EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University has named Thomas Traynor, Ph.D., the interim dean of the University’s College of Business. Traynor previously served as dean of the Raj Soin College of Business at Wright State University in Ohio. 

Traynor enjoyed a 35-year career at Wright State, beginning as assistant professor and earning promotions to professor and roles in administration including department chair (economics), associate dean for graduate programs, and dean. 

Traynor, who earned his Ph.D. in economics from Purdue University, begins as interim dean at Eastern Michigan on August 15. His appointment will remain in effect until a national search for the permanent dean is completed. 

Eastern Michigan University Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Rhonda Longworth said, “Dr. Traynor brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role. In addition to serving as dean at Wright State, he taught courses and conducted research in microeconomics, business strategy, market regulation, cost-benefit analysis, as well as econometrics and forecasting. His tenure will be instrumental as we embark on a national search for a permanent dean.”

Longworth also thanked outgoing College of Business Dean Kenneth Lord for his leadership over the past six years. Lord’s retirement is effective July 31. 

“Under Dean Lord’s leadership the College of Business has been regularly recognized in several national and global program rankings including the Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report,” said Longworth. “I’d like to recognize Dr. Lord’s compassion and commitment to supporting students, staff and faculty members.” 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.