Dr. Ravi Narayanaswamy has been named the new dean of the University of South Carolina Aiken’s (USCA) School of Business Administration (SOBA), effective July 1.
Narayanaswamy, currently the director of graduate programs and a tenured full professor at USCA, is recognized for his commitment to blending academic innovation with the evolving demands of the business world, according to a press release from USCA.
“To truly innovate, academia must cultivate groundbreaking ideas and diligently bridge the gap between theoretical brilliance and the tangible needs of the real-world market, transforming knowledge into impactful solutions,” Narayanaswamy said.
A recognized leader in curriculum development, Narayanaswamy has designed and redesigned over 20 courses and introduced high-impact micro-credential programs in areas such as Microsoft, project management, entrepreneurship and personal money management.
His work has had a lasting impact on the university’s academic offerings, preparing students with skills aligned with current industry needs, according to a press release from USCA.
Narayanaswamy has also secured more than $110,000 in research grants to support studies in digital commerce, privacy and economic development.
His most recent work, as a lead researcher on a $100,000 project examining the economic impact of the Savannah River Nuclear Laboratory, highlights his dedication to advancing the intersection of academia and industry, according to a press release from USCA.
In addition to his academic achievements, Narayanaswamy has fostered valuable industry partnerships, including a collaboration with Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP) to integrate practical training into Human Resources courses and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among students. These efforts have helped secure $30,000 in funding for student scholarships.
Dr. Phil Bridgmon, USCA’s provost and executive vice chancellor of Academic Affairs, expressed his enthusiasm for Narayanaswamy’s leadership.
“We look forward to Ravi’s leadership of the School of Business Administration. His vision for the SOBA focuses on preparing students as professionals and entrepreneurs while expanding access to our programs across the CSRA,” Bridgmon said.
Narayanaswamy’s dedication to excellence has earned him recognition for 15 consecutive years with a meritorious ranking and multiple accolades for his service to the School of Business Administration.
He has also been instrumental in advancing technology on campus, spearheading initiatives such as digitizing faculty evaluations and enhancing instructional technology, according to a press release from USCA.
With a doctorate in management from Clemson University and advanced degrees from Kennesaw State University and Ohio University, Narayanaswamy has a diverse research portfolio that spans electronic marketing, digital retail strategy, information systems and higher education.
For more details about USCA, visit https://www.usca.edu/
