St- Louisan

100 St. Louisans to Know - Small Business Monthly Magazine

April 2012, Small Business Monthly For his entire career, Dr. Benjamin Akande has been finding ways to help organizations go from where they are to where they want to be. As an economist by training, a professor of economics and dean of the George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology at Webster University, Akande is dedicated to helping individuals, businesses and organizations thrive. “My world is participation on boards, supporting the education and success of young men and women, and shaping the strategy of organizations as a consultant,” says Akande, who is also chief of corporate partnership at Webster University for the past 11 years. Just as he has helped Webster University and its students reach new heights, he sets his sights high for the development of the St. Louis business community. Akande stays motivated by seeing positive results and says that when organizations are successful, society will be as well. “When people buy in to what organizations are doing, it benefits the people in the organization by making them more successful in society by bringing us all needed products or services and creating jobs and tax bases,” he says. “Then, when organizations are successful, they can give back to society. It’s a remarkable cycle.”

Go to 100 St. Louisans to Know list