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Rob Straughan
Crawford Family Dean, Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics at Washington and Lee University
Professional Background
Rob Straughan is a distinguished academic and experienced professional in the realm of business education, currently serving as the Crawford Family Dean of the Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics at Washington and Lee University (W&L). His journey in academia began in 2000 when he joined W&L, enriching the institution with his extensive knowledge of corporate social responsibility (CSR). His dedication to fostering an impactful learning environment has not only empowered students but has also contributed significantly to the broader business education landscape.
Before his tenure at W&L, Rob made strides at prestigious institutions such as Baylor University and the University of Houston, where he honed his teaching abilities and engaged students in relevant and global business issues. Rob’s early career was in the corporate sector, where he held roles in the Refining and Marketing Division of Shell Oil, which laid a solid foundation for his academic pursuits in marketing and business administration.
Rob remains actively involved in the classroom and is particularly passionate about teaching courses that delve into CSR. Each year, he leads students on a trip to Denmark to tackle real-world CSR challenges in collaboration with local businesses, not-for-profits, and government agencies. This hands-on international experience is instrumental in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for the complexities of modern business.
Education and Achievements
Rob Straughan has a robust academic background that underpins his professional accomplishments. He earned his Ph.D. in Marketing from the University of Houston's C.T. Bauer College of Business, where he also pursued an M.B.A. with a focus on Marketing Research. He began his academic journey with a B.B.A. in Marketing/Management from Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business, which provided a strong foundation for his future endeavors in both academia and the corporate world.
Throughout his career, Rob has also contributed significantly to academic administration. He served as Associate Dean of the Williams School from 2003 to 2015, where he facilitated vital initiatives such as accreditation reviews, facilities upgrades, and the establishment of international partnerships for study abroad and graduate programs. His leadership was pivotal during a record-setting capital campaign, which propelled the school towards new heights.
In terms of scholarly contributions, Rob has published numerous articles on topics such as cross-cultural marketing issues, CSR, social entrepreneurship, and the future of business education. His expertise in these areas has led to extensive speaking engagements, allowing him to share insights and knowledge domestically and internationally, thereby enhancing his reputation as a thought leader in business education and CSR.
Rob has also played a key role in external reviews for various business programs around the globe, showcasing his commitment to promoting excellence in business education.
Personal Life and Community Involvement
Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, Rob Straughan is a dedicated family man. He and his wife, Leslie, are proud parents to two sons. Their son Matthew is a Bridgewater College graduate with a background in football, and he currently excels in the commercial real estate sector in Richmond. Their younger son, Kevin, is an Elon University graduate who has made significant strides in the technology sector in Boston.
Leslie Straughan actively participates in community service and local governance, serving on the Lexington City Council and holding leadership positions in various organizations, including Rockbridge Habitat for Humanity and the Lexington School Board. This commitment to community extends to Rob’s involvement in youth sports, where he has served on the board of directors for Lexington Lacrosse and coached local teams in lacrosse, basketball, and baseball.
Conclusion
In summary, Rob Straughan stands out in the realm of business education for his unwavering commitment to academic excellence, corporate social responsibility, and international collaboration. With over two decades of experience at Washington and Lee University, his leadership as the Crawford Family Dean has brought forth various enhancements that benefit students and faculty alike. His educational background, professional history, and community involvement make him a respected figure in both academia and the community, ready to face the future of business education and continue inspiring the next generation of leaders.
tags':['Crawford Family Dean','Washington and Lee University','corporate social responsibility','CSR strategies','academic administration','international marketing','Shell Oil','business education','social entrepreneurship','youth sports coaching','lexington city council','Baylor University','University of Houston','marketing research'],
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