The Kogod School of Business at American University is proud to announce that Professor Hayley Blunden has been named a “40 Under 40” MBA Professor by Poets&Quants, a prestigious annual recognition honoring the most talented young professors currently teaching in MBA programs around the world. 

Now in its 13th year, the Poets&Quants “40 Under 40” list celebrates educators who have made a significant impact through their teaching and research. The 2025 list features faculty from 39 global business schools, including 16 institutions outside the United States. From a pool of more than 1,700 nominations submitted by students, colleagues, administrators, and fellow professors, nominees were evaluated on teaching excellence (weighted at 70%) and research contributions (weighted at 30%). 

“I was inspired to pursue this career as a student in an MBA classroom, so this is such an honor,” said Professor Blunden. “I'm grateful for the many supporters who helped along the way.” 

“This recognition underscores what her students and colleagues already know: Professor Blunden’s combination of expertise and passion makes a serious impact,” said Kogod Dean David Marchick. “Our programs are more dynamic and forward-thinking because of Professor Blunden’s approach to research and teaching.” 

Professor Blunden’s recognition reflects Kogod’s broader commitment to excellence in business education. The school continues to lead with innovative approaches to teaching and learning — including its recent AI integration across curricula and initiatives that prepare graduates for a rapidly evolving, tech-driven business landscape. 

About the Kogod School of Business 

American University's Kogod School of Business is building a more sustainable world through business. For 70 years, Kogod has redefined what business education looks like — preparing future business leaders to thrive in careers on Wall Street and in Silicon Valley, at nonprofits and in government agencies, in startups and at Fortune 500 companies. With a strong focus on AI, Kogod ensures graduates harness technology’s potential to solve real-world business challenges, earning Kogod recognition from Poets & Quants as Best in Class for Artificial Intelligence. Kogod’s approach to learning fosters the entrepreneurial mindset and provides students with the skills, resources, and mentorship they need to succeed in any industry. 

Learn more about the Kogod School of Business here.