The picture shows Shalei Simms, the Dean of the School of Business, who received the “Diversity in Businesses” Award in 2023. Then, from left to right, we have Timothy Sams, the President of the College; Lisa Payton, an Assistant Professor of Media and Communications; Michael Kinane, the Vice President for Communications and College Relations; Jo-Ann Robinson, the Executive Vice President; Lorraine Todisco, School of Business Director of Career Services, External Relations, and Administration; and Louise Rotchford, School of Business Accreditation and Engagement Coordinator.

For more than 45 years, SUNY Old Westbury has helped students get ready for careers in marketing, management, finance, and accounting. The aim of the School of Business is to provide students with the information, abilities, and values necessary to think critically, communicate effectively, and act responsibly in the rapidly evolving world of business today. This mission is carried out through the teaching and research of its faculty.

Shalei Simms graduated from Wesleyan University with a B.A. and from Rutgers University with a Ph.D. She is an active member of the Academy of Management, the Management Faculty of Color Association, and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

In her business activities, Dr. Simms’ love for education is evident. She is dedicated to leveraging her academic work to benefit business owners by concentrating on the psycho-social elements that might be influencing their decision-making. To assist people, calm their busy thoughts, and improve their businesses, she employs a systems-thinking methodology, and she has coached both existing and future entrepreneurs using this strategy.

This year, Dr. Simms was one of 32 winners who were recognized for actively supporting the growth of diversity and equality in our community.

Dr. Simms was chosen for her management leadership in the School of Business, where she also holds the position of an associate professor, as well as her work in business and the local community encouraging and educating entrepreneurs about the resources available to them and the skills they need to thrive.