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CMUBS Hosts Gala Dinner for AACSB: Asia Pacific Accreditation Conference 2026 and Celebrates AACSB’s 110th Anniversary

24 June 2026
Chiang Mai University Business School
On 17 June 2026, Chiang Mai University Business School (CMUBS) had the honor of hosting the Gala Dinner for the AACSB: Asia Pacific Accreditation Conference 2026 at Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel. The event welcomed business school leaders, faculty members, and professional staff from AACSB member institutions across the Asia-Pacific region and around the world.

The evening commenced with welcome remarks by Assistant Professor Dr. Khongphu Nimanandh, Dean of Chiang Mai University Business School, and Geoff Perry, Executive Vice President and Chief Officer, Asia Pacific, Americas, and Membership, AACSB International. The occasion was particularly meaningful as participants also joined in celebrating the 110th Anniversary of AACSB International, recognizing more than a century of advancing excellence in business education worldwide.

To showcase the unique identity and cultural heritage of Northern Thailand, CMUBS organized a “Kad Mua Experience,” offering guests an immersive introduction to Lanna culture through local cuisine, traditional crafts, cultural activities, and warm Thai hospitality. Participants also enjoyed traditional Lanna performances that reflected the rich history and artistic traditions of the region.

In addition to the cultural program, the evening featured an Academic Talk Session focusing on two important themes shaping the future of higher education and society: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainability.

The first presentation, “Higher Education Development in the Age of AI: Case Study from Chiang Mai University,” was delivered by Dr. Anan Sipitakiat, Director of the Teaching and Learning Innovation Center, Chiang Mai University. The session explored how higher education institutions can adapt to the rapid advancement of AI and highlighted Chiang Mai University’s experiences in integrating emerging technologies into teaching and learning.

The second presentation, “Sustainable by Design — CMU’s Six-Decade Promise,” was delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Pradthana Jaipong, Assistant to the President of Chiang Mai University and former Director of the School of Lifelong Education. The presentation shared Chiang Mai University’s long-standing commitment to sustainable development and its vision for creating lasting impact through education, innovation, and community engagement.

In addition to hosting the Gala Dinner, CMUBS also sent members of its leadership team to participate in the AACSB Asia Pacific Accreditation Conference 2026, held on 17–18 June 2026. The conference provided valuable opportunities to exchange best practices, strengthen international partnerships, and engage with fellow AACSB member institutions from around the world.

Through this event, CMUBS reaffirmed its commitment to international engagement, academic excellence, and meaningful collaboration within the global business education community. The Gala Dinner not only celebrated AACSB’s 110-year legacy but also highlighted the role of cultural exchange, innovation, and sustainability in shaping the future of business education.
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