VOL 28, summer 2009 COLLEGE OF BUSINESS REPORTS University of Southern

This is what we do: Developing professionals—one student at a time “It is time for us to be even more decision making, teamsmanship, and of suggestions to capture in words the forward looking as we prepare to move technological skills.” essence of the college, the most popular into our new building in fall 2010 and What resonates in the college is the being “building professionals, one stu- as we build on our significant accom- theme of one-on-one attention and dent at a time” and “developing profes- plishments,” said Dr. Mohammed small classes where students are able to sionals, one student at a time.” Khayum, dean of the college. reflect upon their experiences as they Professionals are people who apply “What is our core purpose? We guide develop from students to professionals. their expertise to increase value to people of value to become profession- With the idea of capturing the themselves, to their professions, and to als. How do we do this? We provide strengths of the USI College of Busi- their wider communities. Nancy Bizal, personal attention—often one student ness, Dr. Kevin Celuch, professor of instructor in business communication at a time,” he continued. “We foster marketing and Blair Chair of Business and coordinator of external relations, lifelong learning. We prepare students Sciences, designed a project for his stu- described what the College of Business with discipline-specific knowledge to dents in a course on promotional strat- does to build professionals. which we add these employer sought- egies. Student-centered teams began “We develop our students’ ability after skills: critical thinking, written developing a list of the strengths of the to think on their feet. We help them communication, oral communication, college and opportunities for USI busi- analytical problem solving, ethical ness students. They developed a number See Professionals, page 4 Students hit Otters plan for Kids Zone out of the ballpark Management students will see a class project become reality when a planned Kids Zone marks the opening of the Otters 2010 season at Bosse Field. The team based in Evansville engaged a management class to research ways to bring more families with young children to baseball games.

See Otters, page 5

Bill Bussing, right, Otters owner, and Pat Rayburn, back to camera, Otters senior vice president, were at Bosse Field to hear final Kids Zone presentations. Students, from left, are Aaron Trafton, Omar Bibi, Daniel Cullen, and Brittany Lash. Accounting team wins national competition again Another example of developing professionals (page 3) 100,000 other individuals who have Dean’s letter completed the self-assessment. Aspects of creativity emphasized include an Creativity—foundation for future prosperity individual’s ability to make connections as well as qualities such as curiosity, How creative are you? Compare your score with a global average perspective, abstraction, persistence, complexity, paradox, and boldness. By Mohammed Khayum May 2009 report by Awareness of an overall creativity Creativity is often viewed as a rare the Conference index and the ability to benchmark quality associated with the particular Board on U.S. Inno- oneself against others in these eight personality or genius of a person. Yet, vation and Competi- attributes of creativity pave the way for the study of creativity over the past six tiveness (www.con- a focused approach to strengthen cre- decades has shown that it is possible to ference-board.org/ ative thinking skills. develop creative thinking within indi- publications/reports. Creativity is linked to creative indi- viduals. Creative thinking has multiple cfm). In both viduals, but it also results from interac- dimensions, such as the ability to make instances, complex tion among individuals. Organizational connections involving ideas and experi- questions of the Khayum structure can enhance or impede cre- ences to synthesize or generate new present and the ativity, depending on how it organizes things. future are identified as likely to be and re-organizes its teams and units. In the context of the rapid and com- solved by cultivating creativity and Institutional leadership has a special plex change processes that characterize innovation to foster social and econom- role to play in this context by develop- contemporary societies, individuals and ing and implementing structures favor- organizations are constantly required to Creativity Self-Assessment able to creativity. adapt to changing conditions. Increas- Abstraction Creative thinking may be enhanced ingly, creative thinking is being identi- (or hindered) by specific institutional fied as a key factor in generating new Persistence Connection and environmental situations. Favorable and adequate responses to the chal- conditions include teamwork, cross- lenges caused by these changes. cultural exchange grounded in sociocul- This is particularly evident in the Complexity Perspective tural diversity, time and resources, and importance being attached to innova- a risk-taking culture that tolerates fail- tion as a solution to current challenges ure. facing the global economy. Innovation Paradox Curiosity The economic future of organiza- as a process of transforming an idea into Boldness tions and societies depends on their reality begins with creative thinking ability to create wealth by fostering about doing something different. In this Creativity Index: Typical: 62.47 innovation, creativity, and entrepre- sense, creativity is a driving force for neurship. This requires time to experi- innovation. It is not surprising, there- ment, learn, evolve, reflect, generate fore, to find that innovation and cre- ic growth, solve problems, forge new ideas, and provide solutions. ativity are increasingly linked in discus- frontiers, and quickly adjust to changing Within the College of Business, the sions and policy proposals related to economic forces. establishment of an entrepreneurship future prosperity of cities, regions, and One tool for exploring personal minor provides opportunities for devel- national economies. The most recent creativity is a creativity self-assessment oping the creative thinking competen- illustrations of this include the Euro- provided by CREAX (www.creax.com/ cies of students. One of the courses has pean Union’s designating 2009 as the csa). This self-assessment measures been especially designed with strong European Year of Creativity and Inno- creativity in eight different areas and emphases on the role of creativity and vation (create2009.europa.eu/)and a provides a comparison with more than innovation in the business setting.

New minor will help non-business majors develop entrepreneurial mind set A minor in entrepreneurship will be available in fall gram is aimed at developing an entrepreneurial mind set 2010 to non-business majors. among students in a variety of disciplines. The minor will The new program reflects the growing recognition of the require 18 credit hours—nine hours of management courses vital role played by entrepreneurs in economic development and nine hours from a student’s major. The management in areas such as firm growth, employment generation, intellec- requirement includes courses in ideation and innovation, tual property development, and innovation. entrepreneurship feasibility analysis, and small business and Bryan K. Bourdeau, instructor in business, said the pro- entrepreneurship.

2 University of Southern Indiana College of Business Accounting team repeats win in national competition Two College of Business 2009 IMA student case competition teams teams qualify for finals A team of accounting students from the University of Southern Indi- ana has won first place for the second year in a row in the national Student Case Competition sponsored by the Institute of Management Accountants. This was the fourth straight year for USI College of Business students to Hancock Pandit Shirokova Ubelhor qualify for the national finals and the first time for USI to have two of the final four teams. Other teams in the final round of competition represented North Carolina State University and Wright State University. The finalists competed June 7 at the 90th IMA Annual Conference and Exposition in Denver. As qualifiers for the “final four,” each of the two USI teams received an Deig Garza King Shade award of $3,000. The winning team received an additional $2,000. Students on the winning team were McGuire said, “Both USI teams did USI accounting students are expe- accounting majors Ashley Hancock, very well, and both teams arrived at rienced competitors. Two students on Anand Pandit, Yekaterina Shirokova, different solutions that provided cre- the national championship team— and David Ubelhor, all of Evansville. ative approaches to a complex situation. Ashley Hancock and David Ubelhor— Also competing for USI was the The team that won offered a number of were members of the USI team that team of Kiersten Deig and Matt Garza techniques, including SWOT took first place in the 2008 case compe- of Evansville; Angela King of Santa tition sponsored by the Indiana CPA Claus, Indiana; and Anna Shade of Society. USI teams have won that com- Henderson, Kentucky. petition five years in a row. Hancock Faculty sponsors were Jeanette G. “Both USI teams did and Ubelhor also participated in a Maier-Lytle, instructor in accounting, recent case competition at a Canadian and Dr. Brian McGuire, associate dean very well, and both university (page 6). of the College of Business and professor King made her second trip to the of accounting. Maier-Lytle coached teams arrived at IMA finals. She was a member of USI’s both teams. first-place team in 2008. She also was Teams from universities throughout different solutions on the 2007 team in the INCPAS com- the country entered the first round of that provided creative petition. IMA competition. To qualify for the McGuire said that two characteris- finals, each team prepared a 15-minute approaches to a tics made this year’s national competi- DVD presentation and submitted it for tion unusual. It was only the second blind judging. Four teams were chosen complex situation.” time that two of the final four teams to make live presentations in the final represented the same university. It was round. In the finals, each team’s — Brian McGuire only the second time that the same 15-minute presentation was followed by university has won two years in a row. a single question from the judges. All final four teams were recog- The case required the students to [strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, nized at an awards luncheon during the develop recommendations that would threats] analysis, activity-based budget- conference. help the academic advising department ing, and a balanced scorecard approach, IMA is an organization for manage- of a fictitious university’s college of in their recommendations.” ment accounting and finance profes- business manage its operations and costs Judges were from industry and sionals. It has about 70,000 members strategically. academia across the country. worldwide.

Summer 2009 3 an environmental consulting and engi- Professionals Seven skills Continued from page 1 neering firm,” she said. These skills determine how Ryan Greenlee ’09, computer infor- students apply knowledge. practice and perfect oral and written mation systems, has found the skills he 4 communication. We insist upon their Written communication developed in business communication to considering varying points of views. We 4 Oral communication be an asset in his job as a systems ana- teach and expect expertise in the use of 4 Use of technology lyst with Flanders Electric in Evansville. technology that is useful to businesses. 4 Ethical decision-making “Whether it be a professional con- versation, formatting an email, or orga- We provide examples and cases to help 4 Analytical problem-solving students identify ethical issues and nizing a meeting, I always think back 4 Teamwork recognize the consequences by provid- to the skills you taught me,” he wrote 4 ing opportunities to discuss and practice Critical thinking to Bizal. “The kind of care and advice ethical decision-making models. We a scheduled class. We designed our own that you have given me has helped my assign and discuss problems that require meeting times and schedule.” career in ways that could accrue a debt analytical problem-solving skills. We Mayer said, “Our success was a result I may never be able to repay.” teach teamwork skills and assign activi- of our mind set and approach to the Nick Pressley ’09, business admin- ties to assist students in developing project, preparing and presenting each istration, was a member of an Alpha team strategies and learning to be effec- phase of the project as if we were truly Kappa Psi team that recently placed tive team members. We expect students hired business consultants—taking third in a regional competition. to share their results using effective oral pride in our role and responsibility as He said, “I think this accomplish- presentation skills.” engineers of a new family attraction for ment paints a vivid picture of just how David Burns ’09 and Holly Mayer the Evansville community.” increasingly competitive and prestigious ’09 were members of the winning team Mayer said the team spent at least USI’s College of Business is becom- in the recent management class project to 20 hours a week conducting industry ing. Other student organizations from develop ways to attract more young fami- research; communicating with the the college, like teams in the Indiana lies to Otters’ baseball games. They told client and professor and among them- CPA Society case competition and Beta how the real-world project as consultants selves; brainstorming; and developing Alpha Psi’s student competition, also to a small business contributed to their recommendations for their presenta- are representing us very well.” preparation for the professional world. tions to the client. Pressley thanked fellow Alpha Kappa Burns said the experience was a les- “Overall, this project has been per- Psi member Scott Roberts ’09, a member son in teamwork. sonally and professionally rewarding, of the team that won the 2008 Indiana “It helped with learning to structure allowing me to develop friendships that CPA Society case study competition, for and run a more efficient group,” he said. hopefully will last a lifetime and gain coaching the team. Roberts volunteered as “This was my first group-work project experience with the consulting model a way of giving back for experiences that that wasn’t structured. We didn’t attend as I begin my career with HydroTech, have helped him grow as a professional.

University honors Mahoney, Maier-Lytle as outstanding academic advisors Two College of Business faculty members are among Award presented five faculty members recognized University-wide for their by the USI excellence as academic advisors. Department of Tim Mahoney, instructor in economics, and Jeanette Athletics. Maier-Lytle, instructor in accounting, were chosen by the Dr. Moham- Faculty Awards for Service, Teaching, and Research Com- med Khayum, mittee of the Faculty Senate to receive the USI Outstand- dean, said, “Jea- ing Advisor Awards for 2009. nette Maier- Mahoney joined USI in 1987. He has advised students Mahoney Maier-Lytle Lytle’s approach to for 40 years at USI and at Danville Area Community advising is character- College where he previously taught. He has presented ized by her passion, caring, and the high standards she sets papers on advising and has attended advising conferences for students. She puts considerable effort in her prepara- across the country. tion—meeting with students on weekends, arranging A colleague who describes Mahoney as “the Pied Piper review sessions with accounting professionals, and stressing of advising” said, “The line of students standing outside his the importance of excellence.” door seeking his counsel is endless.” Maier-Lytle has coached accounting teams to statewide A mentor to student athletes, Mahoney also is the 2009 victory in case study competitions five years in a row and recipient of the Dr. Jane Davis-Brezette Faculty Excellence to national victories in 2008 and 2009.

4 University of Southern Indiana College of Business Harlan Van Over earns fifth-degree black belt in taekwondo Kicking, sparring, and breaking Las Vegas. The professor emeritus of an 84-movement form (a sequence of boards, Dr. Harlan C. Van Over business is 86. He is the oldest practic- techniques from the martial art), spar earned a fifth-degree black belt follow- ing member of the ATA. two matches with partners of his rank, ing testing at the American Taekwondo The national testing by a panel of and break boards on the first attempt Association (ATA) Spring Nationals in judges required Van Over to complete using two different moves. Mike Parks, head instructor at the Morris Dynamics Martial Arts Training Center where Van Over trains and teaches, said the judging standards are rigorous. “They don’t give you a pass for your age,” he said. In the form, judges look for the speed and power of technique as well as the stance and balance. In the sparring, the participant must demonstrate an ability to attack, evade, and counter. Both of Van Over’s sparring partners in the March test were less than 40 years old. To break the boards, he used a side kick and a back-elbow move. Van Over, who began studying taekwondo in 1981, became the 1999 world champion in the age-60-and-over category. Since 1986, he has been a cer- tified instructor. Van Over taught in the College of Business from 1973–75 and returned in 1977 to teach until his retirement in 1988. He later was associated with Harlan Van Over demonstrates the kicking power and style of a fifth-degree black belt. Western New Mexico University.

Otters Continued from page 1 David Burns ’09, a member of the winning team, said, Nancy Kovanic, instructor of the course in small- “The key to our success was doing a lot of research. We business consulting, divided the class into teams of three weren’t just thinking things up. We based all our sugges- and four students. Each team researched site selection, tions on research.” equipment and amenities, budget, operations, and market- Burns team, which also included Lynn Schmitt and ing. Following the study of each category, students made Holly Mayer, contacted the other 11 Frontier League presentations to a panel of judges that included Otters teams to learn what they were doing to engage families and executives. The panel chose the winning presentation. The how it was working for them. The student team also inter- final overall presentation was made at the ballpark. viewed families with young children. Ultimately, the student teams presented plans that For Burns, the hardest part of the project was its open- would include commercial-size inflatables, a custom speed- ended nature. “It gives me confidence that I can handle pitch activity, and other amenities to appeal to children that kind of project in the future,” he said. ages 3-12. Otters officials are reviewing the proposals and Brandon McClish, director of operations for the plan to break ground on a Kids Zone. Otters, said, “We treated the students like consultants, and Kovanic said, “One of the biggest benefits is that stu- we expected professionalism.” dents experienced an actual client relationship. They He was especially impressed with the detailed report learned that the goal is to meet the goals of the client. on other Frontier League teams. Sometimes client demands changed, and the students had Bryan Bourdeau, instructor in business, learned of the to adapt to that as well as compete with the other teams. It Otters’ need and suggested the project to Kovanic. The was as if they were competing against other agencies to win Evansville Small Business Development Center and the a client. It was very different from the usual classroom Idea Club, an organization of high school students, also setting.” were partners in the project.

Summer 2009 5 Students on the go put their knowledge to the test

College of Business students participated in an unprecedented number of regional and national meetings and competitions in recent months. Through these events stu- dents gain skills in preparing presen- tations and learn through research. They also network with students, faculty, and professionals. Here’s a look at some of these activities.

Multidisciplinary team presents case in Canada Jeanette Maier-Lytle, the instructor in accounting who has coached accounting teams to five statewide wins and two national wins in case study competition, took a team to Canada earlier this year to compete Traveling to Royal Roads University in Canada for a case study competition were, internationally. from left, David Ubelhor, Courtney Mickel, Kasey Wright, Jeanette Maier-Lytle, The multidisciplinary team Ashley Hancock, and Michael Patzer. included Ashley Hancock, accounting; Courtney Mickel, marketing; Michael Patzer, finance; Ubelhor said, “It was a great oldest professional business fraternity. David Ubelhor, accounting; and opportunity for us to apply the Fifteen members from USI’s Theta Kasey Wright, marketing. They knowledge that we have learned in all Phi chapter attended the meeting. traveled to Royal Roads University in of our classes to a real-world example. Victoria, British Columbia, to We were able to bring tools from all Jeopardy-style quiz participate in the 2009 International disciplines—marketing, management, tests SHRM team Case Competition sponsored by the finance, accounting, and even some The USI Society for Human university’s management faculty. CIS [computer information systems].” Resource Management (SHRM) Maier-Lytle learned of the competition student chapter competed in the at an Academic Business World Alpha Kappa Psi competes North Central Region HR Games International Conference in Nashville, in regional case study contest competition in March at St. Thomas Tennessee, three years ago. A four-person team of Alpha University in Minneapolis. “I decided after the number of Kappa Psi members—Julie Coburn, The regional competition was wins we have had in the accounting Nick Pressley, Christina Seedorf, the largest on record with 35 teams competitions that it would be fun to and Matt Youngs—took third prize participating. This was the College of enter this business competition,” she in a student case competition at the Business’ third year to enter. The said. “We didn’t place in the top three, organization’s regional conference in team of Emiley Esche, Adam but we learned a great deal about what . Schmitt, and J. Ryan Whitehead it takes to compete in this type of Eighteen teams entered the com- won their first four rounds of compe- competition.” petition. The case study required tition. The HR Games is a Jeopardy- The 11 teams—nine from Canada, teams to present recommendations for style quiz testing students on their one from the University of South an organization that is transitioning human resource knowledge. Carolina, and USI—had three hours to from a classical management style to Dr. Dane Partridge, associate evaluate a case and prepare a an increasingly popular management professor of management, is chapter 20-minute PowerPoint presentation to style known as “self-directed work advisor. address the case requirements. A panel teams.” The Evansville-Area Human of five judges from various business The USI team received $250 and Resource Association sponsors the backgrounds heard the presentations a plaque for its performance. USI student chapter. and posed questions to the teams. Alpha Kappa Psi is America’s

6 University of Southern Indiana College of Business AITP students distinguish themselves in national competition Seven University of Southern Indiana students studying Business attract.” Foroughi is chair of the USI College of computer information systems or computer science passed Business Department of Management, Management Infor- the Associate Computing Professional mation Systems, and Computer Sci- (ACP) examination administered ence. recently at the Association of Informa- USI College of Business students In other events at the conference, tion Technology Professionals (AITP) Batey finished first in the personal- 14th annual National Collegiate Con- accounted for almost half the computing troubleshooting competi- ference in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. tion. He documented and diagnosed Fifty-nine students took the ACP students successfully completing the specific hardware and software issues exam. Fifteen students passed. With Associate Computing with personal computers in a lab envi- seven students passing, USI College of ronment. Business students accounted for almost Professional Josh Sackett earned second place half of those successfully completing in the artistic category of the student the exam. examination at the 14th annual banner competition. Rebecca Adam- David Batey received the second- son and Ben Lantaff were chosen to highest score of all students who took National Collegiate Conference compete in the finals of the web the exam. Other USI students passing of the Association of Information development competition which the exam were Devin Burke, Casey involved developing or updating a web Cambron, Nathan Haynes, Drew Technology Professionals. site for a nonprofit organization. They Helfert, Jason Nichols, and William received an honorable mention award Walker. for their work with Voices, Inc. The students now hold ACP desig- Twenty-one USI students were nation, which validates an individual’s knowledge of the among more than 600 students, faculty, and information general computing industry and specific programming lan- technology professionals who attended the national meet- guage or specialty area knowledge and skills. The exam was ing in April. Approximately 80 colleges and universities developed by the credentialing organization, the Institute from throughout the country were represented at the for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP). national conference. Dr. Abbas Foroughi said, “The students’ performance at Ernest E. Nolan, assistant professor of computer infor- the conference reflects the rigor of the courses they have mation systems, and Dr. Marvin Albin, professor of com- taken, the caliber of the College of Business faculty, and puter information systems, are advisors for the USI AITP the high quality of students which USI and the College of chapter.

Beta Alpha Psi members to compete in New York Alvin Basham leads Alumni Association A team of accounting students will compete nationally in August after placing first in the “Chapter Sustainability” category of the Deloitte Best Practices competi- H. Alvin Basham ’00, business tion during the 2009 Beta Alpha Psi Midwest Regional Meeting in Indianapolis. administration, will lead the USI Alum- The USI team included Kiersten Deig, Anna Shade, Emily Shetler, and Yeka- ni Association in 2009-10 as president terina Shirokova. They will attend the 2009 Beta Alpha Psi Annual Meeting of the Alumni August 6-8 in New York. Council. The competition required the organization members to review their current Basham is vice procedures and practices for sustaining the success of their chapter, identify areas president/portfolio that need attention, and develop and implement strategies in weak areas. manager in the As winners of the regional competition, the USI chapter received a $500 award Wealth Manage- to support chapter activities. ment Division at Beta Alpha Psi is an honor society available only to students enrolled in busi- in ness schools accredited by AACSB International—the Association to Advance Evansville. He Collegiate Schools of Business. The organization recognizes the outstanding achieve- recently earned Basham ment of students enrolled in accounting, finance, and computer information systems certification as a programs. Certified Financial Planner. Dr. Brian McGuire, professor of accounting and associate dean of the College He and his wife Tiffany ’99, busi- of Business, and Dr. Mehmet Kocakulah, professor of accounting, are chapter advisors. ness administration, and children, Riley and Reese, live in Mt. Vernon, Indiana.

Summer 2009 7 College of Business briefs Faculty recognized will explore how to present economic data during Honors Week and analysis in a manner that is Three faculty members have been accessible to the recognized with 2008-09 awards for community at large. excellence. The goal is to provide assistant Dr. Manfen Chen, data and analysis that professor of finance, received the award will lead to stronger for teaching. Chen Sauer Mujumdar Dr. Mohammed Khayum, economic development dean of the College of Business, said she efforts. has been consistent and persistent in • Dr. Curtis R. Price, her commitment to tracking student assistant professor of learning. economics, received a assistant Dr. Katherine M. Sauer, College of Business professor of economics, was recognized fellowship He will study for research. She has integrated her the development and research methods and findings into the persistence of gender- courses she teaches. wage disparity. He is associate Price Sevastianova Shields Dr. Sudesh Mujumdar, particularly interested in professor of economics, was recognized comparing promotion for service. He has applied his expertise disparity in early and later parts of a She will share her research with to community needs, including a worker’s life cycle and in evaluating faculty and Board of Advisors members tourism impact study for Spencer wage gains attached to promotions. at a dinner during fall semester. The County, and responded to a variety • Dr. Daria Sevastianova, recipient Board of Advisors sponsors the small- of media requests. These activities of the R. Malcolm Koch Fellowship, group dinner meetings to foster commu- contribute to the community and will continue her research into the nication between the business commu- enhance the visibility and reputation relationship between a country’s armed nity and the College of Business faculty. of the college. conflict and economic growth. She is • Dr. Peggy O. Shields, associate Faculty awards were presented for an assistant professor of economics. professor of marketing, will continue the first time this year at the college’s Sevastianova received a Lilly Sum- previous research on the role of students annual Honors Week ceremony mer Research Fellowship in 2008. Since in the learning process. Her work will celebrating student achievement. that time, she has presented a paper at include development of a survey to the Eastern Economic Association measure faculty and student attitudes Four awarded summer Annual Conference in New York City and perceptions regarding the role of during a session on terrorism and the collaborative learning experiences and research fellowships other aspects of student-centered learn- Four faculty members are recipients economy. She and coauthor Dr. Solo- mon Polachek of the State University ing. Using a fall 2009 marketing course of summer research fellowships. as a prototype, she also will develop and • Dr. Sudesh Mujumdar, associate of New York Binghamton have submit- ted a paper to the Journal of Economic test a framework for a student-centered professor of marketing, received a course. Shields received a Teaching community engagement fellowship. He Growth. Sevastianova continues to develop the subject through research. Innovation and Learning Fellowship.

Timothy Schibik named assistant dean of College of Business Dr. Timothy J. Schibik, professor of issues in higher education, knowledge of higher economics, has been named assistant dean for education trends and challenges, and his years the College of Business. The appointment was of experience as an outstanding teacher will be effective June 15. of considerable value in the role of assistant Making the announcement, Dr. Mohammed dean.” Khayum, dean, said, “Dr. Schibik’s expertise in Schibik joined USI in 1988. He holds a the areas of student advising and data analytics doctorate from West Virginia University. will be of considerable benefit to the college in As assistant dean, he succeeds William C. this position. His research on labor market Henderson, who returns to full-time teaching. Schibik

8 University of Southern Indiana College of Business On sabbatical BOA members Choe, Rhim devote semester to research share success tips A special thanks goes to 15 Sabbaticals are investments in faculty members. Two College of Business professors members of the Board of Advisors will devote sabbatical time in 2009-10 to scholarly pursuits that will enhance their who participated in the first BOA teaching and contribute to their academic disciplines. Days at the College of Business. Senior executives from compa- Focus on North Korean trade nies in the Tri-state visited classes Dr. Sang T. Choe, professor of marketing, will be on to talk about factors that contrib- sabbatical during fall semester. ute to career and personal success Choe’s most recent research focuses on North Korean and the role an entrepreneurial consumers, North Korea’s foreign trade, and the trade relationship mind set plays in success. between the United States and North Korea as well as the The initiative was developed Inter-Korean trade. His published works include six journal under the leadership of Carl L. articles and five conference proceedings on this topic. Chapman, 2008-09 BOA presi- Choe He plans to have two books published in fall 2009. His book dent. The class visitation took North Korea: A New Market for Global Businesses will be published place during National Entrepre- by the Edwin Mellen Press, Ltd., New York. He also has written Fifty Facts of North neurship Week. Korea Every CEO Needs to Know. Speakers Research on global financial markets; editorship of academic journal Tom Austerman, president and CEO, Evansville Commerce Dr. Jong C. Rhim, professor of finance and chair of the Economics and Finance Bank Department, will use his sabbatical in the spring to pursue his interest in global Donald Breivogel ’83, senior vice financial markets. Rhim also has assumed editorship of an academic journal and will president and CFO, American devote attention to improving its quality and outreach. General Financial Services About his research, Rhim said, “The recent chain of events in Alan R. Brill, president, Brill domestic and international financial markets has brought my Media Company research attention to issues in global financial markets and Mark Cox, financial advisor, systems. My tentative research agenda includes topics such as Northwestern Mutual Financial volatility in domestic and international security markets and Network probable overreaction to liquidity problems caused by the sub- Robert DiNardo, vice president/ prime mortgage lending in the U.S. housing market.” general manager, WOW! He expects to focus on 1) investigating the positive and Kay Forbes-Smith, president, KFS Rhim negative effects of exotic securities (e.g., derivative securities) on & Associates, Inc. risk diversification and portfolio management and 2) critically Patrick C. Harvey, FAB project examining roles played by hedge funds and their contributions to the current financial manager, Alcoa turmoil. Michael Head ’80, president and The peer-reviewed journal Global Business and Finance Review is a publication now CEO, First Federal Savings housed at the USI College of Business and edited by Rhim. Its primary objective is to Bank provide a forum to stimulate the exchange of ideas, information, and analysis in the Allen R. Mounts ’74, executive emerging era of globalization. vice president and chief Rhim said he plans to establish close relationships with international business administration officer, Old schools to expand circulation and improve the journal’s quality. He also wants to add National Bancorp scholars in business, finance, and economics to the editorial board. Rhim hopes to Dave Papariella ’84, vice expand the journal from a twice-a-year publication to a quarterly. president, Harding, Shymanski Transferred to USI this spring, the journal was previously coedited by faculty at & Company Nicholls State University and Montclair State University. Linda White, president, Deaconess Hospital Carl L. Chapman, president and Coming in September COO, Corporation Bob Keller, president/CEO, Fifth annual campus-wide Escalade Donald Neel ’85, president/CEO, Business Ideation Competition United Bank Todd Tucker, president/owner, A prelude to Indiana Entrepreneurship Week activities later in the semester Tucker Publishing Group

Summer 2009 9 IN BRIEF Michael Haynes, a partner at The 35 accounting students who Umbach & Associates, LLP, is chair- attended networked with 20 account- Austerman to lead elect. ing professionals representing six orga- Board of Advisors nizations: Becker CPA Review; BKD, Tom Austerman, president and Beta Alpha Psi sponsors LLP; Dauby, O’Connor, and Zaleski; chief executive officer of Evansville first annual Meet the Firm Harding, Shymanski & Co.; Kemper Commerce Bank, will chair the Board Accounting students and profes- CPA Group, LLC; and Vectren. of Advisors for 2009-10. The board is a sionals had an opportunity to meet and “It is always easier to interview group of senior business leaders who exchange ideas when the College of when you have already met the profes- help the College of Business establish Business chapter of Beta Alpha Psi sional sitting across from you,” Shetler and maintain a connection to the sponsored the first annual Meet the said. business community. Firm event. Proceeds from the evening will Kerry Jackson ’84 is chair-elect. Emily Shetler, BAP president, benefit chapter members attending He is executive vice president, chief said the spring event was designed to regional and annual conferences. The financial officer, and treasurer of Shoe bring students and professionals togeth- dinner was held on campus following a Carnival, Inc., in Evansville. er to begin networking before the meeting of the Accounting Circle. recruiting process begins. BAP is an international honor Connor to chair “The event is most beneficial to society recognizing outstanding Accounting Circle sophomores and juniors. Seniors still achievement by financial information Deidra Connor ’87, president of benefit, but it is not meant to be a job students. The organization is available Evansville ARC, chairs the Account- fair. Professionals who talked to me only in institutions with business pro- ing Circle for 2009-10. The circle links afterwards mentioned that it was a fun, grams accredited by AACSB Interna- the college’s accounting programs with but beneficial, evening, and they can’t tional - The Association to Advance accounting professionals in the region. wait until next year’s event,” she said. Collegiate Schools of Business.

Your gift makes a remarkable difference! Gifts create more opportunities for students’ successes. Please apply my gift in the following way(s). Name______o College of Business (where the need is greatest) o Business and Engineering Center Programmatic Support (new building related) Address______o Business Faculty Enhancement Endowment o Business Student Clubs’ Fund (conferences and competitions) o Larry W. Arp Business Scholarship o Roxy Baas Memorial Accounting Scholarship City, State, Zip______o Craig R. Ehlen Scholarship o Phil Fisher Business Scholarship o Frost Memorial Scholarship Telephone______o Wanda B. Hibbitts Accounting Scholarship o Walter Jermakowicz Memorial Scholarship for International Studies o Tim Mahoney Business Scholarship Email______o Barbara J. and Edward D. Marting Scholarship o Les Nunn Scholarship o USI Information Technology Alliance Scholarship Make your tax-deductible check payable to USI Foundation, o Dan Wade Accounting Scholarship 8600 University Boulevard, Evansville, IN 47712. Amount committed: $______Method of Payment: o Check enclosed A contribution of $25 or more to any USI Foundation o Please bill me in ______. (Specify month.) o https://www.usi.edu/onlinegiving fund makes graduates “active” members of the USI Alumni o Enclosed is my matching gift form Association. o Charge to my credit card o Visa o MasterCard o Discover Cardholder Name To learn more, Card Number Exp.Date visit www.usi.edu/giving Signature

10 University of Southern Indiana College of Business Alumni Association honors Kerry Jackson, Stephanie Buchanan Two College of Business alumni Buchanan has dedicated a great have been recognized by the USI deal of her time to serve the Alumni Association with awards University and is accordingly presented at the 2009 Graduation an obvious choice for recogni- Celebration Reception and Dinner. tion. She has served USI in W. Kerry Jackson ’84, accounting, numerous capacities.” received the Distinguished Alumni Buchanan has been a USI Award. Foundation Board member since Kevin L. Hammett ’90, accounting, 2004, serving as chair of the president-elect of the USI Alumni Alumni Annual Fund Campaign, Council, said, “Kerry Jackson has member of Development Office distinguished himself as a prominent selection committee, and mem- business leader in our community. He ber of the Alumni President’s well represents the spirit of USI alumni Associates. by the giving back to the University of She has been a USI Varsity his time and support of the College of Club board member since 2007, Business.” lending assistance with the Steak Jackson is executive vice president, Fry ’n Auction committee. She chief financial officer, and treasurer of served as president of the USI , Inc., in Evansville. As Alumni Association in 2005-06 alumnus in residence for the College of and Alumni Council member Business in February, he talked with from 2002-08. She is a past students about supply chain member of the following alumni management at the shoe retailer, or as committees: scholarship, travel, As a one-stop shopping experience for family he termed it, “The Life Cycle of a special events, nominating, and footwear, Evansville-based Shoe Carnival has Shoe.” executive. a sophisticated supply chain management system “Shoes are not wine. They don’t get Buchanan is an account to meet customer expectations. Kerry Jackson better with age,” he said as he explained executive for Kentucky Data explained the life cycle of a shoe in his presentation all aspects of supply chain management Link. She and her husband as alumnus in residence. from merchandise assortment to Jason have four children: delivery to distribution center to Katherine, Noah, Benjamin, markdown strategy. Jackson is chair-elect of the USI and Alexander. Shoe Carnival is a leading retailer of Board of Advisors for 2009-10. name brand and private label footwear He is also a member of the USI with more than 300 stores in 29 states Accounting Circle. in the Midwest, South, and Southeast. He and his Jackson has wife Teran have held various three children, accounting “Shoes are not Tara, Tyler, and positions with Megan. Shoe Carnival Stephanie since joining like wine. They Buchanan ’97, the company business in 1988. A administration and certified public don’t get better German, received accountant, the Alumni Service he was Award. previously with age.” Jean M. Blan- associated ton ’01, immediate with a public past president of the Stephanie Buchanan’s husband Jason and accounting Alumni Council, daughter Katie shared in the celebration of her firm. — Kerry Jackson said, “Stephanie award from the USI Alumni Association.

Summer 2009 11 10001-01300 P08-5403

College of Business A publication of the University of Southern Indiana College of Business 8600 University Boulevard University of Southern Indiana Evansville IN 47712

Dr. Mohammed Khayum, Dean Nancy F. Bizal, Editor 812/464-1801 Betty R. Vawter, News and Information Services

Topping off College of Business

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• News and events • Links to academic departments, advisory boards, and business resources • Faculty contact information • Web cam to view progress on construction of Business and Engineering Center

www.usi.edu/business The campus community gathered in April to watch the final steel girder being hoisted into place atop the framework of the new Business and Engineering Center. Dr. Mohammed Khayum, dean of the College of Business, signs the beam with Dr. Julie Edmister, dean of University of Southern Indiana is an the Bower-Suhrheinrich College of Education and Human Services, looking on. The build- affirmative action/equal employment opportunity institution. ing is scheduled to open in fall 2010.