The University has appointed Matthew O'Connor, professor of finance and head of the Alternative Investments Institute, dean of the School of Business.
"It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Dr. O'Connor as the new dean of the School of Business," said Mark Thompson, senior vice president for academic and student affairs. "Having worked as a faculty member for nine years and interim dean during the 2008-2009 academic year, Matt knows Quinnipiac extremely well and has played a key role in shaping the School of Business' plans for national prominence."
O'Connor said, "I'm honored to have the opportunity to work with the outstanding students, faculty and staff of the School of Business. We have tremendous opportunities ahead of us, and I look forward to helping the School of Business and Quinnipiac University achieve our goals for academic excellence and national prominence."
O'Connor joined the School of Business faculty at Quinnipiac in 1999 after completing a PhD in finance at Syracuse University. He also holds an MBA from the University of Massachusetts and a bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut. O'Connor was named interim dean of the School of Business in July 2008, replacing Thompson who was promoted to senior vice president for academic and student affairs.
In addition to publishing extensively in peer reviewed journals, being an active participant at professional conferences and actively demonstrating commitment to service, O'Connor has a long record of excellence in teaching. He was awarded the 2005 Excellence in Teaching Award by the University's Center for Excellence in Teaching and Service to Students.
"In its recommendation, the search committee made specific reference to Matt's integrity, strong support of the business school's welfare and a thorough understanding and ability to handle challenges," Thompson said.