Dean’s Update: Momentum, Milestones and What Comes Next

As another academic year comes to a close at the Schmidthorst College of Business, I find myself reflecting not only on our accomplishments, but also on the people who make them possible. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and friends have all played a role in the progress we celebrate this spring.

This semester, we proudly marked the graduation of 397 business students, many of whom completed their degrees in just three years. Their achievement reflects both strong determination and the continued evolution of academic pathways at BGSU. We also recognized 23 President’s Award recipients, students who completed their academic programs with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Their success highlights the exceptional talent of our students and the dedication of the faculty and staff who support them throughout their academic journeys.

In this Spring 2026 edition of the Insiders Newsletter, you will find stories that capture the spirit of the semester. From student leadership and faculty excellence to alumni engagement and forward-looking momentum, these highlights demonstrate a college that remains connected, innovative and deeply committed to student success.

Enrollment momentum and continued strength 

Higher education continues to experience shifts nationwide, and we remain both realistic and optimistic as those trends evolve. For fall 2026, our incoming first-time freshman class is trending below last year’s record-setting enrollment but remains consistent with fall 2024 levels, a sign of sustained strength.

We are particularly encouraged by the growth in transfer student interest. This year, the college saw a 77 percent increase in external transfer students and welcomed nearly 200 internal transfer students from other BGSU programs. These students are choosing the Schmidthorst College of Business because they see value in a business education grounded in innovation, career readiness and strong outcomes.

90 years of impact

This academic year marked a significant milestone as the Schmidthorst College of Business celebrated 90 years of impact. Since its founding in 1935, the college has grown from a small cohort into a nationally recognized institution with expanding academic programs and industry partnerships. 

To extend the celebration beyond the classroom, the college partnered with BGSU Athletics to sponsor football, women’s basketball, hockey and softball games throughout the year. These events, which included special promotions and replica jerseys, created shared moments of pride for students, alumni and fans while reinforcing the Schmidthorst legacy across campus.

As we honor the past, we remain focused on the future through continued investment in experiential learning, student success and partnerships that position the college for long-term growth.

Karl E. Vogt Outstanding Senior Award recipients

This year, the college recognized two students with the prestigious Karl E. Vogt Outstanding Senior Award, an exceptional result that reflects the caliber of our graduating class. 

Katie Schmitz was honored for her academic excellence and leadership across the college. An Honors student with dual specializations, she served as president of the American Marketing Association and as a College Ambassador, while representing Schmidthorst through high-impact internships and campus involvement.

Jamal Booker was recognized for his leadership, resilience and commitment to community. As a leader within Delta Sigma Pi, a student tour coordinator and a mentor to fellow students, he strengthened the campus through service and purposeful engagement.

Their achievements reflect the values of the Schmidthorst College of Business and the lasting impact our graduates continue to make.

Women in Finance Breakfast connects alumni and students 

One of the highlights of the spring semester was the second annual Women in Finance Breakfast, which brought together students, faculty and alumni for an engaging and meaningful exchange.

The event featured Bethany Bryant, managing director and regional director at Glenmede Trust Company; Susan Mucciarone, nonprofit board member and strategic advisor; and Valerie Newell, principal and senior wealth advisor at Mariner Wealth Advisors-Cincinnati. Their candid insights on leadership, career development and mentorship underscored the powerful role alumni play when they return to campus to support and inspire students.

Opportunities like these strengthen the connection between alumni and the college, and we remain grateful to those who continue to share their time and expertise with our students.

A personal note 

I would like to share a personal update. After careful reflection and discussions with my family, I have decided not to seek a second term as dean of the Schmidthorst College of Business. I will conclude my service as dean in June 2027 and return to the faculty at BGSU.

Serving as dean has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career, and I am extraordinarily proud of what we have accomplished together. From enrollment growth and curricular innovation to alumni engagement and national recognition, the progress of the College reflects a shared commitment to excellence.

This decision was guided by family priorities, including the opportunity to support my daughter as she navigates the recruitment process and transition to university life as a Division I student-athlete. I also believe this timeline best supports the College as we prepare for the next AACSB accreditation review, a comprehensive campaign and continued growth.

My commitment to the Schmidthorst College of Business remains strong. I look forward to leading the College over the next year, supporting a successful transition and remaining engaged as a faculty member in the years ahead. 

Thank you for your continued support and belief in the Schmidthorst College of Business. Together, we are building a strong future for our students, alumni and communities.

Dr. Jennifer Percival