Editor’s Note: This is an ongoing breaking news story. Updates will be provided as they become available.
Ronn Smith has been announced as the next dean of the College of Business, according to an Instagram post by Colorado State University President Amy Parsons.
Smith’s appointment comes as Beth Walker finishes her last semester as dean of the college. She has held her position as dean since her initial appointment in 2015 before announcing her retirement from the position Jan. 27, becoming the first woman dean in the college’s 60 year history.
Smith currently serves as the senior associate dean at the University of Wyoming College of Business, where he has worked in several positions since 2020. Prior to his position at UW, Smith spent 14 years at the University of Arkansas College Business where he served as the department marketing chair, according to his LinkedIn. Parsons described Smith’s experience and leadership style as one that will align well with CSU’s priorities.
“Dr. Smith’s leadership style is defined by collaboration, removing barriers, and building inclusive, high-performing teams,” the instagram post reads. “He is deeply passionate about the role of business schools as engines of innovation and community engagement representing a vision that aligns perfectly with our college’s mission of ‘Business for a Better World.'”
As a professor and researcher, Smith’s experience centers on marketing theory, public policy, consumer behavior and psychology. His research has been published in a number of academic journals, including the Journal of Business Logistics and the Journal of Consumer Research. He is also an active member of the American Marketing Association, a professional community for marketing professionals. Before entering academia, Smith also co-owned and managed a service venture, giving him first-hand experience in the business world.
Smith will begin his tenure July 1. Parsons said that Walker’s legacy leaves a strong foundation for Smith to take over.
“As we welcome Dr. Smith, we also want to express our profound gratitude to Dean Beth Walker for her 11 years of transformative leadership,” the instagram post reads. “Dr. Walker’s legacy provides a robust foundation for Dr. Smith to further propel the college into its next chapter of excellence.”
Reach Claire VanDeventer at news@collegian.com or on social media @RMCollegian.
