As fall colors sweep across the High Plains and our campus comes alive with new beginnings, I am reminded of the energy, curiosity, and commitment that define the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business. Each new semester brings opportunities to learn, grow, and connect — not only within our classrooms but across our communities and beyond. This fall has been no exception, filled with stories of innovation, perseverance, and impact that reflect the very best of who we are as a college — a place where purpose meets possibility.
In this fall edition of the Engler College of Business Newsletter, we highlight stories that showcase our dedication to academic excellence, innovation in teaching, and meaningful engagement with students and the community. Together, these stories illustrate what it means to live our mission and embrace the future of business education.
As we continue to advance our mission, we recognize the rapidly changing landscape of business education. Colleges everywhere face growing competition, not only from other universities but also from online platforms and alternative credential programs. At the Engler College of Business, we view this evolution not as a challenge but as an opportunity — to innovate, to strengthen our programs, and to reaffirm our distinct identity as a college where education meets purpose.
Our strength lies in what we call the Engler approach — a powerful blend of academic rigor, practical application, personal connection, and values-based leadership. Through technology-enhanced learning, experiential opportunities, and strong faculty mentorship, we prepare graduates who think critically, lead ethically, and compete globally. This commitment continues to set us apart and drive our success.
Experiential learning remains one of the Engler College of Business’s greatest strengths, offering students opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in meaningful, real-world settings. This semester, the BuffTreks program took students and faculty to Albuquerque, where they explored the state’s economy, film industry, and tourism — seeing firsthand how theory meets practice and how possibilities grow from experience.
We also celebrate a remarkable milestone as Dr. Syed Anwar Tariq marks his thirty-ninth year with the College. Since joining in 1987, Dr. Tariq has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to teaching, research, and service. His career stands as a testament to the idea that meaningful impact is built over time through passion and purpose.
Looking ahead, we’re preparing for the 2026 Study Abroad program’s return to London, led by Drs. Macy and Gerlich. This immersive international experience will expose students to the cultural, historical, and commercial heart of one of the world’s great business centers.
The same spirit of hands-on learning is also reflected in the launch of MindSpark. This student-run marketing agency manages the College’s social media, digital engagement, and promotional campaigns — and may eventually work with external clients. Through these immersive experiences, Engler students gain practical skills in business, marketing, and communication while contributing directly to the College’s mission and professional excellence.
Our newsletter also highlights the human side of our faculty. In “Mother of a Road,” Dr. Nick Gerlich shares his passion for travel along the iconic Route 66 — a story that reflects the curiosity and creativity our faculty bring to both life and learning.
Innovation in learning also shines through our partnership with Coursera, now in its second year. Under the leadership of Dr. Mary Liz Brooks, students are earning professional certifications from global companies — credentials that enhance their skills and marketability. This year, WT and the Engler College were recognized at the Coursera annual conference for leadership in online learning — a proud reflection of our faculty’s creativity and vision.
Assistant Professor Jimmy Kim continues to fuel the entrepreneurial spirit through his “Shark Tank”-style course, where students pitch business ideas, develop innovation, and gain the confidence to lead.
Also featured in this edition is an update from our Online Learning and Teaching Innovation Committee, which has created a special task force to study how we can better engage with online students. Through faculty interviews and surveys, the group is helping us find new ways to strengthen relationships and ensure that every student — wherever they may be — feels part of the Engler family.
And finally, this fall, we welcomed two new Assistant Professors and one part-time instructor, whose diverse expertise and global perspectives strengthen our academic community. Their arrival ensures that the Engler College continues to grow as a vibrant, inclusive environment for learning and discovery.
As you read these stories, I hope you share the same pride and optimism that I feel. The Engler College of Business is more than an academic institution; it is a community of learners, leaders, and innovators dedicated to making a difference. Rooted in the values of the Texas Panhandle and inspired by the entrepreneurial legacy of Paul and Virginia Engler, we continue to shape students who bring integrity, creativity, and purpose to the world of business.
The Engler spirit — grounded in innovation, entrepreneurship, and community — shines brightly in all we do. Thank you to our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends for making this an extraordinary place to work, learn, and grow. As we look ahead to the rest of the academic year, I am confident that our best days are yet to come.
With warm regards and heartfelt appreciation,
Dr. Amjad Abdullat