Charles Crespy, College of Business Administration dean, retires
President George Ross hired Charles Crespy as dean of the College of Business Administration in 2010. Now, he credits Crespy for the college's significant increase in enrollment.
"I want to thank Chuck for his service in our College of Business Administration. He's done a good job, I wish he and his wife well," Ross said.
Crespy informed CBA faculty and staff of his retirement in a June 26 email, saying he would retire at the end of the summer. According to a university press release, his retirement is effective Sept. 30.
While he was dean, he helped the college establish a new department of entrepreneurship, introduced new online master's degrees in entrepreneurial transactions and information systems. Crespy also helped launch the New Venture Competition and the summer business accelerator program.
In 2017, Crespy and other college leaders implemented a new strategic plan emphasizing transforming experiences for every student through internships, participation in professional competitions, obtaining professional certifications and study abroad.
Crespy led efforts to fund the $11 million renovation of Grawn Hall. The upgrades to the 103-year-old building included the creation of collaboration spaces, updates to classrooms and the installation of new technology.
"During (Crespy's) time, our university has had constant and consistent improvement in our CBA programs," Provost Michael Gealt said. "During my five years at CMU I have enjoyed working with Dean Crespy. He has been a good colleague and his great work has made me a better provost. I will miss him and hope that he enjoys a long and productive retirement."
Crespy received his Bachelor of University Studies degree in Latin American Studies from the University of New Mexico. In 1977 he received his M.A in Latin American Studies and his M.B.A in Business Administration from the university before receiving his Ph.D. in International Management in 1984.
Crespy taught at Miami University from 1982-2001. From 2001-04, Crespy was the dean of the College of Business at the University at El Paso. He then served as dean of the Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico. Crespy taught classes at both schools.
When he reflects on his time at CMU, the thing that stands out to Crespy the most is the large number of highly-qualified CBA students who graduated during his time as dean. He and his wife plan to stay close to the university.
Why is now the time to retire?
CRESPY: I have been blessed to work with so many fine staff and faculty. The college is in excellent shape. Our students continue to earn national, and even international, recognition. All of our programs have earned international accreditation. We have launched two new online programs. I have reached retirement age and now is an appropriate time to hand off the reins.
What is the achievement at CMU that you are most proud of?
CRESPY: I am most proud of my colleagues—their commitment to student success; their academic achievements and their contribution to the economic development of our great state.
The CMU College of Business Administration graduates are among the most accomplished in the nation. I know of no other college that turns out more professionally-certified students than the CBA. This is a testament to the quality of our students and the dedication of our staff and faculty. Students who earn admission to the CBA are not only extraordinarily qualified but also fortunate to be in such a high-quality college. Most importantly— they are on a trajectory to become business leaders who will make our nation not only economically strong, but also a force for good!
How has your impression of CMU changed from 8 years ago to now?
CRESPY: I inherited a college that had outstanding programs, especially enterprise resource planning, professional sales and logistics. Today, CMU is also a leader in entrepreneurship education. Our Master of Entrepreneurial Transactions Degree is the only one of its kind. Our New Venture Competition has won awards as the best of its kind in Michigan. We have scores of students who have started businesses as their senior year winds to a close. The faculty and staff of the CBA have opened doors for students who will change the face of Michigan in the years ahead.
What are your plans for retirement, how will you be spending your time?
CRESPY: I have a handful of projects on which I plan to work. My wife, Leigh, and I intend to stay in Michigan and close to CMU, and to continue to soak up the energy and enthusiasm that permeates the university and inspires those students who call the CBA home!
Fire up Chips!
