Dr. Alphonso Ogbuehi’s career is a compelling story of global influence and educational innovation. With over 25 years of experience in higher education and nonprofit sectors, he has become a leading figure in marketing and international business. As a Fulbright Scholar, he has taught and conducted research in more than 25 countries, shaping future leaders worldwide.
As an academic leader, Dr. Ogbuehi is dedicated to helping students and faculty achieve their highest potential. He designs and delivers courses, workshops, and seminars on marketing, international business, and entrepreneurship. His approach blends analytical rigor with critical thinking.
Dr. Ogbuehi’s impact also extends to networking and fundraising. He has secured essential grants and built valuable partnerships, supporting the growth and excellence of his institutions. His commitment to lifelong learning is evident in his Coursera certifications in critical thinking and innovative idea development, reflecting his dedication to remaining at the forefront of his field.
Innovative Leadership and Commitment to Excellence
Dr. Alphonso Ogbuehi is the Dean of the College of Business and Professional Studies at Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU. Appointed on January 3, 2023, he serves as Professor of Marketing and provides strategic and intellectual leadership to the College. As Chief Academic Officer for the CBPS, he oversees the Department of Business Administration and Public Leadership, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the School of Social Work. His previous leadership positions at Stockton University and Clayton State University have equipped him with a unique perspective on fostering academic and professional growth.
At JCSU, Dr. Ogbuehi has inaugurated the Dean’s Executive Advisory Board, consisting of 21 leading executives from the Charlotte area and beyond. He has also launched the Dean’s Distinguished Speaker Series, sponsored by Barings, LLC. Under his leadership, the JP Morgan Chase Technology/Finance Lab was established in Seabrook Hall to enhance student experiential learning.
Dr. Ogbuehi focuses on creating a vibrant learning atmosphere that prepares students for the complexities of the modern business world. He champions a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that students gain skills that are directly relevant to their future careers. Under his leadership, the College established the eHub, a premier entrepreneurial resource center supported by PNC. This initiative provides students with critical tools, guidance, and support to develop and launch their business ventures.
Dr. Ogbuehi also upholds the rich heritage of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). His efforts maintain JCSU’s commitment to honoring this legacy while preparing students for success on a global scale. His dedication to academic excellence and cultural heritage makes JCSU a leading choice for aspiring business leaders.
Legacy and Innovation: The Evolution of Johnson C. Smith University
Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), located in Charlotte, North Carolina, has a rich legacy of academic excellence and cultural significance. Founded in 1867 as Freedmen’s College, the university was established to offer education to newly freed slaves after the Civil War. This mission set the stage for the university’s development into a prominent institution focused on student empowerment.
In 1923, a transformative gift from Jane Berry Smith led to the renaming of the college to Johnson C. Smith University. This change signified a new phase of growth and an expanded vision for the institution. Since then, JCSU has continually advanced in higher education. In 2000, the university received national attention for the IBM Laptop Initiative, which equipped every student with cutting-edge technology. The Duke Endowment has also played a crucial role, supporting initiatives in leadership, community engagement, and scientific research.
Beyond its academic achievements, the university prioritizes an inclusive environment that encourages global citizenship and social responsibility. JCSU aims to develop not only academic skills but also the holistic growth of its students. As a leading professional liberal arts Historically Black College and University (HBCU), JCSU remains committed to excellence and innovation.
Diverse Academic Programs and Flexible Learning Options
Dr. Ogbuehi highlights the breadth and depth of academic programs available to students. He says, “At our College, students have access to a diverse range of programs that are designed to meet the demands of today’s dynamic job market.”
He notes that the Department of Business Administration offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with concentrations in Accounting, Finance, International Business, Management, Marketing, and Retail Management. “Each concentration is meticulously crafted to equip students with the specific knowledge and skills necessary to excel in various business sectors,” Dr. Ogbuehi explains.
For students interested in the convergence of health and management, he points out that the Department of Health and Human Performance provides Bachelor of Science degrees in Sport Management and Public Health. “These programs are designed to prepare students to address challenges in the sports industry or contribute effectively to public health initiatives, ensuring they gain the expertise required to succeed in these areas,” Dr. Ogbuehi adds.
He also emphasizes the commitment of the Department of Social Work to community impact. “Our Bachelor of Science in Social Work provides a solid foundation for entry-level positions, while our Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) programs are tailored for those pursuing advanced qualifications and career growth,” he notes.
In addition, Dr. Ogbuehi highlights the College’s flexible learning options, stating, “Students can select from traditional classroom instruction, hybrid formats, or fully online courses. This flexibility allows them to customize their education to fit their individual needs and schedules.”
Leadership and Achievements at Stockton University
Before joining JCSU, Dr. Ogbuehi served as Professor of Marketing and Dean of the School of Business at Stockton University in Atlantic City, NJ. His major accomplishments included leading AACSB Reaccreditation in 2022, developing a new Strategic Plan (2021-2025), and inaugurating the Dean’s Executive Advisory Board with senior executives. He also launched the School of Business Annual Alumni of the Year Awards Program, the Dean’s Distinguished Guest Speaker Series, and the Dean’s Alumni Council. Dr. Ogbuehi successfully relocated Stockton’s MBA program to Atlantic City and launched an MBA in Healthcare Administration & Leadership.
At Stockton, Dr. Ogbuehi coordinated a Presidential task force on “Driving Business and Hospitality Excellence in Atlantic City” and served on the Board of Directors of the Greater Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce. He also initiated the Summer Entrepreneurship and Business Academy (SEBA), designed to support underrepresented and minority high school students. Moreover, he developed five new MBA concentrations and created the International Journal of Hospitality, Gaming, and Tourism.
Prior Roles and Leadership in Higher Education
Before his time at Stockton, Dr. Ogbuehi held the role of Dean and Professor of Marketing and International Business at Clayton State University in Metro Atlanta. There, he reorganized the School of Business Advisory Board, drawing in executives from major corporations like Coca-Cola, UPS, Home Depot, and Delta Airlines. His leadership resulted in successful AACSB reaccreditation, strengthened corporate partnerships, and launched a Summer Entrepreneurship and Business Academy for high school students.
In addition to these achievements, Dr. Ogbuehi developed the Major Mentor Program, pairing upperclassmen with freshmen and transfer students. His contributions earned him recognition in the Atlanta Business Journal’s 2011 “Who’s Who” in higher education leadership. He also served on the Board of the United Way of Metro Atlanta.
Earlier in his career, Dr. Ogbuehi was the Founding Dean and Professor of Business Strategy in the School of Business at Park University in Kansas City, Missouri. He inaugurated the first Advisory Board, led the initial accreditation by ACBSP, and developed the initial concept for a new School of Business building. Previously, he was Chair of the Department of Marketing & Food Marketing and Director of the M.S. in International Marketing Program at the Haub School of Business at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.
Global Influence and Personal Life
Dr. Ogbuehi has also served as a Visiting Professor at leading universities in China, Germany, Ghana, Jamaica, Kenya, Nigeria, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Zimbabwe. His international experience has enriched his teaching and research, fostering a global perspective among his students.
A Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Ogbuehi holds bachelor’s and MBA degrees from the University of Kentucky and a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Memphis. He and his wife Irene, MSW and social worker, are blessed with three children.
Commitment to Excellence in Education
Dr. Ogbuehi highly values the faculty of Johnson C. Smith University’s College of Business and Professional Studies. He points out that “90% of the faculty members hold terminal degrees in their disciplines.” This expertise is crucial for providing a high-quality education and offers students a blend of knowledge and practical experience.
Dr. Ogbuehi appreciates the faculty’s commitment to innovative teaching methods. He highlights their use of case teaching and emphasis on experiential learning as essential to his vision of a dynamic educational experience. These approaches, he believes, help students acquire practical skills and insights relevant to real-world business challenges.
Furthermore, Dr. Ogbuehi values the faculty’s active engagement with local businesses and non-profit organizations. This collaboration allows students to work on real-world projects, linking academic theory with practical application. For Dr. Ogbuehi, integrating academic rigor with industry involvement is key to preparing students for successful careers.
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