Leading and teaching: Chairs transition roles, maintain classroom presence

Dr. Peter VanderHart brought a wealth of practical knowledge, spanning three decades in the economics industry with a specialization in public economics, to his leadership of the Economics Department. His journey at BGSU began in August 1991 as an assistant professor. Through his dedication to teaching and scholarship, evidenced by over five publications, he steadily advanced, assuming the role of department chair in 2015. Dr. VanderHart's commitment to excellence in the classroom earned him a nomination for the prestigious BGSU Master Teacher award. In addition, the highly regarded Quarterly Review of Economics and Finance published his research, thereby recognizing its significance within the field.

Beginning in May, Dr. VanderHart will embark on a year-long leave to conduct research. Following this period, he will eagerly return to his teaching responsibilities at Bowling Green State University, where he will continue to shape the next generation of economists.

Dr. Sung Bae's leadership of the Finance Department is characterized by his deep understanding of corporate finance, personal financial planning, and international financial management, informed by 40 years of industry experience. Since joining Bowling Green State University as an assistant professor in 1987, Dr. Bae has consistently demonstrated exceptional scholarly productivity and a strong commitment to the university. His career journey includes appointments as a visiting associate professor and visiting research fellow at several institutions in Korea, as well as holding the esteemed Ashel G. Bryan/Mid American Bank Professorship and the Fred E. Scholl Endowed Chair in Finance and Insurance. A testament to his significant contributions to the field, Dr. Bae has published over 70 refereed articles in leading finance journals, as well as more than 25 articles in other publications. He has also received 14 best paper awards from professional organizations and five Robert A. Patton Scholastic Achievement Awards from BGSU.

Beginning this May, Dr. Bae will continue to enrich students' academic experience by teaching finance courses as a dedicated professor.