Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi has announced the appointment of Dr. John E. Gamble as the new Dean of the College of Business.

Gamble is currently Professor of Management, Director of Graduate Studies and the Interim Associate Dean in the Mitchell College of Business at the University of South Alabama. He was chosen, following a national search, to lead the Island University's College of Business in the mission to meet the educational needs of the business community in the Coastal Bend.

"Dr. Gamble's passion for education will serve to fortify our AACSB-accredited programs in the College of Business," said Dr. Flavius Killebrew, President/CEO of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. "I'm confident that his leadership will help grow the College to meet the new demands of 21st century business professionals."

The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) provides the top accreditation that a College of Business can receive. The appointment will become final upon approval by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. Gamble is expected to arrive on campus July 1st.

As Dean of the College of Business, Gamble will foster new partnerships with the local business community, nurture existing relationships, and articulate a vision that generates investment and support from the community, private donors and alumni.

"We're proud of the work done by our dedicated and focused screening committee, especially Sam L. Susser and Karen Urban, as well as others from the community who met with the finalists," said Dr. Trent Hill, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and chair of the screening committee. "Dr. Gamble will be active in the local business community, forging relationships to best serve the needs of the Coastal Bend business climate."

Gamble's teaching specialties are strategic management and entrepreneurship. He received his Ph.D. in management in 1995 from the University of Alabama. He also has a Master of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alabama.

"Dr. Gamble brings a unique set of skills to our well-established and respected College of Business" said Provost Chris Markwood. "I am excited about the possibilities that exist for our students, faculty, and community."

Dr. Gamble's research interests focus on strategic issues in entrepreneurial, health care, and manufacturing settings. His work has been published in various scholarly journals and he is the co-author of Crafting & Executing Strategy and Essentials of Strategic Management.

"I am delighted that I will soon join the premier institution of higher education in South Texas as Dean of the College of Business," said Dr. Gamble. "I look forward to setting a strategic course that further engages the Coastal Bend business community, supports faculty research initiatives, and expands business education programs that prepare students for rewarding careers in business."