Dr. Chuck Evans’ career as an organizational psychologist took a new turn recently when he was appointed Assistant Dean and Executive Director of Executive Programs, the University of Guelph’s centre for MBA and MA Leadership education. Throughout his 20-year career working with several management psychologist and consultant firms including his own - Evans Group - Evans has maintained his academic roots while gaining insight into what the market is looking for in Executive MBA and MA grad experiences.

What are your key responsibilities as the Assistant Dean and Executive Director of Executive Programs?
That is a big question! At a big picture level, I am responsible for the quality and growth of the Executive Programs portfolio, which includes the recruitment of students in both the MBA and MA programs as well as faculty to deliver both in-residence and online courses. In addition, I am responsible for growing the program, enhancing the brand recognition of the program and ensuring that we deliver a high impact learning experience to our students with the academic rigor that is a hallmark of the University of Guelph’s graduate programs.

Can you give us an idea of where you see Executive Programs heading in the future?
Executive Programs will continue to enhance our MBA and MA offerings by expanding recruitment efforts beyond Canada and becoming more international. We will put processes and programs in place to engage our alumni and keep the energy and passion for learning and growth alive, long past convocation. I believe that Executive Programs is more than an opportunity to change one’s career. It is an opportunity to change one’s life. We will explore ways in which we can leverage this life-changing experience for our students and make them proud to be U of G Alumni.

What are you most looking forward to in this role?
There are so many things that I enjoy about my role that it is difficult to choose just one. I love developing new market strategies, putting processes in place to enhance quality, interacting with faculty and learning more about their passions for research and teaching. However, what truly touches me is watching the students receive their degrees during convocation and seeing the smiles from their families and the pride of accomplishment.

What other roles have you held at U of G?
My first role at U of G was that of a graduate student. I completed my MA and PhD in the Psychology Department here, in fact I was the first person to defend a doctorate in the Department of Psychology. I have since served on PhD committees for graduate students, delivered workshops in the Department of Psychology and, since 2008, taught the Personal Skills: Self Assessment residence course in the Executive MA Leadership program.

What drew you to pursue your graduate education here?
I was drawn to the University of Guelph by my supervisor, Dr. Steven Cronshaw – in the Department of Psychology. Steve started the Industrial/Organizational Psych. program here at U of G and his expertise in the area was recognized throughout North America. I was very surprised to discover just how friendly and welcoming people are in Guelph and fortunate to study with an amazing professor in a very inviting and friendly city – what more could one ask for?

What advice do you have for students considering executive education at U of G?
Executive education is more than a career opportunity, it is an unforgettable and life-changing experience. For those considering it, I suspect that it may look a little scary. Most students who join our program have been out of school for a number of years, have full-time jobs, families and life obligations. However, it will be the best investment you have ever made in yourself, your family and your career.