Kelly Wilkinson has been named dean of IU East’s School of Business and Economics.
Wilkinson was appointed as the school’s new dean after a thorough search by the Dean of Business Search Committee, led by the Committee Chair and dean of the School of Education, Jerry Wilde.
Wilkinson earned her Ph.D. in Business Education and Information Science. She earned her master’s in business education and bachelor’s in accounting from Arkansas State University.
She served on the faculty of Indiana State University (2003) and was named the director of the Center for Instruction, Research, and Technology in 2008. In 2014, she was named the chair of the Department of Management, Information Systems, and Business Education and associate Dean in 2016.
Wilkinson comes to IU East after serving at the William College of Business Administration at Youngstown State University in Youngstown, Ohio.
“Dr. Wilkinson’s academic contributions are extensive and diverse,” Chancellor Rome said in his welcome message. “Her vitae is adorned with a series of published academic articles and book chapters, regional and national scholarly presentations, and a rich portfolio of university, community, and professional leadership activities and awards.”
With many years of experience and dedication to her field, Wilkinson understands the significance of her role as dean.
“The impact of the regional university is so vital, not just for the students, but for the community as well,” Wilkinson said. “My goal is to engage with all stakeholders in the region to work together for student success and community success. As an academic leader and as a scholar, we look at the metrics to define success, but we tell the stories to show the impact. That is my job for IU East.”
On a personal level, Wilkinson appreciates the opportunities that come from calling Richmond home. “There is no better place to raise a family than in a town with a college campus,” she explained. Additionally, she plans to make sure “that the community understands that we are also here to serve them in a variety of ways.”
Wilkinson said that her goal in her new position as dean “is to continue the great work of the faculty and staff in earning AACSB accreditation. It sets the standard for everything we do including societal impact. We will continue to focus on what the business environment needs from our students, and address how we provide the knowledge, skills, and behaviors.”
Her vision toward student achievement at IU East focuses on supporting students through professional and personable communication. When questions arise about student preparation, Wilkinson envisions IU East’s School of Business and Economics having the go-to answers.
She believes the best way to positively impact student achievement is “by being relevant” and by “understanding that students and their families expect nothing less than our best to prepare students for their careers and our society.”
Ultimately, Wilkinson values strategic planning that provides the campus with direction and discernment that will help the community thrive.