JAMES A. GOODRICH
Dean
B.A., Occidental College
M.A., University of Kansas
Ph.D., University of California, Los Angeles

EML: goodrich@willamette.edu

We have introduced you to what we see as both the innovative and unique aspects of the Atkinson MBA. These include an interdisciplinary core curriculum, experiential learning, and an excellent array of course electives. Yet these written descriptions cannot totally capture the Atkinson experience. They cannot communicate the intimate atmosphere created by dedicated faculty working in a small program to create a rich panoply of courses.

Since coming to Willamette University in the Summer of 2003, I have traveled and talked to many alumni, including those who graduated in the first classes to those who just completed their degree. Alumni report that their Atkinson MBA has been a “life changing experience” for them in ways beyond the degree. They have fond memories of faculty and courses that “make sense” across functional areas, and a variety of options that enabled them to customize their education in ways not found in most programs.

We are proud of our faculty – their scholarly accomplishments are complemented by their experiences as leaders in professional organizations and consultants to all types of organizations. Their broad range of interests reflects our commitment to scholarly and educational excellence. They are the most critical ingredient for preparing you to turn your potential into successful outcomes beyond the MBA.

Recognized administrator, scholar and business consultant. Previous Associate Dean and Professor of International Management, Graziadio School of Business and Management, Pepperdine University; Director, Westgate Center for Management Development, Eberhardt School of Business, University of the Pacific; Professor and Chair, International Business, School of Business and Public Administration, University of the Pacific. Cofounder, AEGIS Consulting and Global Family Business Consulting Group. Member of the Academy of International Business, American Marketing Association and AACSB International. . Editorial board of the Competitiveness Review. Reviewer for several textbook companies. Past board member of the American Marketing Association Higher Education Symposium, Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation and Junior Achievement of Southern California, Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce (chair), Statewide Board of Directors for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Consulting experience with Royal Dutch Shell, Coca-Cola, International Paper, Deloitte and Touche, the Red Cross, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.