Message From the Dean

First, let’s be clear: We are at a critical inflection point for business. The higher purpose of free enterprise – that is how it adds value to society – is more important than ever.

One of the things that I was most excited about when I became dean of Drake University's Zimpleman College of Business in 2020 was knowing that I would be on a steep learning curve. I really enjoy the challenge of figuring out what is important, how to connect the dots, and how to get to a positive outcome.

That’s what I did for most of my 30-year career in Corporate America. After three+ semesters at Drake, it’s too soon to say I have college figured out but I what I’ve learned so far has been very enlightening…and lines up with what I learned hiring and mentoring many professionals during my career.

Future business leaders need to not only have domain expertise but also the skills and experience to interpret and respond to the heightened expectations that people and communities have for the private sector to take a leadership role in solving society’s most pressing issues.

The implication for our college is that we must be ready to prepare students for a more complex and challenging world. In response, our programs are continuously being improved to provide our graduates with the skills and experience to stand out as candidates for careers in growing business fields. The qualities include being:

• Digitally Proficient – Fluent in current platforms and interested in emerging technologies
• Inclusive leaders – Modeling humility, cultural intelligence, empathy, and perspective taking
• Strong Communicators –Effective speakers and writers, active listeners, and exhibiting superior interpersonal skills
• Data Savvy – Knowing how to integrate and interpret data to create new insights
• Team Players – Able to effectively collaborate and showing a curiosity about others
• Thrive in ambiguity – Adaptable to new environments and open to new experiences

It is our job at Drake’s business school to prepare graduates to innovate and lead in an ever-more globally complex, diverse, and dynamic future. This future full of new opportunities and challenges makes it an exciting time to be a Business Bulldog!

Related Links/Articles

Dean's Bio

Official Press Release for Dean's announcement (para Español)