Border Exchange Brings U.S. and Mexico Business Schools Together

The Big Picture: Three business schools — UTEP, UACJ, and UACH — joined forces to strengthen cross-border education, research, and workforce development during the inaugural Border Exchange. The event sets the foundation for future collaboration among the three institutions. 

Partners in Collaboration:  

• Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez (UACJ) 

• Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua (UACH) 
  
  

Why It Matters: The U.S.-Mexico border region is an economic powerhouse. Addressing its unique workforce and industry challenges requires academic cooperation. The Border Exchange laid the groundwork for the three business schools to drive innovation in research, teaching, and curriculum development. 

From Hunt Leadership: 
John Hadjimarcou, Ph.D., Rick and Ginger Francis Dean at Hunt Business: 
“This initiative from Hunt Business marks the beginning of a shared commitment to addressing the opportunities and challenges of our region. By collaborating across institutions, we can drive innovation, strengthen cross-border connections, and develop a workforce that thrives in an interconnected economy.” 

What Happened: President Heather Wilson attended the event, emphasizing the significance of cross-border collaboration. Faculty and staff from all three institutions teamed up to develop initiatives focused on: 

• Teaching: Joint teaching strategies, including mirroring classes, co-teaching, and virtual projects, targeting key areas like marketing and financial systems. 

• Research: Expanding collaborative studies through shared data and new cross-border research opportunities. 

• Administration: Strengthening academic exchanges, co-teaching initiatives, and entrepreneurship programs. 

What They're Saying: 
Fernando R. Jiménez, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Academic Affairs: 
"We are excited to support any efforts between our institutions that will benefit both our students and the broader business community." 
 
Cristina Cabrera, Ph.D., Dean of School of Accounting and Administration at UACH: 
“Expanding our knowledge base by learning from both UTEP faculty and our own professors allows us to achieve better outcomes.” 

Jesús Urrutia, Ph.D., Head of Administrative Sciences at Institute of Social Sciences and Administration, UACJ : 
“It’s inspiring to see that we all share the same vision of our region’s strength. We recognize that we are one interconnected region, and we must work together to support its growth.”