Holly Perleoni steps into role of dean at the School of Business

On July 1, Dr. Holly Perleoni assumed the deanship of Lee’s School of Business. An associate professor of marketing and former associate dean, Perleoni is excited to pursue her goals of creating a sense of community and engagement in the school.

Having taught in the School of Business for 10 years, Perleoni’s experience has helped her envision goals for her team while preparing to step into leadership. One goal she had was to create an environment where students saw unity within faculty. Whether it be offering free food to students, or teaming up with the faculty to wear casual clothes, Perleoni strives to foster engagement between faculty, students, and staff. 

“I want people to feel valued, and we have such an incredible team of faculty and staff in the school business. I think it's just kind of contagious that we share that with our students,” Perleoni said.

President Dr. Phil Cook describes Perleoni as the “natural fit” for the dean of the School of Business, and her transition to the dean was a decision that Cook felt confident in. 

“Holly is one of the most popular business teachers, but this brings a fresh new perspective, an energy of academic excellence, but also some entrepreneurial and creative thinking within her disciplines,” Cook said.

Becoming a dean has brought Perleoni into a new chapter in life. She says she has already seen God move in this new season.

“The Lord has has been so good to place people in my life - and sometimes he takes us out of the comfort zone, so that we can trust in Him and say ‘I don’t know what’s going on, but you’ve got it under control, so just show me what you want to do,’” Perleoni said.

Perleoni pursuing her goals for the semester and into the future is something students, faculty, and the greater community can look forward to on Lee’s campus and in the School of Business.

Photo by Lesley Bryant