
Atlanta — Richard Phillips, dean of Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business, has received AACSB International’s 2026 Global Impact Award. He is one of five business school deans worldwide to receive the award in the Impactful Leadership category.
AACSB is recognizing Phillips for establishing Robinson as a model for fintech innovation by integrating academic programs, interdisciplinary research, and industry partnerships, and cofounding the Georgia Fintech Academy, a statewide collaboration with the University System of Georgia and industry partners that has developed one of the nation’s leading fintech talent pipelines.
With the Global Impact Awards, AACSB is honoring 27 recipients across six categories, recognizing both institutions and individual leaders who are advancing innovation and impact in business education. The Impactful Leadership category specifically recognizes deans whose strategic leadership has generated measurable institutional and societal impact.
Under Phillips’ leadership, Robinson has built a comprehensive fintech ecosystem within the college that combines curriculum innovation, basic and applied research, and corporate engagement, thus strengthening and connecting the capabilities of multiple academic units across the college. This integrated approach, combined with the Georgia Fintech Academy's statewide impact, has established Robinson as a model for how business schools can align education, research, and partnerships to influence emerging industries while promoting economic opportunity, attracting more than $25 million in industry and philanthropic investments. Since the Georgia Fintech Academy opened in 2019, more than 12,000 students have participated in fintech coursework, with more than 3,400 securing internships or full-time roles in the industry.
“This recognition reflects the coordinated commitment of the University System of Georgia, Georgia State University, our industry partners, and our faculty and staff to build a fintech ecosystem that meets the evolving needs of our state,” said Phillips. “Together, we have created new pathways for students, advanced domain expertise, and positioned Georgia as a leader in financial innovation.”
“The Global Impact Awards underscore the commitment of Richard Phillips and the Robinson College of Business to creating meaningful impact through business education,” said Lily Bi, president and CEO of AACSB. “Their work sets a powerful example for the future of business education, and we look forward to its continued growth and influence.”
Phillips will be formally recognized at AACSB’s International Conference and Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington, April 13 to 15.
For more information about the AACSB Global Impact Awards and details on this year’s winners, visit www.aacsb.edu/global-impact-awards. Support for the 2026 Global Impact Awards is provided by Risepoint.
About AACSB International
Established in 1916, AACSB International (AACSB), formerly known as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, connects educators, learners, and businesses to create the next generation of great leaders. With more than 2,000 member organizations and over 1,000 accredited business schools worldwide, AACSB is the world’s largest business education network. Through its global standards, accreditation, and thought leadership, AACSB fosters engagement, accelerates innovation, and amplifies impact in business education.