The Board of Governors embarked on a journey this past year to understand the impact of the pandemic on the Academy and our members worldwide. This data gathering phase included reflective exercises with the Board and key leaders from our Division and Interest Group and Journals to consider perspectives and predictions about the short- and long-term implications for higher education and business schools in particular. Alongside this introspection, the Board also discussed the state of the Academy and ongoing challenges and opportunities. We did so by identifying key themes that will help organize our near-term actions: (1) Raise and reimagine membership, (2) define and strengthen the value proposition, (3) fuel Division and Interest Group innovation and support, (4) reinvent meetings for hybrid, virtual, and in-Person experiences, (5) propel technology for the 21st Century, and (6) solidify operational sustainability.

 

This Annual Report represents the Academy’s activities for the 2021 calendar year. The 81st Annual Meeting of the Academy of Management (AOM 2021) took place 30 July - 3 August 2021 with a Preview Day held on 29 July and a Caucus Day held 4 August. AOM 2021 marked the second consecutive meeting held online as a virtual experience due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Despite having to spend another year physically apart, AOM 2021 used feedback and innovation to bring members together virtually, with over 9,600 registered participants representing 94 countries.  

 

Taking into account the realities of a still evolving environment for global conference activity, we continue to be flexible and adapt. Looking ahead and as we return to in-person and hybrid events, we recognize that we will need to think and design our global engagement activities differently. Our hope is to continue to strengthen our initiatives that reflect our organization’s evolution and provide valuable, relevant, accessible, and sustainable offerings for our members and stakeholders worldwide. 

In 2021, AOM publications continued to engage external audiences, including the global business community and global media. It was truly a year for building greater synergy between the development of knowledge and its rapid dissemination to members, as well as external audiences. For our members seeking new opportunities, our 2021 virtual career fairs offered custom coaching for all career stages. Topics included demystifying the hiring process, preparing for interviews, becoming a peer coach, and best CV practices.   

 

This dynamic annual report also offers appreciation for our thousands of dedicated volunteers and highlights the Academy’s awards and recognition program, featuring professional accomplishments, distinguished service, and exceptional contributions to the field of management and organizations.