JMU - News Archive 2010
News Archive 2010
Fall 2010
CoB Student Group Highlights Value of Diversity
Dec. 6, 2010
MGT 472 Venture Creation hosts end-of-the-semester competition
The Center for Entrepreneurship invites you to join the entrepreneurial journey! The Fall 2010 MGT 472 Venture Creation Class will present their business plans. The competition will be held Tuesday, December 14th from 3:15 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. in Taylor 306.
MGT 472, Venture Creation, is a project-based class designed for all majors to explore start-up and early stage business ventures by collaborating with experienced entrepreneurs, working with other students in high performance teams and creating a viable business that can be started after graduation.
Dec. 4, 2010
COB Student Diversity Council hosts Career Launch
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On November 29th, students spent the evening with representatives fromDeloitte, the largest professional services firm in the world, to learn about what it takes to launch a career.
The second half of the evening included team-building activities facilitated by the COB Student Diversity Council. These included two fun activities that allowed students to work as a team to find creative solutions. These activities presented concepts and challenges relevant to working on a team in today's business world. Over 30 students were in attendance.
The newly formed Student Diversity Council aims to promote general awareness and understanding of the increasing importance of diversity in the business world. The council seeks ways to develop and enhance diversity within the College of Business by planning events and programs that attract under-represented students through education about career opportunities and collaboration with other CoB organizations.
For more information about the COB Student Diversity Council contact jmucob.diversity@gmail.com
Dec. 1, 2010
CoB Students, Faculty, and Staff Donate to Community
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Students, faculty, and staff carry down goods from the 3rd floor . Four cars carried donations over to the drop-off location. |
On the Friday before Thanksgiving Break, over 2,500 non-perishable items overflowed from Showker 345. For two weeks, College of Business students, faculty, and staff worked together to collect food for local Harrisonburg families. All items were donated to The 2nd Annual Brent Berry Salvation Army Food Drive.
Charles Baril, an accounting professor and the main organizer of the CoB food drive, started the program with his accounting classes over four years ago to support the Boys and Girls club. Last year, the CoB Diversity Council decided to help sponsor the program by asking their classes to participate. Each professor on the council offered an extra credit opportunity to students who donated. Baril says “the requirement is that all members must all give extra credit for food donations, but their students always go well beyond the minimum requirement”. Beta alpha psi, the CoB diversity council, and student diversity council were among the many participants of this year's food drive.
“They have a lot of fun with the program, they realize that giving is fun and sharing with others who do not have enough is a worthwhile experience. They bring in more to be a part of the effort” says Baril.
The food drive began Nov. 19th and will last through Dec. 17th. The campaigned kicked-off with a 3-day campaign collecting goods with two Transit buses located outside of Best Buy. During the 3-day campaign, donations from the CoB and the local community collected enough food to feed almost 700 families.
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Professor Chuck Baril (on the far left) poses with students and faculty at the Best Buy drop-off location. |
“This sort of program reminds students that there is real community and that they can contribute building a sense of community responsibility” says Baril.
The 2nd Annual Brent Berry Salvation Army Food Drive was started by Brent Berry, a middle schooler with special needs, for the Salvation Army. Last year's food drive raised enough donations to feed local families for three months and this year they hope to double the supplies they raised last year.
For more pictures, visit our Facebook event album.
Nov. 30, 2010
College of Business to host open house for prospective students
Please join us for our Open House on Saturday, December 4, 2010. This program is a great opportunity for you to hear about our college and academic programs, and to speak to faculty and students about the CoB experience.
Below is the current schedule of activities for the College of Business program on December 4th:
| 8:00 – 8:30 a.m. | Open House Check-In | Festival Conference and Student Center |
| 8:30 – 8:50 a.m. | Shuttle Ride | Festival to Chandler Bus Stop |
| 9:00 – 9:40 a.m. | College of Business Overview | Showker 105 and G5 |
| 10:00 – 10:40 a.m. |
College of Business Overview or College of Business Academic Programs |
College of Business (Showker 105 and G5) Accounting (Showker 107) Computer Information Systems (Showker G2) Economics (Showker 102) Finance/Quantitative Finance (Showker 106) International Business (Showker 101) Management (Showker G7) Marketing (Showker G6) |
| 11:00 – 11:40 a.m. | College of Business Academic Programs |
Accounting (Showker 107) Computer Information Systems (Showker G2) Economics (Showker 102) Finance/Quantitative Finance (Showker 106) International Business (Showker 101) Management (Showker G7) Marketing (Showker G6) |
JMU team finishes third in Goodman Accounting Challenge
A James Madison University team finished third in the ninth annual Goodman Accounting Challenge (GAC). The team--Monika Dever, Alex Volta, James Weisner, and Jessica Soodak--competed in a series of six-hour tests in a pre-qualifying challenge to place third in The Final Challenge. This year, three JMU teams competed in the challenge and were supervised by John Briggs, associate professor of accounting.
GAC is an interactive and educational competition in which teams of four students research and present written solutions to a test that simulates real-life accounting situations. The final competition was held at Goodman & Company's Richmond office on November 5-7th, 2010. For more info on this year's winners, see the GAC winners page. For pictures of this year's winning team, check out the GAC facebook page.
Nov. 16, 2010
JMU ranks 4th in the nation for CPA exam pass rates
James Madison University ranked among the top 25 highest ranking schools with the highest CPA exam passing rates with respect to candidates with advanced degrees. JMU also ranked 6th in the country in the number of first time candidates with advanced degrees following the University of Texas.
This year, JMU did not make the top 25 of candidates “without advanced degrees”. Since Virginia now permits registration before completing all 150 credits, beginning in 2010 most of JMU students will register in the “without” category.
The list comes from the National Association of State Board of Accountancy (NASBA), grading JMU students among all candidates with advanced degrees. Two other Virginia schools made the top 25: Virginia Tech at number 1 and the University of Virginia at number 5. Of all eligible institutions, Virginia Tech had the highest passing rate at 90.00 percent.
Nov. 15, 2010
CoB Diversity Council hosts Thanksgiving Food Drive
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| 2009 Food Drive |
The CoB's Diversity Council is sponsoring a Thanksgiving Food Drive to support the Boys and Girls Club’s effort to feed needy families in our community. To help make their Thanksgiving dinners truly something for which to be thankful, the local Boys and Girls Club is collecting and distributing baskets of food to 900 different families. The CoB Diversity Council is asking students to help reach this year's goal of a 200 non-perishable item donation to the local Boys and Girls Club. Stop by ZSH 345 with your non-perishable goods by Friday, Nov. 19, 2010.
Last year, business faculty and students worked with the Boys and Girls club to support local families by donating canned vegetables, stuffing, desserts and other items that would supplement a turkey dinner. The business school’s Diversity Council sponsored the initiative, with the help of more than 700 students, the council donated approximately 2500 items to the Boys and Girls club.
Oct. 21, 2010
Scott Gallagher selected for the 2010-2011 Madison Scholar award
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Scott Gallagher, department head and associate professor of management, was selected for the 2010-2011 Madison Scholar award. He will deliver a talk, "What is the 19th century typewriter doing in my 21st century smartphone?" for College of Business (CoB) Madison Scholar Lecture Series on Nov. 3, 2010. 4p.m. in ZSH 106. Gallagher's presentation will examine network effects, path dependence, and why history matters in business. Examples are drawn from historical and modern day businesses. Recommendations are made for aspiring entreprenuers, consumers, and managers when confronting these markets.
Gallagher has a Ph.D. from the Rutgers University, School of Management, Organization Management; a Masters in Public Policy, Harvard University, J.F.K. School of Government; and a B.B.A. University of Texas-Austin, College of Business Administration. He was voted by students as the CoB Outstanding Professor 2009 and earned the CoB Distinguished Professor in 2008. His research and professional interests include strategic management, and technology and innovation.
Recipients for the Madison Scholar award are judged on their demonstration of excellence and scholarly achievement in their discipline. Professors are nominated by their colleagues, and then selected to represent each of James Madison University's six colleges.
For more pictures, look on our Facebook fan page!
Oct. 18, 2010
JMU offers first virtual conference in Second Life (SL)
"Beyond Facebook – A Virtual Conference in SL Featuring Trends in Hospitality"
October 29, 2010
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Don’t miss this one! Be one of the first to experience a virtual conference without leaving the convenience of your home or office! Mark your calendar for James Madison University’s first virtual conference from JMU’s new School of Hospitality, Sport and Recreation Management (HSRM). Guest speakers will talk about the importance of forming a new school and focus on hospitality trends in the industry, as well as teaching in a virtual campus.
The conference will be held on JMU’s virtual campus, in Second Life (visit www.secondlife.com to join SL free), in Wilson Hall.
The demand for on-line classes has increased over the past several years, and this conference includes a session about the future of teaching in a virtual classroom. Imagine teaching classes in Second Life and never leaving your office, or attending a conference in Europe without the expense of flying or hotel accommodations. Second Life can provide the tool for using our latest educational technology and can engage and motivated your audience from all over the globe. Be one of the first to attend and experience the convenience of a virtual conference.
Entertainment intermission includes an educational presentation and performance by a virtual Geisha dancer. Several artists are featured in the virtual Cultural Arts Museum. One of the artists will give a talk about her work at 1 p.m.
For more information visit http://www.jmu.edu/cob/htm/Conference.shtml
RSVP at Facebook.com/HSRM
Schedule of Events
9:00-9:30 a.m. - Dr. Michael O’Fallon – The new HSRM Curriculum
- • History of the hospitality program at JMU
- • Forming a new school
- • Creating new curriculum and BS Program in HSRM
9:30-10:00 a.m. - Mrs. Taricia (Tassie) Pippert – Organic Trends in Food Preparation
- • From WVPT’s “Cooking with Tassie”
- • From the Farmers Market to the dining table
10:00-10:30 a.m. - Entertainment
- • Educational presentation and Geisha dance
10:30-11:00 a.m. - Dr. Robert Reid – Overview of New School of HSRM
- • Past, present & future of the hospitality industry
11:00-11:30 a.m. - Dr. Reginald Foucar-Szocki – JMU Theme Dinners Over the Years
- • Historical Perspective on experiential learning in hospitality
11:30 – 12 noon - Ms. Toni Mehling
- • Using SL in today’s classroom
12:00-12:30 p.m. - Ms. Toni Mehling
- • Virtual tour of the JMU Campus.
12:30-1:00 p.m. - Dr. Kathryn (Kate) Stevens
- • Virtual tour of the Cultural Arts Museum on the JMU campus.
1:00-2:00 p.m. - Art Exhibition in the Cultural Arts Museum
- • Various artists will display their artwork
For more information concerning the conference, contact Marsha Shenk at shenkmm@jmu.edu or Toni Mehling at mehlintd@jmu.edu or visit www.http:\\jmu.edu/cob/htm/Conference.shtml
Oct. 6, 2010
Young Entrepreneurs Speaker Series Schedule Announced
Adam McFarland, Co-founder (Pure Adapt, Inc.)Friday 10/22, 2:30pm, Showker 106, 50 Minutes
Adam will be talking about his experiences with starting, operating, and growing web companies that currently gross more than $500k a year in revenue. Adam co-founded Pure Adapt, Inc. which designs, develops, markets, and operates e-commerce stores and other websites in an array of industries. Their customer-first focus, web marketing expertise, and efficient business processes have enabled them to become industry leaders across their niches in just a few short years. Among Pure Adapt's company portfolio is Detailed Image, which offers high-end auto detailing and car cleaning products, tutorials, and community. Visit http://www.detailedimage.com/. To learn more about Adam, visit his blog at Musings of a Balding 28 Year Old Entrepreneur at http://www.adam-mcfarland.net/.
Judd Rattner, Founder and CEO (Intellidemia, Inc.) Wednesday 10/27, 2:30pm, Showker 106, 50 Minutes.
Judd will be talking about his experiences founding his company, Intellidemia, while still a college student. Intellidemia provides information solutions to academic institutions so that they can focus on what they do best: educating. Intellidemia develops information technology solutions for higher education to help institutions meet compliance standards, enhance collaborative interactions, and electronically standardize workflow. Our centralized online syllabus platform, Concourse™, organizes, shares, and analyzes course information with a new paradigm. Through a “living syllabus”, the Concourse solution streamlines campus processes including course development, accreditation and compliance, academic advising, and transfer evaluation. Visit:http://www.intellidemia.com/home/index.php
Sponsored by the JMU CoB Center for Entrepreneurship
Oct. 4, 2010
2nd Annual Bike-a-thon on the Commons in Memory of Former CoB Student
Pi Kappa Phi, to host Chris’ Ride, 2nd annual 24 hour bike-a-thon. All proceeds go to Push America; donations are tax deductible. The event is held in honor of Christoper Thomas Gascoigne, former business major, and lifelong resident of Oakton, VA who passed away on Friday, May 22, 2009.
Annual Chris's Ride benefiting Push America October 6-7, 2010 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. (24 hours) The Commons, James Madison UniversityLast fall, the event raised $2,500 for Push America. This year's goal is to raise $10,000 in memory of Chris. Push America strives to impact the live of people with disabilities both in the Harrisonburg area and across the country.
Sept. 9, 2010
Business School to Sponsor Best Selling Author at JMU
Best-selling author Nassim Taleb will visit JMU Friday, Sept. 17 at 3:30 p.m. in Grafton-Stovall Theatre to deliver the second JIN Lecture in Political Economy for the College of Business: “Towards Black Swan-Proofing Society.”
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Nassim Taleb |
Taleb is author of The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable, a book that spent 40 weeks on the New York Times Best-Seller list, 78 weeks on the NYT extended list, and two years on the BusinessWeek list. It has been published in 32 languages and is acclaimed as one of the most influential books of the last several decades. It was the highest selling nonfiction book published in 2007. The paperback edition, released in May 2010, includes an additional 100 pages.
The book criticizes financial analysts who make predictions based on the repetition of past events. Instead, he promotes the idea of the black swan, explaining that important events are rare and unpredictable.
Taleb is the Distinguished Professor of Risk Engineering at the Polytechnic Institute of New York University and a Distinguished Research Scholar at the Saïd Business School of Oxford University. Before beginning his career as a writer and professor, Taleb spent over 20 years as a Wall Street trader. He currently serves as the principal/senior scientific advisor for Universa Investments.
Taleb received his bachelor's and master's degrees in science from the University of Paris and holds a master's of business administration degree from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Taleb holds a doctorate in management science from the University of Paris-Dauphine.
Economics Professor in the CoB J. Barkley Rosser Jr. invited Taleb to speak at JMU. Taleb favorably mentions Rosser in the paperback edition of "The Black Swan."
The JMU presentation is sponsored by the College of Business through a grant from the JIN Lectures in Political Economy.
RSVP for this event by visiting the CoB Facebook fan page. 
Sept. 7, 2010
Senator Mark Warner to Speak at JMU
Senator Mark Warner will visit JMU on Wednesday, Sept. 8. He will meet with university administrators and offer an open forum with students. Among the topics he will discuss are commerce and banking reform. The student program begins a 9:45 a.m. in the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts Recital Hall.
Sept. 6, 2010
Faculty Research Reaps Rewards for Writer and Reader
What proficiencies do students develop while studying abroad? What impact does product assortment have on how a customer evaluates purchase risk and attractiveness? How can international investors identify opportunities for investing in small and medium businesses in China?
CoB’s 2010 Faculty Publication Awards recognize publications by our faculty that answer these questions. The CoB recognizes outstanding publication achievements based on previous three years of publication.
Best Educational Publication:
Irvine Clarke, III, Theresa B. Flaherty, Robert M. McMillen, and Newell D. Wright
“Student Intercultural Proficiency from Study Abroad Programs,” Journal of Marketing Education, Vol. 31, No. 2, 173-181
The article represents the work, begun in 2005, of four JMU faculty members in their exploration of precisely how our students develop during a semester of studying abroad. The article is innovative in that it empirically establishes some of the areas of interpersonal development achieved during a study abroad experience. Heretofore, studies have reported broad student “transformations” without establishing the specific intercultural proficiencies that may advance while students study abroad.
Since its publication in August 2009, “Student Intercultural Proficiency from Study Abroad Programs” has consistently been one of the top-three, as computed monthly by Sage Publications, “most frequently read” articles in the Journal of Marketing Education (http://jmd.sagepub.com/reports/mfr1.dtl). The manuscript is also currently under consideration for Outstanding Journal of Marketing Education Article of 2009.
The Journal of Marketing Education is the top-rated education journal in the marketing discipline and is considered the “most influential journal in the field of marketing education” (Baumgartner and Pieters 2003, Journal of Marketing, April: 123-139).
Best Academic Publication:
D. Eric Boyd and Kenneth D. Bahn
"When Do Large Product Assortments Benefit Consumers? An Information-Processing Perspective,” Journal of Retailing (3, 2009) 288-297
The research examines the impact of product assortment breadth provided in re tail stores on customer’s evaluations of purchase risk and attractiveness. The study draws on the literature related to the Heuristic-Systematic Model (HSM) of information processing and the literature related to optimal stimulation level (OSL) in testing for the presence of two possible processing benefits provided by large assortments. To test their hypothesis, Drs. Boyd and Bahn presented two separate experimental studies. Their findings provide excellent implications not only for the retailing researchers but also for the retail managers.
The Journal of Retailing is one of the “premiere” journals in the marketing discipline. It is not only the oldest academic journal in all business disciplines, but also one of the most highly regarded ones.
Best Practitioner Publication:
“Financing Alternatives for Chinese Small and Medium Enterprises: The Case for a Small and Medium Enterprise Stock Market,” China and World Economy, Volume 15 (2007), Issue 1: 26-42.
This paper examines financing alternatives for small and medium enterprises in China. This study analyzes recent policy changes and the development of China’s Nasdaq-type stock market and the extensive network of regional assets and equity exchanges, which are playing an increasingly important role in the financing activities of private businesses.
The discussions and analyses in this paper help private entrepreneurs understand new financing opportunities in China, and allow international investors to identify investment opportunities in listed and non-listed private businesses in this fast-growing economy.
A slightly modified version of this paper also appeared as a chapter in the book “China’s Capital Markets: Challenges from WTO Membership” (ISBN: 9781845426569) published by Edward Elgar Publishing. The book became very popular among practitioners and academicians who are interested in China’s financial markets and system, as it was named the “Book of the Month” by Edward Elgar Publishing soon after it was published.
Sept. 2, 2010
MBA Students Make Cancer Center Donation in Honor of Bierly
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| MBA student Peter Dinbigh presents check to Dr. Paul Bierly. |
The first cohort of the Innovation Master of Business Administration (iMBA) at James Madison University (JMU) donated a check for $1,060 in honor of Dr. Paul Bierly III, professor and former director of the JMU MBA program. The students in the iMBA cohort collected the funds and wrote the check to the Johns Hopkins University Kimmel Cancer Center, where Dr. Bierly has received treatments for cancer.
MBA student Peter Denbigh presented the check to Bierly on behalf of the students at the start of Bierly's Wednesday evening class. “It is people like Dr. Paul Bierly that make JMU such a great university. He was instrumental in establishing the new iMBA program at JMU and continues to share his expertise and openness to improve the program,” Denbigh said.
Denibigh said when the cohort learned of Bierly’s medical challenges, the group wanted to do something to support him. Bierly is undergoing clinical trials at Johns Hopkins University, so the group approached him with the idea of making a donation to Johns Hopkins in his honor, and Bierly welcomed the idea.
“JMU is about ‘Being the Change’ and ‘All Together One,’ and our cohort wanted to embrace this vision and value. We are a big family at JMU, and the willingness and generosity of the MBA cohort further confirms how special the JMU family is,” Denbigh said.
The goal of the iMBA program in the College of Business at JMU is to produce managers that will excel at LEADING THROUGH INNOVATION WITH TECHNOLOGY AND PEOPLE
Aug. 30, 2010
Professor Kruck rallies community in support of a cure for breast cancer
Dr. Susan Kruck, associate professor of computer information systems and management science, has often been recognized for her contributions to teaching and to her students. For the past four years she has used her time and talents to make a difference in the Harrisonburg community as well.
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Left, Merv Webb, vice president, RMH Foundation; Tracey Gentry, manager, Hahn Cancer Center; Susan Kruck, president, Friends of Valley Charities; and members Jan Tishok and Diana Lambert. |
Kruck organizes Rally for the Cure, a golf tournament with proceeds benefiting national health research and the local community. This year the tournament brought out 41 players on July 19 at Lakeview Golf Club.
"I wanted to give back to the community. My father is a two-time breast cancer survivor, which started me with supporting breast cancer causes," said Kruck.
Her first tournament in 2006 supported Rockingham Memorial Hospital's Regional Cancer Center. Over the years the tournament's proceeds have benefited various causes, including women's heart health and the Susan G. Komen Rally for the Cure.
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Kruck plans the tournament so that the participants have a good time while raising money for a great cause. Pink ribbons surrounded golfers, prizes were awarded for longest and shortest drive, and there was a "swim club" hole that had all golfers hit into the water.
The biggest testament to Kruck's success is the amount of money she has raised. The first year proceeds totaled $300. On Aug. 25, Kruck presented a check for $3,900 to the Rockingham Memorial Hospital's Hahn Cancer Center. An additional check for $820 was mailed to the Virginia chapter of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation in early August.
At the check presentation ceremony Kruck said, "It felt great to be able to make a donation that will help others in our community."
For Susan Kruck's JMU "Be the Change" profile, visit: http://www.jmu.edu/bethechange/people/kruck.shtml
Aug. 5, 2010
Beta Gamma Sigma elects Robert Reid BGS Board of Governors President
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Beta Gamma Sigma, the international honor society, recently announced the election of Robert Reid to President of the Beta Gamma Sigma (BGS) Board of Governors. Reid is the dean of the College of Business at James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Va.
As President of Beta Gamma Sigma’s governing body, Reid will oversee the Beta Gamma Sigma mission to encourage and honor academic achievement in the study of business, to foster personal and professional excellence, to advance the values of the Society and to serve its lifelong members. His two-year term began on July 1.
The JMU chapter was named a Premier Chapter for the 2009-10 academic year. To be named a Premier chapter, at least 85 percent of all those qualifying for membership at both the graduate and undergraduate level must have accepted the invitation to become lifetime members of BGS. This significant achievement indicates that JMU places a high value on scholarship recognition.
About Beta Gamma Sigma
Beta Gamma Sigma is the international honor society serving business programs accredited by AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Membership in Beta Gamma Sigma is the highest recognition a business student anywhere in the world can receive in a business program accredited by AACSB International.
Beta Gamma Sigma has established 498 collegiate chapters in 20 countries and territories around the world, and inducted more than 625,000 outstanding students into membership since its founding in 1913. These members have served in corporate, government, non-profit, educational, and other management positions at every level of responsibility. Members currently reside in all 50 U.S. states and more than 160 countries around the world. For more information, visit www.betagammasigma.org.
For more information, contact Toni Mehling, JMU College of Business Director of Communications: mehlintd@jmu.edu or Seth Treptow at BGS: streptow@betagammasigma.org
June 22, 2010
They're Back: JMU’s College of Business hosts CyberCity
Designing biometric security systems; programming secure code; installing secure wireless networks; ethical Web design. Sound like a conference for high level IT personnel?
How about a summer camp for ninth and tenth-graders and their teachers? And it’s FREE!
CyberCity is James Madison University’s award-winning, hands-on laboratory-based computer technology program catering to students and teachers seeking to explore today's world of cutting edge technology. The program is by invitation only, and it is designed to offer a top quality technical experience to students who wouldn’t normally get the opportunity to delve into the high security world of computers. The program targets kids who are under-represented; kids who may not consider college or a career in technology as a real possibility due to economic or family situations.
“We identify students who would benefit, but would not have this type of opportunity. Beyond this program, we cultivate an interest and relationship to encourage them to go to college and ultimately pursue a career in technology,” said Thomas Dillon, professor of CIS & MS in JMU’s College of Business.
Three professors from the Computer Information Systems & Management Science program in JMU’s College of Business, Thomas Dillon, Harry Reif and Daphyne Saunders Thomas, created CyberCity in 2007. JMU’s CIS & MS program is ABET accredited.
During the four-day stay on campus, CyberCity attendees will gain first-hand experiences of college life at JMU by
- dining in D-Hall
- meeting with JMU faculty, staff, and alumni
- learning about college admissions
- discussing careers in business and technology
- talking to current students about college life
- touring campus
The camp will include separate and joint sessions for teachers and students. CyberCity's topics and hands-on activities for 2010 will be presented by JMU professors, alumni, students and business leaders.
Sponsored by JMU’s College of Business, the June 23-26 program is designed to introduce young students to potential careers in the field of computer information systems. While learning theoretical lessons about how to maintain the security of computer information systems, the students also will work on projects such as creating W eb sites and installing secure wireless networks. Teachers will develop technology skills to support students as they return to their respective schools.
View the schedule online at http://cybercity.jmu.edu/studentschedule.html
June 21, 2010
CoB Announces Ethics Essay Winners
The winners of the 2010 Thomas J. Masterson Ethics Essay Competition are:
* First place: Nick Harris (harrisnj) -- $5,000
* Second place: Katie Manges (mangeskl) -- $1,500
* Third place: Sarah Groves (grovessb) -- $1,000
Each year, the JMU College of Business holds the Thomas J. Masterson Ethics Essay Competition. This contest is named in honor of the father of two JMU alums, Rich Masterson and Beth Masterson Beahm. Sophomores and juniors are eligible to submit a solution to a case study (in the form of an essay) and also a personal statement depicting a challenging ethical dilemma faced. This year, there were a total of 21 submissions. Eight different raters scored submissions.
Upon the condition of attending JMU as a full-time student in fall 2010, the winnings will be deposited to each winner’s JMU student account in the fall.
And MANY THANKS to the Thomas J. Masterson Ethics Essay Contest committee: Dr. Ken Williamson, Ryan Farrell (alum ‘2010’ and 2009 TJM Competition Winner), Alek Mikasinovich (2008 TJM Competition Winner), Annie Herhold (alum ‘2010), Matt Hunt (alum ‘2008), Jim Kelly (alum ‘2010), Linn Baumgardt, and Dr. Bob Kolodinsky.
June 16, 2010
MAIC Holds Reception for Senior Mine Action Managers and CoB Faculty
View our facebook page for photos from the opening reception of the course, now in it's fourth week. Check back for more highlights of the course.
June 14, 2010
Senior Mine Action Managers Course at JMU Trains 19 International Participants
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Professors Bob Eliason and Fernando Pargas teach managementprinciples toleaders of mine action organizations from around the world. |
Nineteen senior managers from 12 countries affected by explosive remnants of war (ERW) are participating in a residential, five-week “Senior Managers Course” (SMC), presented and delivered by the Mine Action Information Center (MAIC), a division of The Center for International Stabilization and Recovery (CISR) at James Madison University, with funding from the U.S. Department of State. This marks the sixth course held at JMU, with a total of 125 senior managers from 36 countries trained. Representatives from Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cambodia, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Sudan and Tajikistan, as well as many other mine-affected countries, have participated in this course. SMC participants hold various positions in coordination, education, victim assistance and demining with mine-action centers around the world. The course runs from May 17 through June 17.
“Thanks to the JMU College of Business and our friends and partners from around the world, including the UN and the Geneva International Center for Humanitarian Demining, for providing its talented professors and experts to make this training the most comprehensive senior management training for ERW and mine-action personnel in the world. What the participants are learning will help them save many lives from being destroyed by explosive remnants of war and landmines for generations to come,” says Ken Rutherford, CISR Director.
As part of its commitment to making the world safer from ERW, the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs provides a grant to fund the SMC. PM/WRA has identified a need for trained managers in host-nation organizations that deal with landmine and ERW clearance. JMU has been hosting the course since 2004 when the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) awarded the university a contract for the first such course. PM/WRA took over sponsorship of the program in 2009.
The SMC provides a unique opportunity for leaders from around the world to unite and exchange information on post-conflict research, specifically addressing the safe and effective removal of landmines and other explosive remnants of war. Participants of the program also benefit from social activities and interaction with the community while becoming emissaries for the United States. Harrisonburg and the surrounding community benefit from the SMC directly through cross-cultural interactions and indirectly through showing support for a worthy international humanitarian project.
“The seminar is a unique and valuable opportunity to achieve capabilities in humanitarian mine action and explosive remnants of war management skills and strategic planning procedures. It is also an incredibly valuable way of sharing best practices and experiences, as well as networking with the participants from different countries and backgrounds," says Dorijan Maršič, Director, International Trust Fund for Demining and Mine Victims Assistance.
Classes, which combine lessons from business research and accounts from landmine operators, are taught by university professors and subject-matter experts. The knowledgeable faculty from JMU’s College of Business, as well as directors of several international nonprofit organizations and government agencies, teach participants to: develop personal skills for effective management, master business management practices and application, and enhance their knowledge of mine-action challenges, techniques and requirements. Over the remaining weeks, the participants will attend daily sessions concluding with a week-long management case-study team exercise to apply the skills that they have learned.
The interactive format of the course allows participants to learn not only from the instructors and lecturers but also from the different perspectives of one another. Knowledge learned from the workshop can then be shared with others in the field upon the participants’ return to their respective countries. Additionally, the participants will acquire the added benefit of increased resources and contacts to draw upon in promoting action for the removal of landmines and explosive remnants of war.
The program’s success and the increasing challenges involved with the removal of landmine and other explosive remnants of war, is prompting the organizations partnering in this venture to continue and possibly expand the program. MAIC will offer its course again in May of 2011 and will partner with the Jordanian government to conduct a course in Amman, Jordan, in October 2010.
The Center for International Stabilization and Recovery at James Madison University combines knowledge with action to provide products and services to organizations and individuals on the front lines of humanitarian crises and post-conflict environments. CISR develops and strengthens local capacity through field program development and management; conference planning and management; curriculum development and training; monitoring, measuring and evaluating programs and projects; publishing; and Web site development and hosting. The Center also conducts strategic planning for collaborative humanitarian assistance projects around the world, such as in Cambodia, Colombia, and Jordan.
CISR is the outgrowth of JMU’s MAIC, a public policy center founded in 1996 to deal with research, education and training surrounding the issue of landmine remediation. Designated a “Center of Excellence” by the United States Department of Defense, the MAIC is an objective information resource regarding international efforts to combat the effects of landmines and explosive remnants of war. For more information, visit MAIC or contact Dr. Suzanne Fiederlein, Senior Research Associate, at +1.540.568.2715.
June 8, 2010
Center Director Reflects on Teaching Experience in China
For two days in May, Dr. Bob Kolodinsky taught business ethics and corporate social responsibility to 42 students in the Executive MBA program at NEU. Kolodinsky, the first English speaking instructor in the new EMBA program at NEU, was asked to write an article about his experience for an NEU publication.
On ganbei and business ethics: My experience teaching in the NEU EMBA program
by Dr. Bob Kolodinsky
Associate Professor and Director of the Gilliam Center for Ethical Business Leadership
I arrived in Qingdao from the United States on Wednesday morning, May 12. My first glimpse of the EMBA students I would be soon teaching was on Thursday morning, in the parking lot of the Hai Tian Hotel. The EMBA students were older than I expected–probably averaging in their late forties–and, it turned out, very experienced and wise. After looking each other over a bit, we then boarded a bus that would take us to the large and diversified Haier Company where we would tour company facilities for the day. The tour included seeing workers build new washing machines, walking through a large and nearly fully automated warehouse, and perusing various Haier products and innovations.
Lunch was at a wonderful outdoor coastal restaurant–it was a beautiful day and all seemed to be enjoying themselves. Both lunch and dinner were wonderful and generously provided by one of the EMBA students, Mr. Fangzhi Jiao, who runs a precious metals mining company (and who I began to refer to as “Mr. Gold,” in part because of his expertise but mostly due of his generosity!!).
On Friday we took a bus to the Haier Country Villa in the scenic Mountain Lao area of Qingdao. During the day I rested from my jetlag and prepared for the weekend classes while students had meetings with Haier Company officials. At dinner, we had a wonderful celebratory dinner in a large banquet room. Along with great food and many “ganbei” toasts, we played several games–including one game where I joined several students in trying to break each others’ balloons! All seemed to have a lot of fun that evening.
Our first day of class was Saturday. After several friendly exchanges during the past two days and again at breakfast and before class, I began to trust that this would be a very good learning experience–both for the students and for the instructor. Because I speak no language other than English, an interpreter brought in from Beijing to provide accurate translation. After an hour or so of learning about each other’s style, the interpreter and I settled into a nice rhythm where I would stop after several sentences–30 to 60 seconds–and then wait for the translation before starting up again.
We started with a discussion about ethics-related terms and business examples from around the world. Videos shown depicted both unethical behavior and its devastating effects. Discussions about moral development and ethical decision-making tools were shared. We also discussed the various challenges faced by private versus state-sponsored businesses along with national and cultural differences.
One delightful occurrence both days was the willingness of EMBA students to openly share their thoughts, experiences, and–in some cases–disagreements with the course content. Lively participation and discussion made the class much more interesting for students and for me. I believe the interchange of thoughts, experiences, and ideas were helpful for all in the room and made for a more memorable and applicable learning experience. In fact, I was learning right along with the students!
After finishing class that first day, we put on comfortable shoes and divided up into several teams. Each team then raced (and huffed and puffed) up and down a steep, winding path on Laoshan (Mount Lao). It was great fun and good exercise. Some students clearly were in good physical condition!
On Sunday–the second and final day of classes–we discussed the importance of behaving ethically and how ethical behavior builds trust, resulting in increased commitment, effort, cooperation, and productivity (and how unethical behavior negatively impacts these important issues). We also discussed ethics and organizational culture, performance management, and various concepts related to the social responsibilities of business. Both American and Chinese (Confucian) conceptions were discussed along with the importance of seeking harmony both internally (within an organization’s culture) and with a company’s external environment. Many students stood up and reacted to the content and shared their thoughts and experiences.
As I look back on this experience, I think fondly of the interactions and feel honored to have had the opportunity to be the first American instructor of an NEU EMBA class. I learned a lot and–I hope–the students did as well. We challenged each other to think differently and to apply our learning. I want to thank all–Dean Li, Associate Dean Ma, Director Sun, Maria Wang, NEU staff, and especially the EMBA students–for a wonderful and memorable experience. Xie xie!!
June 1, 2010
CoB Students Network in New York Financial District
On Tuesday, May 11, twelve students from the CoB embarked on a two-and-a-half day tour of some of the major firms in the financial centers of New York City. The purpose of the trip was to provide students with a greater level of knowledge regarding the roles of different firms in the financial arena. The trip also provided students the opportunity to establish initial contacts should any of them decide to pursue a position in the one of the firms visited.
The event started with a reception that provided an opportunity for the students to meet and network with JMU alumni from a variety of firms.
Day Two started with a tour of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The group was there just prior to the opening bell, an exciting event if you’ve never seen the NYSE in action in person. Then off to Deutsch Bank and meetings with several key executives who provided insight into the operations of the bank and its role in the global financial arena. The group visited Goldman Sachs at the end of day two and met with several individuals from various aspect of the operation.
Day Three was a pretty heavy agenda: meetings with managers from Morgan Stanley, BlackRock Investments, and Standard and Poor’s; and then a dinner meeting with representatives from firms such as James Caird Investments and the Royal Bank of Scotland.
At the end of the trip students were asked what impressed them the most. Many of their comments centered around how much the CoB alumni were so helpful and their willing to assist any of students who wanted to pursue either an internship or entry-level position in the financial areas.
"Besides getting the rare experience to see how Wall Street functions on a daily basis, the most exciting part of the trip was the opportunity to connect with alumni who have been successful in the financial industry. One of the recurring themes of the trip that resonated with everyone was the necessity of hard work and persistence for JMU students." said William Coffield (economics, '11).
"This trip benefited me in a number of ways. The most notable was the opportunity to make connections on Wall Street. I have already followed up with several of the alumni who we met with, and have begun developing those relationships. The second major benefit is that this trip really sparked a deep desire to work on Wall Street. I now have a focus and ultimate goal for my last year at JMU," said Coffield.
The students were also surprised at the different types of positions available, not just those related to the buying and selling of stocks.
Many thanks go to Terry Bandy of the College of Business Executive Advisory Council. He was chiefly responsible for all of the arrangements, including contacts with the various firms to set up meetings, transportation for the group while in NYC, and keeping the entire project within a very reasonable budget. Our thanks also go out to the many JMU CoB alumni who helped pull together the events of this trip.
The CoB is already discussing a similar trip for May 2011. Students who traveled in May 2010: Dominick Barresi, Brooke Beal, William Coffield, Brian Ellenberger, Molley Hardin, Sean Hollern, John Kilgallen, David Melendez, Patrick Langan, Justin Quaglia, Christina Sari, Bhavik Shah.
View a Web album of the NYC trip, or check visit the link through Facebook.
May 26, 2010
CIS Endowed Scholarship Honors Retired Professors
Computer Information Systems & Management Science (CIS&MS) alumni and friends raised more than $53,000 in cash and pledges for endowed scholarships to honor Glenn Smith and Don Musselman, professors retired from CIS&MS in JMU’s College of Business (CoB). The CIS Executive Advisory Board (EAB) spearheaded the campaign for the Don Musselman/Glenn Smith Scholarship Endowment and exceeded fund-raising goals by more than $3,000.
“It’s an honor to be able to recognize these two outstanding professors by giving them a living legacy, said Susie Bonvouloir (’83), organizer of the reception and chair of the EAB finance committee. “Through this program, they will continue to make an impact on the CIS program at JMU for many, many years to come.” CGI, a leading recruiter of CIS & MS graduates, and the CoB hosted a donor reception at the International Country Club in Fairfax in April Virginia to honor Don Musselman and Glenn Smith.
This permanent gift will benefit financially needy CIS majors and honors Musselman and Smith’s 66 years of combined service to the CoB. More than 140 JMU alumni and friends, many former students of Glenn Smith and Don Musselman, and companies who support the CIS program contributed to the campaign. The classes with the highest representation were 1983 and 2009.
CGI and Ken Lawhorn (’87) made leading gifts of $10,000 each. John Speer (’83) made a challenge gift during the reception, which was answered by Rod Rohrer (’85) and others, which rocketed the giving beyond its initial goal for its first year.
“It is a fine tribute to Don and Glenn to see so many former students honor their contributions to the Computer Information Systems program at JMU. Both of these men were instrumental in building the foundation of our nationally recognized CIS program,” said Rick Mathieu, department head for CIS & MS. Musselman and Smith requested that anything done in their honor help future CIS students with financial need.
“This successful effort was fully coordinated through CoB, the CIS dept, its EAB, and all levels of the Advancement development office,” said Elizabeth Pharr-Maxwell, director of development for the CoB. Maxwell noted that members of the EAB not only made gifts, but also made calls to other alumni.
Anyone who wishes to make a donation to these two endowments can do on so online. Please note that online gifts need to be designated to the Musselman/Smith endowments under “additional gift information.” Or donate over the phone by calling (800) 296-6162. Alumni can continue to add to the principal(in any amount at any time) of an endowment because it is a permanent fund. Increasing the fund’s principal ultimately increases the amount awarded to students annually. Any gifts to this fund at or above the $1,000 will count toward membership in the President’s Council, unless the alumnus/alumna is five years out from graduation or less. In the latter case for recent graduates, the membership level is $200.
May 25, 2010
JMU Called Role Model for Student Financial Literacy
James Madison University's collaborative approach to teaching financial literacy to students should be a model for other universities, an official with the National Sutdent Loan Program said this week. CoB faculty were recognized. See the full story.
May 24, 2010
JMU and Booz Allen Hamilton Sign Agreement to Deliver Infosec MBA to Employees
Booz Allen Hamilton and James Madison University recently signed a partnership agreement that allows employees of Booz Allen Hamilton to apply for and receive special tuition rates for either JMU's Information Security MBA Program (Infosec MBA) or the Master of Science in Computer Science Program (Infosec MS). According to MBA Program Director Dr. Michael Busing, the Special Arrangement Contract spans a two-year period and will admit approximately 10 additional students annually into both of the two programs. As part of the contract, employees of Booz Allen Hamilton receive a 15 percent discount on tuition.
The Infosec MBA program began in August 2000 with its first cohort group. One course is taken at a time and each course lasts eight weeks. The entire program lasts 27 months, including holiday breaks.
The program includes 10 core MBA courses, covering basic business topics such as accounting, finance, marketing, management and strategy. Each of these core courses addresses issues of information security as it relates to the specific discipline. Additionally, four courses focus on information security topics that managers in today's business environment need to know.
The Infosec MBA program effectively utilizes a 'blended' format. Each course includes four-hour face-to-face Saturday meetings in Reston, Va., at the beginning and end of every course. The rest of the course is completely web-delivered, utilizing leading-edge synchronous and asynchronous teaching methods. This type of program maximizes teaching efficiency and effectiveness, while maintaining student flexibility.
The program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). In addition to the MBA degree, all graduates receive the NSA-approved certificate: Information Systems Security (INFOSEC) Professionals (NSTISSI No. 4011). JMU is one of the original seven Centers of Excellence in Information Assurance Education.
The Inforsec MS computer science program began in January 1997. The program is part of the Computer Science Department’s distance learning initiative and was one of the first such programs in the nation. One of the highest quality, most comprehensive and highly technical Information Security programs in the nation, it is designed to provide a premier information security education that equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement and maintain secure modern information infrastructures and systems. This graduate program is attuned to a rapidly changing technological and information oriented society and offers a 100 percent Internet-based interactive InfoSec education. Students work on individual and team projects, participate in the weekly web-based classroom discussions, and log into our remotely accessible InfoSec labs to work on projects, including cyber defense exercises and computer forensics analysis.
Booz Allen Hamilton has been at the forefront of strategy and technology consulting for 95 years. Providing a broad range of services in strategy, operations, organization and change, information technology, systems engineering, and program management, Booz Allen is committed to delivering results that endure.
For more information about JMU’s MBA Programs, visit http://www.jmu.edu/MBA
For more information about JMU’s Infosec Master’s Program, visit http://www.InfoSec.jmu.edu
May 19, 2010
Finance Major Heads to Taiwan as Fulbright Scholar
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Eric Pasciuti will head to Taiwan in August to teach English to elementary schoolchildren, but the 2010 James Madison University honors graduate plans to be as much student as teacher.
At JMU, Pasciuti majored in quantitative finance and minored in Asian studies and Chinese business studies. Upon his return to the states next summer, Pasciuti hopes to work for Barclay's Capital, an international investment bank.
The bank has expressed interest in sending him to Singapore to work at a new branch, he said.
April 27, 2010
CIS Students Win National Competition
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A team of Computer Information System students from JMU emerged victorious in a nationwide Java programming competition - out of six hundred and seventy-four (674) students representing sixty-nine (69) colleges and universities - at the AITP 15th Annual National Collegiate Conference held March 25-28, 2010 in St. Louis, Missouri.
Taylor Callsen and Tyler Martin finished first in the nation against twenty-three teams (23) to win the Java Developer Contest. In addition, to first place, Taylor Callsen received an honorable mention (top six) in the “PC Troubleshooting” Competition.
JMU was represented by a team of eight students (Isha Arora, Eryn Burns, Taylor Callsen, Christina Hansbrough, Dae Kim, Tyler Martin, Eileen Proto and Ko San Kim) who participated in the following events: PC Troubleshooting, Systems Analysis and Design, Database Programming, Network Design, and Java Programming.
The 2010 JMU AITP student team was accompanied by Dr. Susan Kruck, Professor of Computer Information Systems, and sponsored by gifts from Deloitte, HPTI, KPMG and Protiviti.
April 26, 2010
Dr. Irvine Clarke, III appointed as the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Irvine “Bud” Clarke starts his position July 1, 2010. Please, extend a huge thank you to Dr. Philip DuBose for all of his contributions in this role during the past five years and welcome Dr. Clarke as he takes on his new role as associate dean for academic affairs.
April 13, 2010
Students Inducted into Honor Society
Fifteen students from James Madison University’s College of Business were inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma.
Beta Gamma Sigma, the honor society for AACSB accredited business programs, encourages and honors academic achievement in the study of business and personal and professional excellence in the practice of business, according to Dr. Michael Busing, Faculty Advisor.
Potential members are invited based on their high scholastic achievement in business subjects. To be eligible for membership in Beta Gamma Sigma, the academic ranking of those being considered must place them in the upper 10 percent of the junior or senior class and upper 20 percent of the graduating master’s class, according to Busing.
Beta Gamma Sigma was founded as a national organization in 1913. Today the Society has more than 325 chapters at some of the best business schools across the country. While almost 300,000 students receive baccalaureate or master’s degrees in business each year, only about 16,000 students are elected to membership in Beta Gamma Sigma.
The following students were inducted:
Brooke Ray Beal, daughter of Greg Beal of Middletown and Roxanne Beal of Frederick, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with Bachelor of Business Administration degrees in Finance and Economics.
Robert John Kilgallen, son of Paul and Nancy Kilgallen, will graduate in May 2011 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a minor in Economics.
Nathaniel Ryan Morrow, son of Brenda and Charles Morrow, will graduate in December 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management.
Hugh Zachary Pritchett, son of Mike and Sherry Pritchett, will graduate in May 2012 from JMU with Bachelor of Business Administration degrees in International Business and Finance and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish.
Jessica Lauren Soodak, daughter of Joel and Teresa Soodak, will graduate in May 2011 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.
John Kyle Castonguay, daughter of John and Beverly Castonguay, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and in May 2011 with a Master of Science degree in Accounting.
Peter Bi-the Chan, son of Min and Rosa Chan, will graduate in May 2011 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business with a concentration in Finance.
Jessica M. Liss, daughter of Greg and Margie Liss, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.
Patrick W. Page, son of Joe and Mary Page, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business and a Bachelor of Arts in German.
John Thomas Parker, son of Kae Renae Mitchell and Randy Parker, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Finance.
Danielle Burnette Ropp, dauthger of Greg and Valerie Weaver of Harrisonburg and wife of Matthew Ropp of Stella, N.C., will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality and Tourism Management.
Amanda Nicole Strott, daughter of Tom and Patty Strott, will graduate in December 2011 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
Rachel Anne Swecker, daughter of Daniel and Sherri Swecker, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing.
Elizabeth Mary Town, daughter of David and Kathryn Town, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.
Wei William Wu, son of Baohua Wu and Jianhua Ai, will graduate in May 2010 from JMU with a Master of Science in Accounting.
April 10, 2010
Rain Tech Plan Gets First Place in COB300 Business Plan Competition
The team called the business plan Rain Tech, and their work teamwork in putting it together got them recognized as the Best Team as well as first place recognition.
That plan garnered the top prize and scholarships for the team members who presented at the James Madison University College of Business 8th Annual Business Plan Competition. Each spring, finalist teams compete for the honor of having their plan judged as the top plan.At Saturday’s competition, five teams presented plans for start-up businesses ranging from a bison processing and distribution plant to a hydroponic organic produce company. They covered operations, marketing and financial strategies included in their plans that they believe would give their companies a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
The five finalist teams received $25,000 in scholarships, provided by the College of Business Executive Advisory Council and friends of the college.
The annual competition includes student business plans from spring, summer and fall semesters of the previous years. All student business plans included in the competition were created as part of a 12-credit integrated course within the business college that helps students learn how the various parts of business work together. According to business college dean Robert D. Reid, the course and the competition are an important part of the experiential education of JMU business students.
Don Rainey, the competition coordinator and a partner at Grotech Ventures, opened the competition with remarks about the extraordinary quality of each business plan that made it to the finals after two rounds of judging more than 100 plans.
“There is no last place today. Last place was decided long ago,” Rainey said. “These individuals and their business plans represent the best of the best.”
The teams:
RainTech Elizabeth Cannon, Alan Eisenman (MVP), Josh Meyer, Justin Quaglia (MVP), JP Zambrana
Pinnacle Organic Tyler Austria, Matt Husar, Todd Jones, Patrick Langan, Michael Perkinson, Robert Timms
Eden NYC Joseph Emswiler, Jack Kilgallen, Stepahnie Mathieu, Andrew McDermott, Ariele McWhinney, Richard Miley
Sunshine State Solar Daniel Bolt, David Brookover, Robert Hoehn, David Phelps, Christina Shugars (MVP)
Boulder Hills Bison William Coffield, Matthew Gibson, Sheeva Milanizadeh (MVP), Nathaniel Morrow, Amanda Thompson, Brett Wishchow
April 8, 2010
Sam Nixon, JMU CoB Alumni, Appointed by Governor as CIO
Governor Bob McDonnell appoints delegate Sam Nixon head of Virginia Information Technologies Agency (VITA). As chief information officer he will be reporting directly to the Governor McDonnell. As one of COB’s very own alumni (class'80), Sam Nixon graduated with a degree in business administration. Jim Duffey, Secretary of Technology, said, “ Sam Nixon will be one of the leading state CIO’s in the nation. His background is tailor made for this role. After 16 years of legislative experience and 25 years of working in the IT industry he is uniquely qualified to help lead VITA and Virginia into the next phase of IT modernization.
For the full article see: http://www.samnixon.com/?p=742
April 7, 2010
CIS professor Reappointed to ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Harry Reif, computer information systems and management science professor, was reappointed as a Commissioner for 2010-2011 to the ABET Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC). This is Reif’s third year of service to the CAC. Reif works serves as one of 50 Commissioners to this international accreditation body.
April 6, 2010
Bob Eliason Voted 2010 Outstanding Teacher by CoB students
CoB 300 Professor, Bob Eliason, was chosen by James Madison University College of Business students as the outstanding teacher of the year. Eliason, a management professor, worked in conjunction with three other professors to teach the CoB 300 course. Congratulations Bob Eliason!
Mar. 30, 2010
Think Entrepreneurially in the Scratch Start-Up and the Corporation.
Apr. 8th, 5:30 - 6:30p.m. ZSH G6. Sponsored by MGT 472 Venture Creation. If you are interested in pursuing your own business, this session about thinking entrepreneurially is a good place to start. Join guest speakers John C. Rothenberger, founder and CEO, SE Solutions and Michael M. Thomas, president, IS&GS-Intelligence, Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global Services as they share their insights in the entrepreneurship world.
For more information
Mar. 29, 2010
Scott Gallagher Named New Department Head in Management.
Scott Gallagher, as associate professor, named new Department Head in Management, effective July 1st. Professor Gallagher obtained his B.B.A. from the University of Texas-Austin from the College of Business Administration; a Master's degree in Public Policy from Harvard University and a doctorate from Rutgers University in Organization Management. His research and professional interests include strategic management and technology and innovation. Some of Gallagher's professional service awards include CoB Outstanding Professor (2009), CoB Distinguished Professor (2008) and Madison Teaching Fellow (2006-2007). Congratulations to Professor Gallagher on his new position!
Mar. 25, 2010
"CoB Student Gets Head Start on Career as an Entrepreneur"
Junior Chase Leonard, sports management and business minor, gains real leadership and management experience with College Works. Chase is one of 25 trained interns working for the California-based company working as a local manager in the Fredericksburg area. In an article from the Freelance Star, Hugh Muir explains that "the students gain leadership and management experience, the company literature says, as well as adding to their resumes."
Mar. 24, 2010
CoB Professor Lends Advice in Wall Street Journal article
In a recent Wall Street Journal article, "The Professor Who Chases Financial Bubbles" written by Eleanor Laise - J. Barkley Rosser, an professor of economics, cautions researchers about early prediction models. Financial models like "the financial bubble experiment" developed by Didier Sornette, director of the Financial Crisis Observatory at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, has high aims for his predictions. The article explores the risks and benefits of Sornette's claims about predicting financial bubbles while bubbles are still "inflating." One benefit is the advantage of an early warning tool to prevent future financial crises. "There's no perfect model...you hit it one time, and you'll miss it another," Rosser says referring to one of Sornette's recent predictions. "I think they were lucky on this one."
Mar. 23, 2010
CoB Event: "Venture Wars: Phantom Menace?"
Don Rainey ('82 Finance) and Wayne Jackson ('85 Finance), will lead a discussion titled “Venture Wars: Phantom Menace?” on Apr. 8 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Showker 106. Join us as the James Madison University's College of Business welcomes two innovative leaders to share their recent experiences and observations from the venture capital world. Wayne Jackson will illustrate correlations between the Sarbanes Oxley Act and its impact on venture capitalism, particularly catering to the interests of small business owners, finance and the accounting fields. The discussion will be followed by an audience question and answer session. Students can use this opportunity to get instant feedback about current real world experience.
Don Rainey, a general partner at Grotech Ventures, graduated from JMU with a B.B.A. in Finance and then pursued a M.S in Bioscience Management from George Mason University. Wayne Jackson, executive chairman of JackBe Corp., holds a B.B.S in Finance from JMU and has completed the Executive Education program for Corporate Governance at Harvard University. Both now serve as CoB Executive Advisory Board members.
In addition to Grotech Ventures, a firm with over $1 billion in U.S. currency under management, Rainey also serves on the Board of Directors for ARPU and Zenoss. He is a consultant to the Chief of Information Office of the U.S. Department of Defense through the DeVenCi program where a handful of venture capitalists advise on emerging technologies. As an adjunct at the University of Maryland, Rainey teaches graduate courses entitled "New Venture Creation" and "New Venture Finance." Before becoming a general partner at Grotech Ventures, he was a partner at Intersouth Parthners, after working his way up to executive positions in other companies such as Novell and IBM Corporation. In the past, he has served on the Enterprise Investment Advisory Committee for the State of Maryland, the Investment Advisory Board of the State of Virginia's Growth Acceleration Program and was president of one of the first entertainment networks on the Internet, Attitude Network.
Jackson, in addition to serving as the Executive in Residence at New Enterprise Associates, is the advisor to some of Washington D.C. region’s most innovative technology companies. Through July 2008, Jackson was the CEO of open source network security pioneer Sourcefire, Inc., which he guided from fledgling start-up through a rare IPO in March 2007 at a valuation exceeding $450 million. Before joining Sourcefire, Jackson co-founded Riverbed Technologies, a wireless infrastructure company, and served as its CEO until the sale of the company for more than $1 billion in March 2000. While at Riverbed, Jackson built strategic relationships with industry leaders Palm, Oracle, IBM, Symbol and Microsoft, growing the company from start-up to category winner in less than two years. As the managing director of Aether Capital, Jackson led the process for strategic investing and played a key role in two secondary stock offerings that raised more than $2 billion.
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Mar. 11, 2010
JMU's College of Business Gets Straight A’s in BusinessWeek Rankings
You could say James Madison University's College of Business (CoB) made the dean's list again in 2010. The business school remains in the top 5 percent of undergraduate business schools ranked by BusinessWeek magazine, receiving exceptionally high marks from students and straight A’s for teaching quality, services and job placement.
In its fifth year of surveys, BusinessWeek ranked JMU’s business school among the top public offerings in the nation. The B-school ranked 14th among public institutions. Among public and private, the CoB at JMU has been inching its way up in the rankings since 2008 when it was in position 54. In 2010, the business school edges its way into spot number 41. (JMU BW stats)
In the survey that uses nine measures of student satisfaction, post-graduate outcomes and academic quality, student responses count toward 30 percent of the final totals. Student surveys placed the school in the top 5 among public institutions and 11th among public and private programs.
After five years of surveys, we are starting to get a clearer picture of how we compare in this particular ranking,” said Robert D. Reid, dean of the JMU's business school. While rankings among schools shift slightly from year to year, a few things have remained constant. First, we have consistently ranked in the top 5% of business schools; second, students are highly satisfied with their experience; and finally, the quality of our faculty, services and high job placement rates keep us in the top tier of public offerings, and pretty competitive even with private schools.
In fact, last year in a subsequent survey, BusinessWeek ranked JMU's business school third among public schools and fourth overall in the nation for Return on Investment. The rankings were calculated by comparing annual tuition and required fees and median starting salaries for 2008 graduates
BusinessWeek uses nine measures to calculate rankings after surveying more than 20,000 business students, more than 500 employer recruiters and gathering data from business schools about their programs. Current surveys and data are combined with data from previous years to arrive at a score for each school. The publication gathers data about everything from faculty qualifications to facilities. Since the first ranking in 2006, students have responded positively in favor of JMU’s College of Business.
Mar. 8, 2010
Venture Capital Firms Pay Entrepreneurs in Residence for Ideas
Foundation Capital, a California venture capital firm, pays monthly stipend and provides office space for Entrepreneurs in Residence (E.I.R.'s). James Madison University alumni and College of Business Executive Advisory Council member Paul Holland, a partner at Foundation Capital, works with E.I.R to find next big energy company. Firms like the Foundation Capital are taking advantage of E.I.R.’s talent and expertise, attempting to grow and eventually harvest new innovative business ideas.
In a New York Times article titled Start-Ups, the article follows E.I.R. Michael Bauer in his coveted position at the Foundation Capital. Bauer is a part of the growing trend of hiring E.I.R.’s to sit and brainstorm the next big investment.
Mar. 4, 2010
CIS Professor Published in the Journal for Computer Information Systems
Professor Susan Kruck, Computer Information Systems, publishes article titled Technology Majors: Why are Women Absent with three James Madison University (JMU) professors. Susan Kruck and her co-authors analyze the current trends within the information technology career path. In their abstract, the authors write although "IT jobs continue to increase... the number of women pursuing a career in technology has declined." Through their research, they conduct a study on student preference of technology course selection from incoming freshman and find differences in course selection and perception among men and women.
Kruck also serves as the editor for the Journal of Information Systems Education and is on the board of directors for the Education Special Interest Group of the Association of Information Technology Professionals. The JMU professors published along side Susan Kruck in the Journal of Computer Information Systems include Nancy Harris, Polly Cushman and Robin Anderson.
JCIS is the forum for International Association of Computer Information Systems members and other information systems and business professionals to present their research and ideas. Each issue provides a wealth of timely and informative articles and research summaries. Susan Kruck's article can be found in the JCIS, Vol. 50, No. 2 Winter 2009-2010: 23-30.
Feb. 22, 2010
JMU Marketing Students Prepare for the Next Google Competition
As students prepare for the 2010 Google Online Marketing Competitions, guest speaker Silverback Strategies, a SEO agency came to share the latest trends in Internet marketing on Feb. 12, 2010. For the past two years JMU marketing students have dominated the online competition, one JMU team won first place in Americas' region in the 2009 competition. In addition to the first place, two other JMU teams were semi-finalists in the Americas region, ranking them in the top 50. In 2008, JMU placed five teams in the top 10 percent.
This is my third year implementing the Challenge with JMU marketing students. It’s a very enriching and practical educational experience for students as they develop an understanding of online marketing strategies, Google tools, client relationships and marketing analytics, said Theresa Flaherty, a marketing professor at JMU. For more about SEM's agency and JMU google competition regional winners, click here to follow the link to the full story.
Feb. 17, 2010
JMU Alumni Receives 2009 Professional Convention Management Assoc. Distinguished Member of the Year Award.
Each year, the Professional Convention Management Association honors outstanding members for their contributions to PCMA and the meetings & hospitality industry. PCMA's New York Area Chapter is proud to announce one of its own as the winner of the 2009 Distinguished Member of the Year Award.
Deborah L. Richardt, CMP, Senior Director of Meeting Services at American Thoracic Society, will be recognized at the 54th PCMA Annual Meeting, Jan. 10-13, 2010, in Dallas.
As one of the founding members of PCMA’s New York Area Chapter, Debbie has contributed to the meetings industry through 31 years of local and national involvement, including her 23 years of service to the American Lung Association and the American Thoracic Society. She is also well respected by her peers and colleagues for her relentless dedication to student mentoring.
Debbie resides in Oradell, New Jersey with her husband Bob and son Tim. Her passions, outside of work, are her quest for fitness (physical and spiritual); as well as her private and humble contribution to her community.
Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) represents approximately 6,000 meeting industry leaders including planner professionals, suppliers, faculty and students. Aside from students and faculty, members are categorized as either a professional or supplier based on their position. The mission of the PCMA is to deliver superior and innovative education and promote the value of professional convention management.
Feb. 9, 2010
CoB Training Makes a Difference: A Story of Heroics and Rescue
Guy Degen, in a Frontline blog, recounts his first meeting with Faris Zubair Ali, an operations manager for the Iraqi Kurdistan Mine Action Agency. Zubir, a highly trained and experienced deminer, was summoned Nov.23, 2008 by the local authorities. His expertise was tested in a dangerous night emergency to rescue a teenage shepherd who laid injured in a minefield. Courageously, Faris and two other deminers paved the way to the injured boy removing seven mines and marking several others for emergency crews. Because of Faris and his team, the boy survived the explosion that contained 500 grams of explosives and 1400 pieces of shrapnel.
All over the world mine action centers are training civilians to take proactive measures to avoid landmines and implementing strategies to remove and prevent further accidents. Heroic stories like Faris'begin with crucial training from centers like the Center for International Stabilization and Recovery (CISR), a College of Business partner, here at James Madison University.
Each year the CoB partners with CISR to offer training. JMU faculty members teach a course designed to offer leadership skills and operational expertise to key officials from explosive remnants of war (ERW) organizations around the globe. In the past,JMU's CoB has received high marks for innovative delivery of management and leadership principles. Future training sessions will be in spring 2010 at JMU and in fall 2010 hosted by CISR and the National Committee for Demining & Rehabilitation (NCDR) in Amman, Jordan.
CISR, a public policy center, was established in 1996. It serves organizations and individuals on the front lines of humanitarian crises and post-conflict environments. CISR produces informational research through databases, publications and surveys on landmine related topics. They also provide services to host conferences, seminars and training courses on issues revolving around post-conflict humanitarian mine clearance and assistance. CISR will continue their humanitarian efforts under the leadership of the newly appointed Director, Ken Rutherford. Rutherford, a victim of a landmine explosion, fuses his passion for global justice and peace in creating greater stability across international borders.
Feb. 2, 2010
Rosser Named Finalist for State Faculty Award
The College of Business congratulates Barkley Rosser, professor of economics, a finalist in the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia's(SCHEV)Outstanding Faculty Awards(OFA). Rosser was one of the four finalist from James Madison University (JMU). Of those four finalists, two were awarded an Outstanding Faculty Award: JMU's Peter Pham and Lennie Echerling.
Rosser has served JMU since 1977. He received his PH.D., M.A. and B.A. from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He has made innumerable contributions to the economic field of research and publications and is one of the leading experts on complexity economics. Rosser has been the recipient for awards such as the JMU Madison Scholar award (2000), Outstanding Professional Service Award (2006), Fellow, Economists for Peace and Security (2009), and Premier Who's Who for Outstanding Professionals (2009-10). Since 2002, he has served as Editor in Chief of the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization
"Barkley's vast knowledge and deep intellect are complemented by human qualities that particularly qualify him as the outstanding editor of JEBO and also make him a particularly appropriate candidate for this outstanding faculty award,” said Vernon L. Smith of Chapman University and Nobel Laureate in Economics (2002). Other editorial endeavors include serving as the associate editor for academic journals such as Discrete Dynamics in Nature and Society Nonlinear Dynamics, Psychology and Life Sciences
SCHEV is the Commonwealth's coordinating body for higher education. The Outstanding Faculty Award program was created in 1986 by the Virginia General Assembly and Governor. After 24 years of recognition, this is one of highest honors for faculty serving in Virginia's public and private colleges and universities. Faculty members are recognized for their contributions and superior accomplishments in teaching, research, and public service. This year's 12 recipients were selected from a pool of 117 nominations. Awards were given out for the 2010 OFA selections on Feb. 18, 2010.
Jan. 25, 2010
Professor Susan Kruck Named New Editor to Top-Ranked Educational Journal
Susan Kruck was selected as the new editor for the Journal of Information Systems Education(JISE).Since its founding, JISE has had only four editors, Kruck is the fifth editor to serve JISE. Kruck was selected for the JISE editorship by the Education Special Interest Group (EDSIG) of theAssociation of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) board after a lengthy search process. Professor Kruck brings to the editorship a wealth of experience and scholarship in the fields of information systems and education,"says Rick Mathieu, head of the Department of Computer Information Systems & Management Science.
This editorial appointment is a testament to Professor Kruck’s successful career," adds Mathieu, "She is certainly well-qualified to oversee this highly respected journal affiliated with the AITP.
When asked about her new appointment as editor, Kruck explains, "I have always had an interest in educational and curriculum issues and have done extensive research in both areas. JISE not only is the leading educational journal in my field, but integrates both of my interests."
Dr. Kruck, a professor of computer information systems and operations management program, has served as a professor at James Madison University for almost 12 years. In her undergraduate studies at JMU, she earned a BA with a double major in accounting and computer information systems. She continued her education at JMU by pursuing a MBA, and later a Ph.D. from the Department of Accounting and Information Systems at the Virginia Polytechnic and State University. During her time here at JMU, Kruck has been recognized for her outstanding achievements and dedication to excellence and service through awards such as:JMU Be the Change World Changer(2008); Distinguished Faculty Alumni Award(2007); and JMU College of Business.
JISE was established in 1989 and is the premier information systems educational journal. JISE, an academic and peer reviewed journal focuses on a variety of technology in education topics:teaching tips; innovative classroom practices; IS curriculum issues; research in IS education; cases for use in an IS classroom; pedagogy in teaching IS subjects; teaching assessment; industry relations; or other related topics in IS education. With over 20 published volumes, it is indexed by ABI/Informs, EBSCO Business Source Complete, ProQuest, H.W. Wilson, and Ulrich’s Periodicals Directory. JISE is also listed in Cabell's Directory of Publishing Opportunities in Management.
Jan. 19, 2010
Michael Busing Named JMU's New MBA Director
Dr. Michael Busing starts the spring semester as the new MBA Director for James Madison University’s College of Business (CoB), taking over from the former director, Dr. Paul Bierly, who dedicated the past 18 months to the position.
Busing, an associate professor of Operations Management, joined the JMU faculty in 1996, upon completing his Ph.D. at Clemson University. Since his arrival at JMU he has played an important role in delivering two key components of the BBA core curriculum: COB 291 and COB 300. Busing's teaching experience has spanned operations and quantitative methods at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and he has taught courses in both the traditional MBA and MBA Infosec programs.
Busing has authored several publications and was the co-recipient of the 2009 CoB Best Educational Publication Award.. He has actively pursued multiple service endeavors, including serving as the Beta Gamma Sigma chapter advisor and as a member on the MBA Advisory Committee.
The MBA program is composed on two distinct components: the Innovation MBA (iMBA) and the Information Security MBA (infosec). The theme of the iMBA program is "Leading through Innovation with Technology and People," with the mission to develop tomorrow’s business leaders with the skills and readiness to adapt to the fast-paced and changing world. The purpose of the Infosec program is to help foster critical thinking and analytical skills through the lens of the managerial perspective for the creation of more secure business practices. Each is guided by the ideas of sustainable business practices that will lead to success in today's market. Both programs are accredited by AACSB.
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