The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, Cross-Cultural Competencies in Hispanic Serving Institutions by Biff Baker.

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming presentation at the SAM International Business Conference that promises to shed new light on the evolving landscape of business education and the integration of cultural sensitivities into the curriculum. The paper, titled “Cross-Cultural Competencies in Hispanic Serving Institutions,” explores the critical intersection of technical expertise and interpersonal skills in the contemporary labor market, with a special focus on the educational experiences of Hispanic students.

In an era where the demand for graduates in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Business (STEMB) fields is at an all-time high, this research comes at a crucial time. Technological advancements and expanding industries are driving this demand, valuing the quantitative and empirical analytical proficiencies that STEMB graduates bring. However, there’s a notable gap in the curriculum: the development of interpersonal skills, which are equally vital in today’s global and diverse workplace.

This paper addresses this gap head-on by proposing the integration of culturally sensitive components into business schools and other academic settings. The aim is to foster an educational environment that is not only inclusive but also enriching for all students, with a particular emphasis on improving the experience for Hispanic students. This approach marks a significant departure from existing diversity training programs, which can sometimes inadvertently adopt a shame-oriented approach towards the majority population.

The research advocates for a deeper understanding of cultural nuances, arguing that this awareness can greatly enhance the educational experience by preparing students to navigate and contribute to a diverse and interconnected world effectively. The proposed pedagogical improvements are designed to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, are equipped with both the technical and interpersonal skills needed to thrive in their careers.

The SAM International Business Conference is the perfect platform for presenting this innovative research. The conference, known for bringing together leading minds in business and academia, provides an excellent opportunity for dialogue and discussion on the future of business education. Attendees can look forward to insightful findings and practical recommendations on how to integrate culturally sensitive pedagogy into the STEMB curriculum.

This presentation is not just for educators and academic leaders; it is also highly relevant for business professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in the intersection of education, technology, and diversity. As we move forward into an increasingly complex and diverse global market, the insights from this paper will be invaluable in shaping the next generation of leaders in STEMB fields.

We invite all attendees of the SAM International Business Conference to join us for this enlightening presentation. Together, we can take steps toward a more inclusive and effective educational system that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.