The Robert Sutherland Fellowship
The Robert Sutherland Fellowships were established in 1992 to help diversify our campus by attracting applications from visible minorities that are under-represented at Queen's. Awards are available to incoming (new to the graduate program as of September 2025) Black Canadian students and other visible minority students who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada.
Latest Recipient

Dylan Khan
Where is your hometown?
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Why did you choose Smith School of Business/Queen’s?
I chose Queen’s and, more specifically, the Smith School of Business, because I believed it offered the best program for helping me develop as a scholar. From the diverse array of courses, the world-renowned faculty and their cutting-edge research, to the impressive alumni network and the vibrant community of like-minded individuals, I knew the Smith School of Business was the best place to help me grow as an academic.
What has been your favourite experience at Queen’s so far?
My favourite experience at Queen’s so far has been having the opportunity to attend the various guest speakers that the Smith School of Business has hosted. These guest lectures have not only provided great opportunities to hear from top scholars from around the world and expand on the knowledge I learned in the classroom, but have also allowed me to engage in networking and step outside of my comfort zone.
What are your aspirations after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to continue my academic journey by pursuing a PhD in a management-related field. My ultimate goal is to join the academic community and contribute through both research and the education of future generations.
What is one interesting fact about you?
I have watched and finished over 100 TV series.
Research Overview
Who Gets the Corner Office? Exploring Drivers of Black CEO Appointments
Dylan’s research examines the structural and organizational factors that influence the appointment of Black CEOs. By focusing on elements such as insider versus outsider status, board diversity, and firm-level diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, the study explores how these dynamics shape access to executive leadership. Through an analysis of CEO transitions across major firms, the research identifies the conditions under which Black candidates are more likely to be appointed. The goal is to uncover how corporate pathways can either reinforce or reduce racial disparities in leadership, offering insights into how firms can better align their diversity efforts with meaningful outcomes at the highest level.