“Next Leader for KU’s School of Business Takes Center Stage: Meet the Latest Candidate” The University of Kansas is on the cusp of a new chapter in its esteemed School of Business, as the search for a visionary leader to guide the institution’s future gains momentum. On April 3, the second of three highly-qualified candidates will present their vision for the school, further igniting anticipation and curiosity among students, faculty, and the broader community. This pivotal moment marks a crucial step in the selection process, as the university seeks an individual who can harness the school’s potential, foster innovation, and propel its students to success. Get ready to meet the next potential leader of KU’s School of Business and discover how they plan to shape the future of business education in Lawrence.”
Search Committee and Process
Composition and Roles of the Search Committee Members
The search committee for the new dean of the KU School of Business is an interdisciplinary group, composed of faculty, staff, students, and alumni. The committee is co-chaired by Ann Brill, dean of the William Allen White School of Journalism & Mass Communications, and Jason Hornberger, vice provost of finance. The committee’s role is to oversee the entire selection process, which includes reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and making recommendations to the university’s administration. Each member brings a unique perspective and valuable insights into the diverse needs and aspirations of the school.
Use of Executive Search Firm and Online Resources
Unionjournalism has learned that the KU School of Business has engaged WittKieffer, a specialized executive search firm, to assist in the search for the new dean. This firm brings extensive experience in higher education leadership roles, which is critical for identifying candidates with the right qualifications and leadership qualities. Additionally, the committee is utilizing online resources for outreach and to gather feedback from the community, ensuring a broad range of perspectives are considered.
Timeline and Next Steps in the Search Process
The timeline for the search process is meticulously planned to ensure that each candidate has a fair and thorough opportunity to present their vision and qualifications. Following the initial candidate presentations, the search committee will review feedback, conduct additional interviews if necessary, and compile a list of finalists to recommend to KU’s administration. The next steps will be to conduct reference checks and finalize the selection process. Candidate presentations are scheduled for March 27, April 3, April 8, and April 10, with livestreaming and feedback mechanisms in place to keep the community engaged. Presentation recordings and feedback forms will remain available until April 15, providing ample time for community participation.
KU School of Business Overview
History and Accreditation of the School
The KU School of Business holds a prestigious history dating back to its establishment, and it is accredited by the AACSB. This accreditation signifies a high level of quality and commitment to excellence in business education. The school’s accreditation has been maintained through rigorous standards and continuous improvement, affirming the school’s dedication to leadership in business education.
Recent Growth and Developments in Enrollment and Rankings
Since 2017, the KU School of Business has experienced significant growth. Enrollment has increased by over 60%, reaching approximately 4,400 students, showcasing the school’s appeal and the value it brings to aspiring professionals. The school has also seen a rise in its ranking to 41st among public business schools, according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report. This upward trend in both enrollment and rankings underscores the school’s growing reputation and the quality of its educational programs.
Facilities and Resources, including Capitol Federal Hall
The KU School of Business benefits from state-of-the-art facilities and resources, most notably the Capitol Federal Hall, which opened in 2021. This facility is designed to foster an environment conducive to innovation, collaboration, and engagement, equipped with modern classrooms, research labs, and collaborative spaces. The building’s design and amenities support the school’s commitment to providing students with the latest tools and resources to prepare them for the modern business landscape.
Dean Candidate L. Paige Fields’ Vision
Investment, Innovation, and Growth Strategies
L. Paige Fields, the second candidate to present, emphasized the importance of investment, innovation, and growth strategies in her vision for the KU School of Business. Fields, the current dean of the Trinity University School of Business, stressed the need for continuous investment in the school’s infrastructure, technology, and research initiatives. She highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of innovation to stay ahead in the rapidly changing business world. Fields also discussed her plans for strategic growth, including expanding the school’s reach and impact both locally and internationally.
Faculty Support and Development, including Market Adjustments
Fields emphasized the importance of supporting and developing the faculty at the KU School of Business. She proposed a comprehensive plan that includes “aggressive market adjustments” to ensure that faculty members are compensated competitively and have access to professional development opportunities. Fields also discussed the importance of recognizing and supporting faculty research, encouraging a scholarly community that fosters collaboration and excellence in research, teaching, and service.
Alumni Engagement and Fundraising Efforts beyond Financial Support
Fields highlighted the importance of engaging alumni beyond fundraising efforts. She proposed a strategic approach to engage alumni in a variety of ways, including mentorship, guest lectures, and advisory roles. Fields underscored the value of alumni as resources for student engagement, career development, and professional networking. She also discussed ways to enhance alumni engagement through regular events and opportunities for alumni to connect with current students and faculty, fostering a lasting and supportive community around the KU School of Business.
Dean Candidate Jide Wintoki’s Background
Academic and Professional Experience, including Visiting Roles
Candidate Jide Wintoki brings extensive academic and professional experience to the table. Currently serving as the Capitol Federal Professor of Finance and associate dean of graduate programs at the KU School of Business, Wintoki’s career includes significant roles such as a visiting financial economist at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and a visiting professor at the University of Lagos. His tenure has allowed him to develop a broad perspective and a deep understanding of the financial landscape, which he aims to leverage for the KU School of Business.
Research Focus and Expertise, including Corporate Governance
Wintoki’s research focuses on corporate and international finance, with particular emphasis on corporate governance and the intersections with marketing and finance. His contributions to the field have been recognized through his extensive publication record and presentations at leading academic conferences. His expertise in corporate governance and financial analysis positions him to contribute significantly to the academic and research endeavors of the KU School of Business.
Awards and Recognition for Teaching and Mentorship
Wintoki’s contributions extend beyond research into teaching and mentorship. He has been awarded the MBA Finance Faculty Outstanding Teaching Award and the Association of Business Doctoral Students of KU School of Business’ mentor recognition award. These accolades reflect his dedication to both academic excellence and nurturing the next generation of business leaders. His commitment to mentorship and teaching excellence is a cornerstone of his approach to leadership and education.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the upcoming presentation of the second dean of the School of Business candidate on April 3 marks a pivotal moment in the University’s history. As discussed in this article, the candidate’s vision, experience, and leadership style will play a crucial role in shaping the School’s future and its impact on the business community. The candidate’s emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and student-centric approach is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the School, aligning with the University’s mission to foster excellence and relevance in business education.
The significance of this event cannot be overstated. The next dean will not only lead the School but also influence the University’s reputation, research initiatives, and community engagement. As the business landscape continues to evolve, the School of Business must stay ahead of the curve, and the right leadership is essential to achieve this goal. The implications of this appointment will be far-reaching, affecting not only the University but also the broader business community, as the School’s graduates go on to become leaders and innovators in their respective fields.
As we look to the future, it is imperative that the University community comes together to support the new dean in their vision to create a transformative business education experience. The April 3 presentation is an opportunity for the campus community to engage with the candidate, provide feedback, and shape the future of the School. As we move forward, let us remember that the next dean will not only lead the School of Business but also inspire a new generation of business leaders to make a positive impact on the world. Ultimately, the question we must ask ourselves is: what kind of business leaders do we want to shape the future, and what kind of education will we provide to get us there?