When Kwame Mawuenyega Ackah arrived at The University of Tulsa after a decade working in the public and private sectors in Ghana, he was searching for more than an advanced degree. He sought an immersive experience, clarity on his goals, community and the educational experience to make meaningful change back home.
Now an MBA student at Collins College of Business, Ackah said UTulsa’s approachable faculty, business curriculum and leadership opportunities has led him to grow personally and professionally. He recently interned at Tulsa International Airport. He also served as the student executive officer for UTulsa’s student-managed investment fund, overseeing an $8.6 million portfolio that grew to a record-breaking $9.1 million during his tenure.
“I was looking for a business school that would give me additional knowledge to make a difference in my country,” he said. “The professors have been accessible, and the opportunities have been great.”
Outside the classroom, Ackah is a member of a fraternity, a graduate assistant with CaneCareers, a member of the Real Estate Club and president of the Graduate Student Association. He emphasized that these roles have expanded his social and professional needs.
“Everyone here has treated me so well. It’s like everyone has known me for years,” he said. “These intentional activities on campus have given me exposure and confidence.”
Ackah said his attention to community involvement stems from his upbringing in Ghana. He explained that his culture emphasizes collective responsibility for the enrichment of all.
“Being a part of a community makes you aware of what needs to be done to shape it,” he said. “When I came here, I didn’t feel like I should just focus on academics. If I’m part of the community, I know who is available when things need to be done.”
When advising others, Ackah emphasized the importance of finding ways to become involved: “Don’t focus only on credentials. Focus on community. After school, you will need people to help open doors, and then for you to do the same for others.”
His research focuses on migration, demographics and legal structures in Africa, using Ghana, Nigeria and Kenya as case studies — regions he sees as pivotal for Africa’s economic future.
Looking ahead, Ackah plans to establish a nonprofit organization centered on creating dialogue among African governments, stakeholders and international partners.
“The MBA program makes me a global thinker,” he said. “Once I’m done with school, I hope to have the right stakeholders to pursue these dreams. The University of Tulsa has put me in a position to make these dreams possible.”
Learn more about MBA and other graduate programs at utulsa.edu/grad.