MTSU Executive Education Spring 2024 Catalog by Middle Tennessee State University

EXECUTIVE EDUCATION 2024 SPRING CATALOG

mtsu.edu/execed

The Jennings A. Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University is an engine of innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development. Our world-class faculty, nationally ranked programs, double accreditation from AACSB International, and flexible coursework make Jones College a top choice for those aspiring to a career in business. The Jones College Executive Education program is ideal for any professional seeking to take their career to the next level.

Jones College Executive Education Center Andrew Woodfin Miller Sr. Education Center 503 Bell St., Murfreesboro, TN 37130 615-898-2352 Free parking is available on-site. All full-day workshops will include an hour for lunch with the meal provided. Half-day or evening programs will offer coffee and snacks. All listed prices are per participant and include the cost of materials. To schedule a session for your organization, contact Kim.Sokoya@mtsu.edu.

1223-2660 / Middle Tennessee State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, or any other category protected by law. See our full policy at mtsu.edu/iec.

TABLE OF CONTENTS MANAGEMENT Leadership for Managing Projects

.......................................................................................7

The Leadership Challenge® Catalyst for Transformation

..................................................9

Project Management PMI Certification Prep .......................................................................10 Preparing and Using a Balanced Scorecard in Health Care

..............................................12

Church Leadership in a Changing World .............................................................................13 Employee Well-Being through a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Lens

................14

Six Sigma Belt Certification ..................................................................................................15 Bullying and Its Antidote

.....................................................................................................17

Ensuring Civility Online

.......................................................................................................17

M.B.A. Basics Boot Camp

...................................................................................................19

Human Resource Management and People Skills Boot Camp Succession Planning for Family Businesses

...........................................21

.....................................................................22

TECHNOLOGY Using AI to Boost Your Productivity

...................................................................................16

What, When, and How AI is Going to Impact Businesses

.................................................16

Spatially Savvy: An Intro to Location Analytics for Business Professionals

....................18

Getting More Insight from Your Data: Excel’s Power Tools and BI .....................................20 Creating Open-Source Dashboards Using Python and Streamlit ........................................23 Large Language Models (ChatGPT) and Internal Company Knowledge

..........................24

MARKETING Enhancing Your Creativity and Innovation

.........................................................................8

Improving the Customer Experience Through Market Research

........................................8

Social Media Marketing Boot Camp ....................................................................................25 Building a Distinctive Personal Brand

...............................................................................26

Energy4Sales Professional Selling Accelerator™

..............................................................27

FINANCE AND ECONOMICS Mortgage Industry Boot Camp

.............................................................................................6

Inflation and Recession Forecasting

..................................................................................11

The Moral Foundations of Business

...................................................................................11 mtsu.edu/execed

Course

Instructor

Mortgage Industry Boot Camp

Phillip Seagraves

Karynne Turner Leadership for Managing Projects

Millicent Nelson Enhancing Your Creativity and Innovation

Lucy Matthews

Improving the Customer Experience Through Market Research

Diane Edmondson

The Leadership Challenge® Catalyst for Transformation

Project Management PMI Certification Prep Nissan Exclusive

Deana Raffo Leigh Anne Clark

Richard Tarpey

Inflation & Recession Forecasting

Daniel Smith The Moral Foundations of Business

Preparing and Using a Balanced Scorecard in Health Care: A Primer for Professionals

Church Leadership in a Changing World

Stephen Salter Richard Tarpey

Amelia Bozeman

Employee Well-Being through a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Lens

Kristie Abston

Six Sigma Belt Certification

Richard Tarpey

Using AI to Boost Your Productivity

Keith Gamble

What, When, and How AI is Going to Impact Businesses

Carlos Coronel

Sam Zaza

Jan.

Feb.

Mar.

Apr.

May

1.21 Jan. 16–May 16 / Tuesdays & Thursdays

Feb. 7

Feb. 9

Feb. 13–15

Feb. 15 – Apr. 18

Feb. 19

Feb. 23

Feb. 28

Mar. 1

March 6–May 22

Mar. 13

Course

Instructor

Bullying and Its Antidote

Jackie Gilbert

Ensuring Civility Online

Virgina Hemby-Grubb

Spatially Savvy: An Intro to Location Analytics for Business Professionals

Michael Erskine

March 15

M.B.A. Basics Boot Camp

Cross Function Team of Instructors

March 18–22

Getting More Insight from Your Data: Excel’s Power Tools and BI

Scott Seipel

March 29

Human Resource Management and People Skills Boot Camp

Kristie Abston Jean Wilson

March

April

May

March 14, 21

April 3–24

Succession Planning for Family Businesses

Joshua Aaron Doug Gray Kristen Shanine Ralph Williams Dave Wood

April 9–30

Creating Open-Source Dashboards Using Python and Streamlit

Adam Rennhoff

April 12

Large Language Models (ChatGPT) and Internal Company Knowledge

Jeffrey Stark

April 18

Social Media Marketing Boot Camp

Raj Srivastava

April 22

Building a Distinctive Personal Brand

Don Roy

April 25

Energy4Sales Professional Selling Accelerator™

Thom Coats

May 1–3

Mortgage Industry Boot Camp Register by: January 11, 2024 Start Date: January 16, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Philip Seagraves, Ph.D. 20+ Industry Leaders as Guest Lecturers

Price Student Tuition $250

+ MTSU Boot Camp Scholarship $750 + Industry Partner Sponsorship $2,000 Total Program Value = $3,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

90 Hours | 30 Sessions of 3 Hours January 16 – May 16 Tuesday and Thursday Nights 6:00–9:00 p.m. Certification

Upon Successful Completion

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the mortgage industry. Participants will learn about the roles in loan production, underwriting, closing, processing, and more. Benefit from MTSU's leadership in real estate education and our partnership with the Mortgage Bankers Association. Engage with industry-relevant curriculum to learn about technology in mortgage banking, loan servicing, regulatory compliance, and ethical lending practices. Whether you're a recent graduate, looking for a career change, or seeking new opportunities, this course is your gateway.

Leadership for Managing Projects Register by: January 29, 2024 Date: February 7, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person or Hybrid

Karynne Turner, Ph.D. Millicent Nelson, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session February 7, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Led by a Project Management Institute certified Project Management Professional and leadership subject matter expert, this workshop consists of 3 components using lectures, assessments, and experiential exercises where attendees will: Complete StrengthsFinder or similar skill assessment and demonstrate how these strengths may be applied for each phase of managing a project, including initiating, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closing. Analyze how to use their leadership strengths to develop effective communication skills for managing projects. Develop leadership best practices to be effective at time management and handling burnout on projects.

Enhancing Your Creativity and Innovation Improving the Customer Experience Through Market Research

Format

Led by

In-Person

Diane Edmondson, Ph.D. Lucy Matthews, Ph.D.

Price

$500 per Session $1,000 Total

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours Total | 2 Consecutive Sessions February 9, 2024 Session 1: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Enhancing Your Creativity and Innovation This workshop discusses the research on developing one’s creativity, which will improve innovative thinking. Enhanced creativity and innovation can be used in a personal or professional setting. Hands-on activities will also showcase some effective methods for improving creativity and innovation. Session 2: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Improving the Customer Experience Through Market Research In this workshop, participants will learn effective survey methods that can be used to improve the customer experience in their organization. Using online survey software, participants will develop a meaningful survey applicable to their business. Guidelines for developing a valid and reliable survey that can highlight areas for organizational change will be discussed. 8

The Leadership Challenge® Catalyst for Transformation Register by: February 2, 2024 Start Date: February 13, 2024

SCAN TO REGISTER

Format

Led by

In-Person

Leigh Anne Clark, Ph.D., J.D. Deana Raffo, Ed.D.

Price

$2,200 Commitment

21 Hours | 3 Days, 7 Hours per day February 13–15, 2024 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The Leadership Challenge®: Catalyst for Transformation is designed to empower participants with practical insights into the behaviors of exceptional leaders. Grounded in the renowned work of Kouzes and Posner and their best-selling book, 'The Leadership Challenge: How to Make Extraordinary Things Happen in Organizations,' this hands-on and interactive workshop draws upon over three decades of rigorous research that tells us what leaders do when they are at their best. Participants will not only gain a comprehensive understanding of what exemplary leadership entails but will also actively engage in practical exercises to apply these principles, regardless of position or title within an organization. This workshop equips individuals with the tools and skills needed to lead others effectively, ultimately driving transformative change within organizations. The workshop is based on several key ideas: All of us have the ability to be leaders regardless of our position or titles. It meets people where they are and gives them the tools and knowledge to take them to the next level. Leadership development never ends—it is a continuous process. If we learn to practice excellent leadership behaviors, we will become better leaders.

Project Management Institute Certification Preparation Start Date: February 15, 2024 SCAN TO REGISTER

Format

Led by

On-Site at Nissan

Richard Tarpey, Ph.D.

Price

Nissan Sponsored Exclusive Program

The PMI Certification Preparation program participants delve into the core concepts of project management, including project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closing. The program focuses on understanding PMI's framework and methodologies, project integration, scope, time, cost, quality, human resources, communications, risk, procurement, stakeholder management, agile and hybrid methodologies in project management, leadership and team dynamics in project environments, and exam strategies, tips, and practice tests for PMI certification exams.

Contact Kim.Sokoya@mtsu.edu to inquire about custom group packages for partner-exclusive programs to suit your business’s needs.

Inflation and Recession Forecasting The Moral Foundations of Business Register by: February 9, 2024 Date: February 19, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Daniel Smith, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours Total | 2 Consecutive Sessions February 19, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Session 1: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Inflation and Recession Forecasting This course is designed to help business leaders better understand the causes and indicators of inflation and recessions by equipping them with the tools to help forecast inflation and recession risk. The course will also provide a better understanding of governmental responses to inflation and recessions and their expected effects. Session 2: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Moral Foundations of Business This course is designed to help business leaders better understand the moral foundations of business, capitalism more broadly, and how to implement ethical leadership. It will equip participants to better connect their individual responsibilities to the meaningful societal impact they are helping to achieve. 11

Preparing and Using a Balanced Scorecard in Health Care: A Primer for Professionals Register by: February 14, 2024 Date: February 23, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Stephen Salter, Ph.D. Richard Tarpey, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session February 23, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The Balanced Scorecard is a holistic system that begins with mission and vision and creates a careful analysis of the factors that influence success in a business and setting up measurable guidelines that can be monitored in an easy scorecard that, properly implemented, can explain where we are going and how we know if we have arrived. This workshop allows managers to create an interactive experience to help balanced scorecard team members contribute to their organization’s strategic management and performance improvement initiatives.

Church Leadership in a Changing World Register by: February 20, 2024 Date: February 28, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Amelia Bozeman, M.S.

Price

$1,000 or Sponsorship by Alum

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session February 28, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. According to the 2023 State of Church Attendance: Trends and Statistics, the average larger church is at 85% of its pre-pandemic attendance and may be operating at a reduced budget as well. The spiritual leader of a congregation is also the chief executive officer of the church and faces all the challenges that CEOs experience, yet they must operate with only a fraction of the leadership skills development and support that their secular peers receive. Topics will include: The Long Covid Church: Why We Will Never Be the Same, and Why This Is Good Generational Differences: Leading Your Church Through Change Between a Rock and Hard Place: Serving Traditionalists and Boomers While Staying Relevant for Millennials and Gen Z The Staff and the Congregation: Supporting Them All When Things Get Ugly

Employee Well-Being Through a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Lens Register by: February 22, 2024 Date: March 1, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Kristie Abston, Ph.D. Sam Zaza, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session March 1, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Effective leaders recognize that employee well-being plays a key role in engagement, productivity, satisfaction, and turnover. This workshop disentangles diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) and takes a deeper look at how DEIB impacts employee well-being in measurable ways. Common biases, legal and practical implications, and integral organizational initiatives and outcomes will be addressed.

Six Sigma Belt Certification Register by: February 28, 2024 Start Date: March 6, 2024

Format

Led by

Online

Richard Tarpey, Ph.D. Patti Gander, M.B.A.

Price

$2,500

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

60 Hours | 12 Synchronous Sessions, 3 Hours per Session 36 Hours Synchronous / 24 Hours Self-Paced March 6, 13, 20, 27 April 3, 10, 17, 24 May 1, 8, 15, 22

The MTSU Lean Six Sigma Green Belt program is designed to have live online sessions combined with self-study sessions for a combined total of 60 hours of coursework. The program focuses on improvement projects utilizing both Six Sigma and Lean fundamentals.

Using AI to Boost Your Productivity What, When, and How AI Is Going to Impact Businesses Register by: March 6, 2024 Date: March 13, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Carlos Coronel, M.S. Keith Gamble, Ph.D.

Price

$500

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

3 Hours Total | 2 Consecutive Sessions March 13, 2024, 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Session 1: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Using AI to Boost Your Productivity Major developments in artificial intelligence (AI) have led to several powerful new tools for boosting productivity. This workshop will introduce you to some of these tools and demonstrate their use. We will also briefly discuss the ethical implications of these tools. Session 2: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. What, When, and How AI Is Going to Impact Businesses Unleash the power of artificial intelligence in your business! Designed for businesses and entrepreneurs, this engaging workshop will demystify AI, reveal its current impact on various industries, and guide you in exploring AI options for your organization. Learn from real-world success stories, collaborate in interactive workshops, and leave with practical tools and insights to stay ahead in today's AI-driven world.

Bullying and Its Antidote Ensuring Civility Online Register by: March 5, 2024 Start Date: March 14, 2024

Format

Led by

Online

Jacqueline A. Gilbert, Ph.D., COI Virginia Hemby-Grubb, Ph.D., COI

Price

$500

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

5 Hours Total | 2 Sessions March 14, 2024, 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., March 21, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Bullying and Its Antidote March 14, 2024, 8 a.m.–9 a.m. Bullying in the workplace has increased dramatically over the past decade. The following seminar will help attendees: realize why bullying is a problem; recognize abusive conduct in the workplace; distinguish it from incivility; and transform their workplace to create a sense of community. The devastating impact of bullying on employee morale, productivity, and company profits is presented to motivate employee-centered solutions. Ensuring Civility Online March 14, 2024, 9 a.m.–11 a.m., March 21, 2024, 9 a.m.–11 a.m. This workshop will provide clear guidelines for managing behavior in a virtual environment. Content will be helpful to trainers, educators, managers, employees, conference planners, and any others attempting to navigate the virtual environment in a professional manner. Topics to be covered include ensuring civility in email, instant messaging, social media, text messaging, online training sessions, classes, meetings, and presentations, and how to handle negative social media comments. 17

Spatially Savvy: Introduction to Location Analytics for Business Professionals Register by: March 6, 2024 Date: March 15, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Michael Erskine, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

8 Hours | 1 Session March 15, 2024, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Did you know that over 80% of business data is tied to specific locations? In this workshop, we’ll unravel the intriguing realm of location analytics, spotlighting the potential of often-overlooked spatial data. Whether you’re well-versed in business data or simply keen to learn, our captivating examples will demonstrate how location data can uncover unexpected insights and drive informed decisions.

M.B.A. Basics Boot Camp Register by: March 8, 2024 Date: March 18, 2024

Format

Led by Cross Function Team Including:

In-Person

Joshua Aaron, Ph.D. Sesan Kim Sokoya, D.B.A.

Price

$1,250

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

30 Hours | 5 Sessions of 6 Hours per Day March 18–22, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Topical exploration of Master of Business Administration curriculum. This boot camp will utilize a case approach, with participants using the same data set for the week. Each day will focus on a different discipline—accounting, finance, analytics, marketing, and strategic leadership. Space is limited. Only 25 applicants will be accepted for the program on a first come, first served basis.

Getting More Insight from Your Data: Excel’s Power Tools and BI Register by: March 20, 2024 Date: March 29, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Scott Seipel, Ph.D.

Price

$800

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session March 29, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

This course is a one-day dive into the ways that Excel can amplify your data analytics by connecting disparate data, analyzing it, and presenting the results using the tools probably already on your computer. You will explore and utilize Excel’s data connections using Power Query, transform the data in the Query Editor, utilize Power Pivot and Excel’s Data Model to define and explore relationships, and visualize the data using Power BI. The focus of the course is breadth, with the intent to give you the confidence to explore and utilize these tools on your own.

Human Resource Management and People Skills Boot Camp Register by: March 22, 2024 Start Date: April 3, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Kristie Abston, Ph.D. Jean Wilson, M.B.A.

Price

$2,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

12 Hours | 4 Sessions, 3 Hours Per Day April 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

This two-part workshop covers the HRM knowledge and skills that any manager or aspiring manager needs and facilitates the development of the essential people skills that are necessary for bringing out everyone’s best. Through discovery, practice, and deliberate application, participants will learn how treating employees and coworkers like internal customers can foster collaboration, engagement, productivity, satisfaction, and retention.

Succession Planning for Family Businesses

Format

Led by

In-Person

Joshua Aaron, Ph.D. Doug Gray, Ph.D. Ralph Williams, D.B.A. Dave Wood, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

10 Hours | 4 Sessions, 2.5 Hours Per Evening April 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2024, 6:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

Embark on a transformative journey to secure the future of your family business with our family business succession planning workshop. Designed for families seeking a seamless transition of leadership and a sustainable legacy, this interactive and insightful workshop provides a comprehensive guide to effective succession planning. We explore topics such as clarifying strategic vision, effective communication and conflict resolution, leadership development, financial and legal considerations, and risk mitigation strategies. Empower your family with the knowledge, tools, and strategies necessary to execute a seamless succession plan, ensuring the longevity and prosperity of your family business for generations to come. The best time to start planning is today. 22

Creating Open-Source Dashboards Using Python and Streamlit Register by: April 3, 2024 Date: April 12, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Adam Rennhoff, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session April 12, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

This workshop will introduce participants to open-source alternatives to Tableau and Power BI. Participants will learn about producing interactive data dashboards in Python. They will create their own dashboard and then upload the dashboard to a free hosting service.

Large Language Models (ChatGPT) and Internal Company Knowledge Register by: April 8, 2024 Date: April 18, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Jeffrey Stark, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session April 18, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

This session is designed to introduce users to large language models, such as ChatGPT, as a training tool for new employees. Participants will learn how to upload company documents to a vector database and ask plain English questions about those documents. This approach has broad applications, of which we will focus on the potential for using large language models for training new employees on best practices and policies within the firm.

Social Media Marketing Boot Camp Register by: April 10, 2024 Date: April 22, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Raj Srivastava, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session April 22, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

This workshop is for those who want to develop foundational social media skills or level up their current skill set in business. By discussing content marketing, web analytics, how to create social media strategies, and best practices for critical social media platforms, this workshop is an excellent way for executives or small business owners to familiarize themselves with social media platforms and how they can be used in day-to-day work.

Building a Distinctive Personal Brand Register by: April 15, 2024 Date: April 25, 2024

Format

Led by

In-Person

Don Roy, Ph.D.

Price

$1,000

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

6 Hours | 1 Session April 25, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Unveil the transformative power of personal branding in this one-day workshop. You will apply the 3Ms of personal branding—meaning, makeup, and message—to create a distinctive personal brand. Through hands-on exercises and interactive sessions, you'll learn how to effectively articulate your value, expand your influence, and create a lasting impact in the marketplace. Don't miss this opportunity to redefine your narrative and build a brand that truly matters.

Energy4Sales Professional Selling Accelerator™ Register by: April 22, 2024 Date: May 1, 2024

Format

Led by

Online

Thom Coats, M.B.A.

Price

$1,500

SCAN TO REGISTER

Commitment

24 Hours | 3 Sessions, 8 Hours Per Day May 1-3, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

During this course, participants will develop an understanding of the sales process while enhancing their understanding of businessto-business or business-to-consumer relationship development with a focus on communication, networking, and professionalism. We will demonstrate the importance of customer relationship management (CRM) database utilization. Participants will learn methods for coaching, evaluation, and critical feedback skills. Additionally, instruction will include proper ethical, professional, and business behaviors.

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To inquire about custom executive education sessions for your organization or group rates, email Kim.Sokoya@mtsu.edu or call 615-898-2352.

mtsu.edu/execed

Joshua Aaron, Ph.D. Professor of Management and Pam Wright Chair of Entrepreneurship, Jones College of Business, MTSU

Joshua R. Aaron’s research focuses on executive compensation for large and small firms, leadership, strategic issues facing small and medium enterprises, and corporate reputation. He earned his Ph.D., M.B.A., and B.S. from the University of Alabama. Aaron currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Small Business Institute, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center Advisory Board, and the corporate board for Sacred Selections. Aaron is a professor of Management and has held the Pam Wright Chair of Entrepreneurship since 2018. Prior to joining MTSU in 2014, he held academic positions at Georgia State University and East Carolina University and was an auditor at Ernst and Young, LLP in Birmingham, Alabama. He has served as the president of the Board of Governors at Ironwood Country Club in Greenville, North Carolina, and the Rachel Lynn Smith Foundation in Durham, North Carolina. Aaron has consulted with several for-profit businesses, nonprofits, and civic organizations. He teaches Strategic Business Consulting in the M.B.A. program, where he also serves as the faculty committee chair. He has published 29 peer-reviewed journal articles in major publications.

Kristie Abston, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

With over 25 years dedicated to human resources, Kristie Abston’s expertise encompasses employee retention and turnover, employer branding, organizational culture and commitment, and talent development. She specializes in high-impact teaching, emphasizing practical, hands-on learning in both undergraduate and graduate courses. She's actively engaged in academia as an award-winning reviewer and a scholar, with publications in renowned outlets like the Journal of Business Research and the Journal of Management. She is a Fellow of the Association for Business Simulation and Experiential Learning and the Southeast Case Research Association. Abston earned her Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee. Before joining the Middle Tennessee State University faculty, she taught at Tusculum University and the University of West Florida. Her extensive experience includes full-time HR generalist and training positions and consulting across diverse sectors such as banking, health care, hospitality, manufacturing, and nonprofit organizations.

Amelia Bozeman, M.S. Instructor of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

Amelia Bozeman is a dedicated management consultant with a passion for driving positive change across business, nonprofits, and government sectors. Armed with a wealth of experience in organizational development, strategy formulation, fundraising, marketing, and financial operations, Bozeman has orchestrated successful turnarounds for multiple entities. Boasting an impressive track record, her proficiency in business development, fundraising, and marketing has consistently secured sponsorships and funding, witnessing incremental growth in support year after year. Beyond her impactful consulting work, Bozeman has lent her expertise to several nonprofit boards of directors, assuming pivotal roles such as president and president-elect. Currently, she channels her passion for education as an esteemed instructor within the Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University. Bozeman imparts knowledge in courses such as Leadership Tools and Self-Assessment, Principles of Management, Not-for-Profit Management, and Strategic Decision Making and Program Evaluation. Ever open to new challenges, Bozeman actively seeks opportunities in consulting, speaking engagements, workshop presentations, project management, and any compelling roles that allow her to continue making a meaningful difference in the world.

Leigh Anne Clark, Ph.D., J.D. Professor of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

Leigh Anne Clark combines her psychology, law, and management education in her research and training focused on organizations. She has created and delivered many training sessions on management and leadership, ethics, and innovation topics and most recently partnered with Deana Raffo to create a course to share The Leadership Challenge® with MTSU students. She teaches courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels in leadership, organizational behavior, ethics, and nonprofit management. Her research focuses on leadership credibility, the ethics of technology, privacy, and organizational behavior. Clark obtained her law degree from Emory University in 1992 and previously worked for private law firms, the Georgia Attorney General’s Office, Atlanta Legal Aid Society, AARP, and the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities. She served as a consultant with government and nonprofit organizations in Georgia before forming and serving as the executive director of a legal nonprofit before obtaining her doctorate with a focus in Organization Studies from Southern Illinois University in 2007.

Thom Coats, M.B.A. Director of the Center for Professional Selling Jones College of Business, MTSU

Thom Coats is the director of the Center for Professional Selling at MTSU and a professor of practice whose entrepreneurial instincts and clear vision have assisted in the growth of multiple companies and individuals. He is responsible for providing world-class sales education, training students to be productive on day one, building business relationships with businesses seeking high-quality sales applicants, and helping students and the business community connect. Thom’s passion is to help his students succeed by implementing solutions that work. Coats stands at the forefront of professional sales education. He is a bestselling author with 25 plus years of experience in new business development, serving roles from sales district manager to vice president of sales with corporations such as Century II, Paychex, and NFIB. With an array of interests and affiliations, Coats stays connected to the community through investing time and energy as the president and founder of C|SUITE, an invitation-only networking organization, and as the founder of the UnStuck Business Academy, and he is active in the Kingwood Church of Christ.

Carlos Coronel, M.S. Information Technology Resources Director Jones College of Business, MTSU

Carlos Coronel is an expert in database systems, data analytics, IT, and education, and is recognized as a Microsoft Certified Professional. With an extensive background in technology, Coronel specializes in database systems, wielding expertise in their design, implementation, and management. He co-authored the 14th edition of Database Systems: Design, Implementation, and Management, published by Cengage in 2023, a testament to his contributions in the field. His proficiency extends to data analytics and the intersection of information technology in education, showcasing a holistic understanding of IT applications in academic settings. Coronel holds an M.S. from Middle Tennessee State University and a B.S. from Polytechnic University. His impactful contributions through publications and practical insights into database systems and IT education highlight his multifaceted role in academia and the IT industry.

Nikolaos Dimitriadis, Ph.D. Professor of Practice, University of York Europe Campus, Greece, and Chair of the People Committee at the World Innovation and Change Management Institute

Nikolaos Dimitriadis stands at the forefront of the convergence of neuroscience, business, and education, with a distinguished two-decade career marked by innovative applications of neuroscientific principles. A luminary in Neuromarketing, NeuroHR, and academia, he has globally scanned over 8,500 brains across 25 countries, leaving an enduring impact on the field. As an acclaimed author, communicator, and consultant, Dimitriadis coauthored Neuroscience for Leaders and Advanced Marketing Management, published by Kogan Page, collaborating with industry giants such as IKEA, IBM, Nestle, Coca-Cola, and Microsoft. Currently serving as the head of Neuro Consulting Services at Optimal HR Group, Athens, he spearheads cuttingedge research, training, and consulting. Holding a Ph.D. and M.B.A. from the University of Sheffield, Dimitriadis is a Professor of Practice at The University of York Europe Campus, Greece, and chairs the People Committee at the World Innovation and Change Management Institute. Recognized with the Greek Excellence Award 2022, he remains dedicated to shaping the future of applied neuroscience, fostering well-being through initiatives like wellbeing.ai and co-founding Neurogenesis, the Applied Neuroscience Club of Greece.

Diane Edmondson, Ph.D. Professor of Marketing Jones College of Business, MTSU

Diane Edmondson is a distinguished professional and scholar, holding expertise in sales and sales management as well as marketing education. Her research has been widely recognized, receiving Best Paper in Track awards at prominent conferences. She is actively engaged in the academic community and holds memberships in esteemed associations like the Society for Marketing Advances and the Atlantic Marketing Association. She serves as editor for the Atlantic Marketing Journal and associate editor for the Journal of Global Scholars of Marketing Science. Currently serving as chair of the Board of Governors for the Society for Marketing Advances, Edmondson’s influence extends to the strategic direction of the field. Edmondson earned her Ph.D. and M.B.A. from the University of South Florida. With almost 50 publications to her credit, including works in renowned journals like the Journal of Personal Selling & Sales Management, Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, and Journal of Business Research, her scholarly endeavors significantly contribute to advancing knowledge in sales and marketing in business settings.

Michael Erskine, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Information Systems and Analytics Jones College of Business, MTSU

With a Ph.D. from the University of Colorado Denver, Michael Erskine's expertise spans disaster management, geospatial analytics, educational technology, and spatial decision support systems. A former director of the Educational Technology Center at Metropolitan State University of Denver, he led pivotal technology projects, contributed to design guidance for university-wide tech processes, and spearheaded numerous technology implementations. Erskine's prolific research has been showcased by prestigious conferences such as AMCIS, ConfIRM, DEST, and ProjMAN, exploring themes of disaster management, geographic information systems, and educational technology. His impactful contributions are evident in publications across distinguished journals like the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, the International Journal of Electronic Government Research, and the Journal of Computer Information Systems. Beyond academia, Erskine holds notable awards, including AMCIS Outstanding Reviewer and the Award for Innovation in Teaching from the Association for Information Systems.

Keith Gamble, Ph.D. Professor of Finance, Jones College of Business, and Director of the Data Science Institute, MTSU

Keith Jacks Gamble earned his B.A. at Harvard University and a Ph.D. at the University of California at Berkeley. His research primarily focuses on financial decision making, behavioral finance, and aging. Prior to joining the MTSU faculty, Gamble taught at DePaul University and Yale University. His most impactful research has been in the area of aging, with a focus on the financial decision making of seniors, including the consequences of cognitive decline and financial fraud. Gamble has taught courses in economics, finance, and data science across four universities from the undergraduate to the Ph.D. level. He employs versatile teaching methods that can translate to on-ground, hybrid, and online classroom formats. His recent development of an online course in personal financial planning won an Outstanding Achievement in Instructional Technology Award. He has served as an Honors thesis advisor, dissertation committee member, and dissertation chair for many students. He is a member of the Positive Aging Consortium.

Jacqueline A. Gilbert, Ph.D., COI Professor of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

Jaqueline Gilbert’s area of expertise and research encompass current issues in management, inclusion, community at work, civility, organizational development, initiating cultural change, overcoming resistance, employee empowerment, and executive education in civility and diversity. She is a fellow in the U.S. Academy on Workplace Bullying, Mobbing, and Abuse, with extensive contributions to bullying prevention, diversity management, and online education. Gilbert earned a B.B.A. at the University of Texas at Austin and her M.B.A. and Ph.D. at the University of Houston. Her scholarly pursuits have garnered accolades, including the E. W. "Wink" Midgett Faculty Excellence Award and the Experiential Learning Scholars Program Outstanding Faculty Award. Her scholarly contributions are evident through publications in prominent journals like the Academy of Management Executive, the Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, the Journal of Business Education, and the Journal of Business Ethics. She has been a prominent figure in media outlets and publications such as Forbes, Men's Health, and U.S. News and World Report, adding further depth to her influence in the fields of management, diversity, and workplace dynamics.

Doug Gray, Ph.D. Consultant Family Business Consulting Group

Doug Gray specializes in leadership development, succession planning, and building family unity in enterprising families. He assists family-owned firms and leadership teams with assessments and strategic solutions that leverage his expertise in positive psychology, outcome-based consulting, executive coaching, conflict resolution, family meeting facilitation, and succession planning. Gray particularly enjoys developing collaborative relationships between generations of leaders so that those inside and outside the family can perpetuate the processes and systems required for continued growth. As an author and expert presenter, Gray often coaches newly promoted family business leaders on executive presence, communication skills, and conflict resolution. He has presented at international conferences and regularly leads seminars and workshops on objectives and key results, positive psychology, leadership development, managing relationships, and preventing conflict in business- and asset-owning families. Since 1997, Gray has been a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation.

Amy Harris, Ph.D. Associate Dean of Graduate Studies MTSU

Amy Harris is a passionate advocate for the transformative power of data. Prior to her current role as associate dean of MTSU Graduate Studies, Harris was an associate professor of business intelligence and analytics and director of the Master of Science in Information Systems and Analytics program. Harris earned her Ph.D. from the University of Memphis, an M.S. from MTSU, and a B.A. from the Mississippi University for Women. Harris thrives on the entire data journey—from preparation and analysis to visualization and dashboard development. As president of Women in Technology of Tennessee, she actively contributes to fostering diversity in the tech landscape. Harris' commitment extends to collaborating with the Nashville Technology Council and organizing the annual Nashville Analytics Summit. She believes in the pivotal role of diverse perspectives in tech, working to break barriers through research, curriculum expansion, and engaging with local tech communities. Her mantra, "If you always do what you’ve always done, you will always get what you’ve always got," encapsulates her drive for positive change.

Virginia Hemby-Grubb, Ph.D., COI Professor of Marketing Jones College of Business, MTSU

Virginia Hemby-Grubb is a professor in the Department of Marketing at MTSU. She earned a B.S., M.Ed., and Ph.D. from the University of Southern Mississippi. Hemby-Grubb’s areas of expertise include business and workplace communication; talent development; and meeting, event, exhibition, and convention management. Prior to joining MTSU, she worked at the University of Arkansas, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Southern Mississippi. Hemby-Grubb is a certified hospitality educator and a certified online instructor. She authored Delivering Effective Virtual Presentations, Effective Communication in Criminal Justice, and Ensuring Civility Online: Professional Etiquette in the Virtual Workplace. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the John Robert Gregg Award, Middle Tennessee State University Outstanding Public Service Award, National Leadership Award, and National Collegiate Teacher of the Year.

Lucy Matthews, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Marketing Jones College of Business, MTSU

Lucy M. Matthews holds a B.S. in Marketing and Management from Indiana University and an M.B.A. with a concentration in Marketing from Georgia State University. She worked in sales and credit management for over 15 years, predominantly in the steel industry, before returning for her doctorate at Kennesaw State University. She joined MTSU in fall 2015. Matthews has over 40 peer-reviewed publications in sales, burnout, engagement, grit, and cross-discipline topics like innovation and entrepreneurship. Matthews has conducted organizational workshops on sales, employee engagement, and creativity. Matthews is a past president and board of governors member for both the Atlantic Marketing Association and the Society for Marketing Advances.

Millicent Nelson, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Management, Director of the Health Care Management Graduate Certificate Program Jones College of Business, MTSU

Millicent Nelson is a former corporate manager and administrator who returned to academia and earned a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Oklahoma State University in 2003. She is an associate professor of Management and director of the Health Care Management graduate certificate program. She teaches undergraduate courses in organization behavior and human resources as well as graduate courses in leadership and health care management. Her research interests are in the areas of student academic integrity, diversity, leadership, and hospital management. Before moving into higher education, Nelson worked for years as a corporate executive for what was then telecommunications giant BellSouth in Atlanta. She was the recipient of the 2022 Greater Nashville Alliance of Black School Educators Outstanding Higher Educator of the Year Award. When Nelson joined the MTSU faculty, she revived a dormant student NAACP chapter, being a longtime member of the venerated civil rights organization. Among the activities the chapter has organized are periodic marches to the polls to vote in local, state, and national elections.

Deana Raffo, Ed.D. Department of Management Chairholder and Professor Jones College of Business, MTSU

Deana Raffo's expertise encompasses organizational behavior, with a focus on leadership and generations at work, strengths-based leadership, authentic leadership, leader credibility, and The Leadership Challenge®. Her work is characterized by a deep investigation into the introspective qualities in leadership, emphasizing personal development intertwined with leadership competencies. Raffo earned her Ed.D. from Tennessee State University and an M.A. from Middle Tennessee State University, culminating in a rich academic background spanning student services, student leadership development, and leadership education at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Recognized for her impactful contributions, she has served as the director of MTSU’s Institute of Leadership Excellence and coordinator for Leadership Studies, earning distinctions such as the Association of Leadership Educators’ Outstanding Program Award and the Jones College Bill and Kathy Jones Outstanding Faculty Award. With over 25 presentations at national conferences and publications in esteemed journals like the Journal of Managerial Issues, Journal of Leadership Education, and Gender in Management, her research shapes the landscape of leadership and organizational behavior.

Gaia Rancati, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Marketing Jones College of Business, MTSU

Gaia Rancati's professional expertise spans neuromarketing, artificial intelligence, retail, and service marketing. Her academic pursuits delve deeply into the realms of neuromarketing, exploring facets like human-robot interactions, retailing, augmented reality, and psychophysiology in retail settings. During her doctoral studies at Claremont Graduate University, Rancati immersed herself in the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies, focusing on psychophysiology in retailing. Prior to her academic career, she garnered valuable experience as a retail manager in the luxury fashion industry. Currently, she consults with companies on retail and the sales process, leveraging her practical insights. Rancati's research contributions have been recognized globally, earning accolades such as the Best Paper Award at the 14th International Conference - Convergence 2020 and others.

Adam Rennhoff, Ph.D. Professor of Economics, Jones College of Business, MTSU

Adam Rennhoff is a quantitative research expert and economist. While he has written on a wide range of topics, from crime to name, image, and likeness (NIL) contracts for college athletes, his primary research interest is media economics, exploring topics such as the effectiveness of film production tax credits, cable pricing strategies, and radio station mergers. He previously served as co-editor of the Journal of Media Economics. He served as an expert for the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) quadrennial review of media ownership rules. Rennhoff earned a Ph.D. and M.A. in Economics from the University of Virginia and a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Bucknell University. A member of the Department of Economics and Finance since 2007, Rennhoff currently serves as the director of Economics graduate programs. He teaches doctoral classes in econometrics and machine learning methods.

Don Roy, Ph.D. Professor of Marketing Jones College of Business, MTSU

Don Roy has served on the Jones College faculty since 2000. Roy’s research focuses on sports marketing, brand strategy, and marketing education. He has published in scholarly journals, including the Journal of Advertising, Psychology & Marketing, Sport Marketing Quarterly, and Journal of Marketing for Higher Education. Roy has authored textbooks on sports marketing and marketing analytics and self-published three books on personal branding. His teaching interests include sports marketing, brand strategy, and marketing analytics. Roy has received the Master Teacher Award from the Marketing Management Association and the Outstanding Teaching Award from Middle Tennessee State University. He serves on the Marketing Management Association Board of Directors and previously served MMA as editor of the Marketing Management Journal. Roy received a Ph.D. in Marketing from the University of Memphis, an M.B.A. from Mississippi College, and a B.B.A. from Mississippi State University. Prior to entering academia, he spent 10 years in professional roles in department store management for McRae’s Inc. and in sales for Tom’s Foods.

Stephen Salter, Ph.D. Professor of Accounting Jones College of Business, MTSU

Stephen Salter is a professor of Accounting at Middle Tennessee State University. He has a Ph.D. in Accounting from the University of South Carolina. He specializes in management control in health care, particularly the balanced scorecard. Salter teaches Strategic Cost and Control in Healthcare and Management Accounting. His global research includes “The Balanced Scorecard Beyond Adoption,” which explores the factors influencing adopting and using the balanced scorecard. Google Scholar ranks his research as one of the top 125 scholars globally. He is a director of the IMA National Research Foundation. Before entering academia, Salter was a consulting partner at Danny Montano and Company, an affiliate of Ernst & Young. At EY, Salter specialized in health care efficiency and systems, including projects for starting and acquiring specialist hospitals. Salter also worked for Canada’s Bank of Montreal in Asia. He was also an advisor to venture capitalists investing in the Caribbean. He is a Rotarian with the Murfreesboro Rotary Club.

Philip Seagraves, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Finance and Real Estate Jones College of Business, MTSU

Philip Seagraves is a distinguished real estate educator and researcher, blending academic rigor with over 14 years of dynamic corporate experience in sales, marketing, and strategic planning. With a robust background spanning diverse industries such as corporate real estate services, software, business services, consumer electronics, and computer-related technology, Seagraves brings a multifaceted perspective to his role. Seagraves earned a Ph.D. and an M.S. from Georgia State University, an M.B.A. from Emory University, and a B.B.A. from the University of Georgia. His areas of expertise encompass real estate finance, investing, development, and brokerage. He specializes in real estate research, statistical methods, and a spectrum of corporate disciplines, including communication, branding, strategy, management, public relations, product management, e-commerce, email marketing, and direct marketing.

Scott Seipel, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Information Systems and Analytics Jones College of Business, MTSU

With a doctorate in statistics and operations research from the University of Texas at Arlington, Scott Seipel boasts a rich background in decision modeling. His extensive industry tenure includes executive roles in a petroleum company, entrepreneurship, and consulting with Arthur Andersen (now Accenture). His expertise spans statistical analysis for operational improvement, litigation support, and corporate finance operations, notably contributing to companies like Bridgestone/Firestone, Bell Helicopter, Textron, Nissan, and Burlington Northern. With a 23-year tenure at MTSU, Seipel has been instrumental in teaching advanced Excel and Tableau courses, drawing from his extensive industry experience to enrich the learning experience for students.

Kristine Shanine, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

Kristen Shanine has a Ph.D. in Management from the University of Alabama and an M.B.A. from Bradley University. She has work experience in the public, private, and education sectors. She currently teaches Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Social Entrepreneurship, and her primary research applies theory from psychology and sociology to family business in an effort to better understand the family factors that influence succession failure. She also researches gender issues in entrepreneurship and family business. Shanine has recent publications in the Academy of Management Annals, Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, and Family Business Review. Additionally, she’s the internship coordinator for the Department of Management and the chair of MTSU’s chapter of Sigma Nu Tau (Entrepreneurship Honor Society). Shanine is an active member of Rutherford Cable and a recipient of the Jones College of Business State Farm Outstanding Professor Award.

Daniel Smith, Ph.D. Director of the Political Economy Research Institute, Professor of Economics, Jones College of Business, MTSU

Daniel J. Smith is the director of the Political Economy Research Institute and professor of Economics at the Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University. Smith is also an adjunct professor at the Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University. He previously was the BB&T Professor of Economic Freedom in the Manuel H. Johnson Center at Troy University and taught at Vietnam National University, Hanoi, through a partnership with Troy University. He earned his M.A. and Ph.D. in Economics from George Mason University and a B.B.A. in Economics and Finance from Northwood University. Smith co-authored Money and the Rule of Law: Generality and Predictability in Monetary Institutions and The Political Economy of Public Pensions. His research, primarily on monetary institutions, public pensions, term limits, and regulation, has been published in many scholarly journals, and popular publications, including Public Choice, Constitutional Political Economy, Wall Street Journal, and The Tennessean. He has also researched the patricians of historic Venice, brawling soccer hooligans, and communities recovering from natural disasters.

Sesan Kim Sokoya, D.B.A. Associate Dean for Graduate and Executive Education, Professor of Management, Jones College of Business, MTSU

Sesan Kim Sokoya earned his D.B.A. at Mississippi State University and an M.B.A., M.A., and B.S. from Eastern Illinois University. In his present position, he directs the M.B.A. program at the Jones College of Business, engages in curricular development for management education, and manages executive education seminars and workshops for Jones College. He teaches courses in Strategic Management and International Management in the M.B.A. program. In his more than three decades of academic career, he has held faculty positions and lectured in a number of colleges and universities in the United States, Nigeria, Europe, and China. In addition to his teaching and training responsibilities, Sokoya has been active in academic research and writing, publishing scholarly journal articles and presenting papers at conferences both within the U.S. and outside. He is actively involved in consultancy projects for organizations across different industries, including not-for-profit organizations and governmental agencies. Sokoya’s areas of expertise include strategic visioning, strategy, and performance; managing under uncertainty; and building organizational culture.

Raj Srivastava, Ph.D. Professor of Marketing Jones College of Business, MTSU

With an extensive academic background encompassing a B.E. in Production Engineering, an M.B.A., and a Ph.D. in Marketing, Raj Srivastava has taught in three different universities and brings 26 years of teaching experience to his role. His expertise spans various facets of marketing, including social media marketing, retailing, principles of marketing, international marketing, health care marketing, and facilitating the departmental capstone Marketing Management course. Beyond traditional teaching methods, “Dr. Raj” is a recognized influencer on TikTok (@drrajprof), leveraging social media to engage and educate audiences on marketing concepts. Srivastava’s academic research focus is on B2B marketing, sales management, and Gen Z marketing. He has published 24 scholarly articles in several marketing journals. His academic journey is marked by his dedication to marketing education. Armed with a diverse educational background, he imparts comprehensive knowledge in various marketing domains. His 26-year teaching tenure showcases his commitment to shaping the marketing professionals of tomorrow.

Jeffrey Stark, Ph.D. Director of the Graduate Finance Program, Associate Director of the MTSU Data Science Institute, Associate Professor of Finance, Jones College of Business, MTSU

Jeffrey Stark has a Ph.D. in Finance and has been working at MTSU for seven years, teaching courses on financial data science. His research interests lie at the intersection of financial markets and data science, with a focus on natural language processing. His most recent research focuses on how language from earnings conference calls impacts the flow of information into stock prices. In addition to being a faculty member in the Economics and Finance Department, Stark is an affiliated faculty member with the Data Science program. He serves as the director of the graduate Finance program and is the associate director of the MTSU Data Science Institute.

Richard J. Tarpey, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Jones College of Business, MTSU

Richard J. Tarpey received his doctoral degree in Business Administration from the University of South Florida. He is a dual alumnus of Middle Tennessee State University, earning an M.B.A. and a B.A. in Computer Information Systems. Tarpey returned to MTSU after a long practitioner career and currently coordinates the undergraduate and graduate Supply Chain Management programs at MTSU. Tarpey spent most of his 30+ practitioner years working with labor and resource scheduling concepts and systems, first at United Airlines before joining HCA for 22 years, where he worked extensively with hospital labor scheduling and staffing. The bulk of Tarpey’s professional career has been spent within various information technology development and labor management areas, giving him a thorough understanding of technology and system concepts. He proposed and implemented HCA’s Scheduling Excellence initiative, in which he developed the Staff Schedule Quality Measurement system, forming the basis of his doctoral work. HCA and several other hospital systems have adopted the methodology.

Karynne Turner, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

Karynne L. Turner holds a Ph.D. in Strategic Management from the University of Pittsburgh, along with an M.B.A. and B.S.E. from the University of Michigan. She is also a certified Project Manager. Her research focuses on the interplay between leadership characteristics and various stakeholders of the firm, and the relationship between organizational practices, knowledge management, and firm capabilities. She is particularly interested in the connection between management perceptions, assessments of the firm, and employee behaviors; and how organizational practices, as the conduit for the flow of diverse knowledge types, ultimately influence the development of the firm’s distinct capabilities, such as quality, innovation, and efficiency. She is the principal of a boutique consulting firm, where she has advised numerous startups, Fortune 500, and international firms. With a commitment to bridging academia and practical application, she plays a crucial role in shaping the knowledge and skills of future business leaders while actively contributing to the advancement of management practices through her research and consulting engagements.

Ralph Williams, D.B.A. Associate Professor of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

Ralph Williams earned a D.B.A. from Kennesaw State in 2015, an M.B.A. from MTSU in 2002, and a B.S. from MTSU in 1978. Over 25 years, Williams served as president of three commercial printing companies, holding a major ownership stake in two of those firms. Following this, he consulted for multiple companies. Research interests include small business and family business management, mission and goals, and performance measurement. Williams has been with the MTSU Department of Management since 2009.

Jean Wilson, M.B.A. Master Instructor Coordinator of Management Jones College of Business, MTSU

Jean Wilson brings a wealth of experience to her role at MTSU, having served as an administrative services supervisor at State Farm in Jacksonville, Florida, before transitioning to academia. Since August 1999, she has been an integral part of MTSU, teaching a diverse range of 14 management, business administration, and marketing courses. Her areas of expertise include professional development, communications and human relations, and decision making. Wilson's dedication to experiential learning is reflected in her teaching, with over 75% of her courses designated as EXL or Engage. She is a certified Dale Carnegie® Trainer. Her versatile teaching approach encompasses hands-on learning, ensuring students receive practical insights. As the Management Department’s career coordinator and an IGNITE advisor, she actively fosters students' professional growth through workshops, resume sessions, and co-coordination of career fairs like BEST, a collegewide event at the Jones College of Business. Her contributions extend beyond academia, volunteering as a CASA advocate, dedicating time to community service at her church, and previously serving on the Board of Directors for The Journey Home.

Dave Wood, D.B.A. Martin Chair of Insurance Jones College of Business, MTSU

Dave Wood earned his Doctor of Business Administration degree from Louisiana Tech University, an M.B.A. from the University of Mississippi, and an undergraduate degree from Delta State University. His research interests include risk financing, solvency issues, and agency and brokerage operations. He has published extensively in academic and insurance trade journals. Prior to his career in education, Wood worked as an independent agent. Before joining MTSU’s Department of Economics and Finance, Wood served as the Joseph F. Freeman Distinguished Professor of Risk Management and Insurance at Appalachian State University. He has also served as a visiting professor in the risk management and insurance program at the University of Colorado – Denver. He has taught international risk management and finance courses at the Université d'Angers in France and Vorarlberg University of Applied Sciences in Dornbirn, Austria. He serves on the national faculty of the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research, teaching in the Certified Risk Manager (CRM) program and as an education consultant. He previously served as an educational consultant for the Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) program.

Sam Zaza, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Information Systems and Analytics Jones College of Business, MTSU

Sam Zaza's research portfolio revolves around organizational dynamics, particularly focusing on attracting and retaining talent within IT professions. Her interests span the evolving landscape of work, encompassing diversity, equity, inclusion, belongingness, ethics, and neurodiversity. She boasts publications in esteemed journals such as Management Information Systems Quarterly, Information Systems Journal, Information and Organization, and Communications of the Association for Information Systems. Zaza actively organizes and leads workshops and professional development symposia globally, emphasizing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). With a profound teaching focus on business analytics, data visualization, and IT infrastructure, Zaza brings academic excellence to MTSU. She holds leadership roles in the Association for Information Systems, including president positions for SIG Social Inclusion and SIG Leadership in IT, among others. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, she's been honored with prestigious awards like the Nashville Technology Council Diversity and Inclusion Advocate of the Year 2023, alongside international accolades such as the Outstanding Service Award and Distinguished Leadership Award, showcasing her commitment to DEI advocacy and leadership in academia.