In the world of academia, certain individuals stand out for their dedication, passion, and expertise. Dr. Xin Fan, our newest assistant professor teaching in the MBA Program, is an individual who has made significant strides in the field of finance. With a remarkable academic journey and a commitment to excellence, Dr. Fan's contributions to both research and education are noteworthy. We are excited to take a closer look at Dr. Fan's journey, her role at UNLV, and her vision for the future.
Dr. Fan's journey to UNLV is a testament to her dedication to finance academia. It began with her pursuit of knowledge as an undergraduate student, culminating in a Ph.D. in finance from the University of Pittsburgh in 2021. Following her doctoral studies, Dr. Fan embarked on a two-year postdoctoral position at Vanderbilt University, further honing her expertise in the field. Her research interests primarily center around corporate finance, a complex and dynamic area where financial theories intersect with real-world corporate decision-making.
Choosing UNLV as her academic home was a thoughtful decision for Dr. Fan. It was driven by the institution's strong commitment to research and the collaborative environment within the department of finance at Lee Business School. UNLV's distinction as an R1 Research Institution appealed to her, but it was the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie among faculty members that truly resonated with her the most. During her interview, Dr. Fan experienced firsthand the welcoming and communal atmosphere that has come to define her position at UNLV.
As a new member of the UNLV community, Dr. Fan is poised for a promising future. Her goals are clear and ambitious—she aims to elevate her research productivity, striving for more publications that not only advance her field but also contribute valuable insights to the broader academic community. Additionally, Dr. Fan is committed to continually refining her teaching skills, ensuring that her students receive a comprehensive and enriching education.
One of Dr. Fan's notable accomplishments is a recent publication that emerged from her dissertation. This research explores the intricate domain of publicly traded debt restructuring methods and their profound impact on corporate investment and public debt contracts. Dr. Fan and her research team navigated the technical intricacies of this subject, offering insights into the ever-evolving landscape of finance.
Beyond academia, Dr. Fan places a strong emphasis on the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being. She firmly believes that a healthy body and mind are indispensable for effectively managing the demanding workload that comes with a faculty position. When asked about her best investment, she unequivocally points to her decision to pursue a Ph.D. Despite the rigorous and challenging journey, she considers it a worthwhile investment that has ultimately led her to her fulfilling role at UNLV.
Dr. Fan's course, MBA 765 - Financial Decision Making, offers students an essential introduction to finance. Her belief in the practical applications of finance knowledge in everyday life makes this course invaluable. Whether students aspire to work in finance or simply desire to make informed financial decisions, Dr. Fan's class equips them with the necessary skills and insights.The course covers real-world applications of finance, making her class an engaging and compelling choice for students seeking to develop their financial acumen.
MBA students’ success hinges on setting clear goals and leveraging the program's abundant resources to achieve them. Dr. Fan actively encourages students to harness the wealth of knowledge and support available to them. This support provides a roadmap for their academic journey. “Never hesitate to reach out to faculty and staff members,” she advises. “Share your thoughts, concerns, and ask for help and advice. Our faculty and staff are happy to communicate and help our MBA students.”
Dr. Fan's presence at UNLV enriches the academic landscape and exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and commitment to excellence. Her dedication to both research and teaching promises to inspire and educate future generations of finance professionals. UNLV is fortunate to have Dr. Fan as a valued member of its faculty.