It is a great honor and pleasure to serve as your new dean of the School of Business Administration (SoBA) at Stetson University, an outstanding institution with a rich history and growth trajectory that suggests an even brighter future.
In today’s dynamic environment, an ability to put theory to the test is a source of competitive advantage and strength. All too often, schools of business fail to use the laboratory around them in strengthening their learning experiences. SoBA’s commitment to applied learning integrated with liberal studies addresses head-on executives’ recurring call for associates with increased abilities in critical thinking, effective communication, teamwork and related professional skills. I am drawn to SoBA in a great way because of its commitment to this type of student learning and the dedication of faculty and staff to the development and future of our students.
There is a new vision emerging for the future…a community where geographic, economic and cultural boundaries are less important than ever before. I have had the good fortune to both travel globally as well as to live abroad, both of which have helped me to understand the increasingly dynamic and competitive environment of both industry and higher education. No institution can rest on its laurels…developing and implementing a strategic plan that adjusts to the dynamics of today’s environment is exactly the right thing to do.
I am pleased to announce that the Dean’s Advisory Board members have agreed to a special meeting in DeLand this July to help identify key areas of opportunity that we will focus on in the upcoming years. Along with our faculty and staff, I encourage each of you to also share your ideas so that we can continue to be the best institution in the state, with an even further reach into the nation and globally.
I believe that together, Stetson students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community stakeholders have the passion, ability, and experience to shape this vision. In the words of our president, Wendy Libby, “Let’s dare to be significant.”
Yours truly,
Dean Tom Schwarz
SU School of Business Administration
