Dean's Message

Welcome to the Stephens College of Business!

As the incoming Dean, it is my distinct honor to lead a community where tradition meets transformation. Having spent 25 years in higher education across both public and private institutions, I have seen many models of business education. I joined the University of Montevallo because I believe that what we offer at Stephens is the future of the industry: a “best of both worlds” experience that is incredibly rare in the United States.

The Gold Standard of Excellence

The Stephens College of Business is proud to be one of only seven public liberal arts schools in the nation to hold AACSB accreditation. This accreditation is considered the “gold standard” and held by less than 6% of business schools worldwide, ensuring that our curriculum and outcomes meet the highest global benchmarks. Here, you receive an elite education with the personalized, student-centered touch that only a public liberal arts college can provide.

Learning by Doing: The Experiential Edge

At Stephens, we believe the best way to learn business is to do business. We bridge the gap between the classroom and the boardroom through deep experiential learning. Our students don’t just study case studies; they engage in active consulting projects, working directly with business owners to solve real-world challenges.

Central to this mission is the Grainger Center for Professional Development. The Grainger Center is your hub for professional development, offering:

• Direct Networking: Frequent, meaningful interactions with business professionals and industry leaders.
• Career Readiness: Specialized workshops, internship placement, and mentorship programs that ensure you are “Day One Ready.”
• Professional Presence: Refinement of the soft skills—communication, ethics, and leadership—that top-tier employers demand.

Our Societal Impact and Workforce Development

We view our mission as larger than ourselves. The Stephens College of Business is a vital engine for workforce development. By producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also critical thinkers and ethical leaders, we aim to make a lasting societal impact. We are committed to strengthening our regional economy and creating a diverse pipeline of talent that is prepared to lead with purpose in an ever-changing global marketplace.

Your Future Starts Here

Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a future corporate executive, or a data-driven strategist, we provide the tools, the network, and the ethical foundation you need to thrive. I invite you to visit our beautiful campus, explore the Grainger Center, and see for yourself why Stephens is the premier destination for students who want a competitive edge with a human touch.

I look forward to seeing you around the bricks!

Monday-Friday 8:00AM – 5:00PM
(205) 665-6540
stephensbusiness@montevallo.edu