Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has appointed Thomas Traynor, Ph.D., as the interim dean of its College of Business. Traynor previously served as the dean of the Raj Soin College of Business at Wright State University in Ohio.

Traynor's career at Wright State spanned 35 years, starting as an assistant professor and advancing to professor and various administrative roles, including department chair (economics), associate dean for graduate programs, and dean.

Holding a Ph.D. in economics from Purdue University, Traynor will begin his tenure at Eastern Michigan on August 15. His appointment is set to last until a national search for a permanent dean is concluded.

Eastern Michigan University Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Rhonda Longworth stated, “Dr. Traynor brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role. In addition to serving as dean at Wright State, he taught courses and conducted research in microeconomics, business strategy, market regulation, cost-benefit analysis, as well as econometrics and forecasting. His tenure will be instrumental as we embark on a national search for a permanent dean.”

Longworth also expressed gratitude towards outgoing College of Business Dean Kenneth Lord for his six years of leadership. Lord’s retirement takes effect on July 31.

“Under Dean Lord’s leadership the College of Business has been regularly recognized in several national and global program rankings including the Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report,” said Longworth. “I’d like to recognize Dr. Lord’s compassion and commitment to supporting students, staff and faculty members.”

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It serves over 13,000 students pursuing various degrees across multiple disciplines through its Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; along with its graduate school. EMU is frequently acknowledged by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education.

For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website or EMU Today for updates on news, activities, and announcements.