Redeemer University has appointed Dr. Sophia Kusyk as its next dean of business. Kusyk brings a passion for developing the next generation of Christian business leaders along with 25 years of professional and academic experience.
In previous academic roles, Kusyk has served in course director and professor positions at York University, faculty and lecturer positions at Stockholm School of Economics, ESADE Business in Barcelona, Barcelona Management Institute and IESE Business School at University of Navarra. Most recently, she served as associate professor and Van Norman chair of business at Tyndale University. She has also taught industry executives at corporate education centres.
Kusyk holds a PhD in management from ESADE Business School, University Ramon Llull, and a BA Honours in business administration from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University. Her research interests are in ethical decision-making, organizational behavior and technology-enhanced learning.
"Sophia brings a robust mix of academic development, teaching and leadership, business experience and scholarship to the dean of business position," says Dr. Peter Neumann, vice-president, academic. "Her passion for redemptive business, innovation in education and her desire to create meaningful and transformative experiences for students will help expand the reach and impact of the School of Business, building on its healthy foundation and growing programs."
Sophia's passion for the redemptive power of the Gospel and its potential impact on business is exciting and I look forward to the next phase of development for the School of Business.
Redeemer's School of Business is embarking on new and innovative programs and delivery models as part of the university's overall efforts to innovate for student and graduate success. This fall, it will welcome its first cohort in a new not-for-profit management certification program with an online delivery model. Work is also underway to launch Redeemer's first graduate programs in the coming years, including a master of business administration (MBA) degree.
"Redeemer's Reformed Christian mission calls us to bring the transformative hope we have in Jesus Christ to all areas of life, including business," says president Dr. David Zietsma. "The university's ongoing investment in the School of Business reflects our commitment to this important work. Sophia's passion for the redemptive power of the Gospel and its potential impact on business is exciting and I look forward to the next phase of development for the School of Business."
I have a vision for Redeemer University's School of Business, that it shall stand as a light, a beacon upon the hill, a bold catalyst for transformation in culture, society and business practice for the glory of Christ.
With recent investments in innovation, entrepreneurship, micro-credentials and new degrees, Kusyk is joining Redeemer at an exciting time of institutional growth.
"I have a vision for Redeemer University's School of Business, that it shall stand as a light, a beacon upon the hill, a bold catalyst for transformation in culture, society and business practice for the glory of Christ," says Kusyk.
Joining Redeemer's academic leadership team, Kusyk will lead the School of Business, a transition resulting from the retirement of current dean of business Susan Van Weelden, who has served at Redeemer for more than 35 years and plans to retire at the end of the year. Kusyk will champion Redeemer's mission to prepare students to reflect the love of Jesus Christ in every career and calling, integrating faith, life and learning through redemptive business. Kusyk joins Redeemer August 1, 2024.
