In Memoriam

Aneil Mishra - Class Of 1980

Aneil Mishra

The sudden death of Dr. Aneil Mishra class of 1980 was announced on August 5, 2024 by Towson University in Maryland where he had been Dean of the College of Business and Economics.

He commented on his OAA profile, "Co-founder with Dave Wimmer of the OHS Polo Team." (Additional information about this is appreciated.)

His obituary will be posted when it is available.

Posted by Towson University on August 5, 2024

"Tiger community, we are devastated to share the loss of Dr. Aneil Mishra, Dean of the Towson University College of Business & Economics. This sudden tragedy is being felt across campus and around the nation among Dean Mishra's family, friends and colleagues.

"We are grieving alongside everyone who has been touched by Dean Mishra's incredible life and career in support of students. Arrangements and ways to honor him and his extraordinary impact will be shared as they become available.

"More information and support for faculty, students and staff during this difficult and emotional time are available here: https://bit.ly/3yue8vH"

Published by County Local News on August 5, 2024 by Egbe Ogu

Dean Aneil Mishra. Obituary – Cause of Death : Dr. Aneil Mishra: Tragic Loss of Towson University Dean Mourned

Towson University is reeling from the unexpected loss of Dr. Aneil Mishra, the beloved Dean of the university. The news of his passing has sent shockwaves throughout the campus, impacting faculty, students, and the community at large.

Dr. Mishra was a well-respected figure on campus, known for his dedication to the university and his compassionate nature. He was always willing to lend an ear to students in need and was a mentor to many. His presence will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

The cause of Dr. Mishra’s death has not been confirmed at this time, leaving many to speculate and mourn the loss of such a great leader. The university has offered grief counseling services to those in need, recognizing the profound impact that Dr. Mishra’s passing has had on the community.

As news of Dr. Mishra’s death continues to spread, tributes have poured in from students, faculty, and alumni alike. Many have shared memories of his kindness and dedication to the university, painting a picture of a man who truly made a difference in the lives of those around him.

The loss of Dr. Aneil Mishra is a devastating blow to the Towson University community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his impact on the university will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Dr. Mishra.

The untimely passing of Dr. Aneil Mishra, the beloved Dean of Towson University, has left the campus community in mourning. Faculty, students, and members of the community are deeply impacted by the loss of such a respected and caring leader. Let’s take a closer look at the life and legacy of Dr. Mishra, and the impact of his death on those who knew him.

### Who was Dr. Aneil Mishra?

Dr. Aneil Mishra was a highly esteemed member of the Towson University community, serving as the Dean of the College of Business and Economics. He was known for his dedication to his students and his commitment to academic excellence. Dr. Mishra was a renowned scholar in the field of management, with a focus on leadership and organizational behavior. He was a mentor to many students and faculty members, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him.

### What was Dr. Mishra’s impact on Towson University?

During his time as Dean, Dr. Mishra made significant contributions to Towson University. He was instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion on campus, and he worked tirelessly to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all students. Dr. Mishra was also a strong advocate for experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and study abroad programs, which he believed were essential for students’ academic and personal growth.

### How are faculty and students coping with the loss?

The news of Dr. Mishra’s passing has had a profound impact on the faculty, students, and staff of Towson University. Many are struggling to come to terms with the loss of such a beloved leader and mentor. Counseling services have been made available to support those who are grieving, and the university community is coming together to honor Dr. Mishra’s memory.

### What is being done to honor Dr. Mishra’s legacy?

In the wake of Dr. Mishra’s passing, the university has announced plans to establish a scholarship in his name. The Dr. Aneil Mishra Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to community service, reflecting Dr. Mishra’s own values and priorities. Additionally, a memorial service is being planned to celebrate Dr. Mishra’s life and legacy.

### How can the community support those affected by this loss?

In times of grief and sadness, it is important for the community to come together and support one another. Offering a listening ear, a kind word, or a helping hand can make a world of difference to those who are mourning. Additionally, contributions to the Dr. Aneil Mishra Memorial Scholarship fund are greatly appreciated and will help to ensure that his legacy lives on at Towson University.

In conclusion, the untimely passing of Dr. Aneil Mishra has left a profound impact on the Towson University community. His dedication to his students, his commitment to academic excellence, and his passion for creating a supportive and inclusive environment will be sorely missed. As we mourn his loss, we must also remember the positive impact he had on all those who knew him and work to honor his memory in the days and years to come.

If you would like to learn more about Dr. Aneil Mishra and his contributions to Towson University, please visit [Towson University’s official website](https://www.towson.edu/).

Published by Towson University on April 12, 2023

Towson University’s College of Business & Economics

Dr. Aneil Mishra brings years of experience and knowledge to new role to enhance the college’s impact and growing culture of entrepreneurship

Dr. Cynthia Cooper, acting provost, announced that Dr. Aneil Mishra will be joining Towson University as the Dean of the College of Business & Economics. Dr. Mishra was selected as the top candidate after an extensive national search and begins his appointment on July 5, 2023. He will oversee programs that are collectively recognized as critical workforce providers to the greater Mid-Atlantic region and as a national leader in academic and inclusive excellence.

Dr. Mishra joins TU after most recently serving as the Dean of the School of Management at the University of Michigan-Flint where he helped secure more than $250K for scholarships and internships. His previous posts include serving as the Thomas D. Arthur Distinguished Professor of Leadership at the College of Business at East Carolina University, where he helped spearhead more than $6M in philanthropy to endow the College’s graduate programs and student success center, as well as helping win a $2M National Science Foundation grant to foster innovative teaching. He also served as the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at North Carolina Central University, and Vice President of Curriculum and Faculty Relations for 2U Inc., where he helped successfully develop and launch the UNC-Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler School of Business online MBA program, MBA@UNC. Dr. Mishra also has been an award-winning faculty member at Wake Forest, Duke, Penn State and Michigan State.

"Dr. Mishra's vast experience in education, research and philanthropy made him the perfect fit to join Towson University as our institution works to strengthen these very pillars," said Interim President Melanie Perreault. "TU's College of Business and Economics is already nationally recognized for its excellence, and Dean Mishra's leadership will undoubtedly enhance this college's impact and our university's growing culture of entrepreneurship."

Dr. Mishra is a member of the Academy of Management. He also consults with a variety of startups, Fortune 100 firms, financial institutions and health care organizations, as well as leading associations and nonprofits around the globe on building trust-based cultures, leadership development and strategy and innovation development. He has been a faculty member of the Wharton School/American Bankers Association's Stonier Graduate School of Banking since 2017, and a finals judge for the Entrepreneurs’ Organization Global Student Entrepreneur Awards since 2016. He also serves on the board of the Carolina Headache Foundation.

“I am incredibly honored to serve as the next Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Towson University,” said Dean Mishra. “I am especially excited to work with President Perreault, Provost Cooper, colleagues at the college and my fellow deans to ensure student success and make alumni proud.”

Dr. Mishra’s impressive career in academia includes published research in many leading management, healthcare and medical journals, with 16,000+ Google Scholar citations to-date, and his work is regularly profiled by leading news outlets. He has served as an associate editor or editorial board member of leading several research journals, and currently is on the board of the Journal of Applied Behavioral Science. Dr. Mishra is also the coauthor of three books on leadership.

Dr. Mishra earned his A.B. cum laude, in economics, from Princeton University. Prior to earning his Ph.D. in business administration from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, he worked for the General Motors Corporation as a manufacturing engineer and human resource specialist."

Published by Towson University' August 2, 2023 by Jamie Abell

New CBE dean will help students thrive, have some fun along the way

Aneil Mishra, Ph.D., answers questions about his plans for growing the College of Business & Economics and ensuring students’ success.

Aneil Mishra and his family pose for a selfie in front of the ocean Aneil Mishra, dean of the College of Business & Economics, poses for a photo with his wife, Karen, and two kids, Jack and Maggie, in front of the ocean at their favorite place to vacation: Kiawah Island, SC. (Photo credit: Aneil Mishra)

Aneil Mishra became the dean of the College of Business & Economics (CBE) on July 5, following his role as the dean of the School of Management at the University of Michigan-Flint. His previous posts include serving as the Thomas D. Arthur Distinguished Professor of Leadership at the College of Business at East Carolina University and associate dean for academic affairs at North Carolina Central University.

He spoke with us about his priorities for CBE and what fuels his passion for leadership.

Answers edited for clarity and conciseness.

What are you most excited about at Towson University?

"I was initially attracted to finding a place where there’s a great fit, which depends on a strong student focus. I wouldn't be a dean or even a professor if I hadn't had great undergraduate and graduate school student experiences where faculty took a deeply personal interest in me. So when I started looking at the statistics TU has regarding its six-year graduation rates, internships and other things, I knew the students are the university’s top priority.

"The fact this university has a diversity strategic plan and holds itself accountable to it also drew me here. Helping women and underrepresented groups, including faculty, staff and students, to thrive is one of my passions."

What are CBE’s strengths, and how will you build upon its successes?

"TU has a focus on student success and an incredible Student Academic & Career Services staff. I benefited from great undergraduate advising, especially early on. I’d like to raise significant funds to equip our faculty and staff to enable our students to thrive academically and professionally and enhance the faculty’s research and engagement with the many communities we serve.

"One hallmark of any great university is highly dedicated alums. I’m looking forward to partnering with the CBE Advisory Board and Young Alumni Advisory Council to help ensure the college’s long-term success."

How will you be an advocate for CBE students?

"We have a student leadership council, and I’m going to ask to be included in their monthly meetings to use them as a sounding board. I also want to make sure each of the student organizations has the resources they need to support their members.

"I'll be walking the halls and sticking my head into classrooms to say hello, so students know who the new dean is and that I'm somebody they can come to if they need help. We’ll also have regular informal gatherings of faculty, staff and students. I want these events to be a lot of fun, so, in addition to great food and drink, I’m also hoping to have live music from time to time."

What are your priorities for the College of Business & Economics?

"I want to improve the ratings and reputation so we are recognized as the top business college in Maryland and one of the top public business schools/colleges in the country.

"I’m looking forward to raising the money for our new building and providing our faculty and staff with the necessary resources to excel at an even higher level. This will include raising significantly more money for student scholarships, creating endowed professorships and endowing our academic and career advising center.

"I’ll also be asking my colleagues, “Where else can we be innovative, and where can we take creative risks to better differentiate us from other colleges of business?” I’m excited to work with my fellow deans to foster greater interdisciplinary research and teaching.

"I am going to build on the already successful internship program. Years from now, I want every student in CBE to have multiple internships that lead to great job offers upon graduation. I will build connections with employers and alumni to support this priority.

"I want the College of Business & Economics to be a place where students work hard and play hard. I want students, staff and faculty to come to this college excited and energized. I want people to know that they’ll be recognized for their efforts and we’ll have fun together, too!"

Can you tell us three fun facts about yourself?

Kona, the Yorki Poo, sitting down. — *Aneil's family's dog, Kona, waiting for a cookie. (Photo credit: Aneil Mishra)*

"My children and my wife have always been my top priorities. Maggie, my daughter, is a social worker moving to the area soon. My son, Jack, is an accountant for Ernst & Young in Raleigh, North Carolina. My wife and most frequent co-author, Karen, is joining TU's Mass Communication department in August.

"My favorite ways to relax are going to the beach, watching movies and, no surprise, reading, especially history books. History is a passion.

"I have an eight-pound Yorkie Poo named Kona. I never thought I was going to be one of those dog people, but I am a dog person now. Kona has completely taken over our family but in a good way!"

What is your favorite movie and why?

"I have a lot of favorite movies, but I’ll have to go with Raising Arizona, starring Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter. It’s about a guy who’s figuring out who he is and how he’s will make his way in the world while wooing and marrying the love of his life. Those themes have always resonated with me."

What advice would you like to share with the Towson University community?

"To be a great leader, you need first become a great follower.'

Published by The University Record / U of M December 9, 2021 by Logan McGrady, UM-Flint

Aneil K. Mishra, the Thomas D. Arthur Distinguished Professor of Leadership in the College of Business at East Carolina University, will be the next dean of the UM-Flint School of Management.

The Board of Regents approved his appointment Dec. 9.

Mishra, an internationally recognized scholar and author on leadership, will step into the role on Jan. 1, 2022, succeeding Interim Dean Yener Kandogan.

“Dr. Mishra’s administrative experience and scholarly expertise make him an invaluable addition to our university,” said Sonja Feist-Price, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “His publications on trust, leadership, change management and organizational culture are widely cited and demonstrate his commitment to fostering a world-class learning environment for our students.

“I’m excited about the ways in which Dr. Mishra’s research, leadership experience and passion will advance the excellence of the School of Management.”

Mishra has been the Thomas D. Arthur Professor of Leadership at East Carolina University since 2014. Using an interdisciplinary approach, he created the Leadership University at ECU, a professional development experience for faculty and staff to expand their leadership capacity through an experiential curriculum.

Mishra was also the acting associate dean at the ECU College of Business, overseeing the college’s strategic plan, budget and academic program development.

Prior to his work with ECU, Mishra was associate dean for academic affairs at the North Carolina Central University School of Business, where he led a comprehensive review of undergraduate curriculum and developed partnerships with industry for student internships and full-time employment.

“I am delighted to be returning home to Michigan, and to be rejoining the U-M family,” Mishra said. “I am very excited to be joining the School of Management as its dean, and to begin working with Chancellor Dutta, Provost Feist-Price, my UM-Flint colleagues, and alumni to provide transformative educational and professional opportunities for our students.”

Mishra is a Michigan native, having grown up in East Lansing and Okemos. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from Princeton University. He then worked for the General Motors Corp. as a human resource specialist and manufacturing engineer before earning his Ph.D. in business administration from U-M, where he would go on to teach industry leaders in the Stephen M. Ross School of Business Executive Program.

He has also held academic appointments at the School of Human Resources and Labor Relations and the Eli Broad School of Management at Michigan State University.

In addition to publishing his own research in numerous scholarly journals, Mishra is a founding associate editor of the Journal of Trust Research. He also has co-authored with his wife, Karen Mishra, “Trust is Everything — Become the Leader Others Will Follow” and “Becoming a Trustworthy Leader — Psychology and Practice.”

Listing of 70+ published articles by Aneil Mishra, Ph.D.

https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Xv6OAo4AAAAJ

Author biography and published books by Aneil Mishra, Ph.D. available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B002BMA97Y/about

Published by the Internationl Journal of Business Communication March 23, 2014