Dr. Lisa J. Abendroth is a visionary leader and transformative change agent at the nexus of business, technology, and social impact. As the founder of the Business in a Digital World initiative and a key strategist on the leadership team at the Opus College of Business, she has played a pivotal role in redirecting the college’s strategy and response to market demands. Her efforts, underpinned by a Ph.D. from Duke University, have been crucial in enhancing the college's prestige and position as one of Minnesota’s leading business schools. Companies facing digital transformation challenges will find Lisa’s expertise invaluable for navigating complex environments and maintaining competitive leadership in today’s dynamic market.

Respected by peers and cherished by students, Lisa empowers future leaders with visionary strategies and practical insights. A sought-after speaker, she frequently addresses strategic foresight, emerging technology, innovation. and stakeholder engagement at business and educational forums. Beyond her professional pursuits, Lisa is dedicated to initiatives with the Minnesota Technology Association, Girls Who Code, and The Arc Minnesota. She recharges herself by exploring diverse cultures, enjoying live music, and kayaking at her cabin in Northern Minnesota.

SELECT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
- Chosen for the 2024-2027 Fulbright Specialist Roster to lead digital transformation initiatives in emerging global economies.
- Secured a $3.4 million grant to equip business leaders with essential skills for executing effective and responsible digital transformation strategies.
- Developed a pioneering innovation platform that enhanced cross-sector collaboration, establishing the College as a key leader in digital transformation.
- Led a Human Development program to elevate executive competencies in technology, data, strategic foresight, and risk management, significantly boosting individual and organizational performance.
- Revamped the College’s MBA portfolio, launching an innovative online program and pivoting to specialized, shorter offerings to adapt to evolving market demands.
- Designed the Omnichannel Strategy Graduate Certificate that integrates academic rigor with practical business applications, including a capstone project for Target.
- Developed and currently teaches Emerging Tech in Business and Modern Business Mindset, directly addressing CEO agenda items and key business imperatives, while integrating the latest innovations and trends to ensure relevance and strategic impact.

EXPERIENCE

University of St. Thomas, Opus College of Business

-Associate Professor, Marketing, 2011-present

-Founder and Academic Director, Business in a Digital World, 2020-22

-Associate Dean, Graduate Program Innovation, 2017-20

-Faculty Director, Part-time Flex MBA, 2014-17

-Lead Faculty, Product Management Leadership, Deluxe Corp., 2007-10

-Assistant Professor, Marketing, 2007-11

Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, Espacio de Negocios Inclusivos

-Visiting Scholar, Inclusive Business Think Tank, 2013

Boston University, School of Management (now Questrom)

-Faculty Director, Professional Evening MBA, 2005-07

-Assistant Professor, Marketing, 1999-07

Duke Corporate Education

-Contract Faculty, Integrated Global Strategy, 2005-06