Professor Van R. Wood is a distinguished figure in international higher education, combining academic excellence, leadership, and global engagement.
Holding an MBA in International Business and a PhD in Global Marketing, he served at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) as Philip Morris Endowed Chair in International Business and founded the Center for International Business Advancement (CIBA), promoting research, training, and international cooperation.

Over four decades, he developed innovative educational programs, coordinated collaborations across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, and integrated ethical and inclusive dimensions into management and economics education.

A prolific researcher, Professor Wood has authored over 140 publications on international strategic alliances, corporate social responsibility, sustainable supply chains, and social justice in global trade.

Now Professor Emeritus at VCU, he continues to engage in international networks and academic diplomacy. On the Foundation’s Executive Committee, he brings strategic vision, global partnerships expertise, and a commitment to inclusive, transformative education, advancing the Foundation Tamkine’s ambitions regionally and internationally.