The SMS Special Conference in Washington, D.C., was held from June 19–21, 2024, at the Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School. Themed “Strategies for Sustainable Human Development,” the event explored the interplay of firm strategy, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, and human capital development.
Developed by the Special Conference’s Program Co-Chairs—Jonathan Doh (Villanova University), DK Kryscynski (Rutgers University), Richard Smith (Johns Hopkins University), and Heli Wang (Singapore Management University)—the call for submissions attracted 124 proposals. The conference’s Competitive Program featured 23 Paper Sessions, 4 Round Table Feedback Sessions, and 4 Plenary Sessions.
Participants engaged in discussions centered on three core tracks: Contributing to Societal Health and Community Well-being, Managing Firm Human Capital Sustainably, and Enabling Educational Institutions and Equitable Opportunity. These tracks addressed challenges such as workforce dynamics, global operations, and the evolving societal role of firms. Attendees delved into practical strategies and scholarly insights to advance sustainable development goals, fostering dialogue between academics and practitioners.
The four Plenary Sessions featured speakers from academic, business, and consulting backgrounds who further explored strategies for sustainable human development. The Plenary program included the following sessions: “A Research Agenda for Sustainable Human Development”, “The Chief Human Resource Officer Perspective on Health”, “UN SDG Progress? An Inside View of the UNDP Human Development Index”, and a Track Chair Panel.
