Ivey is pleased to be welcoming numerous new faculty members to campus this school year! To help you get to know our new colleagues, we asked each of them a list of questions about their academic – and personal – interests.
Get to know: Mohamed Satti
Mohamed Satti is an associate professor of Management Communications who will be helping Ivey students to sharpen their communications skills. He’ll be teaching both undergraduate and graduate students how to communicate better in the workplace, focusing on how to get your message across to its intended recipient in a polished manner. Satti has more than 15 years of teaching experience, previously teaching at the American University of Kuwait and Wittenberg University. He has a PhD in communication from the Scripps College of Communication at Ohio University as well as both an MBA and an MA in International Affairs from Ohio University. He also did a BA in political science at the American University in Cairo.
Q&A with Mohamed Satti
What is the most important thing business executives can learn from your research/area of expertise?
It is very important for business executives to be able to communicate effectively. This involves honing a number of skills, such as speaking publicly and writing efficiently. It is equally important for business executives to use the power of media for advertising and marketing purposes to communicate with existing and potential customers.
Where did you grow up and what was it like there?
I was born and raised in Sudan, but also spent many years in Ghana. I have lots of fond memories from both countries. I recall growing up in laid-back surroundings among family and friends. Sudan and Ghana have vibrant environments rich in culture and tradition, which has significantly impacted me.
Who have been your strongest influences in life?
On the personal side, it has to be my parents. My father was a professor and my mother was a high school teacher. On the professional side, Professor Steve Howard from Ohio University mentored me during my graduate school days and I still seek his advice on a regular basis. My wife and daughter also give me plenty of encouragement.
What led you to your career?
I was destined to work in the education sector since my parents were educators. Teaching is a noble profession and I enjoy the interaction with students.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Spending time with my family either outdoors or at home. I also like to spend time watching soccer and movies on television.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I am a quiet person. I am laid back. I’m also not fond of hot weather, so I look forward to winter in Ontario!
What is the most played song on your playlist as of now?
I don’t really have a favourite song, but I like old school reggae by Bob Marley and UB40. I also enjoy listening to jazz music. But I would say music from Sudan is probably my favourite as it reminds me of my birth country.
What book would you recommend to others on the personal side?
I like to read books on international affairs, economic development, and religion, among other topics. On the personal side, Lyrics Alley by novelist Leila Aboulela and The Future of Islam by John Esposito are interesting to read.
And on the business side?
On the business side, The Great Escape: Health, Wealth and the Origins of Inequality by economist Angus Deaton provides some fascinating historical insight about how nations and individuals acquire wealth, but why and how many inequalities still exist. Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity and Poverty by Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson is another book that sheds significant light on economic inequality.
