Faculty & Staff

Capstones with a Cause: Inside Kettering’s Business Consulting Capstone

lmadaus — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:12:35 +0000

Capstones with a Cause: Inside Kettering’s Business Consulting Capstone

lmadaus Thu, 01/29/2026 - 08:12

For nearly a decade, Dr. Ken Williams, professor in the School of Management at 911��, has guided senior business majors through a capstone experience that goes far beyond the classroom.

Rather than completing simulated cases or hypothetical business plans, students in Kettering’s Business Capstone course step into the role of consultants, partnering directly with nonprofit organizations across the Flint community to address real operational challenges. The work is hands-on, sustained, and rooted in service, with measurable impact for both students and the organizations they support.

A capstone built around real work, not theory

The required senior-level Business Capstone is a project- and problem-based course designed to help students integrate and synthesize what they have learned across their undergraduate business education.

Students apply classroom knowledge alongside professional experience gained through their Co-op employment, bringing practical insight into budgeting, operations, supply chains, pricing, and organizational strategy. Each student team partners with a local nonprofit organization to collaboratively diagnose challenges, develop recommendations, and deliver actionable solutions.

Over the years, student consulting projects have addressed needs such as:

Website development
Volunteer recruitment and retention strategies
Funding opportunities, including grants and revenue diversification
Inventory and supply chain management
Pricing strategy and operational planning

Long-term impact for students and the Flint community

The Business Consulting Project was formally added to the curriculum in 2016, and its impact has grown steadily since then. To date, students have contributed nearly 5,700 hours of consulting support, benefiting 20 nonprofit organizations through these partnerships.

For students, the experience provides tangible consulting credentials and a deeper understanding of how business decisions affect organizations and communities. For nonprofit partners, the projects offer capacity-building support, fresh perspectives, and solutions that strengthen long-term operations.

Sharing results beyond campus

Dr. Williams has also examined the educational and community impact of the capstone through formal research. In April 2024, he presented findings on the course at the Small Business Institute Conference, where his work was recognized with the Best Pedagogical Paper award. The paper, Community Engagement in Business Education: Addressing Sustainability Issues Through Student-Team Consulting, was subsequently published in the Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice.

That recognition underscores the course’s value not only as a student learning experience but as a replicable model for integrating business education, professional practice, and community engagement.

In practice, that value shows up in the nonprofit organizations strengthened through student consulting and in graduates who leave Kettering having applied their education to real challenges with real consequences.

School of Management

Business Management

Kettering Faculty Member Ron Kumon Elected National President of the Society of Physics Students

lmadaus — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 14:42:24 +0000

Kettering Faculty Member Ron Kumon Elected National President of the Society of Physics Students

Physics Club

Faculty & Staff

lmadaus Tue, 01/20/2026 - 09:42

911�� recognizes Ron Kumon, Associate Professor of Physics, for his election as national president of the Society of Physics Students (SPS), a position he will hold for a two-year term through 2027. In this national leadership role, Kumon serves on the joint Executive Committee for SPS and Sigma Pi Sigma, the physics honor society, and also serves as president of the SPS National Council.

The council serves as the governing body for both organizations and is composed of 18 students and 18 physics professionals, representing SPS’s 18 geographic zones. Together, the council evaluates policy, advances new initiatives, and shapes the future direction of physics and astronomy education nationwide.

On his new role, Dr. Kumon said:

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve the community of students in the 800+ chapters in the US and beyond. I look forward to maintaining and enhancing the benefits that SPS provides to its members, including scholarships, internships, leadership development, and networking opportunities. I also plan to advocate for strengthening physics and astronomy programs everywhere so that students can continue to achieve their goals to be professionals in these disciplines.”

Kumon has served as the SPS and Sigma Pi Sigma chapter advisor at 911�� for 14 years. During that time, the Kettering chapter has earned:

14 Outstanding Chapter Awards
10 Distinguished Chapter Awards
2 Chapter Research Awards
1 Blake Lilly Award, which honors SPS chapters or members who excel in physics outreach to K–12 students and the public.

In October, Kumon joined three Kettering students at the 2025 Physics and Astronomy Congress in Denver, Colorado. During the congress, Kumon was honored with the 2025 SPS Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award, the most prestigious recognition for advisors presented by the Society of Physics Students.

Reflecting on receiving the award, Dr. Kumon said:

“The credit for this award goes to the many physics majors and other students enamored by physics who have dedicated their time to maintain a regular weekly schedule of fun and engaging activities related to physics and astronomy for the campus community. I would also like to thank my colleagues in physics and natural sciences, and the Kettering Student Government for their support.”

The award recognizes exceptional leadership, mentorship, and sustained support of student-led SPS chapters. One advisor is selected each year nationally, with the award supporting the advisor, chapter, and academic department. This year, the ceremony was held at the Physics and Astronomy Congress, rather than the traditional winter meeting of the American Association of Physics Teachers.

Kumon earned his bachelor’s degree in physics and mathematics from Michigan State University and his PhD in physics from the University of Texas at Austin. His research interests include biomedical ultrasound, optical microscopy, and nondestructive evaluation of materials. Outside of his academic work, he is a jazz enthusiast and a licensed amateur radio operator.

Through national leadership, sustained student mentorship, and academic excellence, Ron Kumon’s election reflects 911��’s continued impact on physics education and professional preparation at the highest levels.

911�� President Featured on Getting In: A College Coach Conversation Podcast

lmadaus — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:25:07 +0000

911�� President Featured on Getting In: A College Coach Conversation Podcast

Faculty & Staff

lmadaus Wed, 08/27/2025 - 13:25

911�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan recently joined the national podcast Getting In: A College Coach Conversation to discuss Kettering’s distinctive educational model and the return on investment it delivers for students and families.

In the episode, Dr. McMahan outlined how Kettering’s 50/50 blend of rigorous academics and two and a half years of paid Co-op experience prepares graduates to thrive in high-demand industries. He also shared insights into how artificial intelligence is driving radical transformations across sectors and emphasized Kettering’s role in helping students “future-proof” their careers.

The conversation positioned Kettering as a leader in engineering, computer science, and business education—continuing its legacy from its beginnings as General Motors Institute—while underscoring the University’s reputation for student innovation and career readiness.

Listen to the full episode here: President of 911�� on Getting Organized

From Bulldog to Boardroom (and Back Again): How Dale Pilger is Scaling 911��'s Impact

lmadaus — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 14:57:10 +0000

From Bulldog to Boardroom (and Back Again): How Dale Pilger is Scaling 911��'s Impact

Faculty & Staff

lmadaus Wed, 08/20/2025 - 10:57

When Dale Pilger ’77 returned to his alma mater in 2020, he brought with him decades of international business leadership — and a clear vision for how 911�� could grow in reputation, reach, and industry impact.

Today, as Vice President of University Advancement and External Relations, Pilger oversees fundraising, alumni engagement, and strategic external partnerships. His goal: unlock new levels of support and recognition for the University through bold corporate and philanthropic partnerships.

“I’ve made a career of stepping into challenges — that has taken me all over the world,” said Pilger. “But this role lets me contribute in a new, deeply rewarding way.”

After graduating from Kettering (then GMI) with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Pilger earned a Master’s in Management as a Sloan Fellow at MIT. He spent his career building and expanding businesses around the world — from Nairobi to Tokyo and Shanghai.

With more than 18 years of P&L responsibility, Pilger’s leadership highlights include:

Doubling revenue to $250M and increasing EBITDA margin by 50% as President & CEO of a five-company merger
Driving $100M in sales growth and record profits while expanding operations across East Africa
Growing Asian business by $150M through new joint ventures, new customer conquests, and operational optimization
Launching 10x year-one revenue growth as COO of a technology startup through innovation and commercialization

Despite serving in President, CEO, COO, Chief Engineer, and Managing Director roles, Pilger says his passion has always been business development — building inspired teams, sharpening strategy, and delivering profitable growth. But eventually, he began asking a different question:

Where can I feel best about and most fulfilled in what I’m doing?

Pilger’s return to Kettering was a purposeful decision. He sees opportunity in aligning Kettering’s strengths with industry needs, particularly by substantially fortifying scholarships to grow and support our current and future students and updating campus labs and equipment to match what students will encounter in the field. That alignment, he says, reinforces the University’s value proposition: career-ready graduates who already know how to deliver.

“I get a rush from slaying dragons — solving complex problems — but now I want to do it in a way that builds lasting value for students, alumni, and partners.”

In his previous role as Senior Director of Philanthropy for Corporate and Foundation Relations, Pilger helped secure partnerships across broad industry segments. Now, he’s focused on scaling that success.

“This institution has an incredible base of strong individual, foundation, corporate, and government supporters who have collectively helped us achieve great things, including the new Learning Commons, expanded scholarships, and others - I believe there is huge potential to build on that solid base,” he said. “We can’t be shy about thinking big and bold - pursuing big grants and bold partnerships — because we and our donor partners know the extraordinary value impact those investments can have.”

Pilger is energized by the momentum he sees building — from alumni engagement to national rankings and global collaborations.

“It’s time to go bigger,” he said. “The foundation is here. The talent is here. What we need now is to work with partners who believe in what we’re doing — and who are ready to invest in the future we’re creating.”

911��’s Diane Peters Honored with ASEE National Outstanding Teaching Award

lmadaus — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 17:47:35 +0000

911��’s Diane Peters Honored with ASEE National Outstanding Teaching Award

Faculty & Staff

lmadaus Thu, 07/17/2025 - 13:47

911�� proudly announces that Dr. Diane Peters, professor of Mechanical Engineering, has been awarded the American Society for Engineering Education’s (ASEE) 2024 National Outstanding Teaching Award. This prestigious award recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching, make notable contributions to engineering education, and inspire students to achieve their fullest potential.

Dr. Peters received the award at the 2025 ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition, held June 22–25 in Montréal, Québec. The conference is ASEE’s flagship event, bringing together engineering educators and researchers from across the country to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and honor excellence in teaching and scholarship.

A faculty member at Kettering since 2013, Dr. Peters exemplifies these qualities through her dynamic, hands-on teaching approach and dedication to student success. She was nominated for the award with letters of recommendation, including support from former students, making the recognition especially meaningful.

“I was absolutely thrilled, excited, and incredibly honored when I learned I was receiving a national award from ASEE,” Peters said. “This recognition affirms the years of effort I’ve dedicated to students and their success — both in and out of the classroom."

The 2024 ASEE National Outstanding Teaching Award is the latest in a year of significant accolades for Dr. Peters. In the fall, she earned the 2024 Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Distinguished Engineering Educator Award, celebrating educators who have made a lasting impact in STEM education. She also earned 911��’s Outstanding Researcher Award, a testament to her contributions to advancing engineering knowledge and innovation. Most recently, she was elected to serve as a Senator for the Society of Women Engineers through 2028 and received second place in the Best Professional Paper competition at the ASEE North Central Section Conference for her work exploring student engagement through personal inquiry.

Further demonstrating her commitment to enhancing research opportunities, Dr. Peters played a pivotal role in securing two major National Science Foundation (NSF) grants. A $464,937 NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) grant is helping 911�� establish an innovative program that provides students with hands-on research opportunities, integrating industry-relevant skills with academic exploration. Additionally, she contributed to securing a $398,946 NSF Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) grant, supporting the Enabling Meaningful External Research Growth in Emergent Technologies (EMERGE) project. This initiative strengthens partnerships with local industries and builds capacity for high-impact, industry-relevant research at 911��.

Beyond her research and teaching endeavors, Dr. Peters serves as the faculty advisor to 911��'s AutoDrive team, Bulldog Bolt. This elite student team competes in the SAE/GM AutoDrive Challenge II, an international competition focused on developing Level 4 autonomous vehicle capabilities. Under her guidance, Bulldog Bolt has advanced through the competition, showcasing Kettering’s leadership in mobility and automation.

“What sets Dr. Peters apart as both a professor and a mentor is her genuine investment in her students’ success,” said Bassam Jehangir ’26 (Mechanical Engineering). “She goes beyond traditional teaching methods, ensuring that each student gains a comprehensive understanding of the material while also developing the confidence to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. Whether through one-on-one mentoring, collaborative research opportunities, or professional development advice, she consistently prioritizes her students’ growth. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her meticulous approach to coursework, her openness to innovative teaching strategies, and her ability to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.”

Dr. Peters’ journey into engineering education began unexpectedly. After working in industry, she accepted an invitation to teach a community college course as an adjunct professor. That experience sparked a passion for teaching, leading her to pursue a Ph.D. and transition into academia full-time. Today, she brings real-world applications into the classroom, often integrating lessons from her professional experience and her students' Co-op work.

“Kettering’s industry-driven approach makes it easy to connect coursework to real life,” she explained. “Just recently, I was teaching about vibrations, and students shared firsthand examples from their Co-op experiences. That’s what makes this environment so unique — we’re not just teaching theories; we’re equipping students to apply them.”

Beyond technical knowledge, Dr. Peters hopes her students develop engineering judgment, problem-solving creativity, and the ability to think critically about challenges — skills that prepare them for leadership roles in industry. She has also pioneered new teaching strategies, such as step-by-step solution walkthroughs, which provide structured guidance while encouraging independent problem-solving.

As engineering education continues to evolve, Dr. Peters is particularly focused on the role of generative AI, hybrid learning models, and university-industry partnerships in shaping the future. She is also actively involved in ongoing curriculum enhancements within Kettering’s Mechanical Engineering program and is exploring new course development and research opportunities.

“There’s always something new on the horizon,” she said.

Why Industry Grabs Kettering Grads First: A Blueprint for Career-Ready Talent

rnorris — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 15:34:30 +0000

Why Industry Grabs Kettering Grads First: A Blueprint for Career-Ready Talent

Alumni

Co-op

Faculty & Staff

rnorris Mon, 06/23/2025 - 11:34

In a conversation with Chris Holman of Michigan Business Network at the Mackinac Policy Conference, 911�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan lays out what makes a Kettering education different — and why that difference matters.

Kettering students don’t wait to learn by doing. From year one, they rotate between intensive academic terms and full-time professional Co-ops in leading industries. This fusion of theory and practice builds more than résumés. It builds leaders who graduate into positions far beyond the entry-level.

Kettering students build their careers alongside industry leaders. Employers guide their growth through each Co-op term, often resulting in job offers before graduation.

Listen to the full interview to hear how Kettering’s model builds a workforce industry needs.

University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan Shares How Kettering is Building the Next Generation of Innovators During the 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference

rnorris — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 14:07:17 +0000

University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan Shares How Kettering is Building the Next Generation of Innovators During the 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference

rnorris Thu, 06/19/2025 - 10:07

911�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan joined Glenn Stevens Jr. of MichAuto during Detroit PBS’s coverage of the 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference, hosted by award-winning journalist Zoe Clark on “One Detroit.” Their discussion centered on the future of automotive engineering, talent development, and Michigan’s evolving workforce.

Dr. McMahan emphasized the importance of thinking ahead: “We’re actually preparing students for careers that don’t even exist yet because the industry is evolving so quickly,” he said. Kettering’s distinctive Co-op model — where students split their time between rigorous academics and real-world work placements — equips them with the adaptability and habits of mind needed to thrive in tomorrow’s industries.

Glenn Stevens highlighted that while Michigan has “pockets of excellence” in aligning workforce and talent, “we need to do a better job with career path planning.” Dr. McMahan underscored the need to treat talent like a supply chain, noting that, “A lot of the people in this conference, they know their supply chains… they know where every nut and bolt is, what truck it’s on, and when it will land. But if you ask them what the most critical part of their operation is, they will almost universally say it’s people, but it’s the one thing they don’t treat as a supply chain.”

Stevens agreed, adding that Michigan is at an inflection point. “Assuming we do that, treating talent development like a supply chain, investing in communities where people want to live, building strong infrastructure, including digital and schools, and generating new innovation and tech talent like Kettering does, that’s Michigan’s future.”

Click here to watch the full interview to learn how 911�� leads the way in building the next generation of Michigan’s innovators.

Dr. Ronald Tackett Appointed Founding Head of 911��’s New School of Foundational Studies

rnorris — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 14:21:13 +0000

Dr. Ronald Tackett Appointed Founding Head of 911��’s New School of Foundational Studies

Campus

Faculty & Staff

rnorris Tue, 06/17/2025 - 10:21

911�� today announced the appointment of Dr. Ronald J. Tackett as the Founding Head of its new School of Foundational Studies, effective June 23, 2025. The new academic unit, launched as part of a comprehensive academic realignment, will serve as a hub for faculty innovation across disciplines, allowing for collaboration on a more cohesive, human-centered approach to foundational learning, one that integrates academic knowledge with professional development from the start.

"The creation of the School of Foundational Studies represents a deliberate and forward-looking transformation in the academic architecture of 911��,” said University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “Dr. Tackett brings not only scholarly distinction but also a compelling vision for how integrated learning in the sciences, mathematics, and liberal arts prepares our students to lead in a world defined by complexity and rapid change. Under his leadership, this School will cultivate the intellectual discipline, ethical reasoning, and critical inquiry that define true leadership in every field."

Dr. Tackett, associate professor of physics, joined Kettering’s faculty in 2014. He brings more than two decades of experience teaching foundational and advanced courses in physics. His research focuses on magnetic nanoparticles, and antiferromagnetic materials with applications in the next generation of non-volatile magnetic data storage and fast-switching electronic devices. In addition to his academic scholarship, he has served in key leadership roles, including as Kettering’s outgoing Faculty Senate Moderator and as Chair of the Eastern Great Lakes Section of the American Physical Society.

“I want this School to be the cornerstone of Kettering’s educational mission,” Dr. Tackett said. “We’re laying the groundwork for innovation and impact, and that starts by rethinking how students engage with math, science, and the liberal arts, not in silos, but as connected disciplines.”

The School of Foundational Studies will also oversee the creation of a University-wide Core Curriculum, designed to be a common gateway for students into the University’s rigorous academic programs. Dr. Tackett's vision includes increasing collaboration across disciplines and building cross-functional courses that reflect the complexity of real-world problem solving.

“Our students are preparing to lead in industries where technical knowledge is essential, but so is ethical reasoning, communication, and critical thinking,” Dr. Tackett said. “This new structure gives us the opportunity to deliver that education in a more interconnected, intentional way. I’m excited to collaborate with students and faculty to rethink how foundational learning happens.”

Dr. Tackett earned his B.S. in Engineering Physics from Eastern Michigan University and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Physics from Wayne State University. Before joining Kettering, he served as an assistant professor at Arkansas Tech University and held a postdoctoral research position at the University of Texas at El Paso.

911�� Enhances Academic Framework With Expanded College of Engineering and New School of Foundational Studies

rnorris — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 13:06:19 +0000

911�� Enhances Academic Framework With Expanded College of Engineering and New School of Foundational Studies

Campus

Faculty & Staff

Research

rnorris Thu, 06/12/2025 - 09:06

911�� today announced a set of catalytic changes to the university stemming from a multi-year assessment and growth plan—an ambitious, collaborative effort that strengthens Kettering’s leadership at the intersection of education and industry. Effective June 23, 2025, the University will launch an enhanced College of Engineering and Computer Science, a new School of Foundational Studies, and an expanded Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science.

“911�� is unique in higher education because we were founded to deliver mastery and career-relevant skills as an outcome, not simply a classroom-based education,” said Dr. Robert K. McMahan, President of 911��. “The strategic steps we are announcing build on our foundation and unmatched heritage in experiential learning as well as our broad collaboration with industry. They position us to continue to innovate in what we do and to graduate students who are among the best prepared in the nation for a 21st century economy.”

This comprehensive realignment within Academic Affairs reflects the deliberate, rigorous process that began with the President’s Task Force on program Realignment and Reinvention in 2021. That Task Force, informed by quantitative and qualitative analyses—including national trends in STEM, workforce projections, and extensive faculty and staff input—charted a course to enhance Kettering’s academic structure to align its distinctive cooperative education model and the needs of a dynamic workforce.

Key enhancements include:

● The College of Engineering will be renamed the College of Engineering and Computer Science, reflecting Kettering’s commitment to interdisciplinary innovation and its strategic alignment with industry. By integrating the Department of Computer Science into the College of Engineering, the University will ensure that computing disciplines are fully embedded within engineering education—advancing graduates’ abilities to deliver integrated hardware and software solutions across the interconnected domains of mobility, manufacturing, and advanced product design.

● The Department of Chemical Engineering will be expanded to become the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, underscoring the University’s recognition of the critical role that materials science plays in addressing contemporary engineering challenges. This expansion strategically positions Kettering at the forefront of national efforts in semiconductor technologies, hydrogen, and battery and energy storage, and it will house the University’s pioneering accelerated program in semiconductor materials and devices—the first of its kind in the nation—further distinguishing the University’s offerings in areas critical to national competitiveness and technological advancement.

● The School of Foundational Studies, provides the essential foundational instruction in the liberal arts, mathematics, and the sciences that is requisite for success in all University degree programs. The School will oversee the development of a University-wide Core Curriculum designed to be a common gateway for students into the University’s rigorous academic programs. The School of Foundational Studies serves as a hub for innovative faculty, with expertise from multiple disciplines, to develop a more holistic learning and professional development experience for students.

“These changes are not just organizational; they are generative,” President McMahan noted. “They position Kettering to be more agile and innovative, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and providing students with a transformative educational experience that mirrors the demands of today’s—and tomorrow’s—industries.”

Founded in 1919, 911�� is a nationally recognized leader in STEM education. From its earliest days, Kettering has distinguished itself through its unique cooperative education model, seamlessly integrating rigorous academic study with paid, professional experience. This philosophy of education prioritizes mastery as the ultimate outcome, ensuring that every student graduates with both academic depth and real-world experience. Kettering’s approach prepares graduates not only to meet the challenges of today’s industries but to shape them.

These changes echo Kettering’s other recent strategic investments in student success with the creation of its new Student Experience Collaborative. This team, led by a Chief Student Experience Officer, ensures every student benefits from a holistic approach to academic advising, Co-op and career design, and a vibrant campus life—all essential to producing leaders prepared to shape the future.

“Since our founding, Kettering has stood at the crossroads of industry and innovation,” McMahan emphasized. “Our unique cooperative education model doesn’t just educate—it empowers our students to enter the workforce with confidence, experience, problem-solving skills, and the adaptability that employers demand. With these enhancements to our academic structure, Kettering continues to deliver on our promise of mastery,
leadership, and real-world impact.”

College of Engineering and Computer Science

911�� Set to Welcome Dr. Terence J. Pitre as New Dean of its School of Management

rnorris — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 12:08:56 +0000

911�� Set to Welcome Dr. Terence J. Pitre as New Dean of its School of Management

Business Management

Campus

Faculty & Staff

rnorris Mon, 06/09/2025 - 08:08

911�� announced today the appointment of Dr. Terence J. Pitre as the new Dean of the School of Management, effective June 30, 2025.

"We are pleased to welcome Dr. Pitre to 911��," said Dr. James Zhang, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. "His deep expertise in business education, commitment to experiential learning, and strong industry background make him an ideal fit to lead the School of Management. We are confident that under his leadership, the school will continue to grow in impact, further strengthening the role of business education within our STEM-driven institution."

“I also want to thank Professor John Grether for his dedication and leadership as Acting Dean,” Dr. Zhang said. “His commitment to advancing the School’s strategic goals, including the crucial work toward our self-study with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, has positioned us well for continued success.”

Dr. Pitre joins Kettering with a strong background in academic leadership, industry insight, and a passion for bridging classroom learning with hands-on experience. A U.S. Navy veteran and former faculty leader at multiple institutions, he brings a visionary approach to business education that aligns with Kettering’s distinctive Co-op model.

“When I looked at Kettering’s approach to education, I saw the future,” Dr. Pitre said. “The Co-op model isn’t just a value-add. It’s a game-changer. It answers the question so many students and families are asking today: Is college worth it? At Kettering, the answer is yes because students leave here with knowledge and real experience.”

Dr. Pitre sees the School of Management as a vital driver of innovation within Kettering’s STEM-focused environment. He is committed to strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration with engineering, computer science, supply chain, and data analytics to equip graduates with leadership skills that scale across industries.

Dr. Pitre plans to hit the ground running, meeting one-on-one with faculty, connecting with alumni, and deepening understanding of how business programs can better serve Kettering’s mission.

“Our graduates don’t wait to lead. They leave here ready to shape industries,” he said. “I want to ensure our business students are equipped not just with theory, but also with two and a half years of applied experience behind them. That’s how you stand out.”

With deep ties to community engagement and a proven track record of building forward-thinking programs, including creative alternatives like Google certificates in data analytics, Dr. Pitre brings a student-centered and mission-driven mindset that reflects Kettering’s commitment to innovation and outcomes.

“Being military, you have to do what they call ‘live the brand,’” he said. “You’re always representing your institution. That mindset is exactly what I bring to Kettering.”

Dr. Pitre comes to Kettering with over two decades of academic leadership and teaching experience. Most recently, he served as Dean of the College of Business Administration at California State University, Stanislaus. He previously held key academic and administrative roles at institutions including Bowling Green State University, Minnesota State University, Miami University, California State University–Sacramento, Saint Mary’s College of California, and the University of St. Thomas.

Dr. Pitre earned his Ph.D. in Accounting from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business, his MBA in Accounting and Finance from Tulane University, and his B.S. in Finance from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

School of Management

Business Management

Faculty & Staff

Capstones with a Cause: Inside Kettering’s Business Consulting Capstone

Kettering Faculty Member Ron Kumon Elected National President of the Society of Physics Students

911������ President Featured on Getting In: A College Coach Conversation Podcast

From Bulldog to Boardroom (and Back Again): How Dale Pilger is Scaling 911������'s Impact

911������’s Diane Peters Honored with ASEE National Outstanding Teaching Award

Why Industry Grabs Kettering Grads First: A Blueprint for Career-Ready Talent

University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan Shares How Kettering is Building the Next Generation of Innovators During the 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference

Dr. Ronald Tackett Appointed Founding Head of 911������’s New School of Foundational Studies

911������ Enhances Academic Framework With Expanded College of Engineering and New School of Foundational Studies

911������ Set to Welcome Dr. Terence J. Pitre as New Dean of its School of Management

911�� President Featured on Getting In: A College Coach Conversation Podcast

From Bulldog to Boardroom (and Back Again): How Dale Pilger is Scaling 911��'s Impact

911��’s Diane Peters Honored with ASEE National Outstanding Teaching Award

Dr. Ronald Tackett Appointed Founding Head of 911��’s New School of Foundational Studies

911�� Enhances Academic Framework With Expanded College of Engineering and New School of Foundational Studies

911�� Set to Welcome Dr. Terence J. Pitre as New Dean of its School of Management