Winter 2024 Dean's Message

As we begin this journey into 2024, I am delighted to share with you the latest edition of our Insiders' Newsletter. The Fall Semester was marked by tremendous progress and success in the Schmidthorst College of Business, and I am excited to share our remarkable achievements. 

Our freshman cohort 

We are proud to have welcomed one of our largest first-year classes. We also launched a new pre-business pathway. This initiative offers additional support to students passionate about business. Early indications suggest that we are on track to achieve our best-ever retention rates for our freshman cohort. 

MBA recognition 

Our in-person MBA program, enriched by the inclusion of over 20 student-athletes, has welcomed its largest cohort ever. Our online MBA program has achieved notable recognition. We secured the #1 ranking in Ohio in the Poets&Quants Online MBA survey. The ranking is a testament to the outstanding quality and value of our online MBA program. Our MBA programs continue to highlight our commitment to developing business leaders who serve their communities. 

Faculty growth and leadership changes 

We are currently conducting 11 searches for new faculty members. This expansion will enhance our focus and support growing programs, such as our doctorate of organization development and change. Our associate dean leadership team is in transition. Dr. Jan Hartley is now serving as interim vice provost of academic affairs, and Dr. Zubair Mohamed is taking a year of improvement leave. We welcome new members Dr. Mo Zolfagharian and Dr. Karen Eboch, who bring their expertise and innovative ideas to the team. 

Student achievements 

Our students continue to shine. Several graduates secured prestigious internships, student-athletes demonstrated leadership both on and off the court, and student organizations clinched prestigious titles at recent competitions. We once again had a finalist in the international Capsim competition, and our Beta Alpha Psi chapter continued its streak as a Superior Chapter. Their success is truly inspiring. 

Community and alumni engagement 

We continue to strengthen our bonds with the local business community and alumni through meaningful partnerships and collaborations. Notable events this fall included a leadership dinner, Meet the Firms, a Women in Entrepreneurship panel luncheon and an insightful session with Orel Hershiser. These connections create exciting opportunities for our students and faculty to engage with real-world challenges. 

Alumni support 

The unwavering support and involvement of our alumni community are invaluable. Whether through mentorship, financial support or time, your contributions profoundly impact the experiences of our current students. We encourage you to join the Falcon Professional Network for continued support and connection. 

I am thrilled to introduce the latest edition of our Insiders' Newsletter, featuring in-depth profiles of our newest faculty members and articles highlighting the college's latest achievements. The newsletter aims to keep you informed, share inspirational stories and provide valuable insights into the dynamic world of business. 

I invite you to explore the newsletter and stay connected with the college. Your feedback and engagement are pivotal in shaping the future of the Schmidthorst College of Business. We look forward to your continued involvement and hope to see you at one of our upcoming spring events, including E-Week in April. 

Warm regards, 

Jennifer Percival
Dean, Schmidthorst College of Business