Coleman College of Business Inspiring growth through entrepreneurship

“Vision is a destination, a fixed point to which we focus all effort,” suggests business author and thought leader Simon Sinek. “Strategy is a route,” he says, “an adaptable path to get us where we want to go.”

Vision and strategy were at the heart of Dr. Howard Roberts’ sabbatical last year, his efforts strategically focused on taking the Coleman College of Business (CCOB) to a higher level.

Business is among UPIKE’s most popular majors, including degrees in management, accounting, heath care and sport management. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is now offered 100 percent online.

Fostering economic development and community outreach are key to CCOB’s founding mission, including business plan competitions for aspiring entrepreneurs, a leadership lecture series, internships and annual income tax preparation services supported by student volunteers.

“Central Appalachia, the primary service region for UPIKE, is suffering an economic crisis. Thousands of jobs were lost in the coal industry,” said Roberts, Ed.D. “As an institution, we need to be thinking about how to help alleviate the crisis from a regional perspective. Through innovative, co-curricular programs we can inspire and inform entrepreneurial thought and action.”

CCOB students, faculty and alumni have been recognized across the state and nation for their innovative product ideas, research and successful business endeavors. As the founding dean, Roberts hopes to build on those academic and entrepreneurial achievements. His sixmonth sabbatical provided an opportunity to expand on founding goals, including collaborating with fellow educators to establish a consortium of business programs at Kentucky’s colleges and universities.

Roberts is also exploring the feasibility of creating an academic program in entrepreneurship, and possibly a center for entrepreneurship. A minor in entrepreneurship was added to the business curriculum last year.

Cultivating business partnerships continues to be a priority, including a collaboration with the Kentucky Innovation Network, which has an office on campus. CCOB also offers a free MBA consulting program matching teams of students with businesses working together to diagnose problems and devise solutions.

“With the launch and expansion of UPIKE’s online MBA program, we are responding to what students and businesses want and need to be competitive in today’s world,” said Roberts. “Our quality, affordable online MBA program is academically entrepreneurial, designed for working professionals and taught by experienced faculty who are leaders in their fields. We are committed to preparing graduates who, like our benefactor Burlin Coleman, will be successful business leaders and entrepreneurs.”

To learn more about the 100 percent online MBA program visit: www.upike.edu/CCOB/MBA.