At the Harbert College of Business, our faculty are what make the difference. Great students deserve great faculty and thankfully, we are surrounded by just that! 

Today, we are highlighting Dr. Keven Yost, who joined our department in 2003. Prior to Auburn, Dr. Yost taught both undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the University of Miami, and Purdue University (where he obtained his Ph.D). 

What is the focus of your current research? What are the key issues and questions that interest you?  My current research mainly focuses on seasoned equity offerings. We are looking at the circumstances surrounding when a firm issues equity and what they do with it. Broadly, I am interested in agency problems and how to reduce them.

Why should students consider a career in finance? Because it is fascinating and fun. There are many areas of finance, so the options are plentiful. 

If you were a superhero, what would be your superpower? The ability to stop and speed up time. I am an impatient person and a procrastinator sometimes, so both powers would be very useful.

What advice would you give our students? Make a good impression on your faculty by being attentive, interested, and present. Get to know your faculty. It will make your classes more enjoyable and may be helpful later in life should you need a letter of recommendation or advice.

Tell us something that might surprise us about you. A few years ago, I looked up on the Internet how to make a snow machine and made one. When it gets cold enough (which does not happy too often in Auburn), we cover our hill in our front yard with snow and sled. One day my kids will realize I am basically a grown child. 

If you had to sit next to someone on a plane for the next 8 hours, who would it be and why? Dolly Parton. I think she is a fascinating writer/artist and business person that has remained quite private about much of what she does.

New Year's Resolution? Keep on running. I aim for 1,200 miles a year.

Stop by and say hello to Dr. Yost!

319 Lowder / (334) 844-5303

yostkev@auburn.edu