Southern Arkansas University is pleased to announce that Dr. Gerald Plumlee has been named Dean of the Rankin College of Business. Dr. Plumlee has served as interim dean since June 2024 and now officially assumes the permanent role, following a period of impactful leadership and dedication to the College.
Dr. Plumlee brings a strong background in business education, student mentorship, and academic administration to the position. He began his career at SAU in 1999 as an instructor of computer information systems and currently holds the rank of associate professor of management. Over his two-and-a-half decades at SAU, he has taught a variety of classes in management and information systems, earning a reputation as a student-centered educator who values learning beyond the classroom.
He holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and both a BBA and an MBA from the University of Central Arkansas.
One of the hallmarks of Dr. Plumlee’s career has been his dedication to experiential learning. He has served as an advisor and co-advisor to nationally recognized student organizations, such as FBLA-Collegiate (formerly Phi Beta Lambda) and Enactus (formerly Students in Free Enterprise), and previously coordinated the College’s study abroad programs. He has accompanied students on international trips to Costa Rica and Mexico. This summer, four faculty members and over 20 students will travel to Italy and Costa Rica, a testament to the College’s growth and investment in these life-changing opportunities.
Dean of the David F. Rankin College of Business, Dr. Gerald Plumlee.
“We provide a top-notch education for our students, but these experiences outside the classroom make a difference,” Plumlee said. “SAU and the Rankin College of Business have emphasized leadership and professional development through student organizations, internships, and study-abroad programs. I’m proud of what we’ve built and excited about what’s ahead.”
During his time as interim dean, Dr. Plumlee successfully led the Rankin College of Business through its AACSB Continuous Improvement Review, resulting in the reaffirmation of its accreditation for another six years. AACSB International is the premier accrediting body for business schools worldwide, and SAU’s Rankin College has maintained accreditation since 2005.
Dr. Plumlee has been involved with AACSB accreditation efforts since 2003 and became director of accreditation in 2018. As associate dean from 2020–2024, he played a critical role in ensuring the College met or exceeded accreditation standards. He also serves on SAU’s Quality Leadership Team, contributing to university-wide accreditation initiatives through the Higher Learning Commission.
“AACSB International accreditation is a mark of excellence, demonstrating the quality and impact of programs offered in the Rankin College of Business,” Plumlee said. “I’m so proud to work alongside the talented group of faculty and staff who ensure what we do every day in the College is making a difference for our students.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Plumlee said the College will begin developing a new strategic plan next year, which will guide its priorities over the next three to six years. “This process has helped us build successful initiatives in the past, from incorporating new technology into the curriculum to expanding study abroad and career readiness programs. I’m looking forward to working with our faculty and staff to shape the next chapter of the RCB.”
The Rankin College of Business, accredited by AACSB International, offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as accounting, finance, marketing, supply chain management, information systems, and business administration. With a focus on experiential learning, career preparation, and faculty-student engagement, the College maintains a reputation for academic excellence and community impact.
Blanchard houses the Rankin College of Business on SAU’s campus.
“Dr. Gerald Plumlee brings a deep understanding of the Rankin College of Business, a strong commitment to student success, and a clear vision for the future,” said Dr. Robin Sronce, vice president for academic affairs. “His dedication to academic excellence makes him the right choice to guide the College forward. I am confident that under his leadership, the Rankin College of Business will continue to thrive and prepare graduates who will make a meaningful impact in their professions and communities.”
“Dr. Gerald Plumlee has served SAU with distinction for many years, and his leadership within the Rankin College of Business has already made a lasting impression,” said Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president. “His deep knowledge of the College, dedication to student success, and steady guidance during his time as interim dean make him the clear choice to lead RCB forward. I am excited to continue working with him as we pursue new opportunities and ongoing growth for the Rankin College of Business.”
Plumlee describes the Rankin College of Business as a special place that changes the lives of those who choose to be a part of the RCB family. For more information about the Rankin College of Business at SAU, visit www.saumag.edu/business.
SAU, located in Magnolia, AR, provides students with a complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to fit the needs of career and professional trends of today. As part of this commitment, SAU proudly offers the Next Step Guarantee program, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources, career guidance, and support to transition successfully from college to their chosen careers or graduate studies. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
