As the COVID-19 pandemic continues its pernicious path, knowledge and entrepreneurial thinking have never been more important tools. And, as a business school built on leading with an entrepreneurial mindset, we must champion next-level thinking that has the potential to move our community forward.

You will see our efforts to do that in this issue of FIU Business Now. Our cover story highlights artificial intelligence and the potential of machine learning to transform business practices. FIU Business faculty members are front and center in understanding these tools, particularly when it comes to the unprecedented healthcare demands of the pandemic. Also in this issue, you will read about faculty research on executive compensation, telemedicine and combating bad actors using innovative cybersecurity tools, which I hope will give you new ideas and tactics for your own business success.

You'll also read about our amazing students, who, despite challenges brought on by the pandemic, scored victories in national competitions and met the university's challenge to develop new technologies to battle COVID-19. Also, as issues of diversity, inclusion and equity were raised by the Black Lives Matter movement, our students began a conversation that will teach us and move us forward.

proud of. In September, we learned that for the second consecutive year, our undergraduate international business program was ranked No. 2 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Two of our faculty members were inducted as fellows in one of the world's most prestigious international business organizations, and we inducted one of the world's most renowned scholars in information systems into our Dean's Circle of Distinguished Research Fellows.

We recognize this economic lockdown has widened the disparity of those who can afford college and those with little financial means. Despite our successes, we are saddened to see many of our students deeply impacted because they are often first-generation college students who rely on Pell grants and other financial aid. We come before you to ask if you will consider making an investment in our students' futures. Together, we will build the future labor workforce and a sustainable community for all. In the meantime, I am inspired and energized to share some special stories of alumni who have risen to success in the business world and came back with gratitude to support today's students (page 6 and page 32).

We are forever grateful for the engagement and support of our alumni and other friends in the community. Enjoy this issue of FIU Business Now.

Joanne Li
Dean, College of Business