Member Spotlight

Ming Ju, Ph.D., CFA
Associate Professor of Finance,
College of Business, Louisiana Tech University

Ming Ju is an Associate Professor of Finance at Louisiana Tech University. She earned her Ph.D. in Finance from Temple University, following a master’s degree in finance from Case Western Reserve University. Her research focuses on corporate finance, corporate culture, and ESG, with her work published in leading academic journals such as the Journal of Corporate Finance, Finance Research Letters, Global Strategy Journal, Journal of Business Finance & Accounting, and the Review of Quantitative Finance and Accounting. Dr. Ju teaches undergraduate, MBA, and doctoral-level courses, centered on corporate finance. She also serves as the principal contact for the CFA University Affiliation Program at Louisiana Tech and as a faculty advisor, guiding students in the CFA Ethics Challenge, an experience she finds highly rewarding. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

Read more information about Ming in her answers to our Member Spotlight questions below.

Who has had the most influence on you, and why?

My parents taught me resilience, optimism, independence, and kindness. From my father, I learned perseverance and humor in navigating life, and from my mother, grace and a positive outlook. Their wisdom and love have shaped who I am today and continue to inspire me in all aspects of life.

What made you decide to pursue the CFA charter?

I pursued the CFA charter because of its global recognition in the finance industry. While preparing for the CFA exams, the learning process helped me build a comprehensive financial framework and significantly enhanced my professional skills. It was a journey that deepened my understanding of finance in an enriching and impactful way.

What do you enjoy most about your current professional role?

I enjoy engaging with students and helping them grow both academically and professionally. Guiding them through complex financial concepts and seeing them apply this knowledge in practical settings is incredibly fulfilling. Another aspect I enjoy is the research. Being engaged in research allows me to contribute to my field.

What is the best advice you've ever received?

A quote from Laozi, an ancient Chinese philosopher, has inspired me to always take that first step, no matter how big the journey ahead: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

What motivated you to join CFA Society Mississippi?

CFA Society Mississippi provides a great platform for fostering collaboration among finance practitioners and educators. Additionally, knowing a few members within the Society motivated me to join, as they shared their positive experiences and encouraged me to become part of this supportive community.

What advice would you give a current or potential candidate?

My advice is to stay focused and committed. The CFA exams are challenging and require significant time and effort, but the knowledge gained and the professional opportunities that follow are well worth it. Keep pushing through, and don’t hesitate to seek support from society members.

text

Previous Member Spotlights

Read past Member Spotlight features by clicking a name below.

David Coker, CFA

Walter Neely, Ph.D., CFA

Ken Qiu, CFA

Alvaro G. Taboada, Ph.D., CFA

Owen Mayfield, CFA

Heath Jordan, CFA

Know a CFA Society Mississippi member who should be featured in our next spotlight? 

Members like YOU make up the cornerstones of our success as a society. 

Email your Member Spotlight submission by clicking below.
text

Email Us