Reflecting on the content for our fifth issue, I can’t help but to notice the cycles between past and present. Last spring saw the retirement of a few dedicated professors, leaving open space for the faculty of our future, which we are delighted to introduce to you today. We are also pleased to announce the addition of the highly ranked Textiles Marketing (TM) and Textiles, Fashion Merchandising and Design (TMD) programs into our College. One of the Top 10 fashion programs in the country, TMD is one of very few to offer the B.S. degree in Textiles Marketing in collaboration with an accredited College of Business. In their teaching, studies and research, this department is preserving the fabrics and fashions of the past, and innovating textiles for the bio-medical industry and even astronaut gear that will be used for future generations. In addition, as business and labor are so intertwined, we are strengthening our relationship with URI’s Charles T. Schmidt Labor Research Center. Developing the natural nexus with the Center’s faculty, research and programs will extend a wealth of multidisciplinary opportunities for our students and faculty.

This will be a very exciting year for all members of the College, including the record number of incoming freshmen. As their new learning begins, we continue plans to reconnect with former students at the 2016 Alumni Career Day, to be held at Ballentine Hall on Friday, October 28. We embrace their success and invite them to share their wisdom at this annual event. This year’s keynote speaker is Ben Navarro, Class of ’84, the CEO of Sherman Financial Group in Charleston, S.C. Students will benefit from panel discussions led by alumni and corporate leaders and participate in mock interviews and professional development opportunities. We invite you to join us!

It is through these stories and these connections that we are able to showcase the impact of the education we provide at the College of Business Administration. I invite you to reply and stay connected! Please send your comments directly to me at: mebrahimpour@uri.edu.

Sincerely,

Dr. Maling Ebrahimpour
Dean of the College of Business Administration
The Alfred J. Verrecchia-Hasbro Leadership Chair