Recognizing excellence in leadership, research, and mentorship: Kelley Main named ASAC Fellow

Main, Professor of Marketing and Dean of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, was recently recognized for scholarly excellence, impactful academic leadership, and an outstanding commitment to mentorship. Main has held several leadership roles within UM, including Department Head for Marketing and Acting Associate Dean of Research and Graduate programs for the Asper School of Business(need list here) and Associate Dean, Acting Dean and currently Dean at the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, reflecting a longstanding dedication to advancing graduate education and fostering academic collaboration.

ASAC Fellows are selected based on two primary criteria: distinguished research and scholarship over an extended period, and significant contributions to the development of emerging scholars within both their institutions and the broader ASAC community. Main’s career strongly reflects both areas of excellence. 

She has worked closely with numerous doctoral students throughout her career, frequently collaborating with trainees on peer-reviewed publications in highly regarded journals. Her mentorship has helped emerging scholars build successful research programs and contribute meaningfully to their fields. This sustained commitment to graduate student development aligns closely with ASAC’s mission to foster the next generation of world-class researchers, teachers, and scholars.

In her current role as Dean of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Main continues to champion graduate student success and research excellence across disciplines, providing leadership and support for graduate education and the development of emerging scholars at UM. Her active engagement within Canadian and international academic communities reflects the spirit of leadership and service recognized through the ASAC Fellows program.

Main joins a distinguished group of Canadian scholars whose careers have shaped the future of business and management education across the country. To read more about the 2026 award recipients, visit the ACAS website.