Spring 2010 - Saint Leo University

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Spring 2010
In This Issue:
Headlines
Dean’s Message
Department News
Centers Update
Student Corner
Faculty Focus
Industry Connects
Our Community
Alumni Notes
Calendar
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School of Business
Vision Statement
The School of Business at Saint
Leo University will have an
international reputation as an
institution with students who
are highly sought by employers
and graduate schools.
Our faculty will be recognized
as an innovative community of
experts who proactively respond
to emerging learning and business opportunities.
The School will be acknowledged for its values-based,
high quality courses, and the
positive impact the faculty has
on students as it educates and
prepares them for the future.
We will realize this through
student-centered teaching,
future-paced research, entrepreneurial leadership, and close
relationships with alumni and
community leaders.
Mission Statement
We provide a values-centered
education that develops tomorrow’s business leaders with exceptional skills including critical
thinking and the ability to take
ethical and effective action.
The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
Honor Society
Prepares
for Spring
Induction
The Saint Leo University chapter
of Sigma Beta Delta, the international honor society in business,
management and administration,
announced plans for the induction of new members in Spring
Semester 2010.
Undergraduate seniors (and graduate students having completed 18 credit hours of coursework) are automatically considered for eligibility in the spring of each year as their cumulative overall grade point average
is ranked to identify those having distinguished themselves as among the “best of the best.”
“Consistent with the university’s core value of excellence, the
Saint Leo chapter has set a high bar for invitation, with only the
top tier in each group eligible for consideration,” says chapter
president Dr. Galo Alava. “Nomination by Sigma Beta Delta
faculty places the student in a very select group, as approval
of applicants considers both academic achievement and values
exhibited by the student that are consistent with those of the
society and the university,” he adds.
The induction ritual ceremony will be held at the university
main campus on Friday, April 16, 2010. For more information
about Sigma Beta Delta and the school’s chapter, visit
www.saintleo.edu/business, and click on “Honor Society.”
Business Plan Competition Returns
Thinking of starting a business? Then, this competition is for you!
The Second Annual Business Plan Competition kicked into high gear under the
direction of Dr. Joseph Neptune, assistant professor of management in the School of
Business. Open to students in all degree programs, the competition allows them to
display their entrepreneurial drive and compete for cash awards.
“The goal of this competition is to take business planning beyond the plan, and actually
put it into action,” says Neptune. “Anyone can be an entrepreneur, and we want to help
give students with good ideas the opportunity to put those ideas into motion.”
Through a series of workshops, students learned about communicating new business
ideas, developing a written business plan, and pitching their proposal to business and industry experts. The competition ends in mid-April, with a final round of presentations before
a panel of judges.
For more information, contact Dr. Neptune at (352) 588-8311 or [email protected].
Saint Leo University School of Business
(352) 588-8599
www.saintleo.edu/business
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From the Dean’s Desk
by Dr. Michael Nastanski
Welcome to the Spring Term
and a new decade at
Saint Leo University.
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The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
The Business Network is
published three times each year
by the School of Business
at Saint Leo University,
Saint Leo, Florida.
Editor and Staff Support
Sally Burns
Contributing Editors
Dr. Galo Alava, Health Care Management
Dr. Passard Dean, Accounting
Dr. Stan McGahey, IHT
Dr. Eric Schwarz, Sport Business
Dr. Corinne Young, Management
Graphic Design:
Benjamin Watters
Photo Credits:
T. Carpenter, Ecuador Freshmen Trip
D. Parisi, NY Alumni Event
Comments, story ideas, and photos
may be submitted to:
Sally Burns,
University Campus – MC2067
Saint Leo University, P.O. Box 6665,
Saint Leo, FL 33574-6665
n this issue, you’ll see that our students,
faculty, and staff continue to achieve new
heights, including world-class conferences
on health care reform and international
business, taking top honors in national
student competition, and hosting distinguished lectures such as the one by H.
Wayne Huizenga, Jr. Our focus on excellence continues as students in the MBA
capstone course, Strategic Management,
scored above the 70th percentile in a
national assessment exam compared
against 24,000 other graduate students
at over 200 business schools.
You’ll also see many examples of our students, faculty, and staff demonstrating the
impact of our values and education in helping the local, national, and global communities. Whether it’s building a website for the Dade City Police Department, supporting our nation’s veterans or troops overseas, or fundraising for the international
charity, Angels of the Amazon, Saint Leo’s School of Business is making a difference
in the community.
With record enrollments, a values-infused curriculum, and continued focus on
quality and innovation, I’m excited about our future. This year, I’ve been blessed
to meet many of our alumni across the country, and it’s great to see that our alumni
clearly represent the best of our values in their workplace, homes, and commitment
to Saint Leo. As we complete the fundraising for a new School of Business Building,
critically needed to advance the great work of our students, faculty, and staff, I’m
proud to continue building on the past, even as we create an even more wonderful
future.
Thanks to each of you for what you do for our school. I look forward to our future
and what we can achieve together!
e-mail: [email protected]
fax: (352) 588-8912
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The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
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Department News
It is an exciting time for the School of Business; and, while
much as been done, there is still much to do.
/// Across the Departments
Each department identified its top priorities, outlining
specific strategies to support the school’s key objectives.
Preparation to ensure we are in full compliance for the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
accreditation review is also at the forefront.
Common throughout is our commitment for continuous
improvement--in academic rigor and quality; innovation in all
programs; faculty development for the ‘next generation’ classroom; and crafting new partnerships to increase stature and
international presence.
Faculty and staff are hard at work, actively supporting each of
these initiatives. All are underway; some are near completion;
others have more to go. It is a monumental task, but we are
up to the challenge.
L-R: T. Krizek, J. Picciano, S. Butler, G. Alava, J. Little, D. Hernandez,
G. Putzer
/// Healthcare a Hot Topic on Campus
“Powerful, in terms of content, credentials, and
organization”…”A dynamic program”... “Timely, as Congress
considers legislation”… “Diverse perspectives on issues”…
“Interesting to see how each added to the discussion”…
“Thank you, Saint Leo”…
These aren’t empty words. They are comments following
The Status of Health Care Reform Discussions, a learning
symposium held before a packed auditorium at the main
campus in October.
Moderated by Dr. Peter Simmons, chair of the department
of administrative services, the symposium was open to the
public and members of the university community. It was
also broadcast to graduate students and faculty at Saint Leo’s
regional education centers.
A distinguished panel of experts, each with a unique perspective, emphasized the need for leaders to make informed
decisions. The panelists included Thomas J. Krizek, M.D.,
F.A.C.S. (history/ethics); Saint Leo alumnus John Picciano
’69 (hospital administration); Stephen M. Butler, M.D.,
F.A.C.S. (medical provider); Galo Alava, M.D., M.B.A.
(international); Joseph A. Little, Jr., J.D. (legislative);
Saint Leo University trustee and alumnus David A. Hernandez ‘84, Ph.D. (science/research); and Gavin Putzer, M.D.,
M.P.H., Ph.D. (overview).
Each panelist presented a viewpoint on the health care debate,
followed by a short statement on their ideas and preferences.
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As the final presenter, Dr. Putzer summarized the key issues
and most critical aspects of health care in America: access to
care, quality of care, and cost.
“This was not a political debate of the issues,” explains
Dr. Simmons. “We wanted discussants to focus on the
challenges of health care reform, drawing on their unique area
of expertise and personal experience to shed light on some of
these complexities.”
L-R: Dr. Shannon Jackson and Dr. Mayes Matthews from SLU Virginia Centers
In foreground, Dr. Galo Alava and Dr. David Hernandez; In background, looking
on: J. Picciano, Dean Nastanski, Dawn Parisi, Dr. Pete Simmons
/// International Business Conference a Success
The School of Business at Saint Leo University, in partnership
with the Honorary Consulate of Canada, Fowler White Boggs
P.A., and Suffolk Education, welcomed 100 delegates from six
countries to its first International Business Conference at the
main campus in November.
The conference brought together academics, industry leaders, and leading trade experts to discuss trends in business
practices and international commerce. Conference sessions
featured panel discussions in leadership, corporate restructuring, organization dynamics, culture, corporate social responsibility, and higher education. Discussants included presenters
from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Columbia, Slovenia, and Taiwan.
In his opening address, Dr.
Michael Nastanski, dean of
the School of Business viewed
the conference as a further
step in efforts to develop global competencies for students
and faculty, encourage interaction within the academic and
business communities, and
L-R: Keynote speaker, Thomas O’Brien; demonstrate Saint Leo’s comSession Presenter, Sean Murphy
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mitment to be a leading Catholic university of international
consequence.
“Our core values and expertise in innovative education, make
Saint Leo an appropriate venue for the topics discussed at this
conference,” he says.
Attendees heard from
four keynote speakers,
including Jayashankar
M. Swaminathan, Ph.D.,
a distinguished professor
at the University of North
Carolina and internationally-recognized authority on global business
operations; Mr. Thomas E.
O’Brien, president and CEO
of AAA Auto Club South;
the Honorable Andrew L. MacIntosh, a business attorney and
shareholder at the Tampa firm Fowler White Boggs P.A. and
honorary consul for the government of Canada in Tampa; and
Matthew Leavy, CEO of Pearson eCollege, a leading provider
of technology services to higher education.
“We were delighted with the conference attendance, quality
of the sessions, and our world-class speakers,” says Robert W.
Robertson, Ph.D., director of graduate business studies. Dr.
Robertson, who co-chaired the conference, said the intent is to
host this event annually to hear from business leaders on important international topics, promote international research,
and encourage student involvement in global learning.
The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
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/// MBA Pilots Comprehensive Exam
/// Prospect for Global Leadership
The MBA Program conducted a comprehensive assessment
exam in Fall 2009. The pilot program required Saint Leo’s
graduate students in the capstone course, MBA 599:
Strategic Management, to take the Educational Testing
Service (ETS) exam. The intensive four-hour exam tests
quantitative, analytical, and critical thinking skills, with
strong emphasis on financial, economic, accounting, and
management practices.
The exam provides national assessment measures and comparisons for our graduates, allowing the university to evaluate
key business competencies as students complete their degree
program. Analyzing these results, we can facilitate any changes to course and program design, continuously improving our
academic programming.
The ETS exam was completed by more than 24,000 students
in MBA programs across the country. Saint Leo University
students achieved an overall score in the 70th percentile,
meaning Saint Leo MBA students performed at or above 70
percent of their peers.
“The ETS results provide another validation of the quality
of our program, faculty, and student achievement,” says Dr.
Michael Nastanski, dean of the School of Business.
Program Excites
/// Sport Business Accreditation Update
Saint Leo University was the very first institution of higher
learning to have a site visit conducted by the Commission
on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA).
The site evaluation team met with university administrators,
instructional faculty and key personnel, as they reviewed
the program’s curriculum, faculty, resources, educational
innovation, and assessment practices. “Our initial feedback
from COSMA following the visit has been positive,” says
Dr. Eric Schwarz, associate professor of sport business.
A multidisciplinary, university-wide faculty committee was
formed to develop a new program curriculum to prepare students to become responsible global citizens and transformational
leaders. Dr. Corinne Young, associate professor of management,
chairs this committee.
“As a committee, we’ve been charged with developing a program
curriculum that will catapult us to a new level of excellence in
international education,” Young says. “Values-based leadership
and responsible decision-making will be core to the program.”
Dr. Young suggests there are no limits to what can be developed,
as innovation and creativity are encouraged at Saint Leo University. “It’s the idea of ‘no boundaries’ that excites me,” she says.
“We can be creative, dream, and begin from the outside in, as
we craft a program supported by our values and the principles of
building a just, sustainable, and peaceful global society.”
Working on the committee with Dr. Young are faculty from
the School of Arts and Sciences (Dr. B. Lee Hobbs, Dr. Marco
Rimanelli, Dr. Astrid Vicas); the School of Business (Dr. Galo Alava, Dr. Hakan Kislal, Dr. Stan McGahey, Dr. Ionnis Pantzalis, Dr.
Peter Simmons); the School of Education & Social Services (Dr.
Rande Matteson, Dr. Veronika Ospina-Kammerer); and Dr. Laura
Blasi with the Office of Assessment & Institutional Research.
Members continue to meet regularly, as they prepare a comprehensive first draft of the proposal.
“The university core value of community allows faculty to more
easily integrate across disciplines to more effectively educate,”
says Young. “This integrative thinking is what gives our
faculty and students the tools needed to understand the
complexities of the world,” she continues. “We are then able
to collaborate across cultures and belief systems, working in
partnership with others to improve the quality of life for all
citizens of the world.”
We anticipate learning the results of our application by
June 2010. If accredited, Saint Leo University would
be one of the very first in the nation to attain full
program accreditation.
“Achieving that goal will further distinguish the university,
and the School of Business, as a leader in sport business
education,” says Schwarz.
L-R: Dr. B. Lee Hobbs, Dr. Corinne Young
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Around the Centers
/// Working Adults in Asia Earn Saint Leo
MBA Degree
In December, 25 mid- to
senior-level managers in
Taiwanese firms were
among the most recent
graduates to attain a
Master of Business Administration degree from
Saint Leo University.
Director of Graduate
Business Studies Robert W. Robertson, Ph.D. attended the commencement ceremony and celebratory dinner to recognize their
achievement. “Because of the university’s strong reputation, the
graduates were proud to be affiliated with our program,” he says.
Another 100 active students are continuing their studies at one
of three centers in Taiwan, according to MBA Program Manager Ashley Henderson. “We continue to see a high demand for
graduate business degrees among Asia’s young professional population,” she says. “Saint Leo’s accreditation and quality reputation
have helped to set it apart in the Taiwanese market.”
/// Gwinnett Campus Hosts Atlanta Exec
In September, the MBA Lunch and Learn series featured a presentation by one of metro-Atlanta’s top executives, Frances E.
Davis, Ph.D., chief human resources officer for Gwinnett County
Public Schools.
In her role with the state’s largest employer and 14th largest
school district in the nation, Davis is focused on developing current and emerging leaders
within the school system
and believes “a team that
respects the mission, and
is committed to its implementation, is critical
to ensure a world-class
operation.”
She also considers the
educational system as
L-R: Dr. Craig Cleveland, Dr. Frances Davis
‘the heartbeat’ of a community and a vital economic driver, saying “the school system
is an important factor, and a definite asset, when attracting
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new investments and business to a region.”
Davis’s presentation on leadership, gender, and diversity was also
broadcast live to graduate students and faculty in Chesapeake,
VA and at the main campus in Saint Leo, FL.
Host Craig Cleveland, D.B.A., assistant professor of management
at the university’s Gwinnett Office, says “We were pleased to
introduce and welcome an industry leader of her caliber to the
graduate classroom.”
/// Centers’ Faculty Perspective
Dr. B. Tim Lowder is an assistant professor of management
teaching at Saint Leo’s continuing education centers in Texas and
Key West, FL.
Recently, Dr. Lowder
was gifted with a
military certificate and
flag that was flown in
his honor by a student
now serving overseas.
Dr. Lowder shares his
thoughts on its significance and meaning
with Business Network
readers. His words are echoed by faculty at each of our centers.
One of our students, Chris Jones, is currently serving in Iraq on
a third tour of duty. Chris has been in several of my classes and
we developed a strong student-mentor relationship. In addition
to the flag and certificate, he sent a short letter thanking me for
everything I do to support our military personnel.
I felt so honored to have been in Chris’s thoughts as he is far
away from home serving our country overseas. As a result, he
faces great risks that I can’t even begin to fathom. I am extremely humbled by his acknowledgement, but can’t help thinking
about the small price I pay for doing what I love to do.
I’m both thankful and blessed that what I love doing is something that is sincerely appreciated by many of our students, particularly our military personnel. The greatest honor comes from
serving the wonderful service men and women as they continuously face great peril in today’s global fight against terrorism.
It is definitely students like Chris that deserve the honor, the
glory, and the accolades.
The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
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Student Corner
We invite you to meet some of our
students in the School of Business,
and join us in celebrating
their achievements.
/// Saint Leo Students Earn
Top Honors at Competition
As winners of the national competition,
Saint Leo was recognized at the conference banquet. The students were also invited to present their work during an open
session on the final day of proceedings.
“Such recognition speaks highly of our
students’ intellectual ability, academic
preparation, and commitment to personal
development,” says Dr. Schwarz. “It was
an impressive accomplishment for the
team, reflecting positively on the students,
our program, and the university.”
Projects such as these are the perfect applied learning tools to transition textbook
theory into real-world applications. “It
was also an excellent opportunity for us to
work on the ‘soft’ skills required to be successful in business,” says Armstrong.
Dr. Balbir Bal, associate dean of the School
of Business, oversaw the team’s effort. “It
was a great partnership for the school and
our students, clearly demonstrating the
university’s core values of excellence, respect, integrity and personal development.”
/// Unique Partnership
/// Cool Jobs in Hot Places
Nets Results
L-R: senior Nick Macchio, Dr. Eric Schwarz, junior
Alan LaFleur, sophomore Kevin Smith, sophomore
Angela Solis, junior Adam Miller, senior Julian
MacMillan, sophomore Richard Truncale
Competing against undergraduate teams
from across the country, Saint Leo
University sport business majors took
top honors in the Student Case Study
Competition at the Sport Marketing Association Annual Conference in Cleveland, OH.
Representing Saint Leo in the national
competition were seniors Nicholas Macchio and Julian MacMillan, juniors Alan
LaFleur and Adam Miller, and sophomores Kevin Smith, Angela Solis, and
Richard Truncale. The students were
accompanied by Dr. Eric Schwarz, associate professor of sport business.
Last year, students competed in their
first case study competition at the College Sport Research Institute on the
UNC-Chapel Hill campus. Original
team member Julian MacMillan ’10 says
the group “drew from that experience in
preparing for this competition.”
Calling themselves the ‘Lion’s Roar Web
Development Team’, a small group of CIS
student majors succeeded in developing a
new, interactive website for the Dade City
Police Department. The site, www.dadecityfl.com, went ‘live’ in mid-December.
Team Lead Erick Armstrong ’09, supported by Yves Jacobs ’11, Jeffery Meszaros
’10, and faculty advisor Bryan Reagan,
Ph.D., approached the task as a ‘realworld’ business venture, managing the
effort as a fast-track project and working
closely with the agency to meet deadlines
and satisfy client expectations.
L-R: Jeffrey Meszaros, Dr. Bryan Reagan, Chief
Ray Velboom, City Manager Billy Poe, Captain
David Duff, Sgt. James Walters, Yves Jacobs, Erick
Armstrong
Student-athlete and
international business major Richard
Maclachlan of
Johannesburg, South
Africa, recently completed an international internship
and shared his experience with
Business Network.
In June 2010, South Africa will host the
FIFA World Cup—one of the biggest
sporting events in the world, held once
every four years. As my place of birth, it
was a perfect opportunity for me to get
involved and become a part of something
so big, and so great, for my country and
the world.
Seeking a paid internship, I sent out resumes to over 30 world-renowned companies and top agencies. After a few stressful
weeks, I landed with Matchworld, South
Africa’s leading sponsorship management
company. Matchworld holds a number of
major accounts, including FIFA partner
Coca-Cola, a leading sponsor of the 2010
World Cup.
Upon arrival, I was thrown right into the
thick of things on the Coca-Cola account,
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working hands-on with the best strategic
planners, marketing branders, and event
managers in the business. I dealt with a
number of famous individuals and sport
celebrities at events, corporate parties, and
on live radio promotions. I was constantly
stretched—early mornings, late nights and
hard work. At the end of the day, it was all
about bringing “World Cup fever” to those
who could not afford to attend games or go
to the stadium.
During the internship, I was treated like
an employee. There was no making coffee for anyone else or having to go on a
doughnut run! I was expected to share
my views and aid the team with strategy
and activation.
I’ll admit, however, the internship was
extremely hard. With 100-hour work
weeks, I didn’t get much sleep; but, it was
worth every penny and drop of sweat. It
definitely pushed me to the next level.
Working at Matchworld on the Coca-Cola
account was an experience I’ll never forget.
/// What They Say…
“When I first arrived on campus, I was petrified about how I would adapt and fit into a
new environment. But I learned that Saint
Leo is what you make of it.
The university community encourages
peer-to-peer communication that leads to
creating lasting friendships, in addition to
honing the skills needed to establish crosscultural relationships—a key element to
success in the global business environment.”
Lesvie Clare ’10
Marketing and IHT
“What I like most about my program,
and this university, is that I’m not seen
as a number. My advisors and professors
know me by name and are always available when needed. Each has influenced
me greatly. I’ve been given the knowledge
and tools necessary to broaden my network and become successful in my chosen
career path.”
Julian MacMillan ’10
Sport Business
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Faculty Focus
Our faculty is committed to personal development within their discipline,
pedagogy, and technology to create active learning environments relevant
to the demands of a rapidly changing global environment.
/// In the Briefcase
Galo E. Alava,
M.D., M.B.A., assistant professor of
health care management, Joseph A.
Little, Jr., J.D., assistant professor of
business law, Rande
W. Matteson, Ph.D., and Fr. Anthony Kissel, Ph.D., co-authored a paper entitled
“Academic Cyberchase: An Examination
of Fraudulent Scholarly Papers Via Transnational Digital Media” for presentation
before the International Conference of
Education, Research and Innovation in
Madrid, Spain.
Frank W. Arnold, D.P.A., professor of
public administration, management and
human resources, presented “Productivity
vs. Privacy for an Organization’s Workforce” before the Annual Conference of the
International Academy of Business and
Economics in October.
Dr. Arnolds’ co-authors were Stephen L.
Baglione, Ph.D., professor of marketing
and chair of the department of business
administration, and Thomas W. Zimmerer, Ph.D., adjunct professor of management
and entrepreneurship.
Stephen L.
Baglione, Ph.D.,
professor of marketing and chair of
the department of
business administration, was also a
multiple presenter
at the Annual Conference of the International Academy of Business and Economics.
The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
Co-authored by Thomas W. Zimmerer,
Ph.D., Dr. Baglione presented two papers
entitled “Corporate Social Responsibility
and American Business During a Recession” and “An Exploratory Study: Ethical
Variations by Gender, Academic Degree,
and Ethical Philosophy.”
He also presented a paper entitled “Generating High-Order Learning Through a
Marketing Computer Simulation”
co-authored with Louis Tucci.
Philip Hatlem,
M.A., instructor
in sport business
and chair of the department of sport
business and international tourism,
presented “Enhancing Sport Sociology Education: Sport Film
as an Educational Tool” before the 30th
Annual Conference of the North American
Society for the Sociology of Sport, held in
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Joseph A. Little, Jr., J.D., assistant professor of business law, presented “Drafting
the Effective Cybercrime Statute: Four
Meta-Principles” before the Annual Meeting of the Southern Criminal Justice Association in Charleston, SC, in September.
Michael Nastanski, D.B.A.,
dean of the School
of Business, was
a featured key
speaker and expert panelist in the
learning symposium, Assuring Quality in the Delivery of
Online Classes, before the 2009 Annual
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Meeting of the Southern Management Association in November.
His presentation on peer training and faculty mentoring was well attended and received
by fellow academics and administrators.
Robert W. Robertson, Ph.D., director
of graduate business studies, and graduate
research assistant Olga Trembovetskaya,
co-authored a paper entitled “Improving
the Delivery of Online Business Courses:
A Continuous Improvement Process” for
presentation at the Intellectbase International Consortium Academic Conference
in October. Dr. Robertson also moderated
a key session for the conference.
Eric C. Schwarz, Ed.D., associate professor of sport business, presented “Protective Security Measures for Major Sport
Events: Proposing a Baseline Standard for
the United States” before the 17th Annual
European Association of Sport Management Conference, held in September in
Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
A collaborative effort between Dr.
Schwarz and Stacey Hall of the University of Southern Mississippi, the paper
focused on a study conducted in cooperation with faculty at the National Center
for Spectator Sport Safety and Security.
In this photo, he’s seen at the Amsterdam Arena,
home of the Ajax Amsterdam, a famous soccer club,
“and the second venue in the world to have a retractable roof.”
Dr. Schwarz also presented “The Evolution
of Anti-Ambush Marketing Laws,” and
co-presented a paper entitled “Case Study
in the Development of a Practitioner-Based
Instrument to Understand Sport Spectator Behavior”, before the 7th Annual Sport
Marketing Association Conference held in
Cleveland, OH in October.
/// Out & About
Robert W. Robertson, Ph.D., director
of graduate business studies, attended
the 95th Annual Conference of the
International City Management
Association, held in Montreal, Canada,
in September.
The conference, “Leading Communities
to Success in the New Global Economy,”
attracted more than 2,000 delegates
from 16 countries seeking the latest
management assistance, training, and
information resources available to
municipal governments.
Dr. Robertson also reported on the conference for the Canadian publication, Municipal World Magazine. His article was
featured in the monthly’s December issue.
Conference facilitator Dr. Mohit Mukherjee, director of the UPEACE Centre for Executive Education, with Dr. Young.
Pedagogies” during the Faculty Development Day workshops at the main
campus in January. She also plans to
introduce some of these pedagogies into
her classroom.
/// In Other News
Michael Nastanski, D.B.A., dean of
the School of Business, was named to
the Board of Directors for the Pasco
Economic Development Council in
Pasco County, FL.
Peter Simmons, Ph.D., chair of the
department of administrative services,
attended the Chinese American Technology and Culture Conference sponsored by the Florida High Tech Corridor
Council. The conference featured new
innovations, best practices, and emerging trends in technology, culture, and
global business.
Corinne B. Young, Ph.D., assistant
professor of management, attended a
Peace Studies program at the Educating
for the 21st Century Conference held at
the University for Peace (UPEACE) in
Ciudad Colón, Costa Rica. The workshops focused on social and economic
justice initiatives, peace education, and
sustainable development.
Dr. Young shared these concepts with
colleagues, presenting “Principles of
Peace Education and Transformative
Robert W. Robertson, Ph.D., director
of graduate business studies, was named
to the Reviewers Task Panel and the
Executive Editorial Board of the
Intellectbase International Consortium.
The consortium is dedicated to advancing academic research, collaboration,
and exchange of ideas among scholars
with an international perspective and
multidisciplinary foundation. His term
for both appointments will extend
through December 2010.
Peter Simmons, Ph.D., chair of the
department of administrative services,
was named to the Advisory Board for
the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce
Tampa Bay.
Dr. Simmons has traveled extensively
in Taiwan, presenting at international
conferences and serving on committees for doctoral candidates. He
has also taught graduate level coursework for Saint Leo’s International
MBA program.
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/// New Faces
Several new full-time, tenure-track
faculty members joined the School of
Business this fall, including Assistant
Professor Vyas Krishnan, Ph.D., Associate Professor Gavin Putzer, M.D., Ph.D.,
M.P.H, and Assistant Professor David
Wolfe, Ph.D. They were joined by Professor Michael Rogich, J.D., Ph.D., who
previously led the university’s Center for
Online Learning.
“We continue to attract ‘next generation’
faculty with the skills, credentials, and
stature that rival any seen elsewhere,”
says Dr. Michael Nastanski, dean of the
School of Business. “Each is a welcome
addition to the school’s expanding, innovative community.”
Vyas Krishnan,
Ph.D., Assistant
Professor of Computer and Information
Systems
B.S., Mangalore
University, India
M.S. Physics and
Computer Science, University of
South Florida
Ph.D. Computer Science and Engineering, University of South Florida
Dr. Krishnan teaches CIS coursework
at University Campus. He and his wife
Haydee are the proud parents of a new
daughter, Sheila Marie.
His office is located in Saint Edward
Hall, Room 329. He can be reached at
(352) 588-8512 or [email protected].
Gavin Putzer, M.D.,
M.P.H., Ph.D., │Associate Professor of Healthcare Management
B.A., Rutgers College
M.D., University of
South Florida
M.P.H., Harvard University
Ph.D., University of Florida
Dr. Putzer teaches healthcare manage-
10
ment in the Weekend and Evening program. He also teaches the Online MBA
healthcare management concentration
and graduate certificate programs.
His office is located in Lewis Hall, Room
106. Dr. Putzer can be reached at (352)
588-8406 or gavin.
[email protected].
Michael Rogich, J.D.,
Ph.D., │Professor of CIS
M.Ed. Education/Computer Science, Johns
Hopkins University
J.D., University of Baltimore
Ph.D. Information Systems, University of
Maryland at Baltimore
Dr. Rogich returns to his first love,
classroom teaching, after directing the
Center for Online Learning the past ten
years. He and his wife reside in Tierra
Verde, FL.
His office is located in Lewis Hall, Room
210. Dr. Rogich can be reached at (352)
588-8426 or michael.
[email protected].
David R. Wolfe,
Ph.D., │Assistant Professor of Finance
B.S.B.A., University of
Central Florida
M.B.A., Stetson
University
M.S.F.E., Ph.D., Financial Economics,
University of New Orleans
Dr. Wolfe teaches Finance and Economics at the undergraduate and graduate
level. He and his wife reside in
Clermont, FL.
His office is located in Saint Edward
Hall, Room 144. Dr. Wolfe can be
reached at (352) 588-8304 or
[email protected].
/// And, Did You Know?
“Teaching in the School of Business at
Saint Leo University is special. We have
a connection with our students in the
classroom and as their advisor. As we
get to know our students on a personal
The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
basis, we help them develop their preferred career path through coursework,
internships, study abroad, directed studies, individual research, and an extensive network of industry contacts.
We expect them to become managers,
leaders, and entrepreneurs with a global
vision, making a difference wherever
they go.”
Stan McGahey, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and IHT
Program Director
INDUSTRY CONNECTS
A spirit of dialogue and engagement
strengthens the connection between
academia and the corporate world.
/// Senior Execu-
tive Shares
Message with
Students
Successful south
Florida businessman
H. Wayne Huizenga,
Jr., president of Huizenga Holdings, Inc.,
and chairman of the board of Rybovich,
visited University Campus in November,
sharing a personal message with
Saint Leo students.
In his conversation, “Leaving a Legacy,”
Huizenga focused on the importance of
students creating a personal legacy of
character and integrity, not only in their
future profession, but in their personal
lives as well.
“I’ve learned in my business experience
that true leaders are people of character,”
he says. “Leaders will always do what
they say they will do.”
S p r i n g 2 010
More than 200 students packed the
Greenfelder-Denlinger Boardroom in the
Student Community Center to hear Huizenga’s inspirational words. Drawing from
his own experience and from the principles of his Christian faith, Huizenga urged
students to strive for balance, linking their
work lives, personal lives, and spiritual
lives in the process.
“This was an exceptional opportunity for
our students to meet and learn from an
executive of his stature and businessman
of principle,” said Dr. Michael Nastanski,
dean of the School of Business.
Alumnus Derek Lloyd ‘84 with student
/// Panel Coaches Career
Networking
The Fall 2009 Professional Networking
Event was held in October at University
Campus. More than 50 students attended the event co-sponsored by the
offices of Alumni Relations and Career
Services, in collaboration with the
Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Tampa Bay.
Moderated by Saint Leo alumnus Derek
Lloyd ’84, the program featured a panel
of entrepreneurs, executives, and industry leaders from various business sectors
in the community. Breakout sessions
were held for students after the panel
discussion, followed by one-on-one time
with each of the executives.
“The event provides an atmosphere
conducive for students to network with
alumni and business professionals,”
says Denyve Duncan, director of alumni
relations. “Students gain valuable tips
and first-hand knowledge about how to
market themselves effectively in a com-
petitive job market, as well as how to
make the transition from college student
to working professional.”
Among the speakers were internationally recognized entrepreneur Uday Lele;
broadcast media expert Motown Maurice;
leading management consultant Roxanne
Bartley, president of Bartley Ventures
LLC; business solutions professional
Charles Copley Gerdes ’06; writer-producer-editor Vanessa Vazques-Yuret; and
Dr. Passard Dean, assistant professor of
accounting in the School of Business.
“It was an excellent opportunity for
students wanting to learn more about
what it takes to reach their goals,” says Dr.
Dean. “Creating and cultivating a varied,
rich network of professional contacts is an
important key to their future success.”
The students were impressed by Sumner’s
expertise in law and banking, and his
varied experience in the public-private,
government, and not-for-profit sectors
explained Wolfe.
/// Giving Back in the Classroom
“I’m currently on an aggressive track to
become a federally commised bank examiner, a highly regarded position in the field
of public trust and service,” he says.
As “Professors-For-A-Day,” senior executives, industry experts, and Saint Leo alumni are encouraged to share their insight,
first-hand experience, and practical advice
with students in the classroom. Meet some
of our recent visitors in the classroom.
Saint Leo Prep alumnus Robert D.
Sumner, Esq. ’50, president of Florida
Bancshares, Inc., and president and chief
executive officer of First National Bank of
Pasco, was a guest lecturer in Dr. Wolfe’s
class, “Finance for Managers.”
“Young people today are very interested
in the state of the economy and its impact
on how they are going to launch their
careers,” says Sumner.
Financial Institution Specialist and recent
graduate Bryan Jonasson ’09 visited campus in October, connecting with his former
mentor, Dr. Passard Dean, and students in
the “Intermediate Accounting” class.
Jonasson shared with the class his own
job search methods, interview preparation, and other “how-to” tips that helped
him eventually land his dream job with
the FDIC.
Heather (Young) Prowant ’07, a commercial insurance broker with Arthur
J. Gallagher & Co., met with Saint Leo’s
American Marketing Association (AMA)
student chapter in September.
In her presentation “Tips for Success: The
Preparation, The Hunt, The Kill, Now
What?,” she outlined a four-step
approach to prepare for success
L-R: Jaleesa Dudley, Davion Cooper, Suzanne Ervin, alumnus Bryan Jonasson ’09, Deandra Williams
www.saintleo.edu/business
11
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post-graduation. She detailed each
step, including practical tips and
specific examples from her experience
during the search process.
“Having professors who were truly interested in seeing me succeed, and sharing
in my success, was extremely motivating,” says Prowant. “I was pushed by
my professors, especially Drs. Arnold
and Baglione, to prepare myself for the
job hunt prior to graduation.”
Prowant also finds her strengths as a
working adult come from her ability to
motivate those around her, saying “Im
continuing to encourage and mentor
friends and former classmates who are
trying to break into corporate America.”
/// What We Hear…
“As co-founder and past-chair of Saint
Leo’s IHT Industry Liaison Council, I’ve
worked with your students as a mentor,
internship supervisor, and coach. Each
experience has given me personal pleasure
and pride in Saint Leo students.
I’ve also personally witnessed the impact
of a values-based program on student
work and decisions in the workplace. I
know I can count on Saint Leo students to
not only make good decisions, but make
the right decision.
I’m excited about the future of our industry, knowing that the next generation of
business leaders from Saint Leo University
is well-rounded, well-trained, and prepared to lead.”
Brian J. Quinn
VP Upscale Franchise Sales and
Development
Intercontinental Hotels Group
12
Community
Demonstrating respect, tolerance and compassion, Saint Leo’s students, faculty,
and staff make a difference in their community. These are just a few examples of how they exhibit values in action.
/// Global Service Learning Exposed to Incoming Freshmen
Even before the Class of 2013 set foot in the classroom, Gabriel Sanchez (Management),
Nicole Poidevin (International Business), and Catherine Pendleton (Communication
Management) were earning course credit as participants in the university’s newest
initiative for incoming freshmen—a unique, study abroad experience in the
Republic of Ecuador.
Fr. Anthony Kissel, chair of the department of philosophy, theology & religion,
Dr. Galo Alava, assistant professor of healthcare management and Chuck Fisk,
associate professor of economics, led the 12-day excursion.
Each student was encouraged to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of
the region as they explored the cities of Quito, Otavalo, Cotacachi, and Colonial Ibarra.
They visited famed markets; toured universities, museums and historic churches; and
spent time at The Working Boys Center, an outreach assistance program serving Quito’s
neediest children and families.
The pilot program introduces students to the university’s core values, instills a commitment to service learning, and increases understanding of their roles and responsibilities
as global citizens, explains Fisk. “The country is the classroom—a living, breathing
classroom where we integrate the environmental, cultural, political, economic and social
issues into the curriculum,” he adds.
Now, each looks forward to continuing the tradition with new students in Fall 2010.
The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
S p r i n g 2 010
/// Honoring the Fallen
Long after crowds left Veterans Day
services at Florida National Cemetery, a
volunteer group of Saint Leo students and
faculty arrived at the grounds to do maintenance and landscaping work. Some laid
mulch, as others stained wooden bridges.
Among them was Grant Posner ’11 of
Oviedo, FL, an Honors’ student majoring in
business management. “We simply wanted
to make a difference,” he said. “It felt good.”
The work effort also held special meaning for those who served in the military.
Among them were retired Air Force veterans Frank Arnold, D.P.A., and Michael
Moorman, Ph.D.
With more than 50 years of active service
between them, both felt it was one way of
giving back to their fallen brothers and
sisters. “It’s difficult for those who have
not served to appreciate that special relationship,” says Arnold.
/// Supporting the Troops
On Veterans Day, and every Saturday
morning, Florida’s Beta Chapter of Omega
Delta Sigma National Veterans Fraternity
is hard at work on their “Troop Send”
service project.
The campus fraternity of veterans and
ROTC cadets work out of a local warehouse, unloading tractor-trailers, breaking
down pallets, and re-packaging donated
goods for shipment to the troops stationed
in Afghanistan and Iraq.
“Since I came back from deployment, Veterans Day has new meaning for me,” says
student Martin Mune, a U.S. Army veteran
of Operation Iraqi Freedom III. Now majoring in computer information systems,
Mune says he really enjoys his work in the
effort.
“This really doesn’t
feel like community
service,” said Mune.
“It just feels like
we’re doing the right
thing for our troops.”
/// Students Donate to International Charity
The International Tourism Club (ITC) recently donated $125 to their charity,
Angels of the Amazon.
Founded by Peruvian native Dolly Beaver, the foundation focuses on the economic, medical, and educational needs of the indigenous peoples in remote villages along the Tahuayo River.
ITC president Antonette Lyken ’10 explained students first met Dolly when she,
along with husband and partner Dr. Paul Beaver, CEO of Amazonia Adventures,
came to University Campus as ‘Professors-For-A-Day’ in the IHT classroom.
“We were impressed by her practice of providing sustainable assistance in ways
consistent with the self-reliant values of the native culture,” Lyken says.
/// And, For Your Entertainment
Business faculty and staff have developed a special relationship with the elderly
residents at Westbrooke Manor in Zephyrhills, Florida.
Known simply as “The Band,” professors Randall Newell, Ph.D., Joseph Little, J.D.,
Peter Simmons, Ph.D., and MBA Program Manager Ashley Henderson, make frequent
stops to entertain the seniors at
the assisted living facility.
“It’s debatable whether we sing
and dance for their enjoyment,
or ours,” laughs Newell. As
the band’s leader, he jokingly
admits the group is “not quite
ready for prime time.” “We
basically play the blues, as
that seems to be the only
chords Simmons can play!”
The Band in action
www.saintleo.edu/business
13
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Alumni Notes
/// In the Spotlight
TURKS & CAICOS - Nikia Wells ’08
now works in reservations at Gansevoort,
Turks + Caicos, a luxury hotel and spa
located at Grace Bay Beach on the island
of Providenciales.
“Grace Bay was rated ‘best beach in the
world’ by Conde Nast, and our resort has
become the celebrity hotspot,” she says.
“From the Caribbean myself, even I’m in
awe of the surroundings and beauty here.
The islands are absolutely amazing.”
Nikia also developed an ambassadorial
program, “Message in a Bottle,” designed
to promote international tourism and
cultural diversity and is working with the
Ministry of Culture to finalize plans for its
launch.
“Message in a Bottle will incorporate every
means of transportation and touch every
continent,” she says. “Participants will be
able to experience life as the people of that
country. I want it to be extremely educational, fun, and exciting!”
Recently, Nikia was named a runnerup in the Turks and Caicos Miss Earth
Pageant and shares this photo from the
competition. “Being the tomboy I am,
I didn’t win the crown, but did have an
absolute blast!”
GRAND CAYMAN – Tarifa Isidora Eden
’07 is now office manager for Harney
Westwood & Riegels, an international
offshore law firm with offices in the
British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, London, Hong Kong, and Cayman Islands.
Previously, she was a senior administrator in investment support services for a
financial institution in the Caymans.
Isidora is currently enrolled at the
International College of the Cayman
Islands pursuing a Master of Science in
Management with a concentration in
Human Resources. She’s also working
on her first book of poetry scheduled for
publication in 2010.
She encourages students to work hard
while enjoying this time and making
the most of their college experience. “I
have many wonderful, fond memories of
Saint Leo—the professors, hard work,
friends, laughs, tears, and frustration. It
was all worth it. I wish I could do it all
over again!”
/// Quick Updates
TAMPA, FL – Florida native Carlos
Bueno ’04 thinks, dreams, and lives
fishing.
Carlos combined his true passion and
business acumen in the launch of his
charter company, Bueno Fishing, and
says he loves to “create memories” for
clients as they fish the salt waters off
Tampa Bay and the West Central Florida
coast.
“Fishing is all about experience and attitude,” he shares.
14
The newsletter of the Saint Leo University School of Business
DUNEDIN, FL – Joshua Choate ’08 was
recently promoted to roving assistant
administrator for three of Traditions
Management’s senior living and rehabilitation centers in St. Petersburg and
Trinity, FL.
“Josh has done an excellent job for the
organization,” says Gerard Dahill, vice
president of operations at Traditions’
corporate headquarters.
DELAND, FL – Jordan Hazzard ’07 is the
assistant branch manager for Enterprise
Rent-A-Car in Deland, FL, with a service
territory that includes the main office
and two satellite locations.
Jordan was recently “in the area” and
made a quick stop by the main campus.
In the photo, he’s seen catching up with
his former advisor and professor, Dr.
Stan McGahey.
TAMPA, FL – Jason
Layton ’99, ’03 just
completed his 11th
season with the NFL’s
Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As senior
director of sales and
finance, he oversees
the day-to-day operations of finance,
purchasing, customer service, ticketing,
and sales for the Buccaneer organization.
S p r i n g 2 010
Jason was recently appointed to the
Sport Business Advisory Board for
the School of Business at Saint Leo
University. He also represents the
Buccaneers as a member of the Board
of Directors for the Tampa Bay Sports
Commission and previously served
on the Executive Committee for the
Tampa Bay Super Bowl Host Committee for Super Bowl XLIII.
Jason and his wife, Laura, live in Land
O’ Lakes, FL, with their two sons.
FORT MYERS, FL – Toni Recca ’09
enjoys her work with the Recreation
Division, planning and coordinating
events for the City of Fort Myers, FL.
She plans to enroll in the graduate
program at Florida Gulf Coast University and looks forward to starting
coursework this term.
/// Out & About
NEW YORK, NY – Dr. Michael Nastanski, dean of the School of Business,
was a recent guest and speaker at the
New York Alumni Networking Group
in October.
More than 40 alumni gathered for
cocktails and conversation with the
dean at The China Club in New York
City. Hosted by Tim Gleason ’74, general manager of the trendy nightspot, the
evening brought together Saint
Leo College Prep, Saint Leo College,
and more recent graduates of
Saint Leo University.
/// Did You Hear?
Stephen Kubasek ’08
District Executive,
Boy Scouts of America
“I grew up in a family that placed a high
importance on the values
of our Catholic faith. When I first arrived
at Saint Leo, it was refreshing to see the
university was not only Catholic in name,
but in practice. The university defines its
core values as Benedictine in origin. In
truth, they transcend a specific religion.
They are values people of all backgrounds
and faiths can relate to, and learn from.”
Jessica Garrett ’08
HR Specialist, James A. Haley
Veteran’s Hospital
“Saint Leo’s School of Business offered me
the opportunity of a lifetime. Enrolling in
the Online MBA Program allowed me to
continue my education while working fulltime in the community. My professors
were always available for discussion and
shared relevant, real-life experience.”
Lucas Trainer ’09
Fellow, Jesse Ball duPont
Foundation
“The CIS degree program was one of the top
reasons I came to this university. I knew
it would provide an excellent foundation
of business knowledge, combined with a
practical set of skills that would be useful
for any career. I also knew I wanted to
be a part of the sense of ‘community’ that
exemplifies the Saint Leo experience.
I’m extremely grateful to the professors
and mentors I had in my program. Their
influence extended far beyond the classroom, as they were fully committed to
help me prepare for the challenges ahead.”
It’s always fun in Le± Land!
Join fellow alumni, students, faculty, and staff for a full slate of activities –
featuring great food, lively entertainment, athletic games, and most important,
your classmates and friends - during Homecoming 2010 Weekend.
Alumni from class years ending in 0 or 5 will be celebrating their milestone
reunions. See you at the main campus, April 8-11, 2010!
For a complete listing of activities, visit www.saintleo.edu/homecoming
2010; contact Alumni Relations at (352) 588-8667; or e-mail
[email protected].
Pictured with young New Yorkers are VP David
Ostrander, second from the left; Tim Gleason ’74,
middle row center; Dean Nastanski, far right.
www.saintleo.edu/business
15
School of Business
University Campus - MC 2067
P.O. Box 6665
Saint Leo, FL 33574-6665
School of Business––University Campus Calendar
APRIL
Friday, April 2
APRIL (continued)
Thursday-Tuesday, April 22-27
Thursday-Saturday, April 8-11
Wednesday-Friday, April 28-30
Thursday, April 15
Friday, April 30
Friday, April 16
MAY
Saturday, May 1
• Good Friday / No Classes
• Homecoming / Alumni Weekend
• Academic Excellence Day
• Business Plan Competition Finals
• Honor Society Inductions
Wednesday, April 21
• Last Day of Regular Class Schedule
• Final Exam Schedule
• Senior Days
• Baccalaureate Mass
• Commencement