Michael Wesson, PhD, department chair of management at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business, has been named associate dean of Graduate and Executive Programs, effective Jan. 1, 2022.

In his new position, Wesson will direct Harbert’s nationally ranked MBA, graduate executive, and specialized master’s programs in support of the college’s mission, strategic plan and areas of distinction. Wesson was selected following a nationwide search.

“I am humbled and excited to be named to this position,” said Wesson. “To have the opportunity to serve our graduate business students, executives, Harbert alumni, faculty and staff is an honor.  I welcome the challenges this new position offers, and I am enthusiastic about the potential of our graduate and executive programs as we look into the future. I look forward to continuing the legacy of graduate education exemplified by Stan Harris and Auburn’s Harbert College of Business.”

Wesson replaces outgoing Associate Dean and Luck Professor Stanley Harris, PhD, who is stepping down from the role he has held since 2013 to return to the Management Department faculty in preparation for his July 1 retirement after having served Auburn for 36 years. Harris was one of the college’s preeminent leaders in building out its graduate and executive programs, partner engagements and business education faculty. He also played a critical role in championing and shaping the design of Horton-Hardgrave Hall, a 100,000-square-foot teaching facility housing classrooms, study areas and offices for the college and its graduate programs.

“The selection of Michael Wesson as our associate dean of Graduate and Executive Programs marks an important inflection point in Harbert’s expanding commitment to fill the needs of both our graduate business students and the growing community of partners in business who support our shared objectives,” said Annette L. Ranft, PhD, Dean and Wells Fargo Chair of the Harbert College of Business. “The college will begin a search for the next department chair of Management this month.”

In his new role, Wesson will oversee student recruitment, enrollment and admissions, while also ensuring the effective delivery of a world class curriculum both online and on campus. He will also work closely with department chairs to identify and ensure the retainment, engagement and expansion of qualified instructional faculty to continue driving the success of Harbert’s graduate business education initiatives.

Wesson joined the Harbert faculty in 2019 as the department chair of management. Prior to joining Auburn, he served on the faculty of Texas A&M where he received several teaching awards and was heavily involved in graduate education, including developing and delivering executive education programs.