Operations expert assumes key administrative role; Kellogg School also names Professor Michelle Buck leadership director

By Matt Golosinski

Sunil Chopra, the IBM Distinguished Professor of Operations Management and Information Systems has assumed the role of senior associate dean, curriculum and teaching, announced Dean Dipak C. Jain during a June 3 ceremony honoring faculty and staff.

Robert Korajczyk, the Harry G. Guthmann Distinguished Professor of Finance, had held the position since 2003. He returns to full-time teaching and research as a member of the Finance Department, while Chopra joins Dean Jain and Professor Kathleen Hagerty, senior associate dean, faculty and research, to lead the school.

A supply chain expert who came to Kellogg in 1989 after earning his doctorate in operations research, Chopra has garnered numerous academic awards. He expects to draw upon this knowledge in his new role.

"I hope to build upon the Kellogg tradition of collaboration and continuous innovation," he said. "Our goal is to train students who always ask and are able to answer the question: 'How can I improve the current situation?'"

Chopra, a dynamic professor noted for his ability to make complex material engaging, takes over a rotating position in the dean's office. Hagerty, the First Chicago Distinguished Professor of Finance, assumed her current administrative role last June.

"The leadership of our senior associate deans provides real guidance and meaningful innovation for Kellogg," said Dean Jain. He praised the efforts of Professor Korajczyk, noting several important initiatives undertaken during Korajczyk's tenure, including curriculum enhancements and the Leadership Task Force, both of which have bolstered the school's academics.

	Professor Michelle Buck Photo © Evanston Photographic

"Not only has Bob played a key part in continuing innovation at Kellogg," said Jain, "but his friendship, dedication and service have touched every part of the school. It has been a privilege to work alongside this fine scholar and person; I am grateful for his unflagging efforts."

The dean also named Professor Michelle Buck to fill a newly created role as director of leadership initiatives. Professor Buck, who is associate director of Executive Education, will help integrate, coordinate and leverage existing Kellogg leadership-related offerings while identifying and developing additional ones. Buck earned a doctorate in social psychology from Princeton University. Her research and teaching focuses on organizational behavior, negotiations and leadership.