Like many students who come to Alcorn State University, Dr. Kristen Broady ‘02 knew her experiences at the Academic Resort would ultimately prepare her for success in life and her chosen profession. Broady, who earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice now sits at the helm of the business program at one of Louisiana’s most preeminent historically black colleges and universities.
In her new role as dean for the College of Business at Dillard University, Dr. Broady will lead the strategic vision of the college while creating a collegial environment that supports excellence in teaching, service, and scholarship. Some of her other duties include reviewing and updating degree programs within the college, developing new programs that complement the university’s strategic plan, and teaching one course per semester, among other duties.
Broady’s previous stints have taken her from being a visiting lecturer at Howard University, the dean of the Division of Business and Computer Science at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, interim department chair of business administration and economics at Fort Valley State University, and senior supply chain analyst at Ascension Health. Broady earned a doctorate in economics with a minor in management (2011) and a master’s degree in business administration (2006) from Jackson State University.
As an emerging higher education leader, Dr. Broady is focused and excited about her appointment and all the new opportunities the university has to offer.
“It is an amazing opportunity to lead a department that provides valuable business education through innovative, student-centered teaching and relevant scholarship,” said Broady.
Increasing the business acumen of the students and introducing them to more opportunities in the field are some of Broady’s goals as the College’s dean.
“My goal is to involve the students in even more business plan and case competitions. I want to bring innovative business leaders to the College to share advice and opportunities with our students. I also want to increase students’ chances of getting internships, gaining acceptance into graduate school, and earning permanent placement career opportunities.”
Enforcing the financial growth of the College while properly preparing business students with current courses are also on Broady’s agenda.
“I plan to increase funding through governmental and private grants. I also plan to increase enrollment and retention by offering the courses that students need, advisement to ensure progress, introducing programs and speakers to encourage them, and displaying great customer service.”
As a graduate of two HBCUs, Broady aspires to pass along the knowledge she’s acquired over the years to help minority students prosper academically and professionally.
“As a graduate of Alcorn and Jackson State, I am passionate about HBCUs. This position provides the opportunity to share my education, experience, and contacts with the students and faculty at Dillard to move the College of Business forward.”
Looking back over her journey, Broady reflected on the many moments at Alcorn that prepared her for success. She credits being members of the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite Marching Band under the late Samuel Griffin and the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc., along with being trained in her field for building her into the professional she is today.
“Marching in the band built my stamina, taught me the importance of teamwork, and allowed me to meet life-long friends. Becoming an AKA gave me 59 beautiful and intelligent line sisters who I am still connected with today. Earning a criminal justice degree provided more insight into law, order, justice, and fairness. The opportunity led to much of my current research on racial disparities in health, incarceration, and education. My experience at Alcorn taught me that I could do anything I put my mind to.”
