Dear Colleagues,
As we conclude another fall semester and approach the end of the year, we observe a fundamental shift in the business education landscape. Innovative insights and new paradigms energize discussions around the business education field, underscoring our crucial role in shaping tomorrow’s decision-makers. This past year has indeed presented its challenges. Still, it has also been gratifying, filled with steady progress and thoughtful reflection as we boldly chart our course for the Engler College of Business.
I am immensely proud of our collective achievements and the vibrant spirit that defines our community. Our commitment to excellence in education, research, and community engagement remains steadfast, effectively shaping the next generation of business leaders in the Texas Panhandle and beyond.
The end of the fall semester brings immense joy and celebration. We embrace the festive spirit of the Christmas season, starting with Fall Graduation Commencement on December 14. On this special day, we celebrated an impressive 265 students as they received their diplomas. This moment is not just a reflection of their hard work and dedication but a source of immense pride for all of us as they join our esteemed alumni family.
This year has truly highlighted our resilience, strengths, and bright trajectory. Our faculty have shone brightly, publishing more than 35 impactful articles in leading peer-reviewed journals, driving forward knowledge and elevating our reputation for intellectual innovation.
Our mission to empower students is made possible by the generosity of our donors and supporters. Their contributions have been transformative, enabling us to provide nearly $1.5 million in financial aid and scholarships to over 700 students this year. This support allows our students to focus on their academic and personal growth, unlocking their potential to become leaders who will make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. On behalf of our faculty, staff, and students, I extend heartfelt gratitude to our donors for turning dreams into reality.
Our Engler Edge program continues to thrive, creating meaningful opportunities for our students and preparing them for future success. This fall, more 150 first-year students enrolled in BUSI 1301, the program’s cornerstone course. A highlight of the semester was an immersive learning experience at the Bell Helicopter plant at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport. Twenty-two students, faculty, staff, and Engler Edge mentors spent an afternoon learning about supply chain, logistics, and product line management through an engaging presentation by site manager Sonja Clark. Many Bell Textron employees, including WT alumni, further enriched the experience. Special thanks to Brandy Carr, Dr. Jeffry Babb, Dr. Robert King, Dr. Anne Macy, and mentors Mr. David Hudson and Ms. Madison Mays for supporting this impactful initiative.
This issue of our newsletter celebrates the innovation, achievements, and community impact that define the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business. Our progress this year reflects the extraordinary spirit of West Texas A&M University and the vibrant Texas Panhandle.
In this newsletter, you’ll find highlights of the success of the Engler Edge program, showcasing our student ambassadors who exemplify dedication and connection, elevating our college’s reputation, and profoundly supporting our community.
As part of Engler Societal Impact, Dr. Leslie Ramos Salazar, Dr. Jillian Yarbrough, and Dr. Elaina Cantrell Robinson conducted groundbreaking research on women in business in the Texas Panhandle. Their work, presented in local media and public forums, provides valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by women in our region.
We are excited to welcome Dr. Nate Xu, who has had a remarkable journey that has taken him from China to Canyon, Texas. Already a distinguished researcher and educator, he has immediately impacted our college.
Faculty life balance is exemplified by Dr. Marisa Crisostomo, whose passion for teaching decision management is matched by her lifelong dedication to dance. She inspires students both inside and outside the classroom.
The story of Heidi Giesbrecht, who will complete her degree in just three years, highlights the value of dual credits and the personalized support that characterizes a WT education.
This fall, we launched the MS-SHRM (Master of Science in Strategic Human Resource Management) program. It is entirely online, debuted with 13 students, and promises to grow in the coming semesters. We continue to expand course offerings across campus and online, helping students plan more effectively and graduate on time.
Community engagement remains at our core. Ms. Lisa Lightfoot, an accounting instructor, exemplifies this through her outreach to local schools and UIL competitions, inspiring future accountants. Dr. Anne Macy and Dr. Nick Gerlich extended our global reach with an economic impact study on Belize’s airport expansion, projecting substantial economic growth for the region.
Our recent “Meet the Accountants” event brought together 65 Accounting majors and professionals from 10 firms, fostering mentorship and career connections.
As we enter this holiday and festive season, I encourage you all to take time to reflect on our accomplishments while celebrating with family and friends. It is a wonderful opportunity to recharge for the exciting challenges that lie ahead.
At this time of reflection, I must also honor the legacy of Paul Engler, a giant in the cattle industry and a visionary leader whose contributions to WT and our college have been transformative. The legacy he built through his foundation will continue to inspire future generations of students at WT. Paul’s vision for education transformed our college and countless lives across the region.
As we look forward to the new year, I am confident that the Engler College of Business will continue to thrive, innovate, and lead in business education. Our faculty’s dedication to research and teaching, our students’ drive for excellence, and our strong community partnerships position us for continued success.
Thank you to our faculty, staff, students, and community partners for your dedication and hard work. Your collective efforts make the Engler College of Business a beacon of excellence in business education. We will continue to thrive, innovate, and lead as we shape the future.
Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year.
Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Amjad Abdullat