When Lander University opens after holiday break on Jan. 4, one week before classes begin on Jan. 11, Dr. Mick Fekula will start his tenure as dean of Lander's College of Business.
"I was attracted to Lander University because of its bold strategic plan," said Fekula. "The vision is exciting and offers a great direction. The business dean's position is an excellent opportunity to make a significant contribution to the institution."
Fekula joins Lander's faculty after five successful years as the dean of the School of Business at the University of South Carolina Aiken. Prior to USC Aiken, he established the Department of Leadership Studies at The Citadel and served as its first chair. Fekula is a veteran of the United States Air Force, and holds a Ph.D. in business administration from Penn State University, an M.B.A. from the University of Wyoming, and a B.S. in management from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Penn.
Engaging with Lander's business faculty, staff and students, as well as the greater Greenwood community, will be Fekula's top priority when he arrives to campus in January. "The College of Business must position itself to help achieve the mission of the institution," said Fekula. "My role is to serve the faculty, staff, students, institution and our local community in the pursuit of that mission."
Fekula and his wife, Jacqueline, have five children, all of whom are leading successful careers; and three grandchildren, "with one more on the way," Fekula said. "We are excited about engaging with the Greenwood community."
Dr. Scott Jones, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, welcomed Fekula to Lander University. "Dr. Fekula brings a wealth of experience to this position," said Jones. "His many years of leadership at universities in South Carolina will enable the College of Business to build upon its recent successes. We are confident that our graduate and undergraduate programs will continue to be programs of choice throughout our region, state and beyond."