News Summary
Ken Cyree, Dean of the University of Mississippi School of Business Administration, has announced his retirement for December 2025. Over his 17-year tenure, he has significantly contributed to the school’s growth, expanding faculty and enrollment. Under his leadership, the school has raised over $54 million, introduced new programs, and fostered a vibrant academic community. As he prepares to step down, a national search for his successor will begin, looking to continue the legacy of his impactful leadership.
Oxford, Mississippi – Ken Cyree will retire as Dean of the University of Mississippi School of Business Administration in December 2025 after an impactful tenure spanning 17 years. Having joined Ole Miss in 2004 from Texas Tech as an associate professor of finance, Cyree has been a pivotal figure in shaping the business school throughout his time at the university.
As the 11th Dean of the Ole Miss business school, Cyree ranks as the second-longest serving Dean in the institution’s history, only surpassed by the founding Dean, James Warsaw Bell, who began his role in 1917. Cyree also holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Dean among all business schools in the Southeastern Conference, reflecting his commitment and leadership within the academic community.
Under Cyree’s leadership, the School of Business has seen significant growth and progress. The faculty has expanded to include 74 full-time professors, alongside 31 adjunct instructors and 44 staff members, enabling the school to better serve its growing student body. Enrollment figures support this success, with a remarkable 73% growth since 2020, culminating in 5,793 students enrolled for Fall 2024. Also noteworthy is the record freshman enrollment of 1,786 students, highlighting the school’s appeal to new students.
Financial and Academic Achievements
Throughout his 17 years, Cyree played a crucial role in raising a total of $54.7 million for the school, which includes $17 million specifically earmarked for faculty support and $23.8 million added to the school’s endowment. This financial groundwork has positioned the school favorably for future endeavors. Cyree’s commitment to enhancing the academic offerings led to the introduction of an entrepreneurship major and minor, as well as improvements in career preparation services through initiatives like establishing the Career Preparation Center and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Cyree’s focus on fostering a strong professional community has been evidenced by the increased attendance at the annual Banking & Finance Symposium, which now attracts over 200 participants. He was also instrumental in creating the Rebel Venture Student Fund, promoting entrepreneurial initiatives among students.
Teaching and Research Contributions
Cyree has also established himself as a prominent academic, having published 24 articles in peer-reviewed journals on various financial subjects. His commitment to education has been recognized through multiple accolades, including Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 2007 and Outstanding Senior Researcher in 2014 from the School of Business. Known for his rigorous courses, students find that his teaching equips them with valuable real-world skills, further emphasizing the impact of his educational philosophy.
Colleagues and students alike have recognized Cyree’s efforts to cultivate a positive culture focused on teaching, research, and community support. His approachable nature is evidenced by his regular interactions with students and staff, as he often checks in to engage with them on a personal level.
Looking Forward
As Cyree nears retirement, he has expressed pride in the school’s accomplishments and a desire to ensure it remains robust for future success. Following his announcement, UM Provost Noel Wilkin indicated that a national search for Cyree’s successor would commence, with hopes of appointing a new Dean by the end of the Fall semester.
Ken Cyree’s leadership has significantly enriched the University of Mississippi and the School of Business Administration, setting a high standard for future leaders. His contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy at the institution.
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Additional Resources
- MS Business Journal: Ken Cyree Ole Miss Business Dean
- Hotty Toddy: UM Business School Gearing Up for 20th Annual Banking Symposium
- University of Mississippi School of Business Administration
- Wikipedia: University of Mississippi
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business Organization
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