Message from the Dean Academuic Year 2020 at the Michael J. Coles College of Business was defined by two key developments: 1) a rigorous reaccreditation process with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and 2) the COVID-19 pandemic. Both created challenges while also reinforcing the College’s commitment to its students, its educators and support staff, and its ability to innovate. In the fall, the College underwent an accreditation review conducted by leaders at peer institutions within the AACSB. This review happens every five years and requires countless faculty and staff hours to complete. Earning AACSB reaccreditation sends a clear message that Coles College graduates receive an exceptional education led by faculty who are experts in their fields. Just two months after earning reaccreditation, the College faced a new challenge in the COVID-19 pandemic. Kennesaw State University quickly implemented remote learning in March. While the entire university – if not the world – was caught off guard, the Coles College faculty and staff worked diligently to set up online classes, create virtual engagement activities, and even rethink education abroad experiences to accommodate travelers being unable to leave home. Although reaccreditation and the pandemic disrupted routines, they did not stop the Coles College from continuing to distinguish itself as a world class business school. Among the College’s accomplishments this year was the Board of Regents approving a new bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and master’s degree in cybersecurity, the College placing first in several high profile student competitions, and the award-winning Student Managed Investment Fund celebrating 10 years of active trading, just to name a few. Also, this year I had the honor of being officially selected as the Coles College’s new dean. The year threw some obstacles at me for sure, but I was impressed daily by the endurance of our team and the eagerness of our students to engage with their educations. Thanks to their efforts, AY 2020 was nothing short of an outstanding success for the Michael J. Coles College of Business. I am confident that, as you read through this annual report, you will come to the same conclusion.
1 Message from the Dean
Table of Contents
2 Coles College by the Numbers
5 How Does Coles College Measure Up?
6 Pandemic Disrupts Routine, But Not Spirit
8 AACSB Accreditation
10 Student Managed Investment Fund Turns 10
12 Celebrating Student Achievements
Our Mission The mission of the Coles College of Business is to be the highest-value provider of business programs and talent in our markets. Coles College is highly respected in the academic and business communities for achieving national prominence in selected areas and for benefiting business practice. The Coles College of Business achieves this mission by continuing its responsive offerings of affordable, quality business degrees and customized executive education. Effective, committed teaching and integrated career preparation result in outstanding graduates and graduation rates, supporting sustained regional economic growth. Coles College reinforces these efforts with entrepreneurial business engagement and with quality research focusing on relevant business issues and communicating findings in ways that impact management practice.
14 Students Shine in Competitions
16 Producing Exceptional Graduates
18 Alumni Build Their Futures
20 Conducting Critical Research
24 New Paths for Student Success
26 Faculty Leadership On and Off Campus
28 Michael J. Coles Hall of Fame
30 Engaging with Industry Professionals
32 Coles College of Business Advisory Board
Robin Cheramie, Ph.D. Interim Dean, Coles College of Business
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