Tharon Smith
Fudan University
Professional
Tharon works in partnership with the Fudan University Venture Capital Research Institute, focused specifically on the indigenous development of science and technological innovation, and domestic venture capital in China. In this role, she leads international exchange trips, interview-based research discussions and performance dialogues for both United States and Chinese venture capitalists.
Tharon has a particular interest in companies focused on developing long-term strategic relationships through mergers and acquisitions with domestic Chinese firms, organizations, and universities. Through her work, she has developed a nuanced perspective on Chinese technology commercialization and performance enhancement activities.
As a doctoral candidate, Tharon set out independently to investigate the success and performance of domestic Chinese venture capitalists. Applying an institutional framework approach, this pioneering research has highlighted the role and characteristics of government involvement, entrepreneurial development, and cultural sensitivities necessary for success and improved performance in China.
Education/Personal
Tharon was recently awarded her Doctoral degree in Economics from Claremont Graduate University, where she served as graduate student council president and was selected for a three-year fellowship by the Chinese Government to conduct her dissertation field research in China. She holds a tri-discipline Master’s degree in Business, Politics, and Economics, and a Bachelor’s in economics.
Tharon serves as a Board member of the Mango Tree Foundation, the SOMA research project, and was the founder of the Strontium Group. She speaks fluent Mandarin and has lived in China for three years.
Fellowship
As a member of Class 15, Tharon is serving her fellowship at the Fudan University Venture Capital Research Institute in Shanghai, under the mentorship of Director Dr. Zhang Luyang and Drucker Executive Management Faculty member Dr. Vijay Sathe.
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