The Higher Education Review

In the dynamic landscape of higher education in the United States, the University of New Haven stands out as a distinguished institution, fostering academic excellence and innovation since its founding in 1920. Organized into various colleges, including the renowned Pompea College of Business, the university provides a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for success in their chosen fields.

The Pompea College of Business, located in Orange, Connecticut offers a stimulating academic environment nestled within 300 acres of pristine forest land. The modern 70,000 square-foot business building provides ample space for collaborative and individual study, complete with business-style amenities such as parking and food service.

Offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, the institute has designed its curriculum to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the ever-evolving world of business.

At the forefront of business education, the Pompea College of Business has strategically invested in programs at the intersection of business and technology, offering STEM-certified business programs, an esports and gaming program, and a cyber risk management program.

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the college adheres to rigorous standards of academic excellence, ensuring that students receive a world-class education that is recognized and respected by top employers and institutions worldwide.

With an impressive track record of post-graduation success, with 99 percent of undergraduates and 97 percent of graduate students employed or in graduate school within six months of graduating, the Pompea College of Business continues to uphold its reputation as a beacon of excellence in business education, empowering students to thrive in today's competitive global marketplace.

Uniqueness of Courses & Faculties
Over the past decade, the faculty and staff of the Pompea College of Business have spearheaded a remarkable transformation, elevating its standing to become a premier institution for business education at the intersection of business and technology.

Through strategic initiatives, the college has developed twelve STEM-certified business programs, including BS Business Analytics, BS Finance and Financial Analytics, and various specialized MBA and MS programs tailored to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

“The introduction of these innovative programs has significantly reshaped the academic landscape, with 62 percent of all business students and 84 percent of graduate business students now enrolled in STEM business programs, a testament to their relevance and appeal. This marked shift underscores the college's commitment to providing industry-focused education that equips students with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in today's dynamic business environment”, speaks Brian T. Kench, Dean.

The impact of these programs is evident in the remarkable post-graduation outcomes, with 99 percent of undergraduates and 97 percent of graduate students securing employment or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. This tangible success serves as compelling evidence of the effectiveness of the Pompea College of Business in preparing students for seamless transitions into the workforce, reaffirming its position as a leader in business education and industry preparation.

The Pompea College of Business boasts a robust and highly qualified full-time faculty and staff comprising 62 individuals. In the academic year 2023-24, the college's faculty composition includes 8 full professors, 12 associate professors, 4 assistant professors, 3 distinguished lecturers, 2 senior lecturers, 14 lecturers, 13 practitioners-in-residence, and 6 staff members. Additionally, the college benefits from a pool of seasoned business professionals who serve as practitioner adjuncts.

Since its inception, fostering engagement between faculty and the professional community has remained a cornerstone of the college's mission. This commitment dates back to the university's establishment, which aimed to address the region's engineering and business needs. Today, faculty and students actively participate in various forms of interaction with the professional community, ensuring a rich and dynamic learning environment.

Facilities with Technological Integration
The Pompea College of Business’ curriculum integrates current and emerging technologies to enrich students' learning experiences. Faculty with industry backgrounds have revamped the Finance curriculum, incorporating financial databases like FactSet, which offer robust financial data analysis tools like Excel and PowerBI. Students engage in hands-on learning through platforms like Tastyworks and Thinkorswim in courses like Quantitative Trading. The college's Bloomberg terminal enhances the finance curriculum, allowing students access to real-world financial data.

“In the Business Analytics program, a blend of academic scholars and industry practitioners ensures a curriculum that reflects the latest industry trends and technologies. The A.E. Rodriguez Analytics Lab provides students with access to cutting-edge analytical software like Rstudio, Python, and Tableau. Partnering with Posit (formerly Rstudio), the college offers

Rstudio Server Pro and Connect, enhancing students' learning through cloud-based analytics environments and web publication servers”, speaks Ranjana Maitra, Country Head - International.

The integration of these technologies, supported by dedicated server infrastructure provided by the university's IT department, creates a realistic production environment for students to develop practical skills. This commitment to technological innovation equips Pompea College of Business students with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in the ever-evolving landscape of business analytics and finance.

Equipping Students for Industry Opportunities
The Pompea College of Business prioritizes equipping students for success in industry through a range of experiential learning opportunities and specialized programs. Examples include the Shared Live Client Experience (SLiCE) program, where students engage in consulting projects for organizations, and Google AdWords Projects, which involve developing digital marketing strategies for nonprofits and businesses.

MBA students participate in the annual MBA-IOPACT Case Competition, while finance students engage in the CFA Institute Research Challenge. The college's affiliation with the Charter Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Program enables students to pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst designation, enhancing their credentials in investment management.

Additionally, the college hosts various lecture series focusing on sports, social issues, executive leadership, and success, encouraging sport management students compete in national championships and forums. Pompea college is committed to continuous improvement and innovation.

While strategic initiatives aim to deepen the focus on STEM business analytics and expand experiential learning opportunities across disciplines, faculty-approved focus areas for the future include economic empowerment and sustainability, with plans to enhance offerings in these areas over the next five years. Through these efforts, the Pompea College of Business remains dedicated to preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern business landscape.

Brian T. Kench, Dean
Brian T. Kench, an accomplished economist and higher education leader, currently serves as Dean of the Pompea College of Business at the University of New Haven. With over 20 years of experience in academia, he has significantly enhanced universities through strategic initiatives in talent acquisition, cost efficiency, and student development. Dr. Kench has transformed the Pompea College of Business, pioneering STEM-certified programs that now enroll the majority of business students, solidifying its reputation as a leader in innovative business education.