Message from the Dean

Michael Knetter, Dean
Biography

In a world that rewards talent and expertise, our school is in a strong position. Our incoming students have never been better prepared or more qualified in absolute terms and (by many measures) in comparison with other programs. Our programs are more focused than ever before on imparting deep expertise to students. And the alumni network that welcomes them after graduation is a powerful source of strategic connections that will help them build important and meaningful careers.

Business schools and higher education in general face a turbulent period, just like other parts of our economy. Fortunately for us, investments in our people, programs, and facilities made by our alumni have positioned us well for this challenge. We remain on track in implementing our strategic plan and in using the Wisconsin Naming Gift resources to strengthen our intellectual foundation.   I’m especially grateful for all of our alumni who contribute to our annual fund campaign despite the tough economy. If an ever-growing number of our alumni continue to become involved in our mission, there is no limit to the progress we can make. The historic $85 million naming gift we received in 2007 has put us in a position to grow and strengthen our faculty and provide higher-quality experiences for our students.

This year alone, we will benefit from the talents of five superb new faculty members. They join the Wisconsin School of Business in the areas of finance, management and human resources, operations and information management, and real estate.  They enhance a faculty already known for its intellectual leadership in academic research, business practice, and teaching.

The progress the Wisconsin School of Business is making is due to support from a variety of sources. Our students have shown their recognition of the return on investment from their business degree by supporting higher tuition than other majors.  Our alumni have stepped up in unprecedented ways through their annual giving, which provides the flexibility we need to compete with other top business schools. State support and revenue from our own entrepreneurial efforts play a crucial role as well. By working in partnership with our alumni and friends, we are well positioned to maintain the legacy of leadership associated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Michael Knetter
Albert O. Nicholas Dean
Wisconsin School of Business