Greetings from the Dean

Dear Friends,

As the fall semester winds down and we begin the transition to 2025, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity we have at the Providence College School of Business to make a positive impact on society through our teaching, scholarship, and thought leadership.

That opportunity – which we all embrace – takes the form of activities and initiatives that help us prepare students for lives and careers characterized by ethical leadership and social responsibility.

Our faculty’s dedication to excellence in teaching and research simultaneously advances knowledge in business disciplines and addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing our world today. From a scholarly assessment of the social costs associated with problem gambling to analysis of the subtle forms of discrimination that cause harm to workers and businesses (and much more), our work is making a tangible difference.

And the impact of those efforts extends to the day-to-day teaching and learning that is our fundamental purpose, along with the other intentional programming that adds to the student experience. When Boston Celtics President Rich Gotham ’86 told an audience of mostly PC business students that “it’s character that wins” in life and in sports, it reinforced the notion that service to others should be central to our purpose in life. When renowned diversity, equity, and inclusion scholar Dr. Mikki Hebl shared insights on building an inclusive community with a group of student leaders, it reminded us that the pathway to formative growth involves listening with an open mind and open heart.

The opportunity to inspire our students through the knowledge and values our faculty and invited guests exemplify is a gift. And the real reward comes when we see those students ready to emerge from PC as leaders ready to drive positive change in their communities and workplaces.

As alumni and friends of the Providence College School of Business, I am sure you have experienced firsthand the power of gratitude. Whether it was a professor who went the extra mile to help you succeed, a mentor who provided invaluable guidance, or a colleague who offered support during challenging times, these acts of kindness have shaped your journey. I encourage you to carry this spirit of gratitude forward in your careers and to make it a cornerstone of your leadership style.

Gratitude is certainly an emotion I feel regularly and intensely as I finish my first semester as interim dean and reflect on the work – and the example – of our faculty, staff, and students. We are fortunate to be together in this wonderful place and I look forward to the coming year full of hope and enthusiasm.

Thank you for your continued support and please accept my best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a joyous holiday season.

Sincerely,

Christine Earley, Ph.D.
Interim Dean
Professor of Accountancy
School of Business