Dean at George Mason to lead UO Lundquist College of Business

Sarah Nutter, the current dean of the school of business at George Mason University, will take the helm of the University of Oregon’s Charles H. Lundquist College of Business on Jan. 17.

In her new role, Nutter will lead a college that was founded in 1914 and today enrolls more than 5,000 students in a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including accounting, finance, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurship and sports marketing. Nutter has served as dean at George Mason since 2013.

“The UO is gaining a talented dean with significant experience in academic leadership and strategic planning, built on an inclusive approach that has permeated every aspect of her work,” said Scott Coltrane, provost and senior vice president. “This is an exciting time for the UO and for the Lundquist College of Business, and Sarah has the vision, academic background and leadership skills that are needed to leverage the college’s considerable strengths as we work to enhance excellence and deliver world-class educational opportunities to our students.”

After earning her doctorate in accounting from Michigan State University, Nutter joined the faculty at George Mason in 1995. She is a senior scholar in the Mercatus Center at George Mason and has served as chair of the accounting department and director of the business school’s executive MBA program. In addition she was a presidential fellow with responsibility for campuswide initiatives.

“The Lundquist College of Business is incredibly well respected across the country,” Nutter said. “It will be an honor to serve as dean at this pivotal time in the university’s history. I’m eager to work together to shape the future of the college, building upon the work of the incredible faculty and leadership for which it is known.”

In addition to Nutter’s inclusive approach in working with internal constituents, the dean and professor of accounting also transformed the advisory boards and councils for the business school by enlisting a 200-strong group of executives and business professionals to help guide the college.

“What most impressed me about Sarah was her incredible commitment to collaboration and inclusion,” said Michael H. Schill, UO president and professor of law. “While many in academia have this commitment, few embody it the way she does. Sarah Nutter will be an outstanding addition to our university.”

“We want to express great appreciation to Bruce Blonigen, who has been serving as interim dean for the last several months, while also chairing this critical search,” Coltrane said. “I would also like to again thank James Terborg for his service as interim dean in the year prior. Their efforts have gone above and beyond.

By Tobin J. Klinger, University Communications