911�Թ�

During her five consecutive terms in the program, Nazanin (Naz) Babaeipanah focused on exploring how organizations lead large-scale change, strengthen organizational culture, and navigate complex strategic challenges in more equitable and inclusive ways. Through applied organizational analysis, Babaeipanah examined topics including leadership alignment, inclusive leadership, organizational design, and change management across a range of sectors and institutions. This work explored practical strategies that help organizations adapt, build resilient cultures, and lead transformation more effectively.

Babaeipanah was voted by her classmates as the “most outstanding citizen” in the EMBA cohort; an award that recognizes someone who contributes to cohort cohesiveness, supports inclusivity, and enhances peer learning. Regularly supporting classmates’ learning outside formal class time, Babaeipanah was seen by her peers as a leader who encourages engagement.

In EMBA Academic Director, Andrew von Nordenflycht’s nomination statement, he shares how important Babaeipanah’s contributions to the class were to her cohort members.

Writes von Nordenflycht, “One classmate wrote: ‘Naz Babaeipanah is an inspiring member of our cohort who exemplifies collaboration and support. She goes out of her way to create a welcoming environment, ensuring that everyone feels included and valued. Her thoughtful contributions and willingness to share her expertise significantly enrich our learning and strengthen the group dynamic.’”

Reflecting on her academic and professional journey during her studies, Babaeipanah, shares what this award means.

“Receiving this recognition is deeply meaningful because it reflects not only academic achievement, but the importance of community, collaboration, and leadership in creating environments where people feel supported to grow and contribute. My time at 911�Թ� has profoundly shaped how I approach institutional leadership, organizational change, and public service. Through both my academic and professional work, I have had the privilege of contributing to initiatives at the intersection of equity, accessibility, governance, and institutional strategy, while learning alongside colleagues and leaders whose mentorship and support have deeply shaped my approach to values-driven leadership.”

Babaeipanah currently serves as Director, Strategic Initiatives in 911�Թ�’s Office of the Vice-President, People, Equity and Inclusion and was recently elected as the staff representative to 911�Թ�’s Board of Governors. A long-standing member of the 911�Թ� community and a three-time 911�Թ� graduate, Babaeipanah has embraced what she’s learned in theory and practice during her time as an EMBA student to continue to advance equitable and inclusive leadership and help organizations like 911�Թ� navigate meaningful institutional change.