St. John Fisher University Names New School of Business Dean

After a nationwide search, St. John Fisher University has appointed Daniel Connolly as the dean of the School of Business, effective June 30, 2023.

Connolly comes to Fisher from Drake University’s Zimpleman College of Business in Des Moines, Iowa, where he served as a professor of management and past dean of the college.

“Dr. Connolly’s extensive and demonstrated experience in both industry and university-level business education made him a clear choice as the School’s next dean. I am confident that under his leadership, the momentum and achievements of the School will not only continue, but accelerate the innovations and experiences that differentiate a business education at Fisher. We look forward to welcoming him to our University community,” said Dr. Gerard J. Rooney, president of the University.

As the new dean, Connolly will lead the School of Business forward by continuing and expanding its commitment to graduating “Day 1 Ready” business professionals who will meaningfully impact their organizations, communities, and society; by increasing enrollment; and by enhancing the School’s reputation in the Rochester area and beyond.

“I am excited to join the St. John Fisher family and work collaboratively with the School of Business’ faculty and staff, business leaders, and the community at large to address opportunities and needs facing the greater Rochester metro area,” said Connolly. “The School of Business enjoys a strong reputation and is well poised to play an even greater role in serving the region as a supplier of talent and as catalyst for innovation and business sustainability. I look forward to contributing to a bright and promising future.”

Connolly brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record as an administrator, faculty member, industry professional, and community servant to St. John Fisher. Throughout his career, he has blended his expertise in hospitality management and information technology to become a leading expert and consultant in applying information technology to achieve business advantage, differentiation, and outstanding customer experiences. Connolly frequently presents his work at both academic and industry conferences around the world and is often cited in the media for his insights, analysis, and professional opinion on business and technology trends and developments. 

Prior to joining Drake, Connolly served as dean of the School of Business Administration at Portland State University and as senior associate dean at the University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business. In addition, Connolly held faculty appointments at Michigan State University and Virginia Tech. Before joining academia, Connolly spent nearly eight years working at Marriott International’s world headquarters in Washington, DC as an information systems analyst. 

Connolly earned his bachelor’s degree from Cornell University’s Nolan School of Hotel Administration, an MBA from American University, and his doctorate from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Fisher has a long history of offering academic programs in business disciplines with members of the pioneer class of 1955 earning degrees in management and accounting. In 1983, the Master of Business Administration became the institution’s first graduate program, and in 2002, the School of Business became Fisher’s first professional school. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the School of Business serves 651 students across five undergraduate majors and its online MBA program.

To learn more about the School of Business, visit go.sjf.edu/business.