Baylor Welcomes Academic Leaders

With two new deans stepping into leadership, Baylor University is stepping into an exciting era of academic growth and innovation. Baylor welcomes Michael E. Young, Ph.D., to the Graduate School and David M. Szymanski, Ph.D., to the Hankamer School of Business. 

Young has been appointed vice provost and dean of Baylor’s graduate school. With both industry and academic experience, Young will continue Baylor’s best-in-class graduate student experience while providing strategic leadership and advancing the priorities of the Baylor in Deeds strategic plan.

Young brings years of experience in cognitive psychology and artificial intelligence to the role, and he has been published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and other publications. He aims to build on the legacy of excellence at Baylor while ensuring the program remains a leader in graduate and professional education.  

Szymanski steps into his new role as dean of Hankamer School of Business, following a successful career as president of the University of North Florida and dean of the University of Cincinnati’s business school. His vision for Hankamer School of Business includes elevating undergraduate teaching, strengthening corporate relationships, enhancing experiential learning and continuing to heighten Baylor’s reputation in business education. Szymanski is eager to foster innovation and expand opportunities for students in an ever-evolving business landscape.

Young will assume his role on Aug. 1, and Szymanski began his role on May 27. Their arrivals reflect Baylor’s commitment to advancing its mission as a Christian research university while fostering excellence across disciplines. With Young leading graduate studies and Szymanski guiding business education, Baylor is pursuing additional growth in academic strength and transformational leadership.