Samford University Names New Dean Of Business School

HOMEWOOD, AL — Following a nationwide search, Chad Carson has been named the seventh dean of Samford University's Brock School of Business. Carson has served as the interim dean for the school since 2019.

Carson joined the Brock School of Business faculty in 2004, and he was appointed associate dean in 2011. Curriculum enhancements under Carson's guidance have included the addition of a data analytics concentration at the graduate and undergraduate level; a sports business concentration within the Master of Business Administration; and the creation of the professional sales program which continues to earn national recognition.

"I'm honored Dr. Chad Carson has accepted the call to serve as the next dean of our Brock School of Business," Samford Provost J. Michael Hardin said. "The resilience he has shown throughout the heat of the pandemic has not only displayed his capability for the job, but it has revealed his heartfelt passion for this business school and our university."

Carson has successfully led the business school through two Continuous Improvement Review visits by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, both resulting in five-year extensions of accreditation.

He has also championed programs dedicated to preparing graduates for entrepreneurial careers, most notably spearheading the formation of the Samford Startup student business incubator program and enhancing the relationship with Regions Bank to support the Regions New Venture Challenge business plan competition.

Prior to entering the academic world, Carson worked as a senior auditor for the State of Mississippi, and a human resources benefits generalist for Mississippi State University.

A native of Houston, Mississippi, Carson received his Ph.D. in business administration from the University of Mississippi, his Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Professional Accountancy from Mississippi State University.

"I'm blessed and honored to have been charged with this significant role," said Carson. "With the Lord's guidance, and with support of the amazing Brock School of Business faculty, staff, alumni and students, I am ready to lead our work in developing the next generation of Christian business leaders."