For our Inspirational Women Shaping The Future Of Business Education series we speak to Bertie M. Greer – Dean at Manning School of Business, University of Massachusetts-Lowell  

• Name: Bertie M. Greer  
• Job title: Dean  
• Institution: Manning School of Business, University of Massachusetts-Lowell  

Dr. Greer is a distinguished academic leader and the Rist Family Dean and Professor of Operations Management at the Manning School of Business, University of Massachusetts-Lowell. With a Ph.D. in Business Administration, specialising in Micro- Organisational Theory and a minor in Applied Statistics from Kent State University, Dr. Greer combines rigorous academic insight with extensive practical experience. She also holds an MBA in Management and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Toledo.  

Before her academic tenure, Dr. Greer sharpened her industry acumen in engineering and supervisory roles at major manufacturing firms, including Timken Roller Bearing, Ford Motor Company, and Chrysler/Jeep. Her industry expertise encompasses buyer-supplier partnerships, manufacturing, process improvement, and quality management.  

At the Manning School of Business, Dr. Greer oversees all academic departments and operations, championing interdisciplinary research and fostering robust collaborations with industry and alumni. Her scholarly work is well-documented through numerous articles in top academic journals and presentations at prestigious forums.  

A dedicated community advocate, Dr. Greer’s service extends beyond academia into significant community involvement. She has contributed her expertise to organisations like Habitat for Humanity, Hosea House Soup Kitchen, United Way and NABA, among others. Her academic and professional memberships include Beta Gamma Sigma, the Decision Sciences Institute, WIBE Network, WAME and the Association for Supply Chain Management.  

Dr. Greer serves on several boards, including the Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, the Advisory Board of Mechanical Industrial Manufacturing Engineering (MIME) at the University of Toledo, and the Shah Academy for Leadership and Innovation. She is also an active member of the Review Board for the Decision Science Journal of Innovative Education.  

Dr. Greer exemplifies the integration of academic excellence with practical application and community service, making substantial contributions to the fields of business education and supply chain and operations management.  

Why do you work in education? 

I work in education because I believe in its transformative power-both for individuals and society. My passion is for business education, which I see as inherently interdisciplinary. Business education integrates elements of psychology, technology, mathematics, and strategy, equipping individuals with a broad set of skills applicable across different industries and organisational contexts.  

This ability to shape curricula and influence future leaders is not just fulfilling-it’s deeply meaningful. I am driven by a commitment to problem-solving and a desire to equip others to effectively tackle challenges. Ultimately, my goal is to empower individuals to confidently make their voices heard at decision-making tables, thereby driving societal initiatives and fostering positive change.  

What’s the most rewarding part of your role?  

Witnessing the growth and success of our students. At this pivotal stage in their lives, students are brimming with hopes and dreams. It’s immensely rewarding to guide them through uncertainties and encourage their ambitions. I take great satisfaction in seeing students develop skills and achieve their career goals. Additionally, it’s incredibly fulfilling to work on their behalf to develop initiatives and impactful programs that enhance their classroom learning. Knowing that these efforts substantially improve their chances to thrive is immensely rewarding.  

Please tell us about a challenge you’ve overcome to get to where you are today. What did you learn?  

While it may sound cliché, one of my greatest challenges was staying true to myself and resisting the urge to compare my path to those of others.  

I often found myself drawn to fields and activities that were not commonly pursued by women, such as basketball, chess, engineering, and eventually earning a PhD in business. Embracing my unique interests and career choices requires a significant shift in mindset. I learned to recognise and value my gifts, allowing them to carve out a space for me.  

“Let your gifts make room for you. That is, embrace your unique talents and gifts you possess, as they form the bedrock of your success and fulfilment”

– Bertie M. Greer

This acceptance of my talents, purpose, and identity was liberating and taught me the importance of authenticity in achieving personal and professional fulfilment.  

Have you ever had a role model? If yes, who? And how have they impacted your career or outlook?  

I’ve been fortunate to have several role models throughout my life that were in my everyday life. My role models tend to be change agents-people who have not only faced significant challenges but have triumphed despite being underestimated.  

One standout role model for me is Dr. Clint Longenecker, a now retired professor from my MBA program. Dr. Longenecker embodied integrity and dedication; he was not only a hard worker and deeply engaged in the community, but he was also exceptionally intelligent. Despite his accomplishments, including being a former football player and holding a Ph.D. from an Ivy League university, he remained humble and open, often sharing his missionary work and his own failures and defeats throughout his life.  

This vulnerability left a lasting impression on me. From our very first interaction, he recognized my potential, encouraged me. He would actually call me a ‘rock star.’ Which I could not believe at the time. His belief in me was instrumental in my decision to pursue a Ph.D. Dr. Longenecker didn’t just impact my academic path; he shaped my vision of what it means to be a successful professor and helped boost my confidence and understanding of my own capabilities.  

What advice would you give to others to succeed in their careers?

Let your gifts make room for you. That is, embrace your unique talents and gifts you possess, as they form the bedrock of your success and fulfilment. Live in the present-and understand that your past has prepared you for your future. Trust in this journey and believe that it will lead you to where you are meant to be. If you are utilising your gifts, doing good and trusting God-you will get there. Wherever that is.  

Interested in this series? Keep reading…