News Summary
Ken Cyree, the long-serving dean of the University of Mississippi School of Business Administration, has announced his retirement effective December 2025. With 21 years at the university, Cyree has greatly influenced the school’s growth and success, including the establishment of innovative programs and a dedicated career center. His leadership has seen the business school achieve significant milestones and prepare for a promising future. A search for his successor will commence soon as the school transitions during this pivotal time.
Oxford, Mississippi – Ken Cyree, the dean of the University of Mississippi (UM) School of Business Administration, has announced his retirement effective December 2025 after leading the school for 17 years. Cyree has contributed to the university as a faculty member for a total of 21 years, having joined the Ole Miss faculty as an associate professor of finance in 2004. His leadership has positioned the business school for continued success.
As the 11th dean of the UM School of Business, Cyree stands as the second-longest serving dean in the history of the institution, following its founder, James Warsaw Bell. He is also recognized for being the longest-serving current dean of a business school within the Southeastern Conference.
Achievements During Tenure
Under Ken Cyree’s leadership, the School of Business has achieved significant milestones. It has expanded its faculty to include 74 full-time instructors and 31 adjunct instructors, along with a support staff of 44 members. Cyree has taken pride in numerous advancements made during his deanship, including the establishment of a dedicated career center and a student startup business incubator. These initiatives aim to enhance students’ real-world experience and preparedness for their careers.
During his tenure, Cyree has also focused on improving faculty quality and broadening the educational offerings of the business school. He was recognized as the Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 2007 and as the Outstanding Senior Researcher in 2014, reflecting his commitment to teaching and scholarly excellence.
Innovative Programs and Initiatives
In 2010, Cyree initiated the development of a minor in entrepreneurship, which proved successful enough to expand into a full major by 2017. Additionally, in 2014, he oversaw the launch of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which promotes entrepreneurship education and has been instrumental in hosting numerous business competitions. The center has awarded over $357,300 in cash prizes and $89,000 in scholarships to aspiring student entrepreneurs.
Furthermore, Cyree facilitated the merger of the marketing department with management information systems, leading to new degree offerings that reflect contemporary market demands, such as digital marketing and business analytics.
Future Plans for the School of Business
Provost Noel Wilkin emphasized that Cyree’s steady and stable leadership has resulted in increased enrollment and financial support for innovative programs, setting a strong foundation for the business school’s future. With Cyree stepping down in 2025, a national search for his successor is scheduled to commence, with the goal of appointing a new dean by the end of the fall semester in 2025.
Looking ahead, Cyree remains optimistic about the School of Business, expressing his hope for its continued growth and success after his departure. Cyree’s tenure has cemented his legacy within the institution, showcasing the importance of adaptive leadership in higher education.
The University of Mississippi School of Business Administration prepares to embark on this transition during a pivotal time, with a well-fortified structure and an ambitious vision for the future.
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