Dr. Robert Thompson: New dean of WCU School of Business

With a new academic year in motion, William Carey University’s business school welcomes a new dean, Dr. Robert Thompson, who has served on the faculty since 2022.

“Dr. Thompson’s vast experience in the field of business, and his community and church involvement, make him an excellent choice for this position,” WCU President Ben Burnett said.

He arrived at Carey with a servant’s heart. He understands our commitment to service and models that in his personal and professional life. I have no doubt he will take the School of Business to the next level.

Thompson brings 30 years of global hospitality experience with hotels, resorts, cruise lines and country clubs in destination markets like Las Vegas, Beverly Hills and Biloxi. His career includes roles such as hotel general manager, cruise director, country club manager, director of development, executive director – and a 20-year stint with Wyndham Worldwide Inc.

During his time at Wyndham, the company’s tuition reimbursement program helped him pursue graduate studies and earn an MBA in hospitality and tourism and a PhD in human capital development. He also began teaching as an adjunct instructor for California State University and the University of Southern Mississippi – sparking a passion for higher education.

That being so, Thompson left his corporate career and joined the University of South Alabama, where he was appointed chair of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management after just one year. In 2022, Thompson accepted a faculty position at the WCU School of Business – where he teaches international business, organizational behavior and marketing.

The International Hospitality Institute has recognized Thompson among the “Top 30 Most Influential Educators in Global Hospitality.”

As the newly appointed dean, Thompson succeeds Dr. Cheryl Dale, who is retiring after 28 years at William Carey University.

“The School of Business has a strong foundation under Dr. Dale’s leadership. I look forward to building on it by strengthening our industry and educational partnerships, expanding our impact, and leveraging my industry experience to create innovative opportunities for students,” Thompson said.

“These initiatives will prepare our students for ethical leadership in today’s hyper-connected world and benefit our university, community, and the Kingdom of God. And as a person who grew up in a military family, who had the opportunity to live overseas in my youth, I also hope to bring useful perspectives to our international students – many of whom are pursuing business careers.”

For more about the WCU School of Business, visit www.wmcarey.edu/business.

Dr. Robert Thompson, a businessman turned educator, has 30 years of global hospitality experience in destination markets like Biloxi, Las Vegas and Beverly Hills.