Statement by Ilian Mihov, Dean of INSEAD
It is with great sadness that I share news of the recent passing of Roger Godino. Roger was among the first INSEAD professors and served as Dean of Faculty from 1964 to 1970. Roger will be remembered as a leader who helped build INSEAD into the institution it is today by pioneering executive education.
Roger Godino was a Harvard Business School graduate who joined INSEAD during the school’s early years. He was one of the first faculty members and a staunch supporter of the pursuit of academic excellence. When he was appointed Dean of Faculty in 1964, he sought to improve faculty standards through increased workload and implemented rigorous testing for INSEAD participants. In 1964, Roger also led one of the first executive education seminars in collaboration with UCLA/Stanford Research Institute. This seminar paved the way for executive education at INSEAD, with Godino setting up the first Advanced Management Programme in 1968. After his time at INSEAD, Roger continued to support the school as a long-time member of the French National Council.
Outside of INSEAD, Roger left a legacy in business, philanthropy and politics. He was the developer behind Les Arcs ski resort, which was highly regarded for use of local materials, conservation of historic buildings and respect for the area and the natural surroundings. Roger was a force for good, leading several organisations focused on cultural, humanitarian and ecological actions, including the Roger Godino Foundation, Action Against Hunger and Atout France. Roger was an adviser to Prime Minister of France Michel Rocard and served as president of the Michel Rocard Association, which he founded.
Roger left an indelible and enduring mark on the world and on INSEAD. Because of his vision, today we are a leader in executive education. Due to his dedication, we are an academic institution of the highest quality. Please join me in celebrating the life and legacy of Roger Godino, an INSEAD pioneer who remains an inspiration to this day.
Sincerely,
Ilian Mihov
Dean of INSEAD
