The Summer of MOBTS:
Two Conferences, One Extraordinary Experience
Call for Papers Deadline: January 23, 2026
Ann Arbor, Michigan
June 9-12, 2026
We'll kick off our Summer of MOBTS with the 53rd Annual MOBTS Conference, hosted by the University of Michigan. Experience the vibrant campus atmosphere of Ann Arbor while connecting with colleagues through engaging sessions, experiential workshops, and inspiring conversations that define the heart of the MOBTS community.
The conference theme this year is Rooted in Core Values under program chair Lisa Symmes (née Brady).
In an era when management education is rapidly changing - due in part to technology, shifting student expectations, and evolving institutional priorities - it's easy to lose sight of the principles that first inspired us to teach and that continue to keep us rooted.
The 2026 conference theme, "Rooted in Core Values," invites us to pause, reflect, and re-center ourselves in what grounds our work as educators. Our core values sustain not only our classrooms but also our community of practice.
After four days of experiential learning, touching upon pressing questions, and networking, we'll keep the momentum going because this MOBTS journey doesn't end in Michigan.
From Ann Arbor to Asia
On June 14th, our community takes flight! Together, we'll depart from Detroit Metropolitan International Airport (DTW) on a direct flight to Tokyo, Japan prior to taking the train to Osaka Prefecture where a new chapter of MOBTS awaits.
Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
June 16-18, 2026
This conference is limited to a hard cap of 100 participants!
Arriving in Tokyo on June 15th and taking the train to Osaka Prefecture, you'll have a moment to settle in before joining us for the International MOBTS Opening Reception on the evening of June 16th. Over the next three days, immerse yourself in cross-cultural perspectives, global scholarship, and pedagogical innovation all in one of the world's most dynamic cities.
The conference theme at IMOBTS this year is Fading of an Era, Rising of the New? The American Hegemony has dominated the post-World War II era of economics, politics, and culture, and modern academia has long followed an American model of scholarship. However, the country's recent policy shifts in trade, education, and immigration signal an intent to abdicate leadership in global affairs, including international business and education.
America's retreat will create opportunities for others to claim new leadership roles and Asia is aggressively positioning itself for success. Three of the five largest economies reside in Asia, and each holds its own distinct approaches to business and management.
Join us at IMOBTS at Kansai Gaidai University as we explore these global shifts in international management education and the leadership within.
Make It a Summer to Remember
The Summer of MOBTS is more than just two conferences - it's a journey of connection, exploration, and inspiration that spans the globe. Whether you join for one conference or both, this is your opportunity to be part of something truly unique:
Two world-class MOBTS events
A global travel experience with fellow experientially minded colleagues
Endless opportunities to learn, share, and grow
More information to come soon regarding dual-registration options (two conferences, one registration), dual attendance benefits, travel recommendations, etc.
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Brandon Charpied
Executive Director
Brandon Charpied Person
brandon@mobts.org------------------------------