Christine Clements to retire as dean of the College of Business and Economics, Lois Smith named interim dean

June 11, 2014

After 12 years as dean of the College of Business and Economics, Christine Clements will retire from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater on July 31.

She has accepted a position as senior vice president for accreditation and member services at AACSB International in Tampa, Fla.

Clements joined UW-Whitewater in 1990 as an assistant professor of management and later served as chair of the Department of Management. She was named dean of the College of Business and Economics in 2002, after serving a year as interim dean.

Under Clements' leadership, the college greatly expanded relationships with businesses, alumni and the state. She and her colleagues collaborated with the Milwaukee Water Council to develop a first-of-its-kind water-business program. UW-Whitewater's first doctoral program - in business administration - took shape under her watch. Clements also played an integral role in the planning, financing and construction of Timothy J. Hyland Hall, built in 2009.

"Chris has helped foster a culture of innovation in the College of Business and Economics that has earned UW-Whitewater an international reputation," said Beverly Kopper, provost. "She has championed efforts to increase the visibility of the college and worked tirelessly to recruit outstanding faculty and staff. I thank Chris for her many years of service to the UW-Whitewater campus and wish her well in her new position."

Kopper announced that Lois Smith, associate dean, has been appointed interim dean, effective August 1.

"Lois is a strong and experienced leader who will move the college forward," Kopper said. "Her work as a teacher, adviser and administrator - and her commitment to students - make her an ideal person to serve in this role."

Smith has been a faculty member at UW-Whitewater for 25 years. Tenured in the Department of Marketing, she has taught a variety of courses, including advertising and promotions, consumer behavior and marketing ethics. Her research areas include children's advertising and pedagogy.

She is the recipient of the 2006 W.P. Roseman Excellence in Teaching Award. In 2007, Smith won the UW System Board of Regents Teaching Excellence Award.