Northwood launches endowed professorships in leadership, finance, analytics

Northwood University is proud to announce the establishment of three new endowed professorships focusing on leadership, finance, and analytics. These prestigious positions aim to enhance the university’s academic framework and prepare students for success in crucial sectors of a free-enterprise society. With the appointment of distinguished educators to these roles, Northwood is set to strengthen its commitment to excellence in education and research. The newly appointed faculty members include Dr. Brett M. Decker as the Endowed Chair of Leadership, Professor Brian Rang as the Allan W. Ott Endowed Chair of Finance & Community Banking, and Professor Brian Clark as the Endowed Chair of Analytics.

Elevating Academic Standards with Endowed Professorships

Endowed professorships represent one of the highest honors within academic institutions, funded through significant philanthropic contributions. These positions provide universities with essential resources that enable them to recruit exceptional faculty members, advance teaching methodologies, support research initiatives, and enrich educational programs for future generations.

“These endowed positions signify a long-term investment in our students and faculty,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “By uniting innovative expertise in leadership, finance, and analytics, Northwood enhances its commitment to preparing graduates who can thrive in areas vital for societal prosperity.” He emphasized that these professorships reflect the vision and generosity of donors who recognize the transformative power of a Northwood education in promoting liberty and individual responsibility.

Meet Dr. Brett M. Decker: A Leader in Leadership Education

Dr. Brett M. Decker takes on the role of Endowed Chair of Leadership after serving at Defiance College as a tenured professor and director of their MBA program. He has also held an adjunct position at Johns Hopkins University.

A New York Times bestselling author with contributions to major publications including The Wall Street Journal and USA Today, Dr. Decker brings extensive experience from both governmental and private sectors into his teaching approach.

In his new role at Northwood, he aims to refine the leadership curriculum while mentoring students through research initiatives that foster principled leadership skills necessary for making positive societal impacts.

“In an era where ethical leadership is essential,” Dr. Decker noted, “Northwood’s dedication to nurturing responsible leaders stands out.” His vision includes equipping students with essential skills needed for effective organizational leadership.

The Importance of Ethical Leadership

The focus on ethical leadership is particularly relevant today as organizations increasingly seek leaders who not only understand financial outcomes but also prioritize integrity and social responsibility.

Professor Brian Rang: Championing Finance & Community Banking

A proud alumnus of Northwood University himself, Professor Brian Rang has been appointed as the Allan W. Ott Endowed Chair of Finance & Community Banking. As an Associate Professor within the finance department at Northwood, he combines practical experience with a commitment to mentoring future finance professionals.

Rang leads Northwood’s Finance program while actively advising student organizations like the Finance Association and Future Financial Advisors Association—guiding students participating in competitions such as the RMA Commercial Lending Challenge.

“Northwood transformed my life during my time here,” said Rang. “Now I have the honor to help shape aspiring finance professionals.” He recognizes this new position as an opportunity not just for personal development but also for expanding student connections with industry leaders—an essential component for understanding community banking’s role in economic growth.

Cultivating Connections Between Students and Industry Leaders

The Allan W. Ott Endowed Chair facilitates greater collaboration between academia and industry by encouraging experiential learning opportunities that allow students exposure to real-world financial environments.

Professor Brian Clark: Pioneering Analytics Education

Stepping into his role as Endowed Chair of Analytics is Professor Brian Clark—a seasoned educator who has taught statistics since 2015 at Northwood while enjoying a successful career spanning over three decades at The Dow Chemical Company.

Dedicating his career to advanced statistical modeling processes, data visualization techniques, and applied analytics within research contexts positions Clark uniquely among educators today as industries increasingly rely on analytics-driven decision-making processes.

The Growing Significance of Data-Driven Decision Making

“Analytics is revolutionizing industries across all sectors,” expressed Clark upon his appointment. “I’m eager to engage with students on transforming data into actionable insights.” This proactive approach emphasizes solving complex problems through innovation—skills highly sought after by employers today.

The Impact on Education: Strengthening Industry Ties Through Faculty Excellence

The introduction of these endowed professorships not only enhances Northwood University’s educational offerings but also strengthens its connection with key industries—as highlighted by Kristin Stehouwer, Academic Vice President & Provost:

“These roles empower us not only to attract talented faculty members but also allow those professors real-world experiences that enhance our curriculum.”

This strategic focus ensures that programs remain relevant amidst rapid changes occurring globally in areas such as finance or analytics where technological advancement drives innovation forward.

A Lasting Legacy Through Philanthropy

The establishment of these endowed positions aligns seamlessly with Northwood’s ongoing fundraising campaign titled When We Are Free—which prioritizes creating scholarships alongside advancing faculty excellence through such initiatives like endowed professorships according Murray Kyte,Vice President Of Advancement:

“Endowed professorships create enduring legacies that elevate both our academic programs’ capabilities while simultaneously impacting respective industries we serve.”

Your Opportunity To Support Excellence In Education At Northwood University

If you would like more information about supporting endowed professorships or learning how you can contribute towards furthering this mission at Northwood University visit northwood.edu/whenwearefree.

A Future Focused On Liberty And Individual Responsibility Awaits!

This remarkable initiative represents just one step forward toward ensuring each graduate leaves equipped not only academically prepared but also ready—to make significant contributions towards nurturing free enterprise within society—all thanks largely due philanthropy reflecting values fundamental underpinning education offered here.\n”}

\n\n”}