The MBA-AB enriches MBA experience for students through engagement with the leadership of the program (both administration and faculty), MBA student teams working on commercial projects, and the individual students themselves. The Board helps to facilitate the continual improvement of the program toward meeting the ever-changing needs of regional and local industry.
Objectives
1. The MBA-AB provides advice and recommendations to the MBA Administration and faculty on a broad spectrum of business topics and issues including:
- Regional demand and opportunities for MBA graduates and interns
- Needed skills and training for the employment of MBA graduates
- Current business practices of regional employers
- Recent trends and conditions in regional industries
2. The MBA-AB will provide resource and engagement opportunities for MBA students and faculty in areas including:
- Tours and visits to regional business sites
- Speakers in special areas of expertise not otherwise available
- Facilitation of MBA internships and project opportunities
- Contacts and relationship networking for employment opportunities
The MBA Advisory Board first met in September 2011. During the 2011-2012 academic year, the board met a total of four times and was integral in providing input, suggestions, and feedback on the MBA curriculum review process.
MBA Advisory Board members 2011-2012 (listed alphabetically):
- Dr. Tony Baldwin - Superintendent, Buncombe County Schools
- Laura Ernst, MBA - Academic Advisor, Western Carolina University (WCU MBA alumna)
- Tim Gwennap - Plant Manager (retired), Wilsonart
- Dr. Inhyuck “Steve” Ha - Director, MBA Program, MBA-AB ex officio
- Neal Hanks - CEO, Beverly-Hanks
- Debbie Harris - Owner, Party Boulevard in Arden, NC (WCU alumna)
- Lyle Johnson - Vice President of Finance, Biltmore Farms
- John Locke – Director of Philanthropic Initiatives, Mission Healthcare Foundation (MBA candidate)
- Bill Murdock - CEO, Eblen Charities
- Tina Vaitkus – Manager, Talent Development & Compensation, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino & Hotel
- Dr. Ed Wright – Professor, Global Management and Strategy, MBA-AB chair
Advisory Board Meetings
The next MBA Advisory Board meeting is September 24, 2012.